Cosmos Fitness Regime –

As some of you might know, I have been following a fitness regime for many years.  I offer these tips to you because I believe anyone can improve their health through daily exercise, and a better diet. It is never too late to get in shape!  Let me know your fitness tips and I will share them here.

Here are some of my tips for physical fitness and suggestions. It must be working.  I am usually about 187 pounds and don’t take any prescription drugs, my cholesterol levels are good as are my blood sugar levels although they are a bit higher than I want them to be.  I suffer from Fibromyalgia, arthritis, and hammer toes. I also exercise daily, riding on my exercise bike while looking at my emails, and FB feeds, studying Korean, and going for a three-mile walk at least four times a month. Lately, I bought a pull-up bar and installed it on the doorway, and I do it periodically throughout the day, squats, and swings, working my way up to doing pull-ups. I write in my journal every morning, and I also go for a walk every day and play the piano daily. I eat a lot of homemade food including Kefir, and Kombucha. and I am gluten-free.

here are my diet recommendations, my physical exercise regime, my daily writing regime, and my piano-playing regime.

I hope it inspires you to take charge of your physical and mental fitness.

Coffee

 

I start my day by drinking coffee and watching the news while writing in my journals.

The first two cups are fully loaded – coffee, decaf, with yoga detox tea, cinnamon, nutmeg, and milk.

perfect cup of coffee

greatest comfort food is coffee

 

snarling cup of coffee

 

The first two cups are fully loaded – coffee, decafe, with yoga detox tea, cinnamon,  wormwood tea,. nutmeg, and milk.

Sometimes I add in protein plant superfoods from Costco containing the following:

Organic Protein Blend: Pea Protein, Brown Rice Protein, Chia Seed, Hemp Protein1.

Organic Creamer Base: Acacia Gum, High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Inulin, Rice Dextrin’s, Rice Bran Extract, Rosemary Extract1.

Organic Superfoods Blend: Organic Greens and Grasses Blend (Wheat Grass, Barley Grass, Oat Grass, Alfalfa Grass, Kale, Spinach), Organic Berry Blend (Acai, Apple, Banana, Blueberry, Cranberry, Raspberry, Sweet Potato, Cherry, Pomegranate, Strawberry), Organic Veggie Blend (Beet, Broccoli, Carrot, Tomato, Parsley, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Kale), Organic Sprout Blend (Amaranth Sprout, Quinoa Sprout, Millet Sprout, Buckwheat Sprout, Garbanzo Bean Sprout, Lentil Sprout, Adzuki Sprout, Flax Sprout, Sunflower Sprout, Pumpkin Sprout, Chia Sprout, Sesame Sprout), Organic Ancient Grains Blend (Amaranth, Quinoa, Buckwheat, Millet, Chia), Organic Fiber Blend (Oat Fiber, Rice Bran, Acacia Fiber), Organic Cinnamon, Organic Erythritol, Organic Natural Flavors, Organic Stevia, Organic Food Based B Vitamin Blend (Organic Guava, Organic Holy Basil, Organic Lemon Extract), Organic Monk Fruit Extract, Probiotics (Bacillus coagulants) 1

smoothie

After coffee, I have either a smoothie or kefir for breakfast, followed by Kombucha.   All home brewed.

Smoothie Blues

Smoothie Love

Smoothie Madness

blueberry smoothie

 

 

 

 

my daily breakfast

includes blueberries
in my smoothie

apple cider vinegar
blueberry, strawberry, oranges
banana, pineapple,
cinnamon
coconut oil
home-made kefir
kale
kombucha.

ginseng

ginger

honey
maca root
spinach
wheatgrass

pomegranate  powder

noni powder

wormwood

stevia
50 superfoods plant protein powder

Organic Protein Blend: Pea Protein, Brown Rice Protein, Chia Seed, Hemp Protein1.

Organic Creamer Base: Acacia Gum, High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Inulin, Rice Dextrin’s, Rice Bran Extract, Rosemary Extract1.

Organic Superfoods Blend: Organic Greens and Grasses Blend (Wheat Grass, Barley Grass, Oat Grass, Alfalfa Grass, Kale, Spinach), Organic Berry Blend (Acai, Apple, Banana, Blueberry, Cranberry, Raspberry, Sweet Potato, Cherry, Pomegranate, Strawberry), Organic Veggie Blend (Beet, Broccoli, Carrot, Tomato, Parsley, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Kale), Organic Sprout Blend (Amaranth Sprout, Quinoa Sprout, Millet Sprout, Buckwheat Sprout, Garbanzo Bean Sprout, Lentil Sprout, Adzuki Sprout, Flax Sprout, Sunflower Sprout, Pumpkin Sprout, Chia Sprout, Sesame Sprout), Organic Ancient Grains Blend (Amaranth, Quinoa, Buckwheat, Millet, Chia), Organic Fiber Blend (Oat Fiber, Rice Bran, Acacia Fiber), Organic Cinnamon, Organic Erythritol, Organic Natural Flavors, Organic Stevia, Organic Food Based B Vitamin Blend (Organic Guava, Organic Holy Basil, Organic Lemon Extract), Organic Monk Fruit Extract, Probiotics (Bacillus coagulants) 1

all blended to perfection
that is my daily breakfast
fit for a champion.

Salt Of Life

 

Every day

I eat a little

Himalayan Pink Salt

In my food.

 

That and real salt

From Salt Lake City

Will enable me.

To live to be

A ripe old man.

 

So, my advice to you all

Add real salt to your food,

And watch your weight go down,

A/nd your life extension begins.

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-jz

Growing Kombucha and Kefir in Korea

When we moved to Yeongjong island, near the Incheon Airport, we found that we would be deprived of two of our three favorite miracle foods, Kombucha and Kefir. But we were pleasantly surprised to find we could order our third favorite health food item, wheat grass for home delivery. Have not seen it in the stores but have seen it in some smoothie places as well as home delivery. best to mix it in a smoothie. Wheatgrass juice does not taste that great!

Living in Oregon was great. Kombucha is everywhere. Costco carries Kombucha everywhere except in Korea. The best brand we found was Gingerade. But I liked sampling the kombucha everywhere, several bars brew it on-site and you can fill up a growler and take it home.

What is Kombucha, you ask? It is fermented tea, filled with powerful probiotics and it is so good for your health. It does contain 1 percent alcohol so that should not get you into trouble with the new draconian drunk driving laws here in Korea!

Since neither the Commissary nor Costco nor anyone else carried it, or even knew what it was, we decided that we had to brew it ourselves. The starter kit we brought with us had gone bad. So, we bought kombucha from Amazon and used that and the leftover starter kit to get started.

We used green tea as the base. Straight black tea and jasmine tea will work but not Earl Grey due to the bergamot oil in the tea.

We brewed up several gallons of tea, added sugar, the starter kit, and the cans of kombucha. Then we put it in a sprouted warmer kit ordered from Amazon and wrapped another gallon in an electric blanket. You have to keep the kombucha at about 80 degrees F (26.67 Celsius).

Then we waited for six weeks. Finally ready to go today and we bottled it and started our next batch!
Here’s what it looks like with the scuzzy taken out of the kombucha.

Making Kefir was easy, we’ve been making it for years. We had started kits we bought in Oregon before we left. Just got some organic milk and we were in business. If you have to use Korean milk, make sure it is full-fat milk, 2 percent makes watery kefir. There are recipes for using almond milk, coconut milk, and rice milk but we have not used them because we heard it would be pretty watery. Might want to try Goat milk sometime though. The Commissary’s organic full-fat Milk is perfect. You can also buy Kefir at the Commissary just to see if you like it but their Kefir has extra sugar in it and I am not sure it would be a good starter mix. Best to order the starter kits from Amazon (they will be delivered to a local address) and you should not have any problems. But with both be sure you sanitize your containers with hot boiling water before making either kombucha or kefir. Need to keep stray random non-cultured bacteria out of the mix.

See below for articles on the health benefits of Kombucha and Kefir, articles on how to make it, and where to buy it locally.

