Midweek Reflections on 2015

'Idal (Justice), 19 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Wednesday, December 30, 2015 about 8:51 AM Pacific Standard Time

It's been an interesting year and a stressful year. Why are interesting years always stressful years? I moved from a studio apartment into a two bedroom apartment. Two months latter a friend moved in with me to help with the housekeeping and cooking. I'm eating better because my diet is much more balanced. I don't eat a balanced diet if I have to cook for myself.

I appear to be catching up on some of my bills. It is easier to pay the power bill in this apartment then in the other one, but I'm not sure why. Perhaps this apartment is better insulated or the rooms are better arranged. I don't know how else you could arrange the rooms in a studio apartment; I just had a living area and a bathroom. This apartment has a two bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a living room, but, so far, the electric bill was cheaper then in the studio. However, that may change next year.

This year I was able to purchase two new dresses, a blouse, a fanny pack, a hat, and a new hoodie. I still have to go through my closet because the blouse I put on this morning seems a little tight, so I may end up giving it away in January. I'll decide that when I take it off later today.

As I said, 2015 was an interesting and stressful year. I'm no longer feeling stress which may have something to do with my diet. It could also be that I'm being more conscious about putting stressful situations in God's hands. I'm glad things seem to be leveling out and praying that things continue at the same pace in the coming year.

Meditation Monday: A Good Start to the Workweek

Kamal (Perfection), 17 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Monday, December 28, 2015 about 8:05 AM Pacific Standard Time

On Monday morning
meditation and coffee
begins the workweek.

A good start to the last week in December 2015 with three days to go until New Year's Day 2016. My morning meditation begins with prayer and then sitting quietly under my meditation blanket. I think I will change that slightly to include reading the scriptures before I start my meditation. If I wait until after I meditate to read the scriptures, I sometimes skip that part because of breakfast. After breakfast I start my day, which means I don't accomplish my scripture reading until later in the day.

Prayer, meditation,
another cup of coffee
hotcakes for breakfast.

Summary Saturday: The Week of December 20-26, 2015

Jalal (Glory), 15 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Saturday, December 26, 2015 about 10:30 AM Pacific Standard Time

It's been a good week. I had some successes and I had some failures. I found numerous things to be thankful for. I discovered some attributes I need to work on. In five day a new Gregorian will begin, which is the time most people establish New Year's Resolutions. I no longer make New Year's Resolutions.

I make tentative goals for the first two and one-half months of the Gregorian year. Then on Naw-Ruz, which falls on the spring equinox, I make permanent New Year's goals. I celebrate a New Year on Naw-Ruz and in 2016 it falls on March 20. I have five items on my tentative goals list. I will write steps to accomplish those items before the end of 2015 and then I will confirm them by March 20, 2016.

Tentative Goals List

1. Reading List
2. Novels to finish
3. Novels to edit
4. Poem forms to attempt
5. Exercise program

Thankful Thursday: A Thankful Thursday Birthday

Istijlal (Majesty), 13 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Thursday, December 24, 2015 about 6:30 AM Pacific Standard Time

Today, I am 69 years young.

I was born on Tuesday, December 24, 1946 at eleven minutes before midnight. Today, I am thankful that I was born on Christmas Eve. I haven't always been thankful for my birthday. When I was younger, I wished my birthday was some other month besides December. Sometimes it is difficult to realize that a holiday birthday is a blessing.

During the holiday season it is difficult to find things to be thankful for. This is a hectic time of year with stress levels and irritation rising. Christmas Eve is the day last minute Christmas shoppers crowd the streets, the malls, and other stores. People are hurrying to buy that last minute gift to put under the tree. I do not drive on Christmas Eve because of the traffic. I do not go shopping on Christmas Eve because of the crowded malls and stores. I stay home on Christmas Eve unless someone else is picking me up and doing the driving.

01. I am thankful that Christmas Eve is my birthday.
02. I am thankful that I stay home on Christmas Eve.
03. I am thankful that I no longer celebrate Christmas.
04. I am thankful that Christ was born into this world.
05. I am thankful for the birthday cards I receive.
06. I am thankful for the Christmas cards I receive.
07. I am thankful for the memories of happy Christmases from my childhood.
08. I am thankful for the beautiful Christmas songs.
09. I am thankful for the parodies of Christmas songs.
10. I am thankful for the dress I purchased on Wednesday with a Christmas tree on the front.

Even though I do not celebrate Christmas, there are aspects of the holiday I enjoy. I enjoy listening to Christmas songs and carols, especially those that my Grandmother and Grandfather liked. I enjoy some of the Christmas specials, especially those I remember watching with my mother. Today and tomorrow I will stay at home, when I do go outside my apartment it will be for a short walk and to wish neighbors a Happy Holiday or Merry Christmas (depending on the winter holiday they celebrate).

Transformation Tuesday: Do Something Unplanned Once in a While

'Idal (Justice), 12 Masá’il (Questionsh), 172 BE - Tuesday, December 22, 2015 about 7:53 Pacific Standard Time

I planned to make this post earlier today, however, I decided to go shopping. I went to a second hand store to purchase some clothes. I spent longer then I expected, but I had a good reason. After picking out a purple dress and a blue blouse (I still have to find a skirt to go with the blouse) I looked at the used books they had. There was a sale on the books, if I bought four books I could get one free. I looked at all the paper backs they had and picked out the Lord of the Rings series, The Hobbit, and a book from the Dragon Riders of Pern series. I now have all my reading material for 2016.

When I came home, I ate lunch and then took a nap. I slept all afternoon. I think sleeping on the couch is getting to me so I have to put my bed frame, box springs, and mattress together so I can sleep in my own bed in 2016. I did not plan to take a nap, but I am glad I did. Taking an unplanned afternoon nap helps in the transformation process because it gives a person's body and mind a chance to rest.

In my last entry, I said I would include the daily themes for this blog. This late in the evening I am not going to compose another entry, so here are those themes.

Themes for this Blog

Sunday: Spiritual Sunday
Monday: Meditation Monday
Tuesday: Transformation Tuesday
Wednesday: Midweek Reflections
Thursday: Thankful Thursday
Friday: Overcoming Fear Friday
Saturday: Summary Saturday

Spiritual Sunday: Getting Back to the Spiritual Basics of Transformation

Jamal (Beauty), 9 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Sunday, December 20, 2015 about 7:39 AM Pacific Standard Time

Several years ago, when I started this blog the theme was spiritual transformation. My expertise in this area comes from my own personal struggle to walk my chosen spiritual path. I did all right keeping to this theme in the early years, but then I got away from it. I got distracted because of difficulties or by difficulties I encountered in the quests for spiritual transformation and walking my spiritual path. As a result the entries to this blog suffered through lack of focus on the main topic.

My blog entries were not the only thing that suffered. My personal life suffered because of the lack of focus. I stopped attending spiritual services. I used several excuses for not attending the services, but the truth is I simply lost my way. I let the material aspects of life outweigh the spiritual. This has caused no end of problems in my personal life. Therefor I am returning to the basics of prayer, meditation, and scripture reading.

I have wanted to do this for a long time, but I kept putting it off. On December 24, 2015, I will turn 69 years old. I am in poor to fair health, therefore, I cannot procrastinate any longer. I have to make a list of the priorities which I want to accomplish before my soul ascends into the next world. One of those things is improving my writing ability. Writing about spiritual transformation will do that. It will also help me overcome some of the fears that have haunted my thoughts lately. Check back for further discussion on this subject and a list of the daily topic themes on Tuesday, December 22.

Where Has 2015 Gone?

Istiqlal (Independence), 7 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Friday, December 18, 2015 about 10:37 AM Pacific Standard  Time

Where has 2015 gone?
It seems like just yesterday
we were celebrating a New Year
with fireworks and good cheer.

Ten Things I need to do Before December 24, 2015

Fidal (Grace), 4 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Tuesday, December 15, 2015 about 10:08 AM Pacific Standard Time

On December 24, I will be 69 years old. There are at least ten things I have to do before I officially turn one year older. A couple of those things I have put off doing for a while, but I cannot put them off any longer. Therefore, I am listing everything I need to accomplish before my birthday next week.

01. Purchase black cartridge for my Canon MG2520 printer.
02. Mail package containing tablecloth my mother painted to my brother in Colorado.
03. Mail package containing tablecloth my mother painted to my brother in San Diego.
04. Clean out red storage container sitting to the right of the computer desk.
05. Put my mattress and box springs on my bed frame.
06. Mail card to friend in Oklahoma.
07. Mail cards to writing.com friends.
08. Pick up senior commodities.
09. Order back and knee braces.
10. Purchase myself a birthday present.

Sunday Morning in Las Vegas

Jamal (Beauty), 2 Masá’il (Questions), 172 BE - Sunday, December 13, 2015 about 5:54 AM Pacific Standard Time

It's a cold Sunday morning in Las Vegas. The temperature if 40 degrees with a wind chill of 40 and snow on Mount Charleston. I put on a sweater this morning because it felt cold. When I woke up about 4:00 AM it was 39 degrees with a wind chill of 35. We are experiencing a severe weather alert which consist of a wind advisory. I haven't looked outside to see if the wind is blowing. I know it was blowing last night when I went to bed. However, it wasn't blowing when I got up this morning. Even if I don't look outside, I always know when the wind is blowing because I can hear it pushing litter down the street or causing some other weird noise.

Cold Sunday morning
I sip hot coffee and write
My muse warming up

 

Friday Afternoon in Las Vegas

Istiqlal (Independence), 19 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Friday, December 11, 2015 about 3:35 PM Pacific Standard Time

Friday afternoon
a chilly wind is blowing
snow on the mountain

This morning I went to the laundromat and washed this months dirty clothes. In 2016 I will have to increase the laundry runs from once a month to twice a month. Two more things I have to do in 2016 is increase my exercise routine and get some new clothes. I have not had in new clothes in a year or two, so I think I need to get something new in the coming year.

