Kathy Harriott

Thirsty Thursday – How to quench your thirst without increasing your girth

Quench Your Thirst with Refreshing and Healthy Drink Recipes

As temperatures rise and the sun shines brightly, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a cool, refreshing drink to hydrate and invigorate your body. While sugary sodas and artificial beverages might tempt us, why not opt for delicious and nutritious options instead? Join me as we explore some thirst-quenching, healthy drink recipes that will keep you feeling revitalized all summer long.

1. Watermelon Mint Cooler

Ingredients:

4 cups fresh watermelon, cubed and seeded
Juice of 1-2 limes
1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
Ice cubes

Instructions:

Blend the watermelon cubes in a blender until smooth.
Pour the watermelon juice through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher to remove any pulp.
Stir in the lime juice and chopped mint leaves.
Serve over ice and garnish with additional mint leaves if desired.

Benefits: Watermelon is hydrating and rich in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants. Mint adds a refreshing flavor while aiding digestion.

2. Cucumber Lemonade

Ingredients:

2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
Juice of 2-3 lemons
4 cups water
1-2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (optional)
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Blend the chopped cucumbers with water until smooth.
Pour the cucumber mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher.
Add lemon juice and sweetener (if using), stirring until well combined.
Chill in the refrigerator or serve immediately over ice. Garnish with mint leaves.

Benefits: Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while lemons provide vitamin C and aid digestion. This drink is a refreshing twist on traditional lemonade.

3. Berry Blast Smoothie

Ingredients:

1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1 ripe banana
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Ice cubes

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding honey or maple syrup.
Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Benefits: Berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, while Greek yogurt provides protein and probiotics for gut health. This smoothie is perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack.

4. Iced Green Tea with Citrus

Ingredients:

4 cups water
4 green tea bags
Juice of 1-2 oranges or lemons
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat and add green tea bags.
Steep for 3-5 minutes, then remove tea bags and let cool to room temperature.
Stir in citrus juice and chill in the refrigerator until cold.
Serve over ice cubes and garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Benefits: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and may promote heart health and improve brain function. Citrus fruits add vitamin C and refreshing flavor to this hydrating beverage.

5. Coconut Water Refresher

Ingredients:

1 cup coconut water
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
Ice cubes

Instructions:

Combine coconut water, lime juice, pineapple chunks, and sweetener (if using) in a blender.
Blend until smooth and frothy.
Pour over ice cubes in a glass and serve immediately.

Benefits: Coconut water is naturally hydrating and contains electrolytes, while lime provides vitamin C and pineapple adds a tropical twist and additional vitamins.

Conclusion:

With these delicious and nutritious drink recipes, staying hydrated has never been more enjoyable! Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a summer gathering, or simply looking for a healthier alternative, these thirst-quenching options are sure to please. Cheers to your health and hydration – may your summer be filled with refreshing sips and vibrant flavors!

Thursday’s posts will, of course, be about quenching our thirst. Discussions about hydration, foods that quench thirst, foods that negatively affect hydration, books, recipes, memes, and personal stories about keeping hydrated. I hope you will join me.

Wacky Wednesday – How to keep life from being boring

Embrace the Fun: Celebrating Wacky Wednesday!

Welcome to Wacky Wednesday – a day dedicated to breaking free from the ordinary and injecting a bit of whimsy into our lives! Whether you’re familiar with this quirky tradition or it’s your first encounter, Wacky Wednesday is all about embracing creativity, letting loose, and enjoying the lighter side of life. So, buckle up and join me on this delightful journey as we explore what makes Wacky Wednesday so special.

What is Wacky Wednesday?

Wacky Wednesday is a lighthearted observance where people intentionally do something out of the ordinary. It’s a day to unleash your inner child, embrace spontaneity, and revel in the joy of silliness. From wearing mismatched clothes to holding impromptu dance parties, the possibilities are endless when it comes to celebrating Wacky Wednesday.

Why Celebrate Wacky Wednesday?