As a personal testimony a few years ago, I noticed that I did not have hay fever in the Spring. I used to have to make a trip to the urgent care/ER because I got so inflamed that I could not even open my eyes and I was sneezing so bad. The medicine they gave me worked a bit but I mostly just suffered. Then I started eating kefir for breakfast and drinking Kombucha and my hay fever disappeared.!

Health benefits of Kefir

health benefits of Kefir

Health benefits of Kombucha

Health Benefits of Kombucha

How to make kombucha at home

how to make kombucha at home

How to Make Kefir

how to make kefir

Where to Buy Kombucha in Seoul

where to buy kombucha in Seoul

Note:

Kombucha is now widely available in Korea.  My brother-in-law even has a side hustle making Mama Kombucha.  You buy it in stores and some coffee shops.

Bing AI provided some places where you can find Kombucha and Kefir in Korea.  The commissaries carry it, a few larger grocery chains now carry both.

Kombucha is a fermented, lightly effervescent, sweetened black tea drink that is popular for its health benefits1. In Korea, you can find kombucha in various forms, such as:

CORE BIO is a company that produces organic kombucha with different flavors, such as lemon, ginger, and berry. You can order their products online from their website2 or find them in some health food stores.

TEAZEN is another company that offers kombucha in powder stick form, which you can mix with water or juice. They claim to be the world’s first to introduce this convenient way of consuming kombucha. You can also order their products online from their website3 or find them in some supermarkets and convenience stores.

Homebrewing is an option if you want to make your kombucha at home. You will need a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), tea, sugar, and a glass jar. You can buy a SCOBY online or get one from a friend who already brews kombucha. Some online tutorials and recipes can guide you through the process of making your kombucha.

Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains probiotics, which are beneficial for your gut health1. In Korea, you can find kefir in different ways, such as:

Buying ready-made kefir drinks from some supermarkets, convenience stores, or online shops. Some brands that offer kefir drinks are CORE BIO, TEAZEN, and Lifeway. They have various flavors and types of kefir, such as organic, low-fat, or powder stick234.

Make your kefir at home with kefir grains and milk. Kefir grains are a mixture of bacteria and yeast that ferment milk and produce kefir. You can buy kefir grains online or get them from someone who already makes kefir. You will also need a glass jar, a cloth, and a rubber band to cover the jar. Many online guides and videos can show you how to make kefir at home1.

Visiting a kefir cafe where you can enjoy fresh kefir drinks and other products made with kefir, such as smoothies, ice cream, or cheese. Some examples of kefir cafes in Korea are Kefir Lab in Seoul, Kefir House in Busan, and Kefir Story in Daegu.

Ode to Kombucha

We have finally mastered the art of brewing home Kombucha and are enjoying a glass of this miracle drink every morning along with our homemade kefir and our power smoothies.  If I keep this up, I will live to be a hundred years old.  Only 45 more years to go….

Kombucha
Only drink it in the morning
Morning Delight

By the dawning sun
Up at the morning dawn
Can’t wait for my morning cup
Have to have my kombucha
At least once a day.

Ode to Kefir

Kefir
Everyday
Food of the gods
In every way
Radiant health will follow.

THE SIMPLE GUIDE TO KICKASS KOMBUCHA

It’s a big day everyone! The day your intestinal microbiota has been begging you for. The day you say goodbye to expensive store-bought kombucha. The day you become a brewmaster I impart to you the secrets of homemade kombucha!

The goal of this guide is to be your one-stop shop for homemade kombucha brewage, from SCOBY-less to fermented perfection. No hopping around the interwebs. No fuss. No confusion. Because making homemade kombucha is so simple (albeit a bit slow), and I hope after reading this you’ll give it a whirl! Let’s hope right to it.

This post will go into detail about each step in the process of making kombucha. For succinct instructions, scroll to the bottom where a recipe card lays out the basics of making homemade kombucha. The general order of things goes something like this (you can jump around this tutorial by clicking the links below):

Make SCOBY (1 to 4 weeks) – to make the “mother.”

First Fermentation (6 to 10 days) – to make the actual kombucha.

Second Fermentation (3 to 10 days) – to carbonate the kombucha.

You can also click to jump to a few useful resources:

Supplies needed – My top tools for brewing ‘Buch.

Kombucha FAQ – Be sure to check out the comments section as well for answers to many questions.

Get the printable guide – Everything from this post, in printable PDF form.

   How to Make Homemade Kombucha

Before we start, here are some general notes that are consistent throughout the whole homemade kombucha process.

No metal or plastic containers. Metal can react with the acidic kombucha and hurt your SCOBY, while plastic can house nasty bacteria that you don’t want sneaking in.

Cleaning is key. A recurring theme in kombucha brewing is that EVERYTHING must be CLEAN! We’re creating the perfect environment for good bacterial growth, but if a bad bacteria slip in, it could ruin your batch (and make you pretty sick).

Temperature plays a role. Fermentation goes a bit quicker in warmer temperatures, and a bit slower in colder weather.

No mold zone. If you see any mold growing on your SCOBY or in the tea (which I understand can be difficult to discern from the hideous SCOBY, but will generally be green, white, or black), then toss your whole batch.

Milk kefir is not only easy to make, but it is a delicious, probiotic-rich, versatile beverage your whole family can enjoy. Whether you are just exploring how to make milk kefir at home or have cultured dairy before, this video and instructions are here to help make culturing milk kefir at home easy.

These instructions utilize the traditional starter culture known as milk kefir grains, rehydrated and ready-to-make milk kefir. If you wish to make milk kefir with a powdered Kefir Starter Culture, consult our article on How to Make Kefir with Direct-set Starter Culture.

If you have purchased our dehydrated milk kefir grains, please follow the instructions included with your milk kefir grains or watch our how-to video on How to Activate Milk Kefir Grains to get started.

If you wish to use raw milk to make milk kefir, be sure to activate your milk kefir grains using pasteurized milk first. You can then slowly transition them to raw milk.

To get started, first, gather your supplies and choose a variety of milk to use.

You’ll need the following supplies to make milk kefir, most of which can be found in the Milk Kefir Starter Kit. For more information on what supplies work best (and what to avoid) read our tutorial: Choosing the Best Equipment for Making Milk Kefir.

A glass jars.

A non-metal stirring utensil.

A breathable cover for the jar such as a tight-weave towel, butter muslin, paper towel, or paper coffee filter

A band to secure the cover to the jar like a rubber band or canning jar ring.

A fine mesh plastic strainer for removing the kefir grains from the finished kefir

Ingredients for Making Milk Kefir

Consult our article on choosing milk for making kefir to help you decide which milk is best for you!

1-2 teaspoons active Milk Kefir Grains

Cow or goat milk

Transfer the active kefir grains into up to 4 cups of fresh milk.

Cover with a coffee filter or butter muslin secured by a rubber band or jar ring.

Place in a warm spot, 68°-85°F, to culture.

Culture until milk is slightly thickened and the aroma is pleasant. This generally takes 24 hours but can take less time in warmer temperatures, so keep an eye on your grains.

After the milk changes texture and culturing is complete, separate the kefir grains from the finished kefir.

Place the kefir grains in a new batch of milk.

Store the finished kefir in the refrigerator.

Use Your (Clean!) Fingers

As your milk kefir grains grow in size, you may choose to remove the kefir grains by hand. Make sure your hands are very clean and well rinsed, but do not use anti-bacterial soap to avoid contaminating the culture.

Use a Plastic Mesh Strainer

Sometimes milk kefir can be a bit thick. If necessary, you can use a silicone spatula or plastic spoon (in a swirling motion) to help work the kefir through the strainer. Stainless steel can be used if necessary; just be sure it’s stainless steel and not a reactive metal.

Pour Kefir into A Shallow Bowl

This will make the grains easier to see. Using a plastic or wooden spoon, scoop the grains out. Once the grains have been removed, pour the finished kefir into a container.

While kefir sometimes turns out to be thin, it is also possible for kefir to over-thicken or turn into curds and whey. If this happens, you may need to strain your kefir grains with extra care. You can find tips in our Straining Over-Thickened Kefir tutorial.