I am not looking forward to going clothes shopping. I used to enjoy it, but since Mom died it is no fun any more. I need someone to talk to when I shop for clothes, someone to ask "How would this look on me?" Since I have no none to go with me then I have to go by myself. I like grocery shopping by myself, but not clothes shopping.

December Birthday Wish

'Idal (Justice), 17 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Wednesday, December 9, 2015 about 3:57 PM Pacific Standard Time

My birthday approaches,
I will be another year older
and I hope another year wiser.

I would like a dream catcher
to hang above my bed;
I could either tell my family
or purchase it myself.

Now that I have a bed,
a box springs,
and a mattress
I only need a dream catcher
to make my bedroom
complete.

This coming week,
I have to unpack the sheets
I brought with me
and hope
they fit the bed.

I guess I could ask
my family for sheets,
but I think I would rather
have a dream catcher.

Monday Meditations: Morning Doctor's Appointment

Kamal (Perfection), 15 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Monday, December 7, 2015 about 2:18 PM Pacific Daylight Time

I spent most of the morning in my doctor's office waiting to see my the nurse practitioner. Normally I arrive early, but his morning I arrived only about ten or fifteen minutes before I had to see her. I still had to wait about thirty minutes to see the nurse. While I waited I closed my eyes and meditated.

Meditating was a relaxing experience. By the time the nurse saw me I was calm, which helped my blood pressure, and in a good mood. Meditating also seems to have helped my memory because I remembered to ask questions about the new prescription. When I pick up the prescription on Tuesday, I have to as the pharmacist a couple of questions.

Holiday Time 2015

Jalal (Glory), 13 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Saturday, December 5, 2015 about 3:59 PM Pacific Standard Time

It's holiday time again. It isn't the holidays that I celebrate, but somebody celebrates the December holidays. Since I have family members and friends who celebrate this time of year, I will endeavor to send them some items that my mother made before her death in November of 2012. I have lugged these items with me through two moves and have no intention of lugging them through another move. Not that I'm planning to move any time soon.

I moved once in 2014 and again at the beginning of this year. I think two moves in two years is enough to satisfy my migratory urge for a while. However, since I didn't plan to move this year it might be a good idea to mail the stuff to my brothers. That way, if I have to make another unplanned move I won't lug those items with me. Also, both of my brothers celebrate the December holiday which makes this a good time to mail stuff to them.

Another Birthday Approaches

'Idal (Justice), 10 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Wednesday, December 2, 2015 about 4:13 PM Pacific Standard Time

Another birthday approaches, not silently on cats feet, but singing Christmas songs from my childhood. December always brings back memories from growing up in Blackwell, Oklahoma. Some memories are welcome and some I would just as soon forget. The problem with forgetting the bad memories is that I might forget the good ones as well. Since I don't want to forget the good memories, I will deal with the bad ones.

I have found, that the best way to deal with bad memories is to write about them. Most of the time I make pen and paper journal entries about these memories. However, sometime I write them into short stories or poems. I prefer short stories or journal entries because it is easier to deal with these memories in that way.

Happy Cyber Monday

Kamal (Perfection), 8 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Monday, November 30, 2015 about 8:06 AM Pacific Standard Time

It's a cold 39 degrees here in Las Vegas. I plan to remain home today because I have to leave the house on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Tuesday I have to pay the rent and then on Wednesday and Friday I have doctors appointments. I will work online today, but I don't think I'll purchase anything. Of course, I could change my mind after I determine if I have enough money to pay the rent and make an online purchase.

I've already drink two cups of coffee this morning, so it's time for breakfast. I'll go get another cup of coffee before seeing what's in the fridge to fix for breakfast. I'm sort of hungry, but I don't know what I want to eat. When I woke up this morning I was in a good mood; however, not my mood has darkened so I think it must be time for something to eat and a prayer or meditation session.

Saturday Summary: A Good Week

Jalal (Glory), 6 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Saturday, November 28, 2015 about 8:01 AM Pacific Standard Time

On the last Saturday of November 2015,
I contemplate the past week,
I look at my accomplishments for the month,
I consider my successes
and my failures.

I realize
that a good week
is one filled with successes
and failures;
the last week in November 2015
was a good week.

I have a lot to be thankful for:
gratitude is an attitude
because no matter how many failures
I encounter
I always have something
on my gratitude list.

A Thankful Thanksgiving Thursday

Istijlal (Majesty), 4 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Thursday, November 26, 2015 about 7:29 AM Pacific Standard Time

I am thankful for
the chilly autumn morning
and pigeons cooing.

I am thankful for
a cinnamon rice breakfast
and hot black coffee.

I am thankful for
the ability to afford
my medication.

I am thankful for
the Thanksgiving memories
of my grandparents.

I am thankful for
the years I spent with Mama
her encouragement.

I am thankful for
the turkey in the oven
canned cranberry sauce.

I am thankful for
my doctors and pharmacist;
family and friends.

I am thankful for
writing.com and Facebook;
creativity.

I am thankful for
the beauty of Las Vegas;
locals and tourist.

I am thankful for
scriptures of the Baha'i Faith;
gratitude's prayers.

Midweek Reflections on Thanksgiving

'Idal (Justice), 3 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Wednesday, November 25, 2015 about 12:00 PM Pacific Standard Time

The aroma of pumpkin pie float through my mind,
memories of Grandma Mary
baking for the coming feast.

My grandmother always baked her a day or two before Thanksgiving so that she would have the oven free for the turkey on Thanksgiving day. On Thanksgiving day, Grandma would fix the stuffing (either regular bread or cornbread) and then put the turkey in the oven. While the turkey was baking she would make the cranberry sauce, using fresh cranberries and walnuts. After she finished the cranberry sauce and put it in the refrigerator, she would wash the dishes and sauce pans she used and then go on to the next item on the menu. When it came time to eat my grandfather would say the blessing and we would eat.

Happy Monday, Busy Monday

Kamal (Perfection), 1 Qawl (Speech), 172 BE - Monday, November 23, 2015 about 6:31 AM Pacific Standard Time

My morning begin with a cup of cold coffee. When I went into the kitchen to make the coffee this morning, I found leftover coffee in the coffee maker's glass carafe. I poured the coffee into my cup and drink it while I was making this morning's fresh coffee. I didn't want to throw the coffee out and I didn't want to heat it up in the microwave, so I drink it.

Today is going to be busy because I have to pick up my senior commodities for this month. I also have some writing projects to finish before Friday and Saturday. I also have an appointment with my doctor on Tuesday. I'm not planning to go any where special for the rest of the week. I'm not going to participate in Black Friday this year, but then I never participate in Black Friday. About the only thing I might do Friday is get gas and only then if I don't do it on Tuesday.

A Happy Monday
is always a busy day
take action to stave off depression.

Thankful Thursday: One Week Before Thanksgiving

Istijlal (Majesty), 16 Qudrat (Power), 172 BE - Thursday, November 19, 2015 about 12:16 PM Pacific Standard Time

It is one week before Thanksgiving
and I already tired
of hearing about Black Friday specials.

I don't do Black Friday,
I don't do Small Business Saturday,
I don't do Cyber Monday,
I plan to send the appropriate Holiday Cards,
but other then that
I don't plan on purchasing much
if anything for Christmas
because I don't celebrate Christmas.

Meditation Monday: Daily Meditation

Kamal (Perfection), 13 Qudrat (Power), 172 BE - Monday, November 16, 2015 about 1:52 PM Pacific Standard Time

For the past fifteen days I have managed to meditate everyday. I usually meditate in the morning, but not always. I am participating in a twenty-one day free online meditation experience. I have six days to go and then I have decided how I am going to continue meditating. I know that I will use the my prayer beads and chant God's Most Great Name ninety-five times. I have to decide whether to meditate in the living room or in my bedroom.

Meditate each day
Each day chant God's Most Great Name:
Do I chant at dawn?

If I decide to chant in my bedroom then I need to move the chair. Right now the char sit against the east wall which means I am facing west. I need to face east when I chant the Greatest Name. I think I will get in the bedroom and change the position of the chair either Thursday or Friday. Probably Friday since I am planning to do the laundry on Thursday.

Summary Saturday: November 14, 2015

Jalal (Glory), 11 Qudrat (Power), 172 BE - Saturday, November 14, 2015 about 2:10 PM Pacific Standard Time

It's been an exciting and stressful week. Saturday should be a time to relax and enjoy the cool autumn air, but I don't think I can do that today because I have several things to do online. I did succeed in finishing two poems and a story this week, but I'm working on a third poem. The form I'm writing is a song, so I have to do a little research because the poem is about an event in history. It's a good thing I can do research online to make sure of the date.

Catching up on Tuesday afternoon

Fidal (Grace), 7 ‘Qudrat (Power), 172 BE - Tuesday, November 10, 2015 about 4:08 PM Pacific Standard Time

I had to get offline early on Monday because I wasn't feeling well. I couldn't think of anything to write for my NaNo novel or anything else. I decided to take a break and get back to work today. I'm doing alright so far. I finished chapter ll in my novel and will start on chapter 12. Today I found it easier to write. It was easier to push through to the end of chapter 11.

I think I'll have to take more breaks during the day so that I don't get to the point where I can't think. Perhaps go outside for a little walk. I have to get a blood test early Thursday morning, but on Wednesday I think I'll stay home and continue to get caught up. Right now I'm going to post this and do some review before writing another chapter or anything like that.

It is November

Jalal (Glory), 4 Qudrat (Power), 172 BE - Saturday, November 7, 2015 about 4:27 PM Pacific Standard Time

It is November. It is a sad month form me because three years ago, on November 29, my mother died. My mother's soul passed into the Garden of Paradise. My mother's spirit is free of the Alzheimer's that ravaged her mind and body. I remember that my mother died peacefully. I remember seeing her in the bed after her spirit left her body. I remember she looked so peaceful.

