The 1959 Chambers Murders

The 1959 Chambers Murders: The Cold Case That Still Haunts a Small Alabama Town 🟡 In December of 1959, the quiet mill village of Fairfax, Alabama, was shaken by a tragedy that residents still whisper about more than six decades later. Life in the Valley was predictable then — church on Sundays, mill shifts during the week, and neighbors who knew each other’s routines as well as their own. It was the kind of place where nothing truly dark ever seemed to happen.

Until it did.

On the morning of December 13th, beloved Sunday School teacher Nella Jean Chambers didn’t show up for class at Hopewell Methodist Church. Her absence was so unusual that fellow church members immediately felt something was wrong. By that afternoon, their concern led them to the Chambers home — and to a discovery that stunned the entire community.

Inside the modest mill‑village house, Nella Jean and her elderly father, Jefferson Avery Chambers, were found dead. There were no signs of forced entry. No clear motive. No immediate suspect. The shock rippled through Fairfax, a town where people rarely locked their doors and danger felt like something that happened somewhere else.

Newspapers at the time described the murders as a moment that “shattered the innocence” of the Valley. And in the years that followed, the case quietly slipped into the realm of local legend — talked about in hushed tones, remembered by those who lived through it, but never solved.

Today, the Chambers murders remain one of Chambers County’s most haunting cold cases. A father and daughter lost in a single night, a community forever changed, and a mystery that still lingers in the air of a town that once believed it was safe from such things.

https://www.facebook.com/100076589797625/posts/629197170877703/
https://www.lib.ua.edu/Alabama_Authors/?p=5804
https://archive.org/details/surveyofolderchu00cham

Join Me for a 52-week Acrylic Painting Challenge

Dive Into Creativity: Join Me for a 52-week Acrylic Painting Challenge!
If you may have dabbled in acrylic painting, or it is a new passion. No matter your level, I have an idea that might ignite your artistic spirit. I'm starting a 52-week challenge in acrylic painting, aiming to track my growth and develop the habit of creating one piece each week. I would love for you to join me on this journey!

What Is a 52-Week Acrylic Painting Challenge?
The concept is simple yet powerful: each week for one year, I'll complete one acrylic painting. By the end of the year, I'll have 52 creations to look back on—a tangible representation of growth, exploration, and creativity. Whether experimenting with bold colors, learning new techniques, or expressing emotions through abstract art, this challenge will be worth taking.
Why Do It?
Cultivate Creativity: Acrylic painting is versatile, vibrant, and forgiving—perfect for beginners and seasoned artists. Setting aside time each week ensures we regularly tap into our creative minds. Build a Habit: They say it takes consistency to develop a skill. Whether you aim to improve your artistic abilities or make painting a weekly ritual, this challenge will help. Celebrate Growth: By Week 52, we'll be able to see how much we've learned and grown—which is incredibly rewarding.
Community: Art is more fun when shared! Joining forces means swapping ideas, encouraging each other, and celebrating each masterpiece.
How Can You Join?
Here's the plan:

Start Anytime: Don't worry about waiting for a "perfect week" to begin. Just pick up a canvas and dive in! Share Your Work: Post your paintings weekly and use the hashtag #52WeekAcrylicChallenge. Seeing each other's creations will inspire us all!
Connect: Comment, share tips, or even collaborate on weekly themes. Let's make this an interactive and supportive community.
Need Inspiration?
If you're wondering what to paint, I'll share weekly prompts to inspire us. For example:
Week 1: "A Burst of Color"
Week 2: "Nature's Details"
Week 3: “Dreamscapes”
Feel free to follow the prompts or let your imagination lead the way. Let's Begin!
If you are painting for the first time or reigniting your passion for acrylics, this challenge is about the joy of creation—not perfection. Let's fill the year with color, expression, and growth. Ready to take the plunge? Grab your brushes, find some acrylics, and make 52 weeks count!
All Rights Are Reserved. KSidebottom 2025

Noiseless Days

See, it's very maddening
This war silently rages.
You hear the quiet of the day
I hear the battle cry through the night
A clamorous and acute intensity
That is so loud it's bright.
The stillness that never comes
Noiseless days that do not exist
All a relentless unrest.