Following the above process, you can make milk kefir at home regularly. If after making milk kefir for a while you decide you don’t need 4 cups every day, it is possible to make smaller batches. Just choose a method in our tutorial How to Slow Down Making Milk Kefir + Make Smaller Batches.

If you ever reach a point where you need to take a break from making milk kefir, there are a few ways you can put your kefir grains on pause. This includes refrigerating them for shorter breaks and drying them for longer breaks.

In either case, your grains must be activated and cultured kefir regularly for 3 to 4 weeks before you attempt either of these resting methods.

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Gluten Free

I am gluten-free since my wife has celiac disease.

Avoiding Junk Food

I limit my hamburger consumption to no more than once a month.

physical fitness regime

Most days I go for a three to five-mile walk, bike five K on my exercise bike, do three sets of pull-ups/swings, and do yoga and weightlifting.  About two hours total per day.  While in the park I do some pull-downs, twisting wheels, and cross-training as well.

I may sign up for a gym and join a Pilates or yoga club.

I also do ceregem massage bed, weekly massage therapy, acupuncture, and moxibustion at home.

I keep track of my fitness in my daily journal noting what I did the day before, including what I ate using the following format: (November 2 entry)

          Health

Weight: 188

BM:

Symptoms:  moderate pain levels

Doctor Visit:  scheduled November 7th for follow-up re chronic leg pain

Results:  TBC

Follow-Up Due: March 2024

Med News Items:

Diet:

Breakfast:   smoothie

Lunch           rice, soup, fish Korean side dishes

`         Dinner          GF Pizza

snacks:

Dessert:

Drinks: Alcohol nó Alcohol Day

blend decaf, kombucha, coffee, fake coffee, fruit juices, etc

Exercise

Actual:

bike seven k

pull up three times consisting of 3 sets of squats, and two sets of swinging.

New strategy

15 three sets of 50 reps per weight

15 minutes of Yoga

5 sets of 50-step reps

5k on the bike

3 miles walk.

Grip periodically 100 reps

Standing desk for two hours

pull up 5.

pull down 200.

wheel 200

Ceregem:

foot massage unit:

neck shoulder massage unit:

Moxibustion

Ceregeem

pulls up.

while walking exercise in the park

twisting 200

cross training

pull-downs

Acupuncture weekly

Massage weekly

Mental Fitness Regime/Alzheimer’s Prevention

I heard a long time ago that playing music, learning languages, and doing mental games like crossword puzzles every day is the best thing you can do to ward off the dreaded Dementia or Alzheimer’s.   Since my mother died of Alzheimer’s I am at increased risk.  I have been doing all three for almost a year now, playing the piano, studying Korean via Duolingo and watching K Dramas, doing daily writing prompts, writing three to five poems or short stories per day every day, and writing down my dreams and journal entries writing three to four hours every day, and weekly blog postings, instead of crossword puzzles.

Daily Writing in My Journals

I have been writing a daily journal since my 40s.  I write down my dreams, my anxieties, my daydreams, and fantasies, and draft poetry and stories first.

then I write my journal including what I did the day before, major news items, things to note, goals for the day, what I ate the day before, and my daily exercise/health statistics.

I save my creative work at least once a week, including putting down my work on my creative writing spreadsheet to keep track of everything.  I write anywhere from one to ten pieces every day.

I also keep track of books read, movie/TV shows seen and music played to and listened to.

I am currently reading the classics =Finishing Plato’s The Republic.

Daily Piano Playing

I have been playing the piano almost daily now for a year. Usually between 5 and 6:30 pm. Due to noise restrictions can’t play after 7 p.m. as I live in a high-rise apartment building.

This time around I have started analyzing the music before I play it noting the music areas to pay attention to including key, key changes, registry changes, very high and very low notes which are hard for me to read, and repetition patterns.  I found that this simple step has paid off in helping me play a lot better and I feel my skills are returning to where they were when I last played about seven years ago. I am sure I will achieve my lifelong goal of reaching semi-professional level playing within a few years.

I highly recommend this tip, playing each hand separately first when doing complicated counterpoint like in Bach, and listening, when possible, to the music you are going to play on YouTube while reading the score, to anyone returning to playing music.

I recently played my first Mozart Sonata and well I did not do badly.  I will return to it next year after finishing other piano books.

For more details see my “Playing Mozart Sonatas.”

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-2EO

Daily writing prompts

Every day I write something following prompts from Pensively 101, Writer’s Cramp, and Fan Story.

here’s what I wrote on November 2, 2023

 

Journal Entry November 1, 2023

 

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

Time To Go Joe Lewis

Joe Lewis was an old man.

sitting in his lonely room on his bed

up at 0 dark hundred, thinking about his life.

and the end game is coming soon.

There was a knock on the door.

it was the Grim Reaper, saying,

Joe Lewis, come with me,

it is time to go.”

bed in a lonely room

No Forgiveness Express in Eight

Issac was visiting Israel,

Went to a music concert.

There was a fierce fight,

When Hamas terrorists stormed the concert.

Killing his wife in front of him.

He managed to escape, vowing there would.

Be no forgiveness for the monsters,

That had murdered his wife.

Fierce
escape
forgiveness

 

Animal World

258 words

One day, about five months ago, I received a mysterious package, containing a pair of sunglasses and a cryptic note that read,

“Put these glasses on and see the world as it is. For Mad Men only.”

The incident reminded me of the movie, “They” in which a man puts on mysterious sunglasses that reveal that many people are, in fact, aliens from another planet.

Curious, I put on the glasses and noticed that everybody around me had been transformed into hideous creatures, straight from his worst nightmares.  Everyone transformed into aliens, animals, demons, goblins, ghosts, monsters, wraiths, and zombies.

The soldiers at the base APO had become giant rats in uniforms.  The local staff had become wild animals.

 

I turned on the TV and saw all the politicians on TV were now screaming monkeys screeching at each other the former president was an orangutang, the current president was a giant Kamona dragon, and the pundits were all mockingbirds screaming and screeching, mocking the politicians.

The taxi drivers were all wolves.  The passengers on the buses and subways were bleating sheep.

His wife was now a tiger, and he looked in the mirror and found that he had been turned into a giant bear.  He talked to his best friend during their weekly Zoom session and they were all bears too.

Finally, he had enough. He took the masses off and everybody reverted to their normal shapes and forms. Disgusted he threw the glasses into the trash saying,

“I have had enough of this false reality.”

 

 

 

The Taking of Train 967 bound for the Pentagon “Listen up. I will only say this once. We have taken control of this train. You will do what we say or we will send you straight to hell. “ That is how I announced the first subway jacking in US history. We high-jacked a subway train in Suburban Virginia bound for the Pentagon on a Monday morning boarding the train at Van Dorn station, by high-jacking the computer control systems that control the movement of the train. The train flew through the stations and we ended it 15 minutes later. My associates went through the train taking people’s phones, bags, and wallets. We were armed with the latest high-tech weapons and gear we had bought at a gun show where no one questioned us or did a background check as we all looked like ordinary working-class white people. It went down so quickly but unfortunately, we had to shoot a few people to make sure that everyone knew who was in charge. I went on the air and addressed the world. “We are the voices of the forgotten people, the little people, the left behind. We are taking this train in the name of the people. We will take what we need to finance the revolution and then leave you your phones and personal items for you to sort out once we reach the end of the line. Cooperate and you will live, resist, and join your friends in hell. Any questions?’’ It was all over in ten minutes, as we had picked a train near the beginning of its daily run and it was crowded as hell. When we got to the Roslyn station, we threw out smoke bangs flash and disappeared into the crowd. Then we went to my bar and watched the TV coverage of the hijacking. And sat in the back room and plotted our next target -while we went through the haul – over two million dollars in money, watches, and the like. And we laughed. It had been so easy to do, that we wondered why no one tried it before. October 6, 1866, saw the first train robbery in the U.S. when the Reno Gang stole $16,000 … A crime that likely inspired copycat robberies over the next few decades. For tomorrow, write a story or poem whose setting is on a train during a train robbery. It can be any sort of train (historical, fantasy, supernatural, etc.) And the POV character can be a passenger, a train official, or one of the robbers. However, to make the assignment useful practice that might push you a little out of your normal comfort zone, the tale must be told in first-person POV (so the POV character/narrator is “I”) and in the present tense.

