Category: Useful Life Tips

Upon Aging Well

“All of what our lives have to offer us, sadly some may never get an opportunity to experience, enjoy or even know of. We need to realize time is most precious. Best to choose to be grateful, experience living, loving, giving and appreciate one’s “Life”, in itself” . C .Star. V

I was the youngest child growing up and even as I got older, I continued to be surrounded by those much older than myself. I did have friends that were my age, but majority of the people around me, were much older than me. In my 20’s and 30’s, I was still surrounded by many friends about or near 10 years older than myself. Then, at one point (which seemed so sudden), I was the oldest within my new friends and others around me. This was definitely an awaking part of my life.

I recall in my 40’s , I visited my 70-year-old auntie, she once had recovered from breaking her hip when she was younger and had just survived cancer for the second time. You could say, she was, what was called (an unsinkable “Molly Brown” type women). On my visit with her, I had asked her, “What is it like being 70 years old and aging? She began to tell me her daily routine..

One of the things that she told me, that stuck in my memory was, when she first gets up in the morning there are days she has a lot of aches and pains, but she heads to a warm shower and lets the warm water therapeutically ease those pains away and then, she feels quite better and starts her day. She told me she enjoys her cup of coffee in the morning and looks forward to a swim in the ocean every day, as water seemed to be her life therapy and she always lived near or on the beach. If she couldn’t get time to go down to the ocean, she would make time to at least go for a swim in the pool (she sure did have a good tan). She ended up having surgery in her late 80’s (due to a old pacemaker, it needed updating sooner as it was older technology), but she did survive it and then passed away not too long afterwards , she lived to 90 yrs old!!

I also observed both my grandmothers and my mother upon their aging, as well. One of my grandma’s, had a faithful routine every day, when she woke-up, she got dressed-up, put on her jewelry, did her hair and make-up and put on her high heels, she did this ‘till the day she passed away, which was close to 90 years old as well. My other grandma, was more of a free spirit, she lived life with such a good sense of humor, she had an infectious laugh and was quite a spontaneous lady. She was always ready to have fun, travel and had such a carefree manner about her, she lived until around 97. My mom was and still is a gracious and cheerful person, even though she was a very strict parent and had been more of an introvert type personality. She worked with the public until she was 78, but then my sibling and I had to tell her she had to stop driving and working (it was for her own safety), she was not too happy about it and she actually worked with a woman that was very active and in her 80’s.

I may not feel as though, I had the type of life or personalities of any of these women in my life, but I had been fortunate to witness such strong and gracious woman figures, in my life. Even though all of them were different, they seem to have had the same mindset. I think that’s what made a difference in the way they aged and why they ended-up seemingly happy, as they lived their lives out. Even though, they grew older and looked different than their younger years, that’s not what came across.. As, they were all happy with themselves, with life itself, cooking, eating and living their lives out to their fullest, no matter what.

With decades behind me now, I thought about what I would say to someone, if they asked me; “What it is like to be getting older and be your age”? Well, I’d have to say, there’s a couple of changes I’ve noticed. One, is in the motivation factor. Whether, I am felling well, in good physical shape and well mental health, “The wanting to do-things-mode” is a bit more relaxed. Not that I don’t want to do things or be active, I’ve never been one to relax (writing helps).

I notice that as you get older it seems as though you can get tired more
easier (especially if you are not kept active, then not sleeping well or if bored). For myself as well as others over a certain age, we may still be active or may still want-to, can and are able to-get-to-do many things, if they’ve always been active and even if not, but the pace and the ‘wanting-to’ may have
changed a bit. As well as, the tolerating of everyday repeated of
excess stress . When younger the stress level that was once able to be
tolerated, can no longer be tolerated without much toil and possible damage
faster to effect ones health.

The one bothersome thing for me is, “The Greying Hair”. It’s not so much that greying hair can make you look older (that’s one thing), but it’s just the having-to-deal with it and eventually it feels like a chore. So, as I started more greying and even white hair, I decided to color it lighter. I know that graying and white hair is just another part of aging and looks good on so many people, but I wasn’t ready just yet, to have that look.. I had been in the beauty business for years (when I was younger) I changed the color of my hair all the time, yet it doesn’t feel the same when you’re (having to) color it to cover the grey. However, I am grateful and have surely earned those “Grey-Hairs”.