Pancreatitis Attack: What will help?

I'm sorry to hear that you are going through this. Pancreatitis can be pretty severe. It's an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe pain, nausea, and other symptoms. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial; the sooner, the better. This attack could last from one to two weeks. When you are 48 hours past the symptoms, you should be on your way back to normal eating, but making diet changes is highly suggested.

I am sharing this post to provide you with support in an easy-to-understand way. I know you're facing some of the most challenging moments and may feel sicker than ever. It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. These facts can offer comfort and guidance as you navigate the next few days.

Number One; Sleep elivated, try not to lay flat. It will feel better sitting up curled up but you got to rest so try to stay reclined with pressure against your stomach. If you use enough pillows you can sleep in a reclined postion. I also used a pillow pushed up against my stomach at all times.

Number Two; Ice Chips!!! They will be your best friend. You will be so thirsty but wont be able to hold anything down. Ice chips can be a life savor.

Number Three; Only clear liquids! Don't put more food in your stomach. CHICKEN BROTH!!! That will keep things calm in your gut and give you nutrition. I also ate bannana popcycles and canned cold peaches and grapes. I kept Sprite, Water and Ginger Ale all with lots of ice.

Number Four; take pain reliever around the clock.

Number Five;take baby sips of whatever you are drinking.

* I was told to use Vicks Vapor rub on my stomach for the pain but this is what I found out. Vicks Vaporub is a popular remedy for cough and congestion, but it is important to be cautious when using it on the stomach. The ingredients in Vicks Vaporub can cause stomach irritation and lead to discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you experience any side effects, it is best to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

For me, the back pain was just about unbearable. I am about three days into feeling better, and I am still exhausted with back pain and some stomach pain and fullness. I was sick for fourteen days. I had one day I thought I was better, but twelve hours later, I was just as ill as day one.
I genuinely hope this information proves helpful and easy to understand. Please know that I'm wishing you a swift and smooth recovery. Take care of yourself during this time.

For stomach pain, it's better to try other remedies like:
Peppermint oil: Known to help relieve symptoms of indigestion and stomach discomfort.
Ginger: Has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe an upset stomach.
Chamomile tea: Known for its calming effects on the digestive system


Symptoms
* Abdominal pain: This is the primary symptom and it often radiates to your back.
* Nausea and vomiting: These are common symptoms. Fever:
* You might experience a fever.
* Rapid heart rate: Your heart rate may increase.
* Swellingand tenderness in the abdomen: The abdomen may become swollen and tender.
* Trouble catching your breath.
*** In the event of a hospital stay you may be given oxygen, neausea medication, pain medication and fluids.

Causes
Gallstones: These can block the pancreatic duct.
Heavy alcohol use: Long-term alcohol abuse is a common cause.
High levels of triglycerides: Elevated triglycerides in the blood can lead to pancreatitis.
Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation of the pancreas.
Genetic disorders: Some genetic conditions can affect the pancreas.

Treatments Hospitalization: You may need to be hospitalized for intravenous (IV) fluids, pain management, and other medications.
Pain relief: Medications to manage pain are often necessary.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be required to treat complications.

SOURCES
1. www.mayoclinic.org
2. my.clevelandclinic.org
3. www.niddk.nih.gov
4. www.webmd.com
5. continentalhospitals.com

Intake and Outtake and Breath...

The Nerve-Wracking Journey of Art Intake and Pickup

As an artist, the process of taking your artwork in for intake and later picking it up can be a rollercoaster of emotions. It’s a journey filled with anticipation, anxiety, and ultimately, a sense of accomplishment. Let’s delve into why this process can be so nerve-wracking and how to navigate it with grace.
The Anticipation of Intake The moment you decide to submit your artwork for an exhibition or gallery display, a mix of excitement and nerves sets in. You’ve poured your heart and soul into your creation, and now it’s time to share it with the world. The anticipation builds as you prepare your piece for intake. Will it be accepted? Will it be appreciated?
Preparation is Key: Ensure your artwork is properly framed, labeled, and accompanied by any necessary documentation. This preparation can help ease some of the anxiety, knowing that you’ve done everything you can to present your work professionally.