The Pumpkin’s Evil Plot

 

A lonely farmer threw together,

His prized pumpkins are on a roadside cart.

The farmer getting ready to sell his award-winning

Giant pumpkins the day before Halloween.

The deranged, insane pumpkins,

Vowing revenge on the human race,

Attacked the hapless lonely farmer,

Yelling “Death to all Humans.”

 

Thanksgiving Puny Situation Writing com.

Many years ago
I had a traditional Thanksgiving
With friends in Korea
My fellow teacher said
He knew how to cook a turkey
My wife who was in the army
Got the turkey and we invited friends
Turns out he lied, he had no clue
We cooked the bird with the giblets
Inside the stuffing
Took it out and told our Korean guests
That was “American Stamina” food
Turned out and found that the giblets
Were all gone
That was a puny situation
And a memorable Thanksgiving dinner

What kind of pitch shall we make today? Are you having a ball going to bat with your New Year’s writing resolution? Or haven’t you left first base, yet? What’s the score? On to the contest. I’m game if you’re game.

Write a story or poem featuring a puny situation.

Make one of the genres of Comedy.

 

A Thanksgiving Poem

 

 

 

 

 

My favorite holiday

As a child

Was always Thanksgiving.

 

My mother

Being from the South

Knew how to do Thanksgiving right.

 

She made the best turkey.

This side of paradise

Just perfect

 

A big oven-roasted bird

Complete with stuffing

Made with breadcrumbs.

Oysters, carrots, onions, garlic

Mushrooms And secret spices

Cooked in the bird of course.

Cranberry sauce

Gravy

wild rice

white rice

Mashed potatoes

Sweet potatoes with marshmallows

Salad

Stuffing of course

Yams

And pumpkin pie

With ice cream

For dessert

 

Turkey’s Revolt – A Thanksgiving Dinner Nightmare

 

On Thanksgiving Day

The feast started late.

The turkey was having a problem.

He refused to go quietly.

Into the oven

The turkey stood up.

Screaming

What is wrong with you people?

You are going to burn me alive?

 

What have I done to you?

Why can’t you just pardon me?

 

Like the President did

I mean, I am cuter than Peter Butter

And Jelly anyway

 

The turkey grabbed a knife.

And killed the guests.

 

Running out into the dark

Joining all the other

Suddenly awoke turkeys.

 

All screaming

 

“I am mad as hell.

and not going to take it anymore.

Death to all humans.”

 

That was the day.

that went down.

 

As the Thanksgiving

Turkey revolt.

 

We Knew We Were Soul Mates 5-7-5

 

when I first met you

sparks flowed from heart to heart.

We knew we were soul mates.

You Rescued Me

when I first met you

I was lost, you rescued me.

with the power of love

ABC Poetry Contest

For this contest, you are challenged to write an ABC poem. ABC poetry has five lines and often is used to express feelings. See the announcement for an example. Cash Prize.

MAGA Madness ABC Poem ABC

MAGA Madness

No longer a fringe right-wing group

On the way to take over the land

Politicians cower in fear.

Is Fascism coming to the United States?

 

this contest you are challenged to write an ABC poem.

Write a one-stanza, five-line poem.

The first letter of each of the first four lines follows the order of the alphabet while the last line can be any letter whatsoever. For example, a poet might choose to use the following letter combination: D-E-F-G-A.

The lines may be of any syllable length. Also, line length may vary from line to line.

The poem may be about any subject or topic.

Rhyming and meter are optional.

BING AI Chat Bot provides some additional background information on the MAGA movement for those of you who don’t follow US politics that closely.  The MAGA movement does have parallels in other countries.

 

Q: can you tell me about the MAGA movement in the U.S.? Where did it come from? what are their goals and what are the links to other right-wing movements both in the U.S. and worldwide?

A: The MAGA movement is a nativist political movement that emerged in the United States during the 2016 presidential campaign of its putative leader, Donald Trump1. Its name is derived from Trump’s 2016 campaign slogan “Make America Great Again,” which became a rallying cry for many Trump supporters during his presidency and beyond2.

The movement is characterized by its populist, nationalist, and anti-establishment sentiments, as well as its strong loyalty to Trump and his agenda. Some of the core beliefs of the MAGA movement include:

America is in decline and needs to be restored to its former greatness.

Immigration and globalization are threats to American sovereignty and identity.

The political, media, and cultural elites are corrupt and out of touch with the common people.

Trump is the only leader who can defend and represent the interests of the American people.

The 2020 presidential election was rigged and stolen from Trump by a deep state conspiracy3

The MAGA movement has links to other right-wing movements both in the U.S. and worldwide, such as:

The Tea Party movement emerged in 2009 as a conservative backlash against the Obama administration and its policies.

The alt-right movement, which is a loosely defined group of white nationalists, white supremacists, neo-Nazis, and other extremists who promote racism, antisemitism, and xenophobia online and offline.

The QAnon movement is a conspiracy theory that claims that Trump is secretly fighting a cabal of satanic pedophiles who control the world.

The Proud Boys movement is a far-right neo-fascist organization that engages in political violence and street brawls with left-wing activists.

The Patriot Movement is a collection of anti-government militias and paramilitary groups that oppose federal authority and prepare for a civil war.

The Brexit movement, which is a campaign that led to the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union in 2016

The Yellow Vest movement is a populist protest movement that started in France in 2018 against rising fuel prices and living costs.

The Bolsonaro movement, which is a political movement that supports the right-wing populist president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro4

Fan story

 

Zombie Apocalypse

 

The zombies screaming,

Zombie apocalypse now.

“Death To All Humans.”

5-7-5 Horror

Write a 5-7-5 poem on the topic of horror
Friday the 13th chapter four for blog entry on Fan Story

 

 

Closing Time

 

On hearing the news

Of a friend’s passing,

I was overwhelmed.

With grief and sadness.

 

And I realized that my time.

On this mortal plane

Is also coming.

To the end game.

 

Closing time

the final act of this cosmic play.

The grim reaper

Has my number.

 

 

Some day

He will come for me.

And the love of my life

My lovely wife.

 

And my family

friends, and enemies

far-flung throughout

the whole world.

 

In the long run

We can’t escape.

our grim fate,

We end up in the same place.

 

When the Grim Reaper

Knocks at our door.

Are we ready for that?

Perhaps not.

 

But each day

We have left.

In another day

We can celebrate.

 

That we are alive

having survived another year

And cheated death’s grim embrace.

every day remaining is a blessing.

We are but one step closer to the grave.

 

the end will come.

when your time

comes to an end.

but not today.

 

So, rejoice, my friends.

Live your remaining moments.

Filled with friendship,

Love, laughter, and joy.

 

the end

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes I add in protein plant superfoods from Costco containing the following:

Organic Protein Blend: Pea Protein, Brown Rice Protein, Chia Seed, Hemp Protein1.

Organic Creamer Base: Acacia Gum, High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Inulin, Rice Dextrin’s, Rice Bran Extract, Rosemary Extract1.

Organic Superfoods Blend: Organic Greens and Grasses Blend (Wheat Grass, Barley Grass, Oat Grass, Alfalfa Grass, Kale, Spinach), Organic Berry Blend (Acai, Apple, Banana, Blueberry, Cranberry, Raspberry, Sweet Potato, Cherry, Pomegranate, Strawberry), Organic Veggie Blend (Beet, Broccoli, Carrot, Tomato, Parsley, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Kale), Organic Sprout Blend (Amaranth Sprout, Quinoa Sprout, Millet Sprout, Buckwheat Sprout, Garbanzo Bean Sprout, Lentil Sprout, Adzuki Sprout, Flax Sprout, Sunflower Sprout, Pumpkin Sprout, Chia Sprout, Sesame Sprout), Organic Ancient Grains Blend (Amaranth, Quinoa, Buckwheat, Millet, Chia), Organic Fiber Blend (Oat Fiber, Rice Bran, Acacia Fiber), Organic Cinnamon, Organic Erythritol, Organic Natural Flavors, Organic Stevia, Organic Food Based B Vitamin Blend (Organic Guava, Organic Holy Basil, Organic Lemon Extract), Organic Monk Fruit Extract, Probiotics (Bacillus coagulants) 1

 

 

I usually start my day with a homemade smoothie.