The first year after my mother's death is a fog. I just went on from day to day doing what I had to do without considering anything except what was necessary to keep myself alive. Things are better for me. My life started to improve in 2014 when I moved out of the house Mom and I shared. My situation has gotten a whole lot better this and I expect it to continue to improve.

Thankful Thursday: Gratitude and Living in the Present

Istijlal (Majesty), 2 Qudrat (Power), 172 BE - Thursday, November 5, 2015 about 9:30 AM Pacific Standard Time

“The more you are grateful for what you have the more you can live fully in the present."
Dana Arcuri

I admit that sometimes I have difficulty living in the present, especially when I am under stress. I also difficulty finding things to be thankful for that during times of stress. For some reason I have been under stress lately and I am not sure why. Perhaps it is just that I am so use to stress that I find things to worry about when there is nothing present. Another reason could be that I do not eat properly. However, I think the main reason is that I am lonely.

I have lived by myself for almost three years now and I do not like it. I have put on a brave face of liking, but the truth is I do not like living by myself. I do not like being responsible for all the housework. I do not like being responsible for all the bills. I do not like having no one to talk to but myself and my pet rocks. I am tired of living by myself.

This epiphany has been sneaking up on me for several weeks, but today it hit me like an egg in my face. This morning, after I got up, I meditated and then I wrote a journal entry about the experience. After that I got on with my day by eating breakfast and then reviewing a couple of items on writing.com. The more work I did the more I thought about how I felt being alone and I came to realize that despite what I have attempted to tell myself I do not like living alone.

I am going to take care of this. I have a housemate moving in with me this week. I have waited for my sister to move in with me for a few months now, but she has not. I hope she will eventually move in, but I am not going to wait on her any more. I would not have accepted a housemate if a friend did not have to move out of her apartment. She ask it she could move into my two bedroom apartment and I said yes.

I feel better knowing she is moving in. I am grateful to her for asking. I do not know what is going to happen in the near future. I do not know when or even if my sister will move in with me. I only know that I have to live in the present and not the past or the future. I now have someone help with the housework and other things necessary in keeping myself living in the present.

My Body's Clock is Resetting Itself

Fidal (Grace), 19 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Tuesday, November 3, 2015 about 2:29 PM Pacific Standard Time.

I feel iffy. I don't feel bad, but I don't feel good either. I think my body clock is still resetting itself. I'm getting used to standard time again. When the time returns to standard time in November it takes my body clock about a week to recalibrate. I will go through the same thing in the spring when the time jumps forward to Daylight Saving Time.

I will have to push myself for the next few days to move forward. I will think it's one hour ahead of what it really is. I will not be late for appointments because I don't have any appointments until November 16. I think afternoons are the worst because I want to take a nap at 2:00 instead of 3:00 PM.

I wish Nevada would decide to remain on the same time all year long. I don't care if it's Standard Time or Daylight Time, I just want it to remain the same all year. Of course that would throw a bolt into the schedules of the California tourist. However, I'm sure they would learn to deal with it. I's sure this jumping ahead and jumping back is dangerous.

I Need to Set a Clock Back

Jamal (Beauty), 17 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Sunday, November 1, 2015 2:27 PM Pacific Standard Time.

I just realized I didn't set the clock on the electric range back. I didn't think about sitting it back last night nor this morning. Not that it made much difference because the rest of the clocks in the house are automatically set back. It's just that I don't take my cellphone to the kitchen when I do dishes. The only time I need a clock in the kitchen is when I'm at the sink.

I use the timer on the stove when I bake, but it doesn't matter what time the clocks reads when I'm using the timer. I suppose I'd better go in there and reset the clock. I might want to know what time it is when I wash the dishes tomorrow. I've been so busy today that I just got a change to relax a little before going on to something else.

This morning I paid the rent and then stopped at two different stores. The first store was a supermarket to pick up a container of coffee. Then next I stopped at a drug store. I wouldn't have stopped at the drug store if I could have bought the item I wanted in the size I wanted at the supermarket. I guess I'd better post this and then reset the clock in the kitchen.

It's Friday and I'm Posting a Rant

Istiqlal (Independence), 15 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Friday, October 30, 2015 about 5:47 PM Pacific Daylight Time

It's Friday! Friday can be depressing when I realize I haven't accomplished everything I wanted to this week. I have to make a few changes in the way I do things in November or I won't finish the 50,000 word novel. I spent October attempting to plan the novel. I like the theme, plot, and characters of the novel. I'm not enthusiastic writing the novel and I'm not sure why.

Perhaps it's because it takes so long for me to do anything any more. I'm alone in my apartment. I have to do all the housework myself and I'm not the greatest housekeeper in the world. I'm probably not the worst housekeeper either. I do the best I can, but sometimes I don't feel I accomplished anything. However, I can't give up. I have to keep trying because despite everything I do accomplish a little something. I would like to accomplish more.

Sometimes I think I just want to become a hermit. I want to lock the doors and not let anybody into my life. At other times I enjoy having people around. When I'm with people I have fun and enjoy the outings. Maybe the problem is October. It's been a weird month. I'm not making any sense at all. Maybe I should just delete this entire entry and start over. I'm not going to do it. I'm going to post this entry and get on with something else.

Midweek Reflections: Halloween Memories

'Idal (Justice), 13 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Wednesday, October 28, 2015 about 5:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time

Halloween memories
like trick or treating children
come knocking at the door of my mind
bringing back sweet candy smiles.

That is a good start to a Halloween poem. I have so many pleasant Halloween memories that I don't know where to start. Perhaps I should use a specific form to focus the memories. Halloween is still three days away so I have a few days to work on this.

Meditation Monday: Listening to the birds

Kamal (Perfection), 11 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Monday, October 26, 2015 about 8:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Open the front door,
stand there
as you focus on birdsong.

Listen to the choir
of robins and sparrows
as they intone their praise
in the first light of day.

Can you hear
the distant crowing
of a rooster?

Can you hear
the cooing of doves
and pigeons as the join
the sparrows serenade?

Autumn is here
and the birds are thankful
for the cool morning temperatures
we are experiencing
in Las Vegas.

Saturday Summary: Seven Days Left in October

Jalal (Glory), 9 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Saturday, October 24, 2015 about 1:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time

There are seven days left in October. Seven days until Daylight Savings Time ends. Seven days to deal with the rest of October's weirdness. This year October has been a bit weirder then previous years, but I'm not sure why. I've had difficulty focusing on writing poetry this month. Normally I have no problem coming up with a theme and subject. In the past, I've had no problems following the specific form of a poem so that the rhythm flows properly.

This month I attempted to write an English sonnet. I got the syllable count and the rhyme scheme down fine. I stumbled over the rhythm, so now I have to rewrite the poem to get the rhythm right. The problem is whenever I start to rewrite, I stare at the screen or the page wondering how to change the poem to fit the rhythm. I suppose I could just give up and write another poem using the same subject and theme. However, that doesn't seem right. I can't give up the idea that this poem, with a bit more work, can become a perfect English sonnet. I wonder if William Shakespeare encountered this problem when he was writing English sonnets.

The End of Daylight Savings Time is Sunday, November 1

Istiqlal (Independence), 8 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Friday, October 23, 2015 about 1:59 PM Pacific Daylight Time

This year, Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 1. I need to take note of it because I have two clocks to manually reset. I have to reset the clock on the stove and on the microwave. The rest of the clocks (the ones I go by) are automatically reset. I love modern technology, especially when it comes to clocks. The fewer clocks I have to reset the happier I am.

The only clock I have any difficulty resetting is the one on the microwave. I suppose I cloud just leave it the way it is right now and just reset the clock on the range. When I'm in the kitchen I use the electric range more then the microwave. In fact I use the microwave so little that it is still blinking from the last brown out we had in Las Vegas. I know that it occurred sometime in the summer, but I don't remember when.

Maybe I have too many clocks in my house. I have two in the kitchen, two in the living room, and one on my cellphone (which I carry with me). The clocks in the living room are on the cable box and the computer. Since I use the alarm on my cellphone I don't have an alarm clock. I used to have a radio alarm clock, but I give that away because I didn't use either the alarm or the radio. When I was younger I had a windup alarm, but I got rid of that clock years ago.

Midweek Reflections on Autumn in Las Vegas

'Idal (Justice), 6 ‘Ilm (Knowledgel), 172 BE - Wednesday, October 21, 2015 about 3:01 PM Pacific Daylight Time

Autumn is my favorite time of year in Las Vegas. The temperatures have descended into the double digits, so I don't have to have the cool air on. It isn't cold enough either during the day or at night to turn on the warm air. I can leave the door open all day and the window open all night without any problems. The birds sing all day because it is cool and the neighborhood children can play outside on the weekends.

Las Vegas autumn
Cool enough in the afternoon
To drive across the city
With my car windows open.

Saturday At Last and time to plan next week

Jalal (Glory), 2 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 172 BE - Saturday, October 17, 2015 about 3:18 PM PDT

Saturday at last
time to plan the coming week:
Clean the refrigerator?

I have lights in my kitchen. The maintenance tech came yesterday and put light bulbs in every socket in t he house. I can now see to clean the stove, sweep the floors, and other things I need lights before I could clean them. I suppose I should start with the kitchen floor or under the kitchen sink. Under the kitchen sink is the easiest (I think). I have Pine Sol original and a sponge mop. I am not going to get down on my hands and knees to clean the floor. If I did that I would never be able to stand up. In fact, I would have to crawl into the living room so I could use the couch to help me get up off the floor.

I think t he best place to start is in the kitchen and that means I need to wash my mop bucket out again. I have to wash it out because I used it as a trash can and the plastic sack leaked. I can wash the mop bucket out tonight and then mop under the kitchen sink in the morning. I have t o mop under the sink because a plastic bag I used for trash leaked. The lesson in this is never put a trash in a plastic bag unless you have a trashcan to put the plastic bag in.