Most people as they age or begin to get older, may complain about aging and what they can’t do or didn’t get to do. This is common, but when it’s in excess (as complaining) about getting older and not being able to be enjoying their life, they seem to get in a mindset of feeling too old and speaking negatively can start to make one feel sick. This most likely is done out of fear, regrets and uncertainty. In addition to, not adhering to their health or accepting and coping beneficially with changes in themselves and their lives. As I said above, people get older, but they still may want to do more (to check off that bucket list), but just as when younger, there are factors that take place. Some factors could be, getting injured or hurt, sometimes it take longer to heal as people age, for others it’s finding their-own-time because they may care for aging parents and have young adult children with grandchildren that they want to spend time with (which can be a good thing) and others may have health issues, financial issues etc.. these can also determine, how much one is able to or can do.

As well, when we compare our lives and ourselves to other people (especially as we age) it can cause deception and inaccuracies of reality. People cope in all different ways to aging, in how they do things and how they look. I personally have never had any enhancements, augmentation’s or any alterations (well I color my hair). I always felt, clean water and the foods we eat (getting proper nutrition) is most vital. Yet, not everyone has access to some things nor are willing to do some things. “Aging is a process within nature, one in which you don’t necessarily need to fight it and yet, not totally be accepting of it”. Sure it’s nice to have a little help and looking better, but you know the sayings “You don’t want to mess with Mother Nature” and “If it’s not broke, then don’t try and fix it” (well a little maybe), but not much or too much.

However, one must be able to pleasantly go with the flow of aging and realize ones limits. As we age our bodies can change physically and mentally, but for some people it’s not as noticeable. We can learn from aging people with a healthy aging mindset and knowing of our limitations. One must be understanding about the aging process and it may take having to re-invent oneself (or ones lifestyle) just as in any other situation in life. Prevention of illness (healthier food & weight), medications needed for treatment, along with extra stressful situations removed, calculations of home safety (to ensure less falling and harmful mishaps) within ones preparations in their life-cycles, habits and routines.

At one point or another we all fear aging, but it is a natural process and it doesn’t have to be a scary, sad or a negative thing. Being more conscientious and keeping careful and healthy in ones, younger years will help with the flow as one ages, into a graceful-ager. Regardless, I think it’s important to learn how to have a positive outlook upon aging (read different articles, blogs and opinions, about aging well). One must have the want-to-gracefully-age, have a mindset to live and enjoy life, along with the appreciation of even ‘being able’, to become a senior person. One must keep finding or creating meaning, joy and purpose in one’s life (accept those things you can’t change & change the things one needs to) and a good sense of humor often helps a lot.

Just keep in wanting to live-out your life, to the very-end, no matter what, while practicing a mindset of being happy and healthy as you go through the decades. No need to have a perfect diet or body, but keep closer to healthier foods, purified water and keeping your body active with stretching and walking, those are a must (adding some free-weights for muscle toning & building), these helps to keep you on the right path. Worry less, by enjoying more, have a hobby that’s fun to you, interact with people that have the same attitude about accepting and enjoying life, while being older. Have some younger, but mature friends, keep your communication with family and friends as this is important (do some traveling) and surround yourself with people that are loving and caring. Teach children to do the same…

As stated, a common factor in aging, is realizing your limits, coping and adapting to what is needed, at whatever age you are.. “What we think we can do and what we want to do, as these may not all coincide”. This seems to happen, even in the best of us humans, whether or not we are healthy, fit and have a healthy lifestyle. Even if, our bodies can still look good and if we can have positive attitudes. To be happy and feel good at any level of our lives, it is important to understand the value of knowing one’s limits (physically and mentally). We may not be able to keep up the same pace of doing things, as we did when we were younger and that’s okay, being able to (only) do some thing’s is better than doing nothing, but this often is the most difficult notion to accept.

This notion has been the most difficult one for me, but I had begun to understand and recognize more of my limits and still, know what I want and can do. An extremely helpful thing to learn is planning out life goal strategies, your finances way in advance, be skilled at something and learn to be resourceful. This helps even when things don’t turn-out as well financially or as planned (I know first-hand). As a stay-at-home-mom, doing my best to raise all our children, while on a budget and later living on even smaller budget, but thank goodness for Plan B and C!! There is no “One thing, fits all” in life. Just learn to make wiser choices! I myself and others I know, could have made a few more wiser choices, but most beneficial in life is about how you end-up to view it all.. So just flow with it and proceed on….