 

smoothie

Smoothie Blues

Smoothie Love

Smoothie Madness

 

 

blueberry smoothie

my daily breakfast
includes blueberries
in my smoothie

apple cider vinegar
blueberry, strawberry, oranges
banana, pineapple,
cinnamon
coconut oil
home made kefir
kale
kombucha.

ginseng

ginger

honey
maca root
spinach
wheatgrass

stevia
50 superfoods plant protein powder

Organic Protein Blend: Pea Protein, Brown Rice Protein, Chia Seed, Hemp Protein1.

Organic Creamer Base: Acacia Gum, High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Inulin, Rice Dextrin’s, Rice Bran Extract, Rosemary Extract1.

Organic Superfoods Blend: Organic Greens and Grasses Blend (Wheat Grass, Barley Grass, Oat Grass, Alfalfa Grass, Kale, Spinach), Organic Berry Blend (Acai, Apple, Banana, Blueberry, Cranberry, Raspberry, Sweet Potato, Cherry, Pomegranate, Strawberry), Organic Veggie Blend (Beet, Broccoli, Carrot, Tomato, Parsley, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Kale), Organic Sprout Blend (Amaranth Sprout, Quinoa Sprout, Millet Sprout, Buckwheat Sprout, Garbanzo Bean Sprout, Lentil Sprout, Adzuki Sprout, Flax Sprout, Sunflower Sprout, Pumpkin Sprout, Chia Sprout, Sesame Sprout), Organic Ancient Grains Blend (Amaranth, Quinoa, Buckwheat, Millet, Chia), Organic Fiber Blend (Oat Fiber, Rice Bran, Acacia Fiber), Organic Cinnamon, Organic Erythritol, Organic Natural Flavors, Organic Stevia, Organic Food Based B Vitamin Blend (Organic Guava, Organic Holy Basil, Organic Lemon Extract), Organic Monk Fruit Extract, Probiotics (Bacillus coagulants) 1

 

all blended to perfection
that is my daily breakfast
fit for a champion.

 

 

Salt Of Life

 

Every day

I eat a little

Himalayan Pink Salt

In my food.

 

That and real salt

From Salt Lake City

Will enable me.

To live to be

A ripe old man.

 

So, my advice to you all

Add real salt to your food,

And watch your weight go down,

And your life extension begins.

 

 

Kefir

 

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-jz

 

Growing Kombucha and Kefir in Korea

 

 

When we moved to Yeongjong island, near the Incheon Airport, we found that we would be deprived of two of our three favorite miracle foods, Kombucha and Kefir. But we were pleasantly surprised to find we could order our third favorite health food item, wheat grass for home delivery. Have not seen it in the stores but have seen it in some smoothie places as well as home delivery. best to mix it in a smoothie. Wheatgrass juice does not taste that great!

Growing Kombucha and Kefir in Korea

Kombucha

Living in Oregon was great. Kombucha is everywhere. Costco carries Kombucha everywhere except in Korea. The best brand we found was Gingerade. But I liked sampling the kombucha everywhere, several bars brew it on-site and you can fill up a growler and take it home.

What is Kombucha, you ask? It is fermented tea, filled with powerful probiotics and it is so good for your health. It does contain 1 percent alcohol so that should not get you into trouble with the new draconian drunk driving laws here in Korea!

Since neither the Commissary nor Costco nor anyone else carried it, or even knew what it was, we decided that we had to brew it ourselves. The starter kit we brought with us had gone bad. So, we bought kombucha from Amazon and used that and the leftover starter kit to get started.

We used green tea as the base. Straight black tea and jasmine tea will work but not Earl Grey due to the bergamot oil in the tea.

We brewed up several gallons of tea, added sugar, the starter kit, and the cans of kombucha. Then we put it in a sprouted warmer kit ordered from Amazon and wrapped another gallon in an electric blanket. You have to keep the kombucha at about 80 degrees F (26.67 Celsius).

Then we waited for six weeks. Finally ready to go today and we bottled it and started our next batch!
Here’s what it looks like with the scuzzy taken out of the kombucha.

kombucha

Kefir

Making Kefir was easy, we’ve been making it for years. We had started kits we bought in Oregon before we left. Just got some organic milk and we were in business. If you have to use Korean milk, make sure it is full-fat milk, 2 percent makes watery kefir. There are recipes for using almond milk, coconut milk, and rice milk but we have not used them because we heard it would be pretty watery. Might want to try Goat milk sometime though. The Commissary’s organic full-fat Milk is perfect. You can also buy Kefir at the Commissary just to see if you like it but their Kefir has extra sugar in it and I am not sure it would be a good starter mix. Best to order the starter kits from Amazon (they will be delivered to a local address) and you should not have any problems. But with both be sure you sanitize your containers with hot boiling water before making either kombucha or kefir. Need to keep stray random non-cultured bacteria out of the mix.

See below for articles on the health benefits of Kombucha and Kefir, articles on how to make it, and where to buy it locally.

As a personal testimony a few years ago, I noticed that I did not have hay fever in the Spring. I used to have to make a trip to the urgent care/ER because I got so inflamed that I could not even open my eyes and I was sneezing so bad. The medicine they gave me worked a bit but I mostly just suffered. Then I started eating kefir for breakfast and drinking Kombucha and my hay fever disappeared.!

External Links

Health benefits of Kefir

health benefits of Kefir

Health benefits of Kombucha

Health Benefits of Kombucha

How to make kombucha at home

how to make kombucha at home

How to Make Kefir

how to make kefir

Where to Buy Kombucha in Seoul

where to buy kombucha in Seoul

Note:

Kombucha is now widely available in Korea.  My brother-in-law even has a side hustle making Mama Kombucha.  You buy it in stores and some coffee shops.

 

Bing AI provided some places where you can find Kombucha and Kefir in Korea.  The commissaries carry it, a few larger grocery chains now carry both.

Kombucha is a fermented, lightly effervescent, sweetened black tea drink that is popular for its health benefits1. In Korea, you can find kombucha in various forms, such as:

CORE BIO is a company that produces organic kombucha with different flavors, such as lemon, ginger, and berry. You can order their products online from their website2 or find them in some health food stores.

TEAZEN is another company that offers kombucha in powder stick form, which you can mix with water or juice. They claim to be the world’s first to introduce this convenient way of consuming kombucha. You can also order their products online from their website3 or find them in some supermarkets and convenience stores.

Homebrewing is an option if you want to make your kombucha at home. You will need a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), tea, sugar, and a glass jar. You can buy a SCOBY online or get one from a friend who already brews kombucha. Some online tutorials and recipes can guide you through the process of making your kombucha.

 

Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains probiotics, which are beneficial for your gut health1. In Korea, you can find kefir in different ways, such as:

Buying ready-made kefir drinks from some supermarkets, convenience stores, or online shops. Some brands that offer kefir drinks are CORE BIO, TEAZEN, and Lifeway. They have various flavors and types of kefir, such as organic, low-fat, or powder stick234.

Make your kefir at home with kefir grains and milk. Kefir grains are a mixture of bacteria and yeast that ferment milk and produce kefir. You can buy kefir grains online or get them from someone who already makes kefir. You will also need a glass jar, a cloth, and a rubber band to cover the jar. Many online guides and videos can show you how to make kefir at home1.