Midweek Reflections on the Blue Screen of Death

'Idal (Justice), 18 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Wednesday, October 14, 2015 about 4:08 PM Pacific Daylight Time

I just encountered the blue screen of death about five or ten minutes ago. Fortunately, I don't panic when things like this happen. I let the computer do whatever it was supposed to and it came back up. This is the first time I've encountered this issue with this computer this year. I put in a call to tech support, but they are off duty so I left a message. I'll call them again in the morning about 7:30 or 8:00 AM. I think tech support for this computer is back East so maybe I can call them earlier. I always up by 5:00 AM Pacific Time anyway.

I was composing a blog entry, so I didn't lose any lines of poetry or short story paragraphs. Next month is NaNoWriMo so I need to see if there is a problem before then. I will save things a little more often then I'm used to doting it, but it won't change anything else. At least I don't think it will. I did have more then one window open at the time, so that could have caused the problem. I think I had about three or four windows open which is unusual for me. Normally I work with only two windows open. I'll talk to tech support in the morning and see what they think.

Meditation Monday: Meditation, Prayer, and Writing Poetry

Kamal (Perfection), 16 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Monday, October 12, 2015 about 3:02 PM Pacific Daylight Time

For the past six or seven days I have attempted to write a sonnet. I begin with a specific theme in mind and attempted to push the theme even thought I could not get beyond the first line. Today I changed my tactics. After beating my head against the proverbial wall, I turned off the computer. I then found one of my prayer books, opened it to a specific prayer, and said the prayer. After saying the prayer (according to the directions) I meditated. After that I was able to begin the poem.

I chose another theme. Instead of writing a sonnet about the holy books (I will keep this theme for another poem) I wrote about my muse. I am using the voice of my muse to write the poem. That is I am writing the poem in the first person with the I being my muse or rather the poet's muse. This approach is working well and I now have two stanzas with two more stanzas to go.

I know better then to attempt to write a poem without a prayer and meditation session before I begin. I also know better then to attempt to force a theme when my muse or my subconsciousness (use whichever word you want) has other ideas. My problem is that I can get so focused on one idea that I forget that sometimes it is better to let the theme of the poem flow naturally.

Saturday Review of My Week

Jalal (Glory), 14 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Saturday, October 10, 2015 about 4:25 PM Pacific Daylight Time

It's been an interesting week. I got behind on some writing project which I caught up in a single day. The maintenance man came yesterday and fixed the hole in my wall. He also took measurements of the bedroom doors so they can be replaced. He is supposed to be back sometime next week to replace the light bulbs and fix the fan in the bathroom.

Today I wrote a story and submitted it to a contest on writing.com. I still have a poem and another story to write. I will finished one of them tonight (I hope). I don't want to get behind again because it stresses me and I think it might raise my blood pressure. I'm not sure about the blood pressure, so I think the next time I go into Smiths Food and Drug store I will check it in there.

I also made soup this week. I warmed the soup up today for lunch and dinner. I think I may have enough left to eat it tomorrow. I live alone so when I cook soup or rice I have enough to feed me for two or three days..I guess I better post this and get on with the rest of my writing or housework whichever I intend to do this afternoon.

Thankful Thursday: It's Beginning to Feel Like Autumn in Las Vegas

Istijlal (Majesty), 11 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Thursday, October 8, 2015 about 10:20 AM Pacific Daylight Tiem

Today I am thankful...

01. ...that the temperatures in Las Vegas have descended into the double digits because it is beginning to feel like autumn.

02. ...for fresh brewed coffee.

03. ...that I have the ingredients for vegetable soup in the house because autumn is soup time.

04. ...for the birds I hear singing in the pine trees across the street.

05. ...that my checking account is not overdrawn.

06. ...for the dawn clouds that were the color of peaches and cream this morning.

07. ...that I have several cans of ginger ale in the refrigerator so that I can have a can of soda this afternoon.

08. ...for the bottles of water I have in the freezer. Even in autumn and winter, I still like to drink ice water.

09. ...that I don't have to go to a store today because I have work here a home to catch up. I'll go to the store either Friday afternoon or Sunday.

10. ...for the beautiful autumn day I see every time I look out the windows and the door.

Autumn Rain

Fidal (Grace), 9 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Tuesday, October 6, 2015 about 6:07 PM Pacific Daylight Time

Yesterday it rained all day
From first light until after midnight.

The thunder rolled,
the lightning flashed,
and flash flood warnings
were proclaimed
on every television station.

The scent of rain
washed the air clean
to start the day
fresh and bright.

This morning
I opened a window
so that I could inhale
the fresh scent
of an autumn morning.

An Autumn Afternoon in Las Vegas

Jamal (Beauty), 7 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Sunday, October 4, 2015 about Sunset Pacific Daylight Savings Time

It's October and fall has finally came to Las Vegas. The temperatures are in the double digits. It is cooler during the day and the night. This week rain showers are predicted for Sunday and Monday, but I didn't encounter any rain while I was driving across Las Vegas.

Autumn afternoon
double digit temperatures
under cloudy skies.

I saw dark rain clouds this morning when I was driving to the west side of town. It didn't rain in the area of town I was in, but that doesn't mean it didn't rain somewhere in Las Vegas. I haven't turned on the television, so I don't know if it rained anyplace in town or not.

I have too much work to get distracted by the television. I have to stop writing in a few minutes and fins something to eat. I brought some food home with me from my lunch, which I might eat. I was going to save it for breakfast; however, I'm getting hungry and since I may be up all night I should eat something substantial.

Happy Friday. Happy Laundry Day.

Istiqlal (Independence), 6 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Friday, October 2, 2015 about 5:31 PM Pacific Daylight Time

It's Friday.
It's laundry day.
So I loaded up the laundry-grocery cart
with dirty cloths
and drove to the laundromat.

Doing laundry on Friday morning
is a wonderful experience,
because the laundromat is almost empty
and I don't have to wait
for a washer or a dryer.

I don't have to carry quarters.
The laundromat I go to
is a twenty-fist century establishment;
they use debit cards
specifically attuned to the machines.

It's delightful to go in,
put my laundry card
in their debit machine
and know how much is on the card.

It's wonderful
to put bills into the debit card machine
and have it added to my laundry card.

Doing laundry
in the twenty-first century
is less stressful.

Midweek Reflections on Triple Digit Temperatures

'Idal (Justice), 4 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Wednesday, September 30, 2015 about 4:19 PM Pacific Daylight Time

Hopefully today will be the last we will see of triple digit temperatures here in Las Vegas. Right now it is 100 degrees and the forecast high for today was 101 degrees. I don't know if it reached that temperature and I don't want to know. I'm tired of triple digit temperatures. It is autumn and we should be experiences temperatures in the low 90s or the high 80s instead of temperatures of 100 plus degrees.

I have my air conditioner set on econo mode, so the only time it runs is when the temperature in the house rises above 80 or higher degrees. I don't have anything to complain about because the last power bill was about $88.00, which I was able to pay. Still going outside in triple digit temperatures isn't fun. In addition, the air conditioner in my car doesn't work and it cost too much to have it fixed. Fortunately, the temperatures are supposed to be in the double digits for the rest of the week. This means I might be able to plan afternoon shopping trips instead of morning trips.

I Am Eating Better

Fidal (Grace), 3 Mashíyyat (Will), 172 BE - Tuesday, September 29, 2015 9:20 am Pacific Daylight Time

I have one small victory to proclaim. I am eating better. Instead of having candy with my coffee each morning, I an eating grapes. When I finish the grapes then I will have to confront desire to go back to candy. The only thing I can do is take one step at a time and follow my exercise program.

At this point, my exercise program consists of lugging one or two small trash bags to the alley. I also park my car in the alley because it is a longer walk then it I parked in front. I am feeling better, but I don't know if I lost weight because I don't weigh myself at home. I have a bathroom scales, but I haven't been using it to check my weight. I guess I should do that to see if I'm loosing weight.

Saturday Summary: The End of an Interesting Week

Jalal (Glory), 19 ‘Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Saturday, September 26, 2015 about 12:10 PM Pacific Daylight Time

It's been an interesting and noisy week. Most of the noisy occurred between neighbors yelling at each other in the middle of the street. All right, I'm not sure whether the were standing in the middle of the street or on the sidewalk because I had my blinds closes. I close my blinds every day between 6:30 and 9:30 PM usually just after it gets dark outside. For the past three or four nights some of the neighbors (I don't know which ones) have been arguing or shouting at each other in front of my apartment building. The usually end the shouting match around 10:30 pm.

I haven't called the police because all they do is shout at each other. I suspect they may be fighting, but I'm not sure because I refuse to open the blinds or the door to find out. I don't mind the noise because it stops before I begin the process of going to sleep about 11:00 pm. I don't sleep well anyway and I'm sure people shouting at each other would disturb what little sleep I do get.

My sleep pattern is sleep, wake up, and go back to sleep. This occurs a couple of times a night unless I'm foolish enough to bo to bed earlier the normal. I try not to go to sleep earlier no matter how tired I think I am because I know that it won't do any good and I won't get my normal three or four hours of sleep. No matter how early or late I go to sleep I still wake up an hour or so before the alarm goes off at 4:00 am.

Humid Tuesday

Fidal (Grace), 15 ‘Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Tuesday, September 22, 2015 about 4:14 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Here in Las Vegas, we are experiencing 21% humidity with a 97 degree temperature and a dew point at 51 degrees. The forecast for today is scatter shower, but right now we have scatter clouds. I suppose that goes along with scatter showers. This morning was overcast without rain. I think I would rather experience rain because the temperatures would be lower.

I'm not sure why the humidity is getting to me this afternoon. Maybe its my age or physical condition. I'm not in the best of health; my health could be worse so I don't think I'll complain. I'm going to fix myself a green salad later this afternoon. I won't have to cook it so that means I won't be eating anything hot. The salad is cool so it will help me cope with the high temperatures and humidity. In fact, I thin I will post this and then go fix my salad stuff. That way I won't have to interrupt my writing this evening.