I learned these tactics and to use the strong, gracious and humorous attitudes of my aunt’s, grandma’s, mother, other female and male members of my family, and friends that surrounded me. I’ve lived in many scenarios, had experienced various lifestyles, hobbies, employments and my appearance has varied over the years. I also had a wonderful family doctor growing up (he was an older gentleman) and was retiring when I was in my late teens. In one of the last times that I had seen him, he was saying goodbye to me and told me these three things; 1. Please don’t rely just on vitamin supplements in getting proper nutrition, eat your vitamins within real food. 2. Exercise is a must of some type, it will be needed (wear a watch and start by walking 15 mins. straight), then no matter where we are at walk back and that’s 30 mins! (If you need to start less then do 10 mins and build up from there) and he said it’s not how fast your walk, it’s how far you go! 3. If you, a loved one, your pet or a friend is ever takes ill, has a condition or is diagnosed with something, always promise me to get a second opinion! Those things he told me, were priceless and I shall hope to never forget them!!

I seemed to always keep that thought of myself, as that younger me, the surfer, hippie-ish, beach loving gal (I think my soul relates to that well). I’ve learned to get up early, not only get things done, but to enjoy the earlier hours of the day for myself. “No matter how I feel, I don’t let it take over, how I want to feel” and I may have accepted some of the aging process, but I’m not totally give in…

“In this aging process, the absolute most important thing I’ve learned, within aging and living happier is that one needs to love, make ‘friends with’ and be the ‘strongest supporter’, to that person one sees in the reflection of the mirror”.

C .Star. V

How do you feel about aging? Leave a comment below!!

Some Handy & Purposeful Tips

1. Think Always the End-First….When making a choice or decision, give thought to what the “End” results, events, occurrences and what the needs could be or will be. Also, write down these thoughts and what may be needed to resolve issue or dilemmas to are accomplish them. Think of what can happen, whether an experience (good or bad), fun, joy, even the responsibilities or needs it may create (one must be willing to make efforts to uphold their responsibilities it may take) not only for themselves, but for others as well.

2. Always Check The Weather….Either before your day starts or the night before (or for the week) check weather channel or use local weather apps. to help plan your days, traffic driving routes or in planning before a trip (check the weather of that destination), so to know what to expect. It is important to know what the weather will be like, to better plan days for your activities and clothing (cold or hot). Keep a jacket, sweater, extra pair of shoes and a small pop up umbrella (or any type you like) in your car and another umbrella at your home.

3. Prepare Your Days Ahead of Time….Whatever you can get done the night before, can always help with time management for the next day or week. Figure out clothing and/or food or needs for the next day, for yourself, your child, your pet, etc. Whether it’s the laundry, meals planned-out for 4-5 days, planning out what’s needed to get done through the week (month if any events, holidays or birthdays) or projects wanting to finish or get done. Have an area or place you can put your projects to get done aside and that is easy to recall and get to, to get done. **Get and Use calendars and each start of each new month take a moment to write plans, events, birthdays, shopping and how much you spent, laundry, date of paying due bills on-time and such (whatever you need to recall, reminded of or remember). Put them up in areas you frequently can check (like on your bathroom wall or kitchen). So, you can check it often and write on it conveniently.

4. When Making Appointments….Whether making a doctor, dentist, salon reservations or other appointments, coordinate setting up your appt. and in case you have to cancel or change the date, don’t let it be at the last minute. Always try to get in contact or call at the least a 24 hours before or as soon as possible. Being considerate of the schedule and time of the professional and those on a waiting list, someone like yourself may be in need for that time-space. Always keep appt. Reminders on your calendar to help you remember appointments, errands and chores, that need to get done or any event, birthdays or activities (dates and times).

5. Go Through Refrigerator Each Day….Clean out your refrigerator (check expiration dates), get rid of old or spoiling food. Wipe clean the insides daily or weekly, so it doesn’t become a hugh job later. Arrange food closer to the front on the shelves to be eaten first, so you can use them up and to help you recall what you have, so to remember what you have or need at the store to buy what you need to make meals. These are ways foods get eaten and doesn’t spoil, just sitting in there and be wasted. Try and keep food organized, where you can see them all, don’t buy so much food at one time (things go bad and have expiration dates). Buy what you will eat within 3-5 days (even with sealed saved left-over’s), that way you’ll be buying and eating fresh. Remember to check dates on foodstuffs you buy from stores and also, periodically check expiration dates on your stored spices, packaged and can goods etc.