The Anxiety of Submission Walking into the gallery or exhibition space with your artwork in hand can be daunting. The fear of judgment looms large. What if they don’t like it? What if it doesn’t fit with the other pieces? These thoughts can be overwhelming.
Stay Positive: Remember that art is subjective. What one person may not appreciate, another might love. Trust in your vision and the effort you’ve put into your work.

Motivation Monday Continued

Good Monday morning. I realize I need to catch up and share my updates, but I believe everything happens for a reason. Looking back, one month was too early for an update. I appreciate your patience and understanding as I navigate this journey. Your unwavering support means the world to me, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for every one of you.
As I reach day 51, seven weeks and one day of my journey, I want to share that it hasn't been a smooth ride. There were days when my mind and body resisted, but my determination prevailed, allowing me to continue my journey. This victory over daily struggles and my higher power keeps me going. My progress inspires you to keep pushing forward in your journey.
I had a more challenging time during the first four weeks than during the last three. My chronic illness does cause difficult days, so fighting through and getting ready for the day has helped in many directions but also caused more challenging days. I do plan to dive deeper into all that in a future post. Today, I want to connect to show that I am still trying this out and share a picture of my demeanor on days 1, 49, and 50. I also encourage you to try it because I am thrilled with the outcome thus far.
I'm excited to share more about my journey in the future, so please stay tuned. I messed up on my sign for day 49. Embracing vulnerability, my husband and I were out of town for our anniversary trip, and I stink at math, to say the least. I hope you can see the difference as I feel it. Remember, we're in this together.

Remembering Chanty Shiverdecker: A Call for Justice and Community Support

Remembering Chanty Shiverdecker: A Call for Justice and Community Support

In the quiet town of Alexander City, Alabama, the tragic story of Chanty Shiverdecker remains a haunting reminder of the unresolved mysteries that still linger in our communities. Chanty, a vibrant 15-year-old, disappeared on December 9, 1994, after basketball practice at Radney Elementary School. Her body was discovered months later, but her case remains unsolved to this day.
CChanty Shiverdecker was a sophomore at Benjamin Russell High School, known for her adventurous spirit and kind heart. On that fateful December evening, she stayed behind after practice, waiting for a ride that never came. Her friends and family never saw her alive again. On February 24, 1995, her decomposed body was found at an abandoned lumberyard near Highway 9 in Coosa County, approximately ten miles from where she was last seen.

Despite extensive efforts by the Coosa County Sheriff’s Office, Alexander City Police Department, and the Alabama Bureau of Investigation, Chanty’s case remains open. Forensic examiners were unable to determine a specific cause of death, but it was ruled a homicide1. Over the years, various leads have been pursued, but none have led to a resolution. The community and Chanty’s family continue to seek answers and justice.

Chanty’s story is not just a tale of tragedy but also a call to action. Her family and local authorities believe that someone out there holds the key to solving this case. Community involvement is crucial in bringing closure to Chanty’s loved ones. If you have any information, no matter how small, please contact the Coosa County Sheriff’s Office at 256-377-2211 or email office@coosaso.com.

As we remember Chanty Shiverdecker, let us also remember the importance of community and the power we hold in seeking justice for those who can no longer speak for themselves. By coming together and sharing information, we can help bring peace to Chanty’s family and ensure that her memory lives on.
Call to Action: If you are moved by Chanty’s story, consider sharing this post to raise awareness. Together, we can make a difference and help solve this decades-old mystery.

Junky Journal?

Junky Journal? Yes, that is our mission: to make a junk journal. Have you ever heard about Junk Journaling? Well, I hadn't until yesterday, and I thought we could do this together—a journal journey, a little road trip, if you will. It's not just about the result but the exciting journey of creativity and self-discovery we'll embark on together.
Let's start by setting our goal small, so we stay calm and relaxed. We can begin by writing a tiny two-week journal. Then, we can embark on our first one-month journal in October. The goal can be to write at least 12 journals in one year starting October 4, 2024, and try to do a page a day. Remember, everything can be adjusted as we go, as we are not married to any one idea. This flexibility allows us to experiment and find what works best for us.