Sunday Morning Tranquility: A Poem

Jamal (Beauty), 13 'Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Sunday, September 20, 2015 about 12:14 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Sunday morning
pigeons flew past my window
without disturbing
the peace of the neighborhood.

Sunday morning
all the neighbors are silent
absorbed in the own concerns
undisturbing and undisturbed
by an external noise.

Sunday morning
progresses into a tranquil
afternoon.

Midweek Reflections on Autumn

'Idal (Justice), 9 ‘Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Wednesday, September 16, 2015 about 1:35 PM Pacific Daylight Time

The Autumnal Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere occurs on September 23 at 08:20 UTC; this is 1:22 AM PDT. At this time, the sun is shining directly on the equator which makes days and nights almost equal. After this the days get noticeably shorter and the nights longer.

Autumnal Equinox
time to begin preparations
for long and cold winter nights.

Of course, the temperature begins cooling down before the fall equinox. Instead of triple digit temperatures we experience double digit temperatures. This means I need to find my winter sweaters and sweat shirts. I know I will need them at night because I don't have any heavy blankets. Of course, it doesn't get cold enough here in Las Vegas for electric blankets; at least it hasn't in the past. I don't know how cold it will get this year.

I always look forward to fall because I can turn the cool air off without having to turn the warm air on. Right now, I'm planning on turning the unit off on September 30, but I could make it later if it looks like we might experience some out-of-season triple digit temperatures. Considering some of the weird weather we've had lately it wouldn't surprise me. Nor would it surprise me if we hit single digit temperatures early.

The Second Monday in September 2015 I am lonely

Kamal (Perfection), 7 'Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Monday, September 14, 2015 about 5:48 pm Pacific Daylight Time

On the second Monday in September 2015
I contemplate the past few months
of loneliness.

I didn't start feeling the loneliness until about February or March. Then I begin to think about how lonely I am living by myself. I don't like living alone. I don't like living by myself. I want a room mate. I want someone to talk to during the day. I know that I can call people, but talking to someone over the phone isn't the same as talking to them in person.

This butterfly is lonely
she want someone to talk to,
someone to help with the housecleaning,
someone to ride to the store with her.

Coffee on Sunday Morning

Jamal (Beauty), 6 'Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Sunday, September 13, 2015 about 6:20 AM Pacific Daylight Time

An early rising
street lights scatter the darkness
in my neighborhood.

Morning coffee brewed
I open the window blinds
waiting for first light.

Pouring a hot cup
I take a sip and then walk
to the front door, open it.

I stand there watching
as street lights illuminate
Sunrise Avenue.

I say a prayer
giving thanks for the new day
a new week begins.

Sip by sip I watch
dawn illuminate the sky
turn charcoal clouds pink.

I watch a pigeon
fly from tree to roof and then
land in front of me.

Thankful Thursday: September 10, 2015

Istijlal (Majesty), 3 ‘Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Thursday, September 10, 2015 around sunset Pacific Standard Time

Today I am thankful...

01. ...that my checking account is not overdrawn.

02. ...for fresh brewed Folgers black silk coffee.

03. ...that I did not break a toe when I dropped a soda can on my foot yesterday.

04. ...for the cane that was given to me because it helps me get up from chairs.

05. ...that I have begun writing about childhood traumas in a more explicate manner because it helps me deal with them.

06. ...for pourable vinegar and oil salad dress from Kraft.

07. ...that I have a workable air conditioner in this apartment because of the triple digit days we are experiencing in Las Vegas.

08. ...for the bottles of frozen water I have in the freezer because I like to drink ice cold water.

09. ...that I have a couple of small bottles of orange juice in the refrigerator.

10. ...for the wonderful neighbors I have.

Midweek Reflections on Watermelons, Growing Plants and Cleaning Out the Refrigerator

'Idal (Justice), 2 ‘Izzat (Might), 172 BE - Wednesday, September 9, 2015 about 4:16 pm Pacific Daylight Time

As a child, my grandfather grew his own watermelon. He would pick them off the vine, take them into the house, and put them in the refrigerator. I do not grow my own watermelon for two reasons. First, I live in an apartment so I do not have anyplace to grow the watermelon. Second, unlike my grandmother and grandfather, I do not have a green thumb. My grandparents could grow anything, I am lucky if I can grow a cactus without killing it. All right, maybe that is too strong a word.

The point is that no matter how hard I try plants do not grow for me. Someone can give me a plant and it dies. I can water it, according to the directions, it still dies. I can put it in a place where it gets the proper amount of sun and one morning I will go to the plant and find it dead. I cannot grow plants. I do not have a green thumb. Which is why I purchase all my fresh vegetables and fruit.

Anyway, to get back to the watermelon. I have a watermelon to put in the refrigerator. I do not have room in the refrigerator. Just so you know, I was given the watermelon today. This means that I have to clean out the refrigerator and I am not looking forward to it. I started cleaning it out this afternoon.

I had three or four pieces of cooked chicken, so I put that in the stew pot with some water. After the chicken was heated then I took the chicken out and put some vegetables in the the water. Those are cooking now. When that gets done, I will either eat vegetable stew or take the chicken off the bone and have chicken stew. Anyway, with the vegetables and chicken out of the refrigerator I think I have room in the bottom shelf for the watermelon. That will be either my supper tonight (if I am hunger) or my lunch tomorrow.

A Two Carafe Coffee Day

Kamal (Perfection), 19 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Monday, September 7, 2015 about 3:26 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Labor Day
is a two carafe coffee day
the only thing I want to do
is write.

I go to the kitchen,
pour myself another cup of coffee
and then stand at the window
looking out into the street.

I watch children
riding their bicycles
past my window,
I smile
because they are using the sidewalk
rather the riding
them in the street,

It isn't safe
to ride bicycles
in the street
because drivers speed
the wrong
without considerations
for pedestrians
or bicycling children.

Summary Saturday: A Good Week

Jalal (Glory), 17 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Saturday, September 5, 2015 5:13 pm Pacific Daylight Time

It was a very good week for writing poetry. I completed five poems between August 31 and September 1. I also finished a 600+ word story. I have another poem to complete today if I can figure out the subject. I have considered and rejected two subjects so far today. One of the subjects was about my luck Harley-Davidson cap and the other was about a chartreuse dress which I cannot find so I must have given the dress away because it was either too big or too small.

The theme is something that happened fifteen years ago in 2000. The reason I rejected the Harley cap is because I think I received the cap at a later date. I know I received the cap during an election year, but I cannot remember which one. I think I will go with a wedding subject for this poem because I know I attended a wedding in 2000. That was the year my one of my brothers got married, so Mom and I attended the wedding. Now if I can remember everything that I need to put in the poem I will be find.

The deadline for the poem is September 6 at 9:00 am PDT, so I guess I better get started now that I have decided on the subject. I do not remember having this much trouble with the subject for the other five poems I wrote this week, but then once I write a poem I forget about the difficulties I encounter when I write it. This is probably one of the reasons I continue to write poems.

Thankful Thursday: The First Thankful Thursday in September 2015

Istijlal (Majesty), 15 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Thursday, September 3, 2015 about 4:03 pm Pacific Daylight Time

It's the first Thankful Thursday in September 2015 and I'm wondering what I have to be thankful for. Then I remember that I have numerous things to put on my gratitude list.

I am thankful that my checking account is not overdrawn.

I am thankful for the bottles of ice I have in the freezer because I like to take cold water with me with I go shopping.

I am thankful that I went to the podiatrist on September 1 to get my toenails cut.

I am thankful for writing.com.

I am thankful that I can go to a podiatrist to get my toenails cut.

I am thankful for Folgers black silk coffee because it's the best coffee I've ever drink.

I am thankful that I have a working air conditioner in my apartment.

I am thankful for the surveys that come to my e-mail accounts because I ear a little extra money responding to them.

I am thankful that my car started when I went to the supermarket today.

I am thankful for the couch I have to sleep on.

Six Things I like about September

Fidal (Grace), 13 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Tuesday, September 1, 2015 about 6:19 pm Pacific Time

Happy Anniversary Writing.com

01. September is writing.com's fifteenth anniversary
02. September is cooler.
03. September 23 is the first day of Autumn
04. September is National Courtesy Month
05. September is Self Improvement Month
06. September always brings back pleasant memories of my childhood

Morning Nap

Jamal (Beauty), 11 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Sunday, August 30, 2015 about 12:14 pm

I know
that afternoon naps
are normal
and recommended,
but today
I took a morning nap.

I didn't intend
to doze off
when I set down on the couch
to meditate
and pray.

I said a prayer for forgiveness
then leaned back
to contemplate
the words.

I closed my eyes
to shut out the morning
so that I could focus
on experiencing
the presence
of the Holy Spirit.

I dozed off,
woke up
a few minutes later
feeling refreshed.

Thoughtful Thursday: I Don't Want to be Sixteen Again

stijlal (Majesty), 8 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Thursday, August 27, 2015 about 1:07 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Prompt: Tell us about the person you were when you were sixteen.

Stressed! Depressed! I wouldn't be sixteen again for any amount of money. I didn't like being sixteen because of the bullies and the gossip. I remember struggling and being made fun of by my class mate in junior high and high school. I was stood up by a date and I have to face the snickers when I went back to school the next day. Eventually we moved from one town to another, but I don't think school got any better.

I've heard people tell about how wonderful being sixteen was and maybe it was for them, but it wasn't for me. At 68, I can look back on my sixteen year old self and say "Thank God I survived!" I learned that people aren't always what they appear to be. I learned that just because someone acts like your friend doesn't mean they are. I learned that you can't let other peoples opinions define who you are. Eventually I learned to forgive and bury the past, at least until I use it in a short story or poem.

I don't want to be sixteen again,
I don't want to have those types of friends.

That is a good start to a poem. I don't know where it's going at the moment. I may not finish it today or even this week. I will finish it.