6. Write Contents & Dates on Foods…. Use painters tape (it sticks, but comes off easy, area must be completely dry to stick) write on the ‘painters-tape’ to put upon container of food or other items of what the contents are, date made or write “eat by” a specify date. It can be used on various surfaces without ruining them when removing, it is good to be able to write on with a pen or marker, to leave a message to others as well. This way you can remember something about an item on the refrigerator or to help relay something and communicate with other’s you may live with.

7. Reuse Plastic baggies, all sizes….Rinse by swishing-out with warm water, a tiny bit of soap (if need be use a clean bottle brush), clean-out and wipe dry with clean towel or paper towel. Place over a bottle or something to dry and reuse plastic baggies. Do not try and rewash ones that had onion, garlic, strong odors or oily substances in them (or raw meat of any kind, throw those out after using ). If the plastic baggies had been only used for bread, fruit, cookies such like that or anything that, it can be rinsed-clean, dried and used a couple times before throwing out. I will even reuse paper plates or plastic plates & bowls if just bread or such that can be easily cleanened off and used again.

8. Water Pitcher to Collect Unused Water….Find a water pitcher or container that you can leave-out on the counter as you collect glasses of un-finished water (or plastic bottles of un-finished purified water), dump the water into pitcher as you find them or round them up, before dumping out or throwing away and soon you will be able to re-use that water to water plants, to cleaning or (preferably purified water) for pets. Keep a habit of turning-off running water at sinks, hoses and etc. when washing hands and such. Just amazing how much water we waste.

9. Must Have a Clean Mop & Water….You’d be surprised how dirty the mop is that you are using, to clean your floor with. Floors get clean and stay clean, when the mop being used, is clean before using it and when the pail of water is kept clean, as you clean. Floors should be swept thoroughly first, don’t use large amounts of cleaner and use clean hot water to wash and clean cool water to rinse when done. “YOU can’t get a floor or area clean, if you start with with dirty buckets of water or a dirty mop”, you MUST dump the water out (preferably in the toilet or outside) as you clean (possibly several times, even for one area), fill up bucket again with clean water (after dumping dirty water). Use the clean water in the bucket to rinse mop out (dump that water out), then repeat the process of filling bucket up with a little cleanser, then mop and dump. The floors will stay cleaner longer because you won’t be just moving dirt around and letting it dry. If ever using bleach to clean, hot water to clean (opens up surface pores) and then do a cold rinse, to close and seal surface, this keeps the surface from being so porous and gathering dirt faster. Hot water and white vinegar can clean tile floors nicely, but use only cleaning solutions recommended for specific type of flooring.

10. Waiting for Foods to Cook .. I always like to start with a cleaned-up area before I begin to prepare or cook foods. Never start to prepare a meal when you are tired (especially at night close to or before bedtime). Always cook when you will have time to appropriately be able to watch your food and never walk-away from cooking food (in oven or on stove). Always be careful of fire and burning hazards, such as things near your stove or burner areas as well as clothing and hair while cooking, (watch out for your sleeves & always tie hair back or put it up). Think ahead of what you are going to put the food in when it’s done or what to put the rest in, that’s going into the refride or freezer for left overs to eat the next day or after freezing for another time. I use wax paper or parchment paper to line my plastic containers, so that the food smells or residue doesn’t get into the plastic and its a very easy clean up later with just a minimal amount of dish soap and rinse. You can use the time (as food cooks) to clean-up the kitchen and around where you are cooking. Then, you’ll be ready to eat and have minimal time cleaning up and putting things away. If you are waiting for food in the oven or to be delivered, also use this time to clean, organize around the oven area and be ready to eat and clean-up after. Use parchment paper when cooking or baking in the oven, makes it easy for food removal and minimal clean-up. Put some parchment paper down on pan, bake or cook food in oven and when done, remove your cooked food and just roll up the used parchment paper near the trash and throw it out.

11. Easier Clean-Ups..When cooking n a pan or pot, after I’m done cooking, after I remove the food i was cooking, I use a mixture of food grade white vinagar and water mixture (I keep mine in a spray bottle) and spray it in the pan, pot or what have you, then wipe out all the residue and even grilled on stuff (use enough and let it sit on it a minuet), whether it is grease or what have you, then just wipe it out with paper towels and throw them in the garbage. If dealing with hot grease or oil after cooking, let cool a bit, pour in a can (coffee can or such, that won’t melt) if you don’t have anything to pour the excess oil or grease in, let grease cool and use plastic bag (like the ones you get from grocery store and place the plastic bag in garbage and carefully pour cooled grease into it, then use the food grade white vinagar and water mixture as mentiined above. Even if the grease or oil is completely cool and has a more solidified consistency, then use the same method (as above) to remove and wipe out (with paper towels) doing this there will be no big greasy mess to clean on item, in the sink or to transfer to dishes, scrib pads or water. Pour smelly (like tuna fish juice or such) or greasy substance in a paper or plastic cup or can, then put in garbage. These all also cuts down on attracting bugs from all that food, greasy, oil and smelly waste build-up in sink drains.