In our fast-paced world, filled with deadlines, responsibilities, and stress, Wacky Wednesday offers a refreshing break. It encourages us to step away from the seriousness of everyday life and indulge in a bit of fun. By celebrating Wacky Wednesday, we cultivate a sense of playfulness, reduce stress levels, and foster stronger connections with those around us.

How to Celebrate Wacky Wednesday:

Dress Up: Forget about fashion norms! Mix and match your clothes in the most unconventional way possible. Stripes with polka dots? Why not!
Office Shenanigans: Spice up the workplace with harmless pranks or playful antics (with permission, of course). Decorate your coworker’s desk with balloons or organize a spontaneous karaoke session during lunch break.
Food Adventures: Experiment with bizarre food combinations or create your own wacky recipe. Ever tried a peanut butter and pickle sandwich? Now’s the time!
Get Crafty: Channel your inner artist and create wacky art or crafts. Use unconventional materials or explore abstract styles – let your imagination run wild!
Random Acts of Kindness: Spread joy by performing unexpected acts of kindness. Leave cheerful notes for strangers, surprise a friend with a quirky gift, or simply offer a warm smile to brighten someone’s day.

Benefits of Embracing Wackiness:

Boosts Creativity: Engaging in playful activities stimulates creativity and encourages innovative thinking.
Enhances Mood: Laughter and lightheartedness release endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress levels.
Strengthens Relationships: Shared experiences of fun and laughter create bonds and deepen connections with others.

Final Thoughts:

As we celebrate Wacky Wednesday, let’s embrace the joy of spontaneity and revel in the beauty of silliness. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, coworkers, or on your own, remember that a little dose of wackiness can go a long way in brightening your day and bringing a smile to those around you. So, let your creativity soar, unleash your inner goofball, and make every Wacky Wednesday a memorable adventure!

Here’s to celebrating the unconventional, embracing the unexpected, and cherishing the moments of pure joy that Wacky Wednesday brings into our lives. Let the wackiness begin!

Wednesday posts will cover everything wacky – movies, books, music, podcasts, memes, and personal Wacky Wednesday stories. I hope you will join me.

Goal Setting Tuesday – How to choose a goal that inspires you.

The Art of Setting Goals: Crafting Your Path to Success

Setting goals is more than just jotting down a list of aspirations – it’s about creating a roadmap that guides us towards our dreams, motivates us through challenges, and ultimately leads to personal growth and achievement. Whether you’re aiming for professional success, personal development, or a healthier lifestyle, the process of setting goals is a powerful tool that propels us forward. Let’s delve into the art of setting goals and how you can harness this practice to transform your life.

1. Define Your Vision

The first step in setting meaningful goals is to clarify your vision. What do you truly want to achieve? Whether it’s advancing in your career, improving your relationships, or achieving a fitness milestone, defining your aspirations provides a clear direction and purpose.

2. Make Them SMART

SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound – are a proven framework for setting goals that are clear and actionable. Instead of setting vague goals like “get healthier,” make them specific, such as “exercise for 30 minutes five days a week,” measurable by tracking progress, achievable with realistic expectations, relevant to your overall vision, and time-bound with a deadline like “achieve this by the end of the year.”

3. Break Them Down

Large goals can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller, manageable tasks or milestones. This not only makes the goal more achievable but also allows you to celebrate incremental successes along the way, keeping your motivation high.

4. Write Them Down

There’s power in putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Write down your goals and revisit them regularly. This not only solidifies your commitment but also serves as a constant reminder of what you’re working towards.

5. Stay Flexible and Adapt

While setting goals is important, it’s equally crucial to remain flexible and adapt as circumstances change. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes adjustments are necessary. Embrace these changes and see them as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.

6. Seek Accountability and Support

Share your goals with trusted friends, family members, or mentors who can provide encouragement and hold you accountable. Accountability partners can offer valuable insights, motivation, and support during challenging times.