Housework is My Exercise Program

Fidal (Grace), 6 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Tuesday, August 25, 2015 4:53 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Housework is my exercise program. I organized part of my kitchen this morning and then picked up some stuff off the living room floor. I feel good this afternoon. I feel as if I could write all night, which isn't a good idea since I have to go shopping on Wednesday morning. I suppose I could wait until Wednesday afternoon, but the weather report says to expect rain in the afternoon. Since I don't like driving in the rain because I drive with my window down (I can't open my door from the inside).

I have more to do in the kitchen because I moved only the containers that were on the floor. I put a couple under the desk that holds my coffee and toaster. The rest I put between the desk and the refrigerator. Then I put several bottles of water in the freezer and cans of soda in the lower part of the refrigerator. Next I put my old grocery laundry cart next to the window so that I could put my dirty laundry in it. That way I don't have to walk in the other room when I put dish towels and pot holders in it. I can also see when it's full so I can plan my weekly or monthly trip to the laundromat.

I put the new grocery laundry cart in the living room between the love seat and the wall. That way it's easy for me to retrieve when I have to go to the store or to the laundromat. I'm not going to take the old cart because one of the wheels is wobbly and that makes it difficulty to push.

The Fourth Week in August 2015: Be Kind to Humankind Week

Jamal (Beauty), 4 Asmá’ (Names), 172 BE - Sunday, August 23, 2015 about 2:19 pm Pacific Daylight Time

According to Holiday Insights the fourth week in August is Be Kind to Humankind Week. I Googled Be Kind to Humankind Week and found out that this is an annual celebration of kindness and reflection on ways we can be kind to others. Each of the seven days has a theme. The website Be Kind To Humankind list the themes for each day of the week.

Here are those themes with links to suggestions for celebrating each day of the week.

Day 1: Sacrifice Our Wants For Other’s Needs Sunday
Day 2: Motorist Consideration Monday
Day 3: Touch A Heart Tuesday
Day 4: Willing-To-Lend-A-Hand Wednesday
Day 5: Thoughtful Thursday
Day 6: Forgive Your Foe Friday
Day 7: Speak Kind Words Saturday

Midweek Reflections on Meditation

'Idal (Justice), 19 Kamál (Perfection), 172 BE - Wednesday, August 19, 2015 about 5:36 pm Pacific Daylight Time

I take a deep breath

inhale
exhale

I quiet my mind
so that I can listen
to my muse.

I always begin my meditation session with a prayer of protection. Prayer and meditation are partners in the spiritual growth of humanity.

Excessive Heat Warning Continues Through Wednesday

Kamal (Perfection), 17 Kamál (Perfection), 172 BE - Monday, August 17, 2015 about 6:51 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Listen
to the air conditioner
singing its summer song.

It's another hot day in Las Vegas. I have the air conditioner set on ECONO mode which means it's supposed to shut off when it reaches the desired temperatures. The outdoor temperature at 5:56 pm was 108 degrees Fahrenheit and it was supposed to get up to 110 degrees today. I don't know if it reached that because I haven't watched the news and I only check the temperature on line twice a day.

I wonder
as I listen to the central air unit
if this excessive heat is a sign of global warming.

When I lived in the studio apartment, I turn off the air when I wasn't working on the computer. I don't turn the air conditioner off when I'm doing housework, watching television, praying or meditating during the day. I let the air conditioner run and don't worry about the power bill because I paid it this month. I'll deal with next month's power bill when it arrives.

Spiritual Sunday: Meditation, Prayer, Writing, Reviewing, and Coffee

Jamal (Beauty), 16 Kamál (Perfection), 172 BE - Sunday, August 16, 2015 about 8:44 am Pacific Daylight Time

This morning, I poured myself a cup of fresh brewed coffee and then I went to the front door. I opened the door, whispered a morning prayer, and then stood there sipping hot coffee while I watched the morning light of God's favor illuminate the street in front of my apartment. I watched a pigeon I watched a pigeon fly to the roof of the apartment building across the street. I took a deep breath of the cool morning air.

My Sunday morning prayer and meditation session over, I went to the computer to do a little writing and reviewing. This morning I responded to a blog prompt sent by one of the blog groups on writing.com. The next thing I did was to review a non-fiction essay and a poem by two new writing.com members. My next writing task was to compose and post this entry.

Before beginning to create this blog entry, I went to the kitchen to pour myself another cup of coffee. While in the kitchen I added some of yesterday's leftover coffee to the carafe containing today's fresh brewed coffee. I don't see any use in pouring yesterday's coffee down the sink when I could warm it over with today's coffee. Normally I don't have coffee left over from the day before, but yesterday was a weird day.

On Saturday, I went to get air put in my tires and then I went to the bank to deposit a check. My cellphone won't allow me to take a picture of a check and deposit it remotely. After depositing the check I went to the supermarket so that I could pay the power bill and purchase some needed items. About halfway through my shopping trip, I began feeling ill. I cut the trip short and came home. The only things I felt like doing when I got home was drink water and doze. I attempted to do a little writing, but I didn't do very much.

This morning, I'm feeling much better. I can finish the coffee today and eat something. I didn't eat much yesterday. I think my problem yesterday was the heat because I left the house a bit later then I normally would on hot days. Today I plan to stay home so that I can get some work accomplished inside my apartment.

Midweek Reflections on Salt and Losing Weight

'Idal (Justice), 12 Kamál (Perfection), 172 BE - Wednesday, August 12, 2015 about 2:04 pm Pacific Daylight Time

I've been eating too much salt lately. When I went to the doctor the other day I was told my blood pressure was borderline. This is the first time I've been told this. Until now my blood pressure has been good. Since I don't want to deal with high blood pressure this late in my life, I'll have to start watching my salt intake closer and lose weight.

Cutting down on my salt intake is much easier then losing weight. When I use canned vegetables I can drain the liquid and then run water over the vegetables to wash off some of the salt. To lose the weight I have to increase my exercise and cut down on the amount of food I eat. I also have to stop snacking. This means I cannot have jelly on my rice cakes more then once a day. It also means cutting down on the sweets.

I think the best way to start losing weight is to begin praying about it. By praying about my weight I can put the situation in God's hands and then work from there. I may have to start a food journal for a closer look at my food intake. I also have to get the scales out of the bedroom, clean them off, and place them where I can weigh myself without going into another room looking for the scales. All though walking into another room to find them might help my exercise program.

I am glad that I drink my coffee without adding cream or sugar. At least I don't have to give up coffee. I will have to watch my juice intake because I drink bottle fruit juice and most of those have sugar in them. Perhaps cut the juice down to once or twice a day with breakfast and lunch. Then there is the issue of late night snacks. I don't snack very much at night, but when I do I tend to eat foods that have a lot of sugar, salt, or calories. I know how much I weighed at my doctor's office on Monday, so I will use that as my starting point.

Happy Monday

Kamal (Perfection), 10 Kamál (Perfection), 172 BE - Monday, August 10, 2015 about 5:40 pm Pacific Daylight Time

It's a happy Monday;
the dishes are wished,
the trash taken to the alley,
the air conditioner working,
and I'm on my second carafe of coffee.

It's a happy Monday,
my Doctor said I need to
cut down on the salt,
get more exercise,
and lose weight.

Saturday Summery of the first week in August 2015

Jalal (Glory), 8 Kamál (Perfection), 172 BE - Saturday, August 8, 2015 about 12:34 pm Pacific Daylight Time

To paraphrase or mess up the lyrics of a half-remembered song "It was a very good week"! Of course it's always a good week when I accomplish something. This week I responded to blog prompts on writing.com, wrote one story, and a couple of poems. I managed to make a few entries in this blog and in Poet 999's Thoughts on Writing and Other stuff. I also did some housework other then taking out the trash and washing the dishes.

Last night, I had to take a prescription pain table for lower back pain. It alleviated the pain, but it's taken me half the day to fully wake up and get moving. I have to go to the supermarket tomorrow for some needed items. I don't think I will get much because I've go plenty of food in the house. All though I think I should check the coffee because I got a coupon for some sort of coffee through the mail.

I encountered issues with afternoon writing this week. I did fine writing before 12 noon, but I couldn't think of anything to find anything to write in the afternoon. I didn't even want to write in my pen and paper journal. I also found myself fantasizing when I was doing dishes. I have to do better this coming week, so I think I will attempt to recite prayers while I'm doing dishes. Reciting prayers helps keep me focused which in turn encourages writing, exercising, and housework.

Tuesday Afternoon Free Write

Fidal (Grace), 4 Kamál (Perfection), 172 BE - Tuesday, August 4, 2015 about 6:12 pm Pacific Daylight Time

I haven't made an entry in this blog since July 31 because I can't think of an idea. So this afternoon I put on another carafe of coffee tow see if that would help me think. While the coffee was brewing I washed the dishes, which sometimes helps me think of of a theme. The dishes didn't work and I'm not sure if the coffee will work either.

I sit down at the computer to work. I open a document and I stare at the screen without writing anything. I'm even having problems with this free write because my mind has drawn a blank. I don't have any problems writing in the mornings, it's just afternoon writing that gives me problems. I think for the next week or so I'll use prompts for my afternoon writing sessions. I can respond to a prompt any time of the day or the night without difficulties.

This morning I begin an exercise class which scheduled for two days a week. The class cuts into writing time, but I need the exercise. The only exercise I get lately is taking the trash to the alley, which isn't enough exercise. I'm going to close this now because I can't seem to think of anything else to write.

Thoughts at the end of July 2015

Istiqlal (Independence), 19 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Friday, July 31, 2015 about 1:34 pm Pacific Daylight Time

July comes to an end
August requires a new action plan
More exercise
A balanced diet

Part of my August action plan is to take advantage of some of the exercise programs offered at the Humana Summerlin Guidance Center on West Charleston in Las Vegas. I also plan to see my doctor to discuss an issues I'm having with my legs. The balanced diet will be a little more difficult because I have to check the potassium count in some of the food I eat. That can be difficult because potassium isn't always listed on the packages and it isn't listed at all on fresh fruits. This means I have to go online to check the potassium count in some of the food I eat.