12. Laundry, Dish Soap (Using Way too much)….I have found that most of us use the wrong amount or use too much laundry detergent, dish soap, liquid hand or body soap and even shampoo. Laundry detergent is used as directed and for smaller load use (divide out clothing and items by material & color and make smaller loads instead of 1 extra large load, as they will clean better and then while one load is washing, another can be drying. Whatever is left in the detergent plastic container (when empty) fill container with some hot water, shake and pour in sink, in toilet to scrub with to clean or to clean hand washing of clothing etc.. Liquid-dish soap, hand soap and shampoo can be a bit trickier, as we squirt or pour those into our hands, try using less at a time because it still will work.

13. Line Small Garbage Pails (Bathroom or any) and cleaning floor-mats…. Using plastic grocery bags or from stores (it would be great if all plastic bags were bio-degradable), but nevertheless it will help keep your garbage pails cleaner, easier to just grab the bag and throw out in trash and you can wash or disinfect the pail out easier as well. Also, another tip is to use a sneaker or thick sturdy rubber-bottom-type-shoe to easily remove fuzz , pet hair and such, off outside/inside mats or rugs. This type of shoe-bottom seems to work (it can also work on rugs in house, on stairs to get excess hair and debris, then vacuum), for cleaning rug or mats; place hand in shoe and brush shoe bottom along one direction and it will pull off the hair and such, then remove all the debris, shake off outside/inside mats or rugs and then hose to wash-clean.

14. Make Efforts to Save Some Money…. Even if you can only put aside a small amount from your paycheck or earnings. Each week put it into a safe, a savings account, safety deposit box, (somewhere not easily taken or stolen) and wherever it will be safe and you won’t be inclined to easily take it out (only for an emergency, but then build up again). Let it be saved and build to larger amounts, even if it is difficult to do, it will add up. Don’t buy a lot of inexpensive little things, if you have your goal set on a bigger more useful item. Find ways to be able to save, go without something or learn more to earn more.

15. Finish Your Sentence  with Children….Don’t constantly get upset at children, lose patients and contantly feel you have to scold them. Don’t get frustrated or just yell at them for not doing the right things. Tell them and show them (in a calm manner), what it is that they need to be doing and what they should be doing (age appropriate). Keep them busy and feeling like they are accomplishing something, by showing them how to play with toys and using their  imagination, giving them something to do (age appropriate). Yet, don’t substitute keeping them busy or watching shows all the time, instead of giving them some of your time and attention. Get outdoors with your children (students, nieces, nephews etc.), look for items in nature (as in a tree, a flower, an insect, a rock), whatever there may or could be around and ask them to find it or point it out.

16. Clean Out Pets Bowls….As days goes by, it is easy to forget to clean-out your pets eating and drinking bowls. Their bowls build-up bacteria in them and get slimy films upon them. Remember to clean-out with hot water, soap and rinse and fully wipe out with paper towel and clean once at least 2 times a month (or more depending upon pet and bowls), it can get gross, unhealthy and cause various harmful and health issues for your pet. “A quick tip is that you can clean all out your pets bowl (in between fully washing), with a paper towel and then, use a spray bottle filled with 1/2 water and white vinegar . Spray this into the bowls and wipe clean in between feedings or cleanings, keeps them from building up slime”.

17. Cut Dog Treat Bones….My dogs get allergic reactions to most dog treats or dog bones on the market, no chicken or wheat ones are difficult to find. Rawhide can be damaging  to their insides and the good-ones are very expensive. So I use a strong small garden clippers or larger ones (depending on the size and thickness of bone treats) I cut them up into 1/2 the size (not too small) just smaller portions, so they last longer and have more to give to them, for more days.