This diary should teach us to turn junk into beauty, to see the beauty in the old and used parts of our lives. These journals will help us develop the habit of saving money and fostering creative thinking, strengthen our cognitive abilities, and help us prevent conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's. The benefits are numerous, and they should inspire us to keep going on this journey of journaling.
Junk journaling is a creative and sustainable form that involves using recycled and found materials to create personalized journals, such as things that would otherwise be discarded. This includes anything from paper scraps and magazine cutouts to fabric pieces, old photographs, and more. That is half the fun, to find the materials.
Junk journals can be used for various purposes, such as memory keeping, art journaling, or simply as a creative outlet. They can document daily life, special events, or personal thoughts and inspirations.

Each junk journal is unique and reflects the creator's style and preferences. This makes them an excellent way to express individuality and creativity. Junk journaling also promotes mindfulness and gratitude by encouraging you to document and appreciate life's small moments and details. As a previous blog post mentioned, learning and practicing mindfulness is one of the most essential parts of this recovery journey. We will use materials and techniques that resonate with you. It's a flexible and enjoyable practice that you can adapt to suit your style and needs without pressure.

Now that we have discussed junk journaling and how it can help our recovery process, let's jump in and start. We will begin by making the book cover—one set of directions for creating a book cover for your journal: www.creativeartnsoul.com/make-an-easy-junk-journal-cover/, but you can do what you want. I will post some easy ideas for making the covers next. If you know any, please let me know so I can share it with everyone. As we embark on this journal journey, please remember, "A journal is your completely unaltered voice." — Lucy Dacus

John Sidebottom The Forgotten Soldier

Honoring a Hero: John Sidebottom and the Battle of Trenton For the past 20 years, I have dedicated myself to uncovering the remarkable story of my 5th great grandfather, John Sidebottom. His bravery and quick thinking during the Battle of Trenton played a crucial role in saving the life of James Monroe, who would later become the fifth President of the United States.

The Battle of Trenton On the morning of December 26, 1776, General George Washington led the Continental Army in a surprise attack against Hessian forces in Trenton, New Jersey. This pivotal battle was a turning point in the American Revolutionary War, boosting the morale of the Continental Army and the American cause.

Amidst the chaos of battle, my grandfather, John Sidebottom, demonstrated extraordinary courage. As an eighteen-year-old Lieutenant, James Monroe was severely wounded. John, a mulatto and free Black man, along with another comrade, carried the injured Monroe to safety, ensuring he received the medical attention that ultimately saved his life.

My journey to uncover John Sidebottom’s story has been long and filled with countless hours of research. Through historical documents, family records, and personal accounts, I have pieced together the narrative of a man whose actions had a lasting impact on American history.

Life After the War After the war, John Sidebottom returned to civilian life with the same resilience and dedication he showed on the battlefield. He became a respected member of his community, working as a blacksmith and later as a farmer. John was known for his strong work ethic and his commitment to helping others.

John married Mary, a woman of remarkable strength and kindness. Together, they raised five children: Samuel, Elizabeth, Thomas, Sarah, and William. John and Mary instilled in their children the values of courage, integrity, and perseverance. The Sidebottom family was known for their close-knit bonds and their active involvement in the community.

John’s contributions extended beyond his immediate family. He was actively involved in local affairs and was a vocal advocate for the rights of freedmen, using his own experiences to inspire and support others in their pursuit of equality and justice.

Post-War Achievements John’s contributions extended beyond his immediate family. He was actively involved in local affairs and was a vocal advocate for the rights of freedmen, using his own experiences to inspire and support others in their pursuit of equality and justice. John played a significant role in establishing a local school for Black children, ensuring they had access to education and opportunities for a better future. He also helped found a community cooperative that provided resources and support for newly freed individuals, aiding their transition to independent lives.

John’s leadership and dedication to his community earned him widespread respect and admiration. His efforts not only improved the lives of those around him but also left a lasting legacy of empowerment and progress.