7. Visualize Success

Visualization is a powerful technique used by athletes, performers, and successful individuals across various fields. Take time to visualize yourself achieving your goals – imagine the emotions, the sights, and the sounds associated with your success. This practice not only reinforces your commitment but also primes your mind for success.

8. Celebrate Your Achievements

As you make progress towards your goals, take time to celebrate your achievements. Whether it’s a small victory or a major milestone, acknowledging your successes boosts your confidence and reinforces your commitment to continuing on your journey.

9. Review and Adjust Regularly

Periodically review your goals to assess your progress. Are you on track? Are there any adjustments or refinements needed? Reflect on what’s working well and what could be improved, and adjust your goals accordingly.

10. Embrace the Journey

Lastly, remember that setting goals is not just about reaching the destination – it’s about embracing the journey. Each step you take towards your goals contributes to your personal growth and development. Enjoy the process, learn from challenges, and celebrate the victories, knowing that every effort you make brings you closer to achieving your dreams.

In conclusion, setting goals is a transformative practice that empowers us to create the life we envision. By defining your vision, making SMART goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, and staying flexible and adaptive, you pave the way for success and personal fulfillment. So, dare to dream big, set your goals with intention, and embark on a journey of growth, achievement, and endless possibilities.

Tuesday blogs will be dedicated to goal-setting. We will discuss books, podcasts, and personal stories about setting goals. I hope you will join me.

Motivation Monday – What is motivation?

Unleashing the Power Within: A Journey into the Heart of Motivation

Motivation – it’s that elusive force that propels us forward, that inner drive which pushes us beyond our limits, and the beacon that illuminates our path to success. Whether we’re striving towards personal goals, professional aspirations, or simply trying to navigate the complexities of daily life, motivation is often the key ingredient that determines our level of achievement and fulfillment.

But what exactly is motivation? Is it a fleeting burst of enthusiasm, or a sustained flame that burns bright through adversity? As I delve into this topic, I find myself reflecting on both the universal and deeply personal nature of motivation.

At its core, motivation is the spark that ignites action. It’s the catalyst that transforms dreams into reality and transforms obstacles into opportunities. For some, it’s the promise of a better future or the desire to make a difference in the world. For others, it’s the pursuit of personal growth and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.

Psychologists have long studied the intricacies of motivation, exploring its various forms and the factors that influence it. From intrinsic motivations driven by personal passion and interest, to extrinsic motivations fueled by external rewards and recognition, the landscape of motivation is as diverse as the individuals who experience it.

Yet, despite its importance, motivation can be a fickle companion. We’ve all experienced moments of wavering commitment and self-doubt, where our once-clear objectives seem obscured by obstacles or distractions. During these times, nurturing and sustaining motivation becomes paramount.

So, how do we harness the power of motivation and keep it burning brightly? Here are a few strategies that can help:

1. Clarify Your Goals: Clearly defining what you want to achieve provides a roadmap for your motivation. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks to maintain momentum and track progress.

2. Find Your Why: Understanding the reasons behind your goals strengthens your motivation. Whether it’s personal fulfillment, financial security, or a desire to help others, connecting emotionally to your objectives keeps you driven.

3. Cultivate Positive Habits: Consistent habits create a supportive environment for motivation to thrive. Whether it’s a morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day or regular exercise to boost energy levels, nurturing your physical and mental well-being enhances your overall motivation.

4. Seek Inspiration: Surround yourself with sources of inspiration – whether it’s through books, podcasts, mentors, or supportive communities. Learning from others’ successes and challenges can fuel your own determination.

5. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Setbacks are an inevitable part of any journey. Instead of letting them derail your motivation, view them as valuable lessons that contribute to your growth and resilience.

6. Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate each milestone along the way. Recognizing your achievements, no matter how small, reinforces your motivation and reinforces your commitment to your goals.

Ultimately, motivation is a deeply personal and dynamic force that evolves as we grow and change. It requires self-awareness, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt to challenges. By nurturing and harnessing our motivation, we unlock our true potential and pave the way for a more fulfilling and successful life.