Visiting a kefir cafe where you can enjoy fresh kefir drinks and other products made with kefir, such as smoothies, ice cream, or cheese. Some examples of kefir cafes in Korea are Kefir Lab in Seoul, Kefir House in Busan, and Kefir Story in Daegu.

I hope this helps you find kefir in Korea. Cheers!

 

 

Kombucha

Ode to Kombucha

We have finally mastered the art of brewing home Kombucha and are enjoying a glass of this miracle drink every morning along with our homemade kefir and our power smoothies.  If I keep this up, I will live to be a hundred years old.  Only 45 more years to go….

Ode to Kombucha

Kombucha
Only drink it in the morning
Morning Delight

By the dawning sun
Up at the morning dawn
Can’t wait for my morning cup
Have to have my kombucha
At least once a day.

Ode to Kefir

Kefir
Everyday
Food of the gods
In every way
Radiant health will follow.

THE SIMPLE GUIDE TO KICKASS KOMBUCHA

It’s a big day everyone! The day your intestinal microbiota has been begging you for. The day you say goodbye to expensive store-bought kombucha. The day you become a brewmaster I impart to you the secrets of homemade kombucha!

The goal of this guide is to be your one-stop shop for homemade kombucha brewage, from SCOBY-less to fermented perfection. No hopping around the interwebs. No fuss. No confusion. Because making homemade kombucha is so simple (albeit a bit slow), and I hope after reading this you’ll give it a whirl! Let’s hope right to it.

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE KOMBUCHA: OVERVIEW

This post will go into detail about each step in the process of making kombucha. For succinct instructions, scroll to the bottom where a recipe card lays out the basics of making homemade kombucha. The general order of things goes something like this (you can jump around this tutorial by clicking the links below):

Make SCOBY (1 to 4 weeks) – to make the “mother.”

First Fermentation (6 to 10 days) – to make the actual kombucha.

Second Fermentation (3 to 10 days) – to carbonate the kombucha.

You can also click to jump to a few useful resources:

Supplies needed – My top tools for brewing ‘Buch.

Kombucha FAQ – Be sure to check out the comments section as well for answers to many questions.

Get the printable guide – Everything from this post, in printable PDF form.

HOW TO MAKE KOMBUCHA VIDEO

   How to Make Homemade Kombucha

Before we start, here are some general notes that are consistent throughout the whole homemade kombucha process.

No metal or plastic containers. Metal can react with the acidic kombucha and hurt your SCOBY, while plastic can house nasty bacteria that you don’t want sneaking in.

Cleaning is key. A recurring theme in kombucha brewing is that EVERYTHING must be CLEAN! We’re creating the perfect environment for good bacterial growth, but if a bad bacteria slip in, it could ruin your batch (and make you pretty sick).

Temperature plays a role. Fermentation goes a bit quicker in warmer temperatures, and a bit slower in colder weather.

No mold zone. If you see any mold growing on your SCOBY or in the tea (which I understand can be difficult to discern from the hideous SCOBY, but will generally be green, white, or black), then toss your whole batch.

Milk kefir is not only easy to make, but it is a delicious, probiotic-rich, versatile beverage your whole family can enjoy. Whether you are just exploring how to make milk kefir at home or have cultured dairy before, this video and instructions are here to help make culturing milk kefir at home easy.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

These instructions utilize the traditional starter culture known as milk kefir grains, rehydrated and ready-to-make milk kefir. If you wish to make milk kefir with a powdered Kefir Starter Culture, consult our article on How to Make Kefir with Direct-set Starter Culture.

If you have purchased our dehydrated milk kefir grains, please follow the instructions included with your milk kefir grains or watch our how-to video on How to Activate Milk Kefir Grains to get started.

If you wish to use raw milk to make milk kefir, be sure to activate your milk kefir grains using pasteurized milk first. You can then slowly transition them to raw milk.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE MILK KEFIR

To get started, first, gather your supplies and choose a variety of milk to use.

Supplies for Making Milk Kefir

You’ll need the following supplies to make milk kefir, most of which can be found in the Milk Kefir Starter Kit. For more information on what supplies work best (and what to avoid) read our tutorial: Choosing the Best Equipment for Making Milk Kefir.

 

A glass jars.

A non-metal stirring utensil.

A breathable cover for the jar such as a tight-weave towel, butter muslin, paper towel, or paper coffee filter

A band to secure the cover to the jar like a rubber band or canning jar ring.

A fine mesh plastic strainer for removing the kefir grains from the finished kefir

Ingredients for Making Milk Kefir

Consult our article on choosing milk for making kefir to help you decide which milk is best for you!

 

1-2 teaspoons active Milk Kefir Grains

Cow or goat milk

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING MILK KEFIR

Transfer the active kefir grains into up to 4 cups of fresh milk.

Cover with a coffee filter or butter muslin secured by a rubber band or jar ring.

Place in a warm spot, 68°-85°F, to culture.

Culture until milk is slightly thickened and the aroma is pleasant. This generally takes 24 hours but can take less time in warmer temperatures, so keep an eye on your grains.

After the milk changes texture and culturing is complete, separate the kefir grains from the finished kefir.

Place the kefir grains in a new batch of milk.

Store the finished kefir in the refrigerator.

REMOVING GRAINS FROM FINISHED MILK KEFIR

Use Your (Clean!) Fingers

As your milk kefir grains grow in size, you may choose to remove the kefir grains by hand. Make sure your hands are very clean and well rinsed, but do not use anti-bacterial soap to avoid contaminating the culture.

Use a Plastic Mesh Strainer

Sometimes milk kefir can be a bit thick. If necessary, you can use a silicone spatula or plastic spoon (in a swirling motion) to help work the kefir through the strainer. Stainless steel can be used if necessary; just be sure it’s stainless steel and not a reactive metal.

Pour Kefir into A Shallow Bowl

This will make the grains easier to see. Using a plastic or wooden spoon, scoop the grains out. Once the grains have been removed, pour the finished kefir into a container.

OVER-THICKENED KEFIR

While kefir sometimes turns out to be thin, it is also possible for kefir to over-thicken or turn into curds and whey. If this happens, you may need to strain your kefir grains with extra care. You can find tips in our Straining Over-Thickened Kefir tutorial.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Following the above process, you can make milk kefir at home regularly. If after making milk kefir for a while you decide you don’t need 4 cups every day, it is possible to make smaller batches. Just choose a method in our tutorial How to Slow Down Making Milk Kefir + Make Smaller Batches.

Resting Your Milk Kefir Grains

If you ever reach a point where you need to take a break from making milk kefir, there are a few ways you can put your kefir grains on pause. This includes refrigerating them for shorter breaks and drying them for longer breaks.

In either case, your grains must be activated and cultured kefir regularly for 3 to 4 weeks before you attempt either of these resting methods.

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-1mr

 

I also avoid Carbs at night, and I am gluten-free since my wife has celiac disease.  and I limit my hamburger consumption to no more than once a month.

 

physical fitness regime

 

most days I go for a three to five-mile walk, bike five K on my exercise bike, do three sets of pull-ups/swings, and do yoga and weightlifting.  About two hours total per day.  While in the park I do some pull-downs, twisting wheels, and cross-training as well.

I may sign up for a gym and join a Pilates or yoga club.

 

I also do ceregem massage bed, weekly massage therapy, acupuncture, and moxibustion at home.

 

I keep track of my fitness in my daily journal noting what I did the day before, including what I ate using the following format: (November 2 entry)

 

Health

Weight: 188

BM:

Symptoms:  moderate pain levels

Doctor Visit:  scheduled November 7th for follow-up re chronic leg pain

Results:  TBC

Follow-Up Due: March 2024

Med News Items:

Diet:

Breakfast:   smoothie

Lunch           rice, soup, fish Korean side dishes

`         Dinner          GF Pizza

snacks:

Dessert:

Drinks: Alcohol nó Alcohol Day

blend decaf, kombucha, coffee, fake coffee, fruit juices, etc

 

Exercise

Actual:

bike seven k

pull up three times consisting of 3 sets of squats, and two sets of swinging.