18. Think & Remember About Animals and Pets….Our pets (whatever they are dogs, cats, all animals), look at us for direction and for help. They may not be able to speak in the same manner we do, but they have much emotions, expression, much and feelings. In fact, they have similar emotions as; they get scared, often worry, have anxiety, they want to help, they get angry, they are sad, they can get depressed, they get lonely and they like having fun, can get thirsty, hungry, cold and hot and etc.. and we can see this, in observing them. They need to be shown and taught things too. Many a times they are punished or yelled at, when they are just trying to relay what their needs are, they may have to go to the bathroom or are thirsty or hungry etc. Keeping them on some type of schedule in feeding them and being able to go out and go to the bathroom and eliminate, so they can depend upon it. That way they’ll know they will get food and get to go out to the bathroom.. They may claw at you, bark or mis-behave or do something, anything to get you attention, so that you can help them. Give them time to go to bathroom when out, you can get to know when out on walks the signs they have to poo by noting what their behind (anus) looks like, take notice before thry go, it may have a certain color or puffiness, (i know that may sound gtoss, but sadly if theyhad to go and was taken in too soon, it’s not their fault if they have an accident!

“Every Action, may cause a Reaction; may it be positive and purposeful”.

C .STAR. V

Driving Defensively and Traffic Etiquette Guide

Defensive driving, is understanding that other drivers might not be paying attention or they could make mistakes and engage in aggressive driving that , result in crashes. In avoiding accidents, you have to be prepared to handle the other drivers’ mistakes and bad habits, as well as keeping aware of your own driving and keeping control of your own vehicle. Whether you are a Non-Experienced driver or been driving for decades, one can be uncomfortable or even get too comfortable about driving. Yet, we never loose the need to be cautious and mindful when behind-the-wheel.

Here are some Driving tips on being cautious, courteous and avoiding accidents. I cover some basic and some not-so-basic tips, but feel free to comment and add whatever else you may want to mention. Share this page and pass it along to anyone you feel may need or could use this information.

When driving, we are always susceptible to the actions of other drivers. The biggest error is trusting other drivers to be careful on the roads. Scenario’s and circumstances are ever-changing, each time we get out on the road. That’s what makes each time on the road so unpredictable. The biggest factors that will keep you safely driving on the road is being alert and aware (watching and (keeping an eye on reading the road) and not to be in a rush and speeding (give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination). Knowing ahead of time where exactly you are going, which route to take and keeping enough space between you and the car in front of you helps tremendously!!

Driving is a Privilege, be courteous to other drivers, take consideration that we are all human and can get into situations. We may be in different lanes, but we are here to share the road and help each other while on it! Just keep alert and aware and don’t jump into becoming upset at other drivers.

Driving is dangerous enough on the roads, one must watch for or stop habits of being a Distracted Driver (texting or in someway not paying attention to the roads) and other risky behaviors are being a Jumper (out-of nowhere, without warning, pulls in front of another vehicles ) or a Weaver (goes from one lane to another) and Speeders (driving in a hurry or as if they are on a racetrack game).

Some basic aspects of Defensive Driving are:

• Keep a Safe Distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Allowing reaction time and reduce your risk of colliding into cars in front of you or other cars. In bad weather, always keep a safe distance between other cars. Also, keep your eyes moving, look around, especially on long drives so you don’t go into a trance. Keep Alert!

• Having Visibility when you need to change your lanes, not only using your mirrors to check for oncoming cars, but checking blind spots to make sure another car isn’t approaching beside you (that may be hidden from sight). Communicate with other drivers to get into another lane. Also be careful of driving in another drivers’ blind spot, to help them avoid crashing into you.

• Always use Proper Communication to make sure other cars can see you and knows what you are doing or needing, by using your turn signals to communicate your intent, to merge, change lanes or etc. Also use hand signals to other drivers for assistance if need be, to get over into another lane or to let another driver know of something (maybe they forgot their gas cap or their tire looks flat). Have respect for other drivers when they signal and allow them to turn, change lanes and merge safely.

• Before You leave and start driving your car, always check the weather and the time you are leaving to go out on roads, there are time-frames (during the day and late afternoon), that are called rush-hours, where a lot of vehicles will be on the road. Often, just leaving a little bit earlier before rush-hour times or leaving a little bit later, when rush-hour is just getting over (commonly 4:00pm-6:30pm), this can be so much safer. Specific Holidays can also cause the roads to be full of traffic and certain areas, such as state or city parks or campgrounds etc. Busy roads filled with traffic are most hectic and dangerous.

• Before driving, (even if you are already in your car and ready to go), first check the best route to where you are heading, look over the map (whether the map is on your phone or physical one), to fully see exactly where you are heading (use the written route on your phone map as well, which can give you a read-out of the whole route) sometimes there’s even a better route than one the GPS suggests, especially if you can identify that on the map or you’re familiar with the area. You should always have a pen, a pad or paper to write on, in your car just in case you need to write a route or something down.