Midweek Reflections on Writing about My Life Experience

'Idal (Justice), 17 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Wednesday, July 29, 2015 about 5:24 am Pacific Daylight Time

The July 29, 2015 edition of the writing.com spiritual newsletter ask: "What are your life's experiences and how have they changed or affected your writing?" After contemplating this question I realized that my life experience has affected my poetry. I write all genres of poetry, but the majority of poems are spiritual, bitter love poems, and poetry of the tortured soul.

I have had a rather interesting life. I remember the trauma of my parent's divorce. I remember the verbal and sexual abuse of a stepfather. I remember the joy of being with my grandparents. I remember sitting in the hospital room next to my maternal grandfather the day he died. I remember having two different dreams about the return of Christ. I remember getting pregnant and giving my daughter up for adoption. I remember finding out my father had died when I did an internet search for him. All of these experiences go into my poetry and some of them into my stories.

As I write this entry, I realize that I am a bit nervous. I always get nervous when writing about personal and emotional experiences. This is a good sign because it means that I am dealing with experiences and the emotions in a positive way by writing about them. Used to keep things like this bottle up without either speaking or writing about them. No more! While I may not speak about them, I do write about the experiences and the emotions. It is easier for me to deal with these thing in writing rather then any other way. Writing is a positive response to the emotional issues of my life experiences.

Meditation Monday: Changing my Method of Mediation

Kamal (Perfection), 15 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Monday, July 27, 2015 about 11:19 am Pacific Daylight Time

I moved into my new apartment in the first week of June. This month, a friend who was moving to a smaller place gave me some furniture. I have also changed the time and method of method. I now meditate in the late afternoon or evening rather then at random intervals throughout the day.

Since I have both a love seat and a couch, I can chose which one I sit on when meditating. Right now I am using the love seat, but this may change when I get a mattress for my bed and move the chair in the bedroom against the west wall because I face east when I meditate.

My Meditation

1. Say a prayer of protection.

2. Chant God's Most Great Name 95 times using prayer beads to count.

3. Sit quietly for several minutes (at least five) with my eyes closed while breathing deeply.

4. Write something in my journal.

5. Say a prayer of gratitude.

Saturday Summary: A Long Week of Spinning Wheels

Jalal (Glory), 13 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Saturday, July 25, 2015 about 2:25 pm Pacific Daylight Time

It's end of a long week, I feel as if I've been spinning my wheels without getting any where. I don't think that's true, at least not according to the daily account I keep. I accomplished several things, I think the problem is I wanted to accomplish more. I need to be thankful for what I accomplished.

Sometimes it's difficult for me to do things especially if I have to get up on a step stool to get stuff down from the top shelf of a cabinet. I noted this today when I got a bottle of salad dressing down. I think I'll leave the stuff on the top shelves until my sister comes to get them down. I have enough salad dressing to last me this week end. I have some canned vegetables I can get to if I want those to eat. There is meat in the freezer, so it's not as if I'm going to starve. I will do what I can do and ask if help when I need it.

Midweek Reflections on a Partly Cloudy Day in Las Vegas

'Idal (Justice), 10 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Wednesday, July 22, 2015 about 3:24 pm Pacific Daylight Time

The scattered clouds keep getting in the way of the sun. It dims the light coming in my front window which makes it more difficult to see the screen or read a book. I don't like turning on an electric light unless I absolutely have to. The temperature at 2:56 pm was 100 degrees which is a bit below average.

It is a beautiful day. The white clouds stand out against the blue sky. The sun, because of the clouds, cast shadows of varying darkness. The wind is blowing at about 15 mph with gust of 24 mph. I left the house at about 7:30 am this morning and returned about 9:30 am. The drive was pleasant in the refreshing morning. I enjoyed the drive and I enjoyed returning home to my little two bedroom apartment.

I am planning another early morning drive on Thursday and then again on Friday. This weekend, unless someone wants to take me somewhere, I plan to remain home because I have a lot of work both on and offline to do. I have enough salad, fruit, and meat to last me the weekend and into next week, so I will not be going to the supermarket. I might go to the bank to make a deposit into my checking account.

Monday Morning Shock

Kamal (Perfection), 8 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Monday, July 20, 2015 about 11:53 am Pacific Daylight Time

Death comes suddenly
Arriving without warning
Takes family and friends

I learned of two deaths this morning when I logged into Facebook. The first was my youngest brother's father-in-law. The second was character actor Alex Rocco. My brother's father-in-law died of cancer, but I'm not sure what caused the death of Alex Rocco. I'm in too much shock right now to cry, so I will wait for the shock to pass so that the tears can fall.

Unexpected news
Even when you know it is
Inevitable

Everyone eventually dies. No human being is exempt from the kiss of the Grim Reaper. The only thing a person can do is prepare for the inevitable by praying, meditating, performing charitable acts, and placing our entire trust in God. Human beings cannot run away from death because we are always moving toward it no matter in which direction we travel.

Intone prayers for
those souls who have ascended
into paradise

Those of us who are left behind pray for the departed. We shed the tears of loneliness because our loved ones are no longer seen in this world. We shed tears because we miss them. The stages of grief pass and eventually we smile when we think of those departed souls.

Saturday Summary: A Place to keep my small kitchen appliances

Jalal (Glory), 6 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Saturday, July 18, 2015 about 5:35 pm Pacific Daylight Time

I moved the old computer desk into the kitchen and this gave me a place to keep my small kitchen appliances. The desk is large enough to hold the coffeemaker, the coffee bean grinder, the toasters, and the electric vegetable chopper. The only thing I need to do is get a surge protector with several outlets so that I can plug in more then one appliances at a time. Sometimes I like to have toast with my coffee, but I can't make toast and coffee at the same time unless I have more outlets.

Thankful Thursday: I have a lot to be thankful for

Istijlal (Majesty), 4 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Thursday, July 16, 2015 about 3:01 pm Pacific Daylight time

Today I am thankful...

01. ...for the love seat and couch I have in my living room.

02. ,,,that my checking account is not overdrawn today.

03. ...for waking up at 2:00 am because I got a lot of writing accomplished.

04. ...that I had nectarines for breakfast.

05. ...for the beautiful summer days we are experiencing here in Las Vegas.

06. ...that I have written a poem everyday for the past six days.

07. ...for the bedroom sets I now have in my bedrooms.

08. ...that my sister came to Las Vegas today.

09. ...for the white fish I have in the freezer because I can have fish for supper today.

10. ...that this is Thursday and I can find ten things to be thankful for.

Midweek Reflections on Cleaning out the refrigerator

'Idal (Justice), 3 Kalimát (Words), 172 BE - Wednesday, July 15, 2015 about 8:06 am Pacific Daylight Time

I began cleaning out the refrigerator yesterday. I begin by making chicken soup. I used the leftover chicken from a roasted bird I purchased on Monday. When I purchased the chicken, the first thing I ate was the legs, thighs, and wings. I put the breast part back in the refrigerator because I wanted to use it for a sandwich. I ate part of it in the sandwich yesterday, but then I decided I needed the rest for broth so that I could start cleaning out the refrigerator.

What, you may ask, does chicken broth have to do with cleaning out the refrigerator? I need the chicken broth because I had some sweet peppers, onions, and baby carrots waiting to be used. I didn't know how long they were in the refrigerator, so I decided to fix them in a soup. There appear to be more carrots in the soup then I want, so today I will freeze some of them for later use. I still have more shelves in the refrigerator to do, but I'm not sure I will get to it today.

Today, after I take out the trash, I have to clean off a desk in the living room and move it into my bedroom. I'm getting some furniture on Thursday afternoon. The desk and the living room set I'm getting won't fit in the same room therefore I have to move the desk because I want both the couch and the chairs in the living room. Moving the desk means that my July refrigerator cleaning will take more then one day.

Saturday Summary: Seven things I did this week that made me happy

Jalal (Glory), 18 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Saturday, July 11, 2015 about 1:17 pm Pacific Daylight Time

1. I attended the Commemoration of the Martyrdom of the Bab at noon on Friday.

2. I wrote to comedy poems and posted them in my port on writing.com.

3. I purchased four plums when I went to the supermarket on Friday.

4. I purchased a bottle of moisturizing lotion with vitamin E when I went to the store on Wednesday .

5. I put several bottles of water in the freezer so that they will be frozen when I take them with me when I go shopping.

6. I opened the container of cranberry juice in the refrigerator and drink some of it,

7. I purchased some blueberries on Friday so that I can have blueberry hotcakes on Sunday.

Midweek Reflections on Changing Addresses

'Idal (Justice), 16 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Wednesday, July 8, 2015 about 12:21 pm Pacific Daylight Time

I've lived in this apartment for over a month and I'm still changing addresses. It's my own fault because I didn't keep a list of all the addresses I need to change. As a results, I have to change each address as I think about it. I'm listing all the address I have changed so that I can remember them when and if I move again. I don't like moving. Moving is stressful, even when it's only moving into the apartment next door.

Today I changed four addresses. I changed my drivers license address online, the website ask me if I wanted to change my voter registration address and I said yes. That's one address I don't have to worry about dealing with, but I still have a lot more addresses to change. I haven't checked to mail yet so I may have more to change when I check that. I still have one more address to change before I check the mail.

The address I have left to change are long distance calls. I think the offices may be back east or in the middle of the country; this means I have to call them between 9:00 am and 8:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time or Central Daylight Time. I guess I'd better post this and then make the telephone call to change the next address.

Four things to do on a Cloudy Morning in Las Vegas

Kamal (Perfection), 13 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Monday, July 6, 2015 about 6:38 pm Pacific Daylight Time

1. Take the trash to the dumpster in the alley. Walk slowly and notice beautiful the clouds. While you are out there say a prayer of gratitude for the cool double digit temperatures.