As I conclude this exploration into motivation, I am reminded of its transformative power – how it empowers us to overcome adversity, pursue our passions, and create meaningful change. So, whatever your aspirations may be, remember: the journey begins with a single step fueled by the unwavering belief in your ability to achieve greatness.

My Monday blogs will be about motivation – book reviews, memes, and personal stories. I hope you will join me.

At the age of…

I don’t know what ever possessed me to try learning how to run a ham radio at the age of 58!!!!

They offered the class at work in preparation for hurricane season and I thought it would be helpful.

Guess what!?!?!? There is MATH involved. Anyone who knows me is aware that math is not my strength.

If I ever pass the test and get licensed, I’ll write about it. For now I’m just going to sit and complain about the MATH!!!

Thanks for reading.

Books I have read in Q1 of 2024

What books did I read in the first quarter of 2024 and what did I think of them?

I’ve already written my review of the Book of Doors but I haven’t written much about other books I’ve read since 1/1/24. So, here is a list of some of the books I have read in the first quarter of 2024.

Fiction

Rippler – Cidney Swanson – When Samantha discovers she can become invisible, her life takes quite a turn. She doesn’t feel so alone when she finds out that she isn’t the only one who can do this. Unfortunately for Samantha and Will, this skill puts them in danger. Someone out there is trying to get rid of “ripplers” and Will’s sister is key to finding out who. She used to work with a scientist that was studying this phenomenon. When the scientist is killed, Will and his sister go into hiding, which is how they ended up in Samantha’s town. Rippler follows Will, Samantha, and Will’s sister, Mickie as they try to get to the bottom of the mystery. This was a decent YA Fantasy book. It did make me want to read the rest of the series.

The Bordeaux Book Club – Gillian Harvey – What happens when you move to another country and become an expat? The Bordeaux Book Club tells the story of 5 British expats that have moved to France and meet up as a book club. There is Leah, the bored housewife who suspects her husband of cheating. Then we have Grace, a prickly divorcee who seems to know everyone and dislike them all. Monica, the new mom who is parenting her child alone while her husband travels for work. House builder, George, a non-reader who joins the club, it seems, to meet Grace. Lastly, there is young Alfie who is 2 decades younger than the rest of the group and spends most of his time at school or taking care of his ill mother. This ragtag group somehow become a family and a support system through good times and bad. I love a good group story about readers. This was an enjoyable light read.

Better Left Unsent- Lia Louis – Do you type emails you want to but shouldn’t send and save them to your drafts? Well, I Better Left Unsent is the story about a woman who is trying to survive a breakup with a coworker and watching him get engaged to another coworker. When her draft emails “accidentally” get sent, chaos ensues. I did take a great lesson away from this book — DO NOT PUT THE EMAIL ADDRESS IN A DRAFT EMAIL BECAUSE IT WILL PROBABLY GET SENT.

Becoming Madam Secretary – Stephanie Dray – This is the fictionalized story of Frances Perkins, the first female Secretary of Labor (or any other department!!). I enjoy a well written historical fiction and Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray is up there with the best I’ve read. Frances Perkins’ story is one I was not familiar with prior to reading this book. What a fascinating woman and an extraordinary life. We were lucky she lived at a time when politicians wanted to do what was best for the Country and not what lined their own pockets! I can’t recommend it enough. READ IT!!

Nightworld Academy (Terms 1 through 6) – L.J. Swallow – Kind of Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets Harry Potter. When Maeve finds out that the fits she has been having are “normal” because she is a witch, her life gets turned upside down. This series has witches, vampires, shape-shifters who are mostly trying to live peacefully without being discovered by normal people. However, there are factions that done want the species to co-mingle. An ok YA Fantasy series.

Slain in the Sand (Cape Cod Cozy Mysteries – Book 2) – Angela K. Ryan – A clean, cozy murder mystery with likeable characters. I love Angela K. Ryan’s books. They will always be on my TBR list.Her murder mysteries are not gory. They have many interesting characters and I NEVER guess who done it before it is revealed in her books. Put all of her books on your radar.