Announcing a New Video and Accessible Information I am thrilled to announce that I am creating a video to share John Sidebottom’s story with a wider audience. This video will delve into his life, his heroic actions during the Battle of Trenton, and his legacy. Additionally, I will be making all the information I have gathered readily available for those interested in learning more about this unsung hero.
Stay tuned for the release of the video and more updates on John Sidebottom’s incredible story. Together, we can honor his memory and ensure that his contributions to our nation’s history are never forgotten.

I Will Do the Digging

Let's work together to research, or better yet, I will do the digging and provide you with the essential details. That's how I prefer it. When investigating, I don't want to read a whole book and see the same information repeated on every page. You want to get to the point as fast as possible if you're like me. Our shared goal is to conduct efficient research, and this approach is designed to meet our needs. We will work together to accomplish this goal.

My diagnosis was two going on three years ago, abt the age of 45. I have questioned if I feel like I have had a BD all my life, and I have to say that after learning more about BD, unfortunately, I believe I have.
My first question after my diagnosis was, do I have to live with this forever? The answer was yes, which led to, will I struggle even when I take my medication? That answer was that it would likely continue to happen until your medication was correct, and then there would be fewer and further between before you do, so yes. After all, this is what I have learned so far.

Bipolar Disorder was, formerly called manic depression. It is a mental health condition that yields intense mood swings. These include dynamic highs, also known as mania or hypomania, and lows, also known as depression.

A Mental Disorder, sometimes referred to as a mental illness, is a behavioral or mental routine that generates substantial despair or impairment of personal functioning. 

Now that we have the two definitions above, we can search for what we need to learn to help us achieve a life with as few plunges and ascensions as possible while understanding how to live with a disorder.
I want to start with the top three things that are the best places to get started. I am using what I have learned from my recovery thus far, but I am still learning, so the priority is subject to change. If a stand-alone word is in bold, the definition is below and will be in the glossary I have created.
Number one, Education, is the one I feel is the most important, as this is understanding your diagnosis and educating yourself about Bipolar Disorder. Learning your symptoms, triggers, and treatment options can help you to manage your condition more effectively. Trying to Keep track of your mood changes and triggers can assist you and your healthcare provider in adjusting your treatment plan as needed, which can be a long and strenuous journey. If you feel comfortable, educate those around you about Bipolar Disorder. Lastly, educating yourself can help your supporters understand your experiences and provide better support. Educating those around you is a significant part of the recovery process.

Number two, Monitor your moods and medications. Keep track of your mood changes and triggers. Familiarizing yourself can help you and your healthcare provider adjust your treatment plan as needed. Medication can be a vital part of managing Bipolar Disorder. You should always take your medications as directed by your healthcare provider. Even if you don't think they are working. If that happens, continue to take your medication and make an appointment to discuss it with your provider. I have been told and read many times that the number one thing someone with BD is not to continue to take their medications. I can testify to my personal experience that when, for whatever reason, my medication wasn't working, I got tired and fed up with struggling until we found a medication that would.

The third is to prioritize your sleep. Good bedtime hygiene is crucial. Strive for a consistent sleep agenda and create a relaxing environment to ensure you get enough restorative sleep; even if you have to nap or two, get your rest. I can't say that enough. We all look at life differently when rested. Walking, exercising, and Physical activity can positively impact your mood and overall well-being and help you sleep better.  Find an exercise routine you enjoy and can stick with; being easy on yourself will help tremendously.

We have covered the definitions of Bipolar Disorder and a mental disorder as we are trying to comprehend how to live with BD together. We have also gone over three things we can do to help us navigate life with BD, along with some individual experiences. I hope this blog convinces you that you can navigate life with BD. We are not alone, and we can do it together. Please follow to continue learning together. If you get frustraited, please remember "Out of difficulties grow miracles." - Jean de La Bruyère,



Recovery is the act, process, or instance of recovering from an economic upturn (as after a depression) and also the process of combating a disorder (such as alcoholism) or a confirmed or perceived problem. These problems could be related to mental health, relationships, or personal development.