• Reading the roads, is being aware of what’s happening in the road ahead of you and all around you. Be aware of where you would go in case you had to pull over and get out of the way of other cars or if something is in the road and you may have to get around it. Keep alert and watch what other cars could be doing, some cars may suddenly put on their brakes or stop to pick-up someone, there could be a car broken down or an accident . You may need to go around an approaching area, get into another lane over or get off that road and take another route. This is way no one should be looking at their phone while driving on the road, WATCH THE ROAD!!

Other common driving tips:

• Speeding can kill and is harmful to everyone on the road. Speeding is one of the major causes of road accidents. There’s a reason for speed limits and to obey them for a reason, it will save lives. Speed limits vary on highways, it is essential to make sure you’re traveling within the posted speed limit. Slower speed limits are through roads of neighborhoods, stores, where people congregate or where wildlife tend to be crossing. Remember to adjust speed slower, when also driving through adverse weather conditions like rain and snow, as well as in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

• Move into the lane you need to make your turn-off in non-highway road or to exit off highway, ahead of time. Don’t wait too long or at the last minute panic to get over into the lane you need to.. Use you signals and gradually get over and into the lane you will be taking your turn off or exiting the highway and doing this will give you plenty of time to get over to turn off (even if you have to end up being behind someone that’s going slower, as you approach your turn of , it’s better than trying to rush past cars to try and get over). If for any reason you miss your exit, don’t panic, jut go to the next one and turn off there.

• Remember to put your lights on when it’s starting to get dark. You can also signal others by using your lights (turn them on and off at another car to remind them to turn on their lights, if they had not and it’s getting dark). Another common time drivers use the blinking of headlights; is when communicating to another person in a vehicle that is trying to get into the lane you are in and you are telling them, you acknowledge them and it is okay to come into the lane in front of you or that it is okay to go, in other instances.

• Don’t assume the car waiting at the light in front is going to take off when the light turns green. Keep a bit of a distance, just in case they don’t go or if they hesitate, that way you won’t collide into them . Just because the car in front of you indicates it’s going to be turning right, does not mean that they will actually turn right. Unless you can physically see the vehicle turning, do not presume. Also, drivers are sometimes unaware their indicators are on.

• Even when you have the green-light to go through an intersection, always make sure to take a look first, don’t automatically go, there might be a car still coming through the light and it could cause an accident.

• Use Seat belts, they are your best self-defense against a vehicle crash and they can help keep you secure and safe, inside your car. Not putting your seat belt on is putting you at risk, without it on, it can’t save you. With them on, it can not only lesson injuries, but will save lives.

• Don’t go into a vehicle to Drive if you are upset, have been drinking alcoholic beverages, taken drugs or anything that can alter your judgment. Even an over-the-counter flu medication can impair your judgment and increase your response time. All of these can make a person impaired and lose the capability to function, even when a person thinks it won’t and this risks getting into an accident. In addition to this, persons driving under the influence can be made to pay a massive fine, even end up going to jail and having their license suspended. Protect yourself and fellow drivers, by avoiding altering your ability to drive and if tired or under the influence of anything that could impair you, get someone else to drive you, please just stay away from behind the wheel.

• If your tires suddenly blow out: Do not slam on the brakes. Take a deep breath and don’t panic. Hold steering wheel and gain control over yourself and the vehicle, step off the gas pedal slowly. gently apply the brakes. Do your best to keep the vehicle going straight, Once your speed drops below 30 mph, gently step on the breaks. When you’ve slowed down to a safe speed, 20 mph or so, you can turn the steering wheel slowly to guide your vehicle off the road. When you are safely out of traffic, take another deep breath and call for help.

More Driving, courteous and cautious tips :

• You are ALLOWED to do whatever you have to, TO AVOID an accident. Even if you have to miss your exit, so miss it and go to the next one and if you have to veer off the highway unto the shoulder pavement of the road, then do so, (just don’t ever get out of your vehicle and be standing on the side of the road or shoulder side of traffic) and keep away from traffic side of road. If a vehicle in front of you stops short and you have to quickly veer off to the side of road or into a parking lot or such, than do so or if you can, safely go into another lane. If a vehicles coming head on at you then, Brake, look for room to safely go into and get out of the way!