Non-fiction

Facilities Management Handbook – Frank Boot – I work as a Senior Administrative Assistant at our local government Facilities Dept. Sometimes my job can get a little boring and repetitive. As someone with great curiosity, I am always looking to learn something new. I wanted to know more about what my coworkers do, so I decided to read this book. Now, when I have a question about a procedure or about a project, I have more knowledge to ask the right questions. Never stop learning.

Canva for Beginners: An Illustrative Graphic Design Guide with Photos and Professional Tips and Tricks for Marketers, Workers, or Business Owners – Edit Dickinson – I started using Canva when I worked at the library. Now I use it at work to create slides for our digital message boards. This is a good book for Canva beginners.

The Leader Assistant: Four Pillars of a Confident, Game-Changing Assistant – Jeremy Burrows – Who doesn’t want to feel like they are a game changer? Who doesn’t want to feel more confident at work? This book has gotten me through several rough patches at work. I have read it three times and it has made me a better admin. I pull this book out whenever I need a reminder that I didn’t become an Administrative Assistant for the recognition —- and it is a good thing I didn’t. LOL.

Brutus

Today my snuggle buddy went over the rainbow bridge to play with all the other pets we’ve ever had in our lifetime. He is with the dog who picked him out – Buddy.

He is probably annoying his sister, Kimmi. She will whack him in the head.

And all the other beloved pets who have passed.

For a cat that didn’t like me at first, he certainly came around.

Rest in peace my loving fur-ball. You were a great cat and an even better friend.

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

My first book review of 2024 is The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown.

This is the story about a book that can take you anywhere in the world – really! Anywhere, anytime, the possibilities are endless. This is what happens to Cassie, a young bookseller, who befriends an older gentleman who is a regular at the bookstore where she works. When this gentleman passes away at the store, he leaves a note gifting The Book of Doors to her. What follows is an amazing story of magic, time travel, special books, and the ruthless characters who “collect” them.

Imagine that book in the wrong hands and you’ll know why Cassie and her friends need to protect the book. But, the Book of Doors is not the only magical book. There are others and they are being used by “collectors” to obtain the Book of Doors by any means necessary, each more gruesome than the last.

A story of friendship, trust, betrayal, ruthlessness, and redemption. It was a rollercoaster read.

Fair warning: There are some very graphic and violent descriptions of what the bad guy/gal do to people who get in their way. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

All in all, this was a good read and I have already recommended it to several people. Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.

The book is set to release on February 13, 2024. You can pre-order on Amazon or from your local bookstore.

Thanks for reading.

What’s up 2024?

I can’t believe it has been 76 days since my last post! What have I been up to? Lots of reading, crocheting, and working on myself. Blogging hasn’t been at the top of my To Do list lately but I really have to get back into the habit. I’m way behind on book reviews. Eeek!

So, what is in store for 2024? Here is my work-in-progress plan for the year:

Commit to writing at least one book review per month to be posted on or around the 15th.
Continue eating healthier and track what I eat.
Come up with a food prep plan that will work for Mike and me.
Continue crocheting and learning new techniques.
List 5 crocheted items on either my Etsy or Tedooo shop to get started selling my crafts.
Start a notebook of crochet ideas
Be happy.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

What are your plans for 2024? How will you track your successes?

Thanks for reading

October 30, 2023 – What to do with all these critters (craft therapy)

My friend Janine sent me a request to see if I could crochet a bat. Of course I had to try. Now I’m crocheting all kinds of critters and amigurami. I absolutely love it…and I love my friend for challenging me. Here are some of my critters.

So far, all of these have found homes. Next I’m going to start making a whole bunch of these to keep for gifts and future craft shows. FUN! I have to thank Janine for challenging me and getting me back into crocheting.

I find crocheting to be relaxing and a big stress reliever. How about you? What have you crocheted?

Thanks for reading.