2. Go to the gas station to get gas. You don't have to purchase more then $20.00 and you can purchase less. It is pleasant to get gas on a cloudy morning when you can watch the clouds while you're putting gas in the tank.

3. Go to the grocery store or to a food bank to get groceries. Cloudy mornings make standing in line easier and less stressful.

4. Roll down the car window and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Independence Day Memories: A Poem

Jalal (Glory), 11 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Saturday, July 4, 2015 about 12:53 pm Pacific Daylight Time

We always celebrated Independence day
around water.

Grandpa either drove us
to Lake Carl Blackwell
or to The Lake,
outside of Blackwell, Oklahoma.

The sights and sounds
of exploding cherry bombs
and Roman candles
decorate memories of my childhood.

Each time I see
a fireworks display
because the patriotic colors
bring back fond memories.

Foodie Friday: Seven things to do before going to the supermarket or grocery store

Istiqlal (Independence), 10 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Friday, July 3, 2015 about 8:48 am Pacific Daylight Time

1. Coffee: Drink at least one carafe of coffee before leaving the house. Remember, you have to be wide awake while driving to the supermarket or walking to the bus stop.

2. Eat: Eat a substantial breakfast or lunch before leaving the house. You do not want to be hungry when you enter the grocery store because you will purchase more then you intend.

3. List: Make a grocery list and take it with you when you leave the house. Put the list in your purse or packet and do not leave it lying on the kitchen counter or in the refrigerator.

4. Coupons: Check your coupons before you leave the house to make sure you have all of them. If you use e-coupons downloaded to your shoppers card then you need to download them 24 hours before going to the grocery store.

5. Cellphone: Make sure your cellphone battery is fully charged before you leave the house because you will need it in case of an emergency. Traffic being what it is there is no guessing what could happen on the drive to and from the grocery store.

6. Aisles: Take a logical approach when moving through the grocery aisles. Even if this is the only exercise you get during the week, you still need to take a logical approach so that you don't forget to get anything. A logical approach to walking the grocery store aisles means less stress.

Midweek Reflections on Monsoon Season in Las Vegas

'Idal (Justice), 8 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 about 5:00 pm Pacific Daylight Time

It's that time of year again and the monsoonal moisture is rolling in. The temperature for the past couple of weeks have ranged between 100 to 110 degrees. When I went to the bank this afternoon the temperature was around 106 degrees with fluffy while clouds in the sky. Normally I don't go out when the temperature exceeds 100 degrees, but I had no choice today.

I'm home now, but all I want to do is drink water or some other type of liquid. I'm not hungry so I don't think I'll eat anything. I might drink some almond or coconut milk after while. I took a bottle of water with me and when I stopped at Seven-Eleven I purchase a cherry Slurpee. The Slurpee satisfied my hunger because it was sweet. Now all I want to do is drink water and relax a little while. I still have some housework today, but that's going to have to wait for a little longer.

I don't mind the monsoonal moisture, as long as I don't have to deal with triple digit temperatures. The only thing we've had for that past few days is clouds and high temperatures. Neither thunder storms nor rains have materialized so all we have is humidity and triple digit temperatures and that isn't an enjoyable combination.

Seven Ways to Have a Happy Monday

1. Pray: Before you get out of bed on Monday morning whisper a prayer. It doesn't have to be a long prayer or even a prayer you have memorized. Something like "Thank you, Lord. I place this day in your hands." Then get up and go about your day.

2. Coffee: Brew a fresh carafe of coffee, find your favorite coffee mug, and then pour yourself a nice hot cup. Don't worry about whether you washed the coffee mug the night before because it's your cup. You don't have to wash the stains yesterday's coffee from it if you don't want to.

3. Meditate: In hale and exhale a deep cleansing breath. Then stare into your filled coffee cup for a few seconds focusing on the steam or the rich dark liquid. Take another cleaning breath and then take a sip of the coffee.

4. Variation: Do something different. Vary your routine. Drive to work a different way. Stop at a different coffee shop on your way to work. Set in a different seat on the bus you take to work. If you read a paper back on the bus then try watching people or writing in a journal.

5. Smile: Smile at people even those who frown at you. Smile at the bus driver when you get on the bus. Smile at the traffic light that always stops you on your drive to work.

6. Unplug: Don't use your technology for the first thirty minutes to one hour after you wake up. Turn your alarm off without pressing the snooze, turn off the phone, get up, and begin your day technology free. If you use technology both at home and work then don't use technology until you get to work.

7. Exercise: Take a five or six minute walk through your house or the neighborhood. When you take the trash into the garage or to dumpster alley don't go back inside immediately walk around outside for a little while.

Saturday Summary: At the End of an Historic Week

Jalal (Glory), 4 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Saturday, June 27, 2015 about 10:00 am Pacific Daylight Time

The last week in June 2015 was an eventful and historic week so I'm not sure where to start summarizing my feelings. I'm not sure I can at this moment because I haven't a chance to full digest or meditate on the events that occurred. The one thing I'm sure of is that God's will is always done.

I'm 68 going on 69 years old, I've lived through the twentieth and into the twenty-first century. I've witnessed a lot of cultural, political, and spiritual changes in the six decades I've lived upon this planet. Some of those changes were immediately perceived as good, some as bad, and some ambiguous. No matter what the change that occurred God's will always wins out in the end.

Thankful Thursday: The Last Thankful Thursday in June 2015

Istijlal (Majesty), 2 Raḥmat (Mercy), 172 BE - Thursday, June 25, 2015 about 4:05 pm Pacific Daylight Time

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am thankful for the cool air I felt
as I stood at my front door
staring into the morning
and sipping my first cup of coffee.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am grateful that my checking account
is not overdrawn today.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am thankful for my first breakfast
of freshly brewed hot coffee
and two Oreo cookies.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am grateful for a working air conditioner
to keep me cool on these triple digit
summer days.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am thankful for a working refrigerator and freezer
because I can put my water bottle in the freezer
so that I can have ice water to drink
when I leave the house.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am grateful for a working electric range
because I can fix eggs
and turkey sausage for lunch.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am thankful that my sister
will be moving into the apartment
with me on the first of July.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am grateful for the turkey sausage
and eggs I had for lunch today;
breakfast tastes better at noon
then at 8:00 am.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am thankful that the laptop my sister brought
begin charging as soon as I inserted the power cord.

On the last Thankful Thursday in June 2015,
I am grateful for coconut milk
which tastes better on fruit
then cows milk.

Tuesday's Topic: Summer in Las Vegas

Fidal (Grace), 19 ‘Núr (Light), 172 BE - Tuesday, June 23, 2015 about 5:58 pm Pacific Daylight Time

At 2:56 pm the temperature was 105 degrees. According the the predictions the temperature is supposed to reach 107 degrees before the sun descends behind Mount Charleston. I have remained in the house all day because of the heat. Don't get me wrong, I love Las Vegas, but the triple digit temperature get to me. Even carrying a bottle of ice water the temperatures still make me cranky.

I moved into a two bedroom apartment for a one bedroom (studio) apartment on June 9. It is much more difficult to keep a two bedroom apartment cool the a studio (one bedroom). I suspect it will be a bit more expensive to cool this place during the summer and heat it during the winter, but I will deal with the power bill when it comes in. My focus for the next few days is getting everything arranged the way I want it.

I don't have enough cabinet space in the kitchen. I'm too short to reach the top cabinets without a stool and even then it's difficult to get stuff down off the top shelves. I like the electric range because it's much easier to use then the one in the studio-one bedroom apartment next door. I don't know how the oven is because it doesn't work, but I expect the rental company to get someone out here to fix in in the next couple of weeks. It's not as if I'm desperate to cook any thing in the oven.

I have a microwave, which I haven't used since I moved in because I wanted to use my cookware set. The top of the stove works just fine with the cookware. All the burners work, but I only use one because that all I can focus on at once. It's been a long time since I have to cook several things on top of the stove at the same time. I'll have to approach that slowly.

The kitchen, like every other kitchen I've dealt with since moving to Las Vegas, is big enough for only one person wot work in at a time. As my mother would say there's not enough room in the kitchen to cuss a cat. No I don't know why anyone would want to cuss a cat in the kitchen anyplace else in a house because it doesn't do any good to cuss a cat. That's enough cliché for today. I'll close this now and get on with something else.

A Summer Solstice Father's Day 2015

Jamal (Beauty), 17 Núr (Light), 172 BE - Sunday, June 21, 2015 about 3:01 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Summer at last
long hot watermelon days pass
into short warm nights.

Summer solstice
and Father's Day
coincide this year.

I eat watermelon chunks
and wonder
why I can't find a melon
sweet as the ones Grandpa grew
back in Oklahoma.

Saturday Summary: Now all I need is a digital camera

Jalal (Glory), 16 Núr (Light), 172 BE - Saturday, June 20, 2015 about 4:03 pm Pacific Daylight Time

My new printer came today. I ordered it just before I moved from apartment 2 to apartment 3, so I didn't expect it to arrive for another couple of weeks. I will hook it up either Sunday or Monday, depending on how much more work I have to do in the kitchen and living room. I've been in this apartment for eleven or twelve days, which means I have a lot more unpacking and rearranging to do.

Today I finished seasoning my cookware set and now I have to find a place for it. I don't have room in my kitchen and I don't have a digital camera to take a before picture so that I can take an after photo. I suppose I could use my cellphone, unfortunately I have no idea how to upload a picture from my cellphone to either my blog or my e-mail. The phone was free so I don't think it has an attachment to connect to my computer to upload pictures.

Right now I'm cooked ground turkey (I think it's ground turkey, but it could be ground chicken) in the stew pot. When the meat is finished and seasoned to my liking then I will decide whether to make Spanish rice or turkey stew. My doctor told me to cut down on the beef therefore, I have to use turkey or chicken if I want meat with my meal. I would love to take a picture of whichever recipe I decide to make for Foodie Friday. The problem is that I don't have enough points on the survey website to purchase either a digital camera or a fancy phone.