Hodgepodge ~ October 23, 2024

 Happy Wednesday!  I am joining in for this week's fun Hodgepodge!

1. Monday was National Apple Day...did you eat an apple or enjoy something made with apples on Monday? Do you like apples? Do you prefer your apples raw, baked, or in cider? Do you have a favorite variety of apple? 

I did not on Monday, but apples are often in my fridge and part of my snack rotation.  I usually buy Gala apples.  I prefer to eat them whole or sliced, but don't like them baked or in cider.

2. Do you think there's any truth to the saying 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away'. Of the following healthy habits which do you find easiest to incorporate into your life and which is the most difficult for you to adopt-

adequate sleep, a balanced diet, plenty of water, eat breakfast, don't smoke, exercise, limit alcohol,  include fruits and vegetables in your diet, manage stress, limit screen time

The easier ones for me are eating breakfast, limiting alcohol and not smoking.  The harder ones are adequate sleep (usually due to stress), I don't drink plenty of water & don't exercise on a consistent basis.  I do walk a lot more with the fall temperatures though!

3. Who taught you how to drive? Do you enjoy driving? Would you rather be the driver or the passenger?  Do you have a favorite scenic drive near you? 

I took a driver's education class in high school and I'm sure my parents helped me as well.  I don't mind driving alone on a road trip, but when I am with someone, I am okay either way.  I like to be a passenger sometimes, but don't mind to share the role of driving.  I love driving anywhere in the fall where I can see the fall colors! I actually saw a big stretch of fall colors last evening as I was driving.

4. What small habit has had a big impact on your life? 

Listening to worship music has had a huge impact on my life by bringing me calmness and reminders that I am going to be okay and the God who created the universe cares for me.  Some of my favorite songs:

Goodness of God - Jenn Johnson

You Say - Lauren Daigle

Even In - The Elm

Fear is Not my Future - Maverick City Music

Way Maker - Bethel

Reason to Praise - Bethel 

Trust in You - Lauren Daigle

Rest - Toby Mac

I Am - Eddie James

First Love - Hannah Nall

You're Not Done - Leeland   

5. Tell us about something nice that happened to you recently.

A friend has reserved a space to host a birthday party for me next month!  I am looking forward to that!

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

I was out of the house for 13 1/2 hours yesterday as I went to work, ran 2 errands and then I went to my great nephew's 8th birthday party last night.  I know that sounds like a simple, family night, but let me tell you, it meant the world to me.  As the great aunt, I usually just attend the 1st birthday parties.  The family is so big, it is hard to invite everyone.  However, this year, I was able to go to the party.  Before leaving my niece's house last night, we stood in the driveway and I just broke down in tears.  These were joyful tears as I expressed to her how greatful I was for being invited and how much it meant to me.  I love her and her kids so, so much.  I just love pulling up and having kids run to my car for a hug.  It just is the best!