The article discusses the impact of mental health awareness on society and individuals, highlighting the significance of learning and supporting those with mental health conditions. https://newsinnings.com/impact-of-mental-health-awareness/

Reality Rita with The Art of Slowing Down: A Life Lesson Worth Embracing

 

Let me be Reality Rita for a moment. I want to discuss the most valuable lesson I have learned so far—okay, maybe two. This one is most important by far, and that is to slow down. In today’s fast-paced world, we’re often caught in a whirlwind of activities, constantly moving from one task to the next. But what if the most essential life lesson is to slow down? Slowing down can profoundly transform our lives, helping us make fewer mistakes, experience less regret, and appreciate the beauty around us.

Life goes fast when we wake up; we’re bombarded with notifications, deadlines, and responsibilities. It’s easy to get swept away in the rush, but this constant hustle can lead to burnout and a sense of unfulfillment. We can savor each moment by intentionally slowing down and living in the present. This doesn’t mean we stop being productive; instead, we become more mindful of how we spend our time. I remember a time when I was juggling multiple projects at once. I was constantly on the go, trying to meet deadlines and keep up with my responsibilities. It wasn’t until I took a step back and started prioritizing my tasks that I realized how much I was missing out on. By slowing down, I could focus better, make fewer mistakes, and enjoy the process more.

When we’re always in a hurry, mistakes are inevitable. We might overlook details, make hasty decisions, or forget important tasks. Slowing down allows us to approach our work and personal lives more clearly and precisely. By thinking things through, we can avoid unnecessary errors and make more thoughtful choices. One of the most significant changes I noticed when I started slowing down was the reduction in mistakes. I used to rush through my work, often needing more essential details. Now, I try to take my time to review everything carefully, and the quality of my work has improved significantly.

Regret often stems from actions taken in haste. Whether it’s a harsh word spoken in anger or a rushed decision that didn’t turn out well, these moments can haunt us. Slowing down gives us the space to reflect before we act, reducing the chances of doing something we’ll later regret. It encourages us to be more deliberate and considerate in our interactions and decisions. I once quickly decided to take on a project I wasn’t passionate about simply because I felt pressured to say yes. It ended up being a stressful experience that I regretted. Since then, I’ve learned to take my time before committing to anything and say no if necessary, ensuring it aligns with my values and interests.

One of the most significant benefits of slowing down is appreciating the world around us. When we’re not constantly rushing, we can notice the small joys in life—a beautiful sunset, a child’s laughter, or a quiet moment of solitude. This mindfulness helps us cultivate gratitude and find contentment in the present moment. Slowing down has allowed me to appreciate the little things in life. I now take regular walks in nature, enjoying the sights and sounds around me. These moments of mindfulness have brought a sense of peace and gratitude that I never experienced before.

For many, leaning on a higher power provides comfort and guidance. Whether through prayer, meditation, or simply believing in something greater than ourselves, this connection can offer strength and clarity. Trusting in a higher power can help us navigate life’s challenges with peace and purpose. During difficult times, I’ve found solace in my faith. When I slow down and take time to connect with my higher power, I feel a sense of calm and reassurance. This practice has helped me make more thoughtful decisions and approach life with a more positive outlook.

Here are some practical tips for slowing down,

1. Prioritize Your Activities: Focus on what’s important and let go of the rest. Not everything needs to be done immediately.
2. Disconnect from Technology: Take regular breaks from your devices to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in activities that promote mindfulness, such as meditation, yoga, or simply taking a walk in nature.
4. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments that don’t align with your values or goals.
5. Take Intentional Pauses: Throughout your day, take moments to pause, breathe, and reflect.

Slowing down isn't about doing less; it's about engaging in activities with intention and presence. By adopting this approach, we can lead more fulfilling, balanced, and joyful lives. I invite you to accompany me on this journey as I learn to cultivate patience within myself.

Tender Tuesday Don't Be a Bully

2Fishes Studio, all rights reserved, Open Hearth

 Don't be a bully; be tender with yourself. That statement is the most important thing I have learned on this mental well-being journey. I have also discovered that it is the hardest thing to do in any form of recovery. I understand the struggle, and I hope this blog will help you be kinder to yourself because when you are kind to yourself, you will also be kind to others. 