New strategy

15 three sets of 50 reps per weight

15 minutes of Yoga

5 sets of 50-step reps

5k on the bike

3 miles walk.

Grip periodically 100 reps

Standing desk for two hours

pull up 5.

pull down 200.

wheel 200

Ceregem:

foot massage unit:

neck shoulder massage unit:

 

Moxibustion

Ceregeem pulls up.

while walking exercise in the park

twisting 200

cross training

pull-downs

Acupuncture weekly

Massage weekly

 

Ceregem treatment

 

I first bought a cergem acupressure massage bed in 1996 and use it almost every day.  the bed uses infrared heat and jade technology to provide acupressure therapy as the jade crystals move up and down your spine providing long-lasting pain relief leading to deeper sleep.  I usually use it while reading before going to bed.

 

from Bing AI review

 

Ceregem massage bed is a therapeutic bed that uses a combination of massage, heat, and acupressure to provide relaxation and relief from pain. The bed is designed to provide a full-body massage that targets pressure points and helps to improve blood circulation. Here are some of the benefits of using a Ceregem massage bed:

1. Relaxation: The massage bed provides a relaxing experience that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Pain relief: The bed’s massage and heat functions can help to relieve pain and soreness in the muscles and joints.
3. Improved circulation: The massage bed’s acupressure function can help to improve blood circulation, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
4. Better sleep: The bed’s massage function can help to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
5. Detoxification: The bed’s heat function can help to promote sweating, which can help to eliminate toxins from the body.

Please note that while the Ceregem massage bed has many potential benefits, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

 

Moxibustion Treatment

 

I have been moxibution treatment for about a year now. we have a home kit which we do in conjunction with using the ceregem massage therapy bed. About two to three treatments per week are ideal.  We also occasionally go to a clinic for treatment.

Moxibustion involves burning wormwood and applying it to your skin.  It is an ancient Chinese-Korean medical treatment.  for more info read the following from the Bing AI chat on moxibution.

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves burning dried mugwort on or near the skin’s surface to stimulate acupuncture points. It is believed to have several health benefits, including:

1. Pain relief: Moxibustion can help to relieve pain and soreness in the muscles and joints.
2. Improved digestion: Moxibustion can help to improve digestion and alleviate digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhea.
3. Reduced inflammation: Moxibustion can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and asthma.
4. Improved blood circulation: Moxibustion can help to improve blood circulation, which can help to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
5. Stress relief: Moxibustion can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.

Please note that while moxibustion has many potential benefits, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, Korean Charcoal Saunasespecially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

 

Korean Charcoal Saunas

;

I have been going to traditional Korean saunas for years. About two years ago I discovered Korean Charcoal saunas which feature charcoal sauna fires that are very hot and have a lot of health benefits.  for more information see the following:

.

health benefits of traditional Korean charcoal saunas – Search (bing.com)

mental fitness regime

Alzheimer’s Prevention

I heard a long time ago that playing music, learning languages, and doing mental games like crossword puzzles every day is the best thing you can do to ward off the dreaded Dementia or Alzheimer’s.   Since my mother died of Alzheimer’s I am at increased risk.  I have been doing all three for almost a year now, playing the piano, studying Korean via Duolingo and watching K Dramas, doing daily writing prompts, writing three to five poems or short stories per day every day, and writing down my dreams and journal entries writing three to four hours every day, and weekly blog postings, instead of crossword puzzles.

daily writing in my journals

I have been writing a daily journal since my 40s.  I write down my dreams, my anxieties, my daydreams, and fantasies, and draft poetry and stories first.

then I write my journal including what I did the day before, major news items, things to note, goals for the day, what I ate the day before, and my daily exercise/health statistics.

I save my creative work at least once a week, including putting down my work on my creative writing spreadsheet to keep track of everything.  I write anywhere from one to ten pieces every day.

I also keep track of books read, movie/TV shows seen and music played to and listened to.

I am currently reading the classics =Finishing Plato’s The Republic.

daily piano playing

I have been playing the piano almost daily now for a year. Usually between 5 and 6:30 pm. Due to noise restrictions can’t play after 7 p.m. as I live in a high-rise apartment building.

This time around I have started analyzing the music before I play it noting the music areas to pay attention to including key, key changes, registry changes, very high and very low notes which are hard for me to read, and repetition patterns.  I found that this simple step has paid off in helping me play a lot better and I feel my skills are returning to where they were when I last played about seven years ago. I am sure I will achieve my lifelong goal of reaching semi-professional level playing within a few years.

I highly recommend this tip, playing each hand separately first when doing complicated counterpoint like in Bach, and listening, when possible, to the music you are going to play on YouTube while reading the score, to anyone returning to playing music.

I recently played my first Mozart Sonata and well I did not do badly.  I will return to it next year after finishing other piano books.

For more details see my “Playing Mozart Sonatas.”

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-2EO

Daily writing prompts

Every day I write something following prompts from Pensively 101, Writer’s Cramp, and Fan Story.

Here’s what I wrote on November 2, 2023

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

our three words today are:

serenity
tranquility
silence

Tuesday’s Thoughts! | Nuggets of Gold (wordpress.com)

Time To Go Grim Reaper

Joe Lewis was an old man.

sitting in his lonely room on his bed

up at 0 dark hundred, thinking about his life.

and the end game is coming soon.

There was a knock on the door.

it was the Grim Reaper, saying,

Joe Lewis, come with me,

it is time to go.”

TOPIC

bed in a lonely room
Issac was visiting Israel,

Went to a music concert.

There was a fierce fight,

When Hamas terrorists stormed the concert.

Killing his wife in front of him.

He managed to escape, vowing there would.

Be no forgiveness for the monsters,

That had murdered his wife.

Fierce
escape
forgiveness

Animal World

One day, about five months ago, I received a mysterious package, containing a pair of sunglasses and a cryptic note that read,

“Put these glasses on and see the world as it is. For Mad Men only.”

The incident reminded me of the movie, “They” in which a man puts on mysterious sunglasses that reveal that many people are, in fact, aliens from another planet.

Curious, I put on the glasses and noticed that everybody around me had been transformed into hideous creatures, straight from his worst nightmares.  Everyone transformed into aliens, animals, demons, goblins, ghosts, monsters, wraiths, and zombies.

The soldiers at the base APO had become giant rats in uniforms.  The local staff had become wild animals.

I turned on the TV and saw all the politicians on TV were now screaming monkeys screeching at each other the former president was an orangutang, the current president was a giant Kamona dragon, and the pundits were all mockingbirds screaming and screeching, mocking the politicians.

The taxi drivers were all wolves.  The passengers on the buses and subways were bleating sheep.

His wife was now a tiger, and he looked in the mirror and found that he had been turned into a giant bear.  He talked to his best friend during their weekly Zoom session and they were all bears too.

Finally, he had enough. He took the masses off and everybody reverted to their normal shapes and forms. Disgusted he threw the glasses into the trash saying,

“I have had enough of this false reality.”