• If you do have to drive off the road, to keep or get you out of harms way to avoid any accident, you will have to make a quick decision, especially if you are on the edge of a steep drop and what might look like a nice soft exit, as a grassy ditch could actually have a hidden drop and culvert. Slow down, keep control of your car, as will get the most braking power on a road rather than driving on the verge where grass or gravel, as they will not offer as much friction. If you have no other option, but to hit something to slow you down or avoid hitting another car, think to choose something softer!! Look and choose a large bushes and shrubs to take impact and slow you down more gently, help direct vehicle back into the road. Instead of a stiff tree(s) or hard object (which will do more damage to you and your car). There could be guard to hit in case there is no other better option and hit it on an angle or sideways as they are made to help the vehicle do a sliding to stop. In having no other choice, but to run into or hit something, try not to panic, think and choose wisely. It may damage your vehicle and hurt you some, but you may avoid a worse accident and it will save lives. .Regardless, steer away from EVER hitting anything HEAD-ON-STRAIGHT with your vehicle, go to steer sideways or at an angle.

• Remember, If ever you are going to hit or run into something steer sideways before making impact and hitting something will cause the airbags to go off, so taking your hands off the steering wheel at the last minute, before the impact will help prevent broken wrists and powder burns on your arms. If your arms are crossed when the airbag goes off, the airbag will hit your forearms while you are gripping the steering wheel. This can easily break your wrist. Your arm will be flung backwards into your face which can break your nose and knock out teeth, as well as break your forearm.

• When Feeling Unsafe, Unsure, need to text safely , JUST PULL OVER!! Whenever, you encounter any situation that may interfere in anyway, with your ability to keep your focus upon the road; NEVER PUT YOURSELF in a risky circumstance because on the road, seconds count. If another driver is angry or has road rage, don’t engage in it or even look at them, keep eyes on road and let them pass or just keep away from them and safely drive on.

• When traveling on the highway always Read the road ahead . If cars are coming into or merging onto the highway from an exit, look to see the adjacent lane that you can move over to (if you can), so the cars can merge onto the highway and you can avoid panic or accidents and then you can change back into you lane after .

• When approaching unto or merging into the highway if there’s ever a big truck coming past in traffic within a short distance away, let the truck pass then get unto the highway. It takes a lot to slow a big truck down . Don’t ever try and get in front of a big truck, unless you have plenty of room and time to speed up way ahead of the oncoming truck. Trucks and big rigs carrying things need more warning and time to slowdown. Be courteous to truck drivers and big rigs. It is very difficult for them to maneuver around other cars in traffic and extremely difficult to stop. Let trucks just get on their way down the road and pass on. Best to just get into and use the next lane over instead, to avoid ever needing to pass a truck. When on the highway, if there happens to be a big truck (or any vehicle) going a bit slower in front of you, if in the right lane and you either are going to get off an exit to the right, just wait and get off your exist. If in the right lane and there is an immediate need to pass a big truck (or any vehicle) safely move into the middle lane, gradually speed-up and get several car lengths ahead of the truck, make sure you have your turn signal on to let the trucker (or person in any vehicle) know you are needing to pass and then pass them safely into the lane. If in the middle behind a big truck and need to pass them, get into the far left (fast lane) trucks are usually not allowed in fast lane) and same applies; get several car lengths ahead of the truck (or any vehicle), make sure you have your turn signal on to let the trucker (or person in any vehicle) know you are needing to pass and then pass them safely into the lane. Sometimes you may be behind a slower truck or vehicle and they are in the exit lane and you need to get off the exit approaching, just lower your speed, be patient and get off to your exit. PATIENTS PAYS OFF ON THE ROAD and just keep out of the way of trucks and big rigs !!

• “Look Twice, Save a Life”, Keep a lookout for motorcyclist, whether you’re on the highway or neighborhood street. Be aware of motorcyclists and let them be aware of you. Give motorcyclist room to maneuver. Let the motorcyclist be aware you are going to change lanes, by giving enough time ahead, using your turn signal and when passing, make sure you have lengths ahead of the motorcycle before you pass and then return to your lane. Often using hand signals out your window for motorcyclist to see, also can help.

• When driving through an intersection or anywhere you see pedestrians, Don’t assume they will see you coming and that they will stop, they may get distracted or be looking at their phones, make sure to slow down (use your horn, if need be to let them know you are approaching). Use eye contact or hand gestures (to go) in letting the Pedestrians know they can safely cross to other side or cross, being aware of each other’