Many, including myself, struggle to be tender with themselves. This challenge transcends mental well-being issues. I've personally grappled with both cognitive well-being and self-kindness for many years. While medication has been a part of my process, I've also come to understand the importance of cognitive work. You're not alone in this struggle. 

The most essential thing in this process was for me to forgive myself. I have to do it daily, sometimes even multiple times a day, but I remind myself that I forgive myself. If my higher power can forgive me, I can, too.

Forgiving yourself is not an easy task—it could be the hardest of them all—but you have to in order to be tender to yourself. 

A few other things you can do to be tender to yourself are to allow time to relax. This is not being lazy. It is required to function at your best and talk positively to yourself. Stop saying things like I'm not good at that. Say something like I need to learn how to do that better. 

Try these things: forgive yourself, talk positively about yourself, and allow yourself time to relax. See if they don't give you an excellent foundation for being more tender to yourself. We can add more later, and if you fall off track, get back on and continue being kind to number one, you. 

You have heard the saying, "You can't pour from an empty well," so please

remember this quote when you think about being kind to yourself, "We win by tenderness; we conquer by forgiveness. -F.W. Robertson

Motivation Monday 1

 

Motivation Monday is in full swing. This morning, I woke up determined to reset my mindset. I adopted a new routine to stay motivated daily, not just on Mondays. The strategy is simple yet vital: getting ready daily. Having battled depression all my life, I've discovered that dressing in something other than pajamas—actual outfits—daily can significantly lift one's spirits. It's been effective for me, and I recommend trying it if you haven't already.

In this new approach, I'm not just dressing up but also grooming myself as if I were heading out. While it may seem routine for those who commute to work, it's different for remote workers who might need to prepare themselves more regularly. Dressing up has never been my thing, or wearing much makeup. However, old advice suggests that you should always leave the house with a touch of powder, mascara, and lipstick. With that in mind, I've started dressing for the day, styling my hair, applying minimal makeup, and brushing my teeth right at the start to enhance my mental well-being and focus.

Today marks the first day of implementing this idea. I set my alarm and was up and ready by 7 a.m. Although it's just the beginning, I already feel more positive about myself and today's tasks. It instills a sense of professionalism in me, which is easy to lose when working from home or managing household duties. I did take a picture of myself holding a paper that says Day 1. I plan to post updates and photos as I do this over the next thirty days. I hope the pictures show any changes in my demeanor, as this routine has the potential to bring about a positive change in me. 

We have discussed the need to motivate ourselves to get ready every day. We have also discussed my plans for the next thirty days. I do hope you will join me on this journey. Your support and shared experiences will be invaluable. I will leave you with this quote, "Either you run the day or the day runs you." -Jim Rohn. Nilizadeh, S., Labreche, F., Sedighian, A., Zand, A., Fernandez, J., Kruegel, C., Stringhini, G., & Vigna, G. (2017). POISED: Spotting Twitter Spam Off the Beaten Paths. https://core.ac.uk/download/111033542.pdf

No Concentration

 

Engrossed in my art,
Dogs bark at the emptiness.
Evening descends.

-Kelsey Sidebottom

Toby the Terror

 Tender Tuesday 💖

Welcome to Tender Tuesday 

It is a place where you can truly be yourself and be reminded to love yourself, especially on Tuesdays. It is a space to simply breathe and immerse yourself in positive affirmations.

The affirmation for the day; 

"You carry so much love in your heart; give some to yourself."

This encompasses our emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. The most important thing to remember is to initially direct these affirmations towards ourselves. We must love ourselves to be able to genuinely love others. Keep in mind that self-care is not a luxury; it is essential. Nurturing your mind, body, and spirit fosters resilience and improves overall health.

Feel Good FriYay!

Today is Friday, a perfect day to embrace positivity and gratitude. As you celebrate the end of the week, take a moment to reflect on the simple pleasures that bring you joy. Jot down three things you're thankful for – it could be the sunshine, a cup of warm tea, or a kind smile from a stranger. Keep your list short and sweet, and place it somewhere visible to serve as a gentle reminder throughout the day to feel good and cherish the little things.

Cherishing moments with loved ones can elevate your mood and enhance your Friday experience. Engage in sharing a chuckle, an anecdote, or a heartfelt dialogue. Social bonds are a boon to our emotional well-being. And if you need a quick pick-me-up, watching puppy videos is a surefire way to brighten your day.

Remember, our day is shaped by our actions and reactions to the uncontrollable. Life is a journey filled with highs and lows. Practice patience with yourself and cherish the fleeting moments of happiness. Smile today, celebrate that it is Friday, and try to remember this quote. Friday: "Every day is a gift. But some days are packaged better." -Sanhita Baruah

Monday Mental Health Moment

 Monday Mental Health Moment

2Fishes Studio, All Rights Reserved

I want to take a moment today, Monday, July 15th, to share this quote with you: "Your mental health is as important as your physical health." This quote is a crucial message for anyone dealing with mental illness, and it's a great mantra to start each day with. Remember to tell yourself this at least once as you start your day. If you have trouble remembering, write it down and post it where you will see it, or set an alarm on your phone. And remember, this mantra is not just a saying; it's a truth you should hold onto daily. 

Falling Off Track into Depression: My Journey

2Fishes Studio, All rights Reserved

Life can be incredibly challenging at times, and for many of us, navigating the ups and downs can sometimes lead to feeling off track and lost. For me, this struggle manifested in the form of depression, and I'd like to share my journey with you in the hopes that it may offer some comfort or insight to those who may be going through similar experiences.

 Falling off track into depression was a bewildering and isolating experience. It crept up on me slowly, like a dark cloud moving in front of the sun, and before I knew it, I found myself engulfed in a sense of hopelessness and apathy. Simple tasks that used to bring me joy became insurmountable obstacles, and I struggled to find meaning and purpose in my days. I had been here before and hated to know I had returned. 

One of the most complex parts of this experience was feeling as though I was alone in my battle. It's important to remember that depression can affect anyone, regardless of their external circumstances or perceived strength. Seeking help was a significant turning point for me. Opening up to a trusted friend or professional about what I was going through was a crucial step in my recovery process. Talking about my feelings and experiences helped me realize that I wasn't alone and that there were people who cared about me and wanted to support me through my struggles. Even though I know this, I can't seem to understand it when I am suffering. 

Finding healthy coping mechanisms was another essential aspect of my journey. Engaging in regular exercise, meditation, and creative outlets gave me a sense of purpose and helped me regain control over my life. It's essential to experiment and find what works best for you, as everyone's journey to healing is unique.

In addition, challenging my negative thought patterns was crucial in reorienting my perspective. Exploring therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques gave me the tools to recognize and reframe my negative thinking patterns, allowing me to develop a more positive and adaptive mindset.

Lastly, building a solid support network was indispensable in my recovery. Surrounding myself with understanding and empathetic individuals who offered unconditional support and encouragement was pivotal in my healing process. It is not always easy, but it is possible. Connecting with others who had experienced similar struggles helped me feel less isolated and gave me hope for the future.

While my journey through depression is undoubtedly challenging, it has also been incredibly transformative. I've learned to be more compassionate toward myself and others, and I've gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of mental health. Suppose you find yourself feeling off track and struggling with depression. In that case, I encourage you to seek help, explore healthy coping mechanisms, challenge negative thought patterns, and build a supportive network around you. You are not alone; hope and healing await you on the other side of this challenging journey, no matter how often you find yourself in this position. 

In Loving Memory of Paw Paw Buck Burbanks

April W. Holdridge

In the quiet of the sun's embrace, where memories bloom, and shadows trace, Paw Paw stands tall, a beacon of grace, Guiding us onward in life's endless race. 

His hands were calloused and kind. He carved wisdom into hearts and minds. He spoke of faith, forgiveness, and love, a testament to the heavens above. 

Blonde jokes danced upon his lips, Laughter echoing through time's eclipse. In his eyes, the twinkle of shared delight, A bond unbreakable, woven tight. 

I learned lessons at his knee, roots of resilience, strength, and glee. He taught us to love without restraint, to cherish each moment, and never to simulate.   

When the sun sets on this earthly shore, Paw Paw's legacy lives forever. In our hearts, his spirit takes flight, a beacon of love shining bright. 

April W. Holdridge