NEW PROMPT:Write a story or poem in which your current world becomes an animal analogy. Think Animal Farm but to the scale of events in your personal life. Who would you turn into pigs? Who would become cows? What about the chickens? Maybe an ostrich or two? NEW Prompt DUE in 16 hours 33 minutes (11:59 am on Thursday, November 2)

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The Taking of Train 967 bound for the Pentagon. terrorism The Taking of Train 967 Bound for the Pentagon Writer’s Cramp The Taking of Train 967 bound for the Pentagon Writing com “Listen up. I will only say this once. We have taken control of this train. You will do what we say or we will send you straight to hell. “ That is how I announced the first subway jacking in US history. We high-jacked a subway train in Suburban Virginia bound for the Pentagon on a Monday morning boarding the train at Van Dorn station, by high-jacking the computer control systems that control the movement of the train. The train flew through the stations and we ended it 15 minutes later. My associates went through the train taking people’s phones, bags, and wallets. We were armed with the latest high-tech weapons and gear we had bought at a gun show where no one questioned us or did a background check as we all looked like ordinary working-class white people. It went down so quickly but unfortunately, we had to shoot a few people to make sure that everyone knew who was in charge. I went on the air and addressed the world. “We are the voices of the forgotten people, the little people, the left behind. We are taking this train in the name of the people. We will take what we need to finance the revolution and then leave you your phones and personal items for you to sort out once we reach the end of the line. Cooperate and you will live, resist, and join your friends in hell. Any questions?’’ It was all over in ten minutes, as we had picked a train near the beginning of its daily run and it was crowded as hell. When we got to the Roslyn station, we threw out smoke bangs flash and disappeared into the crowd. Then we went to my bar and watched the TV coverage of the hijacking. And sat in the back room and plotted our next target -while we went through the haul – over two million dollars in money, watches, and the like. And we laughed. It had been so easy to do, that we wondered why no one tried it before. October 6, 1866, saw the first train robbery in the U.S. when the Reno Gang stole $16,000 … A crime that likely inspired copycat robberies over the next few decades. For tomorrow, write a story or poem whose setting is on a train during a train robbery. It can be any sort of train (historical, fantasy, supernatural, etc.) And the POV character can be a passenger, a train official, or one of the robbers. However, to make the assignment useful practice that might push you a little out of your normal comfort zone, the tale must be told in first-person POV (so the POV character/narrator is “I”) and in the present tense.

Weekly challenge

The Pumpkin’s Evil Plot

A lonely farmer threw together,

His prized pumpkins are on a roadside cart.

The farmer getting ready to sell his award-winning

Giant pumpkins the day before Halloween.

The deranged, insane pumpkins,

Vowing revenge on the human race,

Attacked the hapless lonely farmer,

Yelling “Death to all Humans.”

Weekly Challenge

The prompt word for the week is:

PUMPKIN

Your poem…

must include the prompt word, pumpkin

must be at least 12 lines long

does not have to be about Halloween, in case you were wondering.

other writing com

Three Thanksgiving Poems

Thanksgiving Puny Situation Writing com.

Many years ago
I had a traditional Thanksgiving
With friends in Korea
My fellow teacher said
He knew how to cook a turkey
My wife who was in the army
Got the turkey and we invited friends
Turns out he lied, he had no clue
We cooked the bird with the giblets
Inside the stuffing
Took it out and told our Korean guests
That was “American Stamina” food
Turned out and found that the giblets
Were all gone
That was a puny situation
And a memorable Thanksgiving dinner

What kind of pitch shall we make today? Are you having a ball going to bat with your New Year’s writing resolution? Or haven’t you left first base, yet? What’s the score? On to the contest. I’m game if you’re game.

Write a story or poem featuring a puny situation.

Make one of the genres of Comedy.

A Thanksgiving Poem

My favorite holiday

As a child

Was always Thanksgiving.

My mother

Being from the South

Knew how to do Thanksgiving right.

She made the best turkey.

This side of paradise

Just perfect

A big oven-roasted bird

Complete with stuffing

Made with breadcrumbs.

Oysters, carrots, onions, garlic

Mushrooms And secret spices

Cooked in the bird of course.

Cranberry sauce

Gravy

wild rice

white rice

Mashed potatoes

Sweet potatoes with marshmallows

Salad

Stuffing of course

Yams

And pumpkin pie

With ice cream

For dessert

Turkey’s Revolt – A Thanksgiving Dinner Nightmare

On Thanksgiving Day

The feast started late.

The turkey was having a problem.

He refused to go quietly.

Into the oven

The turkey stood up.

Screaming

What is wrong with you people?

You are going to burn me alive?

What have I done to you?

Why can’t you just pardon me?

Like the President did

I mean, I am cuter than Peter Butter

And Jelly anyway

The turkey grabbed a knife.

And killed the guests.

Running out into the dark

Joining all the other

Suddenly awoke turkeys.

All screaming

“I am mad as hell.

and not going to take it anymore.

Death to all humans.”

That was the day.

that went down.

As the Thanksgiving

Turkey revolt.

We Knew We Were Soul Mates 5-7-5

When I first met you

sparks flowed from heart to heart.

We knew we were soul mates.

You Rescued Me

when I first met you

I was lost, you rescued me.

with the power of love

5-7-5 Poetry Lost

ABC Poetry Contest

For this contest, you are challenged to write an ABC poem. ABC poetry has five lines and often is used to express feelings. See the announcement for an example. Cash Prize.

MAGA Madness ABC Poem ABC

MAGA Madness

No longer a fringe right-wing group

On the way to take over the land

Politicians cower in fear.

Is Fascism coming to the United States?

this contest you are challenged to write an ABC poem.

Write a one-stanza, five-line poem.

The first letter of each of the first four lines follows the order of the alphabet while the last line can be any letter whatsoever. For example, a poet might choose to use the following letter combination: D-E-F-G-A.

The lines may be of any syllable length. Also, line length may vary from line to line.

The poem may be about any subject or topic.

Rhyming and meter are optional.

BING AI Chat Bot provides some additional background information on the MAGA movement for those of you who don’t follow US politics that closely.  The MAGA movement does have parallels in other countries.

Q: can you tell me about the MAGA movement in the U.S.? Where did it come from? what are their goals and what are the links to other right-wing movements both in the U.S. and worldwide?

A: The MAGA movement is a nativist political movement that emerged in the United States during the 2016 presidential campaign of its putative leader, Donald Trump1. Its name is derived from Trump’s 2016 campaign slogan “Make America Great Again,” which became a rallying cry for many Trump supporters during his presidency and beyond2.

The movement is characterized by its populist, nationalist, and anti-establishment sentiments, as well as its strong loyalty to Trump and his agenda. Some of the core beliefs of the MAGA movement include:

America is in decline and needs to be restored to its former greatness.

Immigration and globalization are threats to American sovereignty and identity.

The political, media, and cultural elites are corrupt and out of touch with the common people.

Trump is the only leader who can defend and represent the interests of the American people.

The 2020 presidential election was rigged and stolen from Trump by a deep state conspiracy3

The MAGA movement has links to other right-wing movements both in the U.S. and worldwide, such as:

The Tea Party movement emerged in 2009 as a conservative backlash against the Obama administration and its policies.

The alt-right movement, which is a loosely defined group of white nationalists, white supremacists, neo-Nazis, and other extremists who promote racism, antisemitism, and xenophobia online and offline.

The QAnon movement is a conspiracy theory that claims that Trump is secretly fighting a cabal of satanic pedophiles who control the world.

The Proud Boys movement is a far-right neo-fascist organization that engages in political violence and street brawls with left-wing activists.

The Patriot Movement is a collection of anti-government militias and paramilitary groups that oppose federal authority and prepare for a civil war.

The Brexit movement, which is a campaign that led to the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union in 2016

The Yellow Vest movement is a populist protest movement that started in France in 2018 against rising fuel prices and living costs.

The Bolsonaro movement, which is a political movement that supports the right-wing populist president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro4

Fan story

Zombie Apocalypse

The zombies screaming,

Zombie apocalypse now.

“Death To All Humans.”

5-7-5 Horror

Write a 5-7-5 poem on the topic of horror
Friday the 13th chapter four for blog entry on Fan Story

Closing Time

On hearing the news

Of a friend’s passing,

I was overwhelmed.

With grief and sadness.

And I realized that my time.

On this mortal plane

Is also coming.

To the end game.

Closing time

the final act of this cosmic play.

The grim reaper

Has my number.

Some day

He will come for me.

And the love of my life

My lovely wife.

And my family

friends, and enemies

far-flung throughout

the whole world.

In the long run

We can’t escape.

our grim fate,

We end up in the same place.

 

When the Grim Reaper

Knocks at our door.

Are we ready for that?

Perhaps not.

 

But each day

We have left.

In another day

We can celebrate.

 

That we are alive

having survived another year

And cheated death’s grim embrace.

every day remaining is a blessing.

We are but one step closer to the grave.

 

the end will come.

when your time

comes to an end.

but not today.

 

So, rejoice, my friends.

Live your remaining moments.

Filled with friendship,

Love, laughter, and joy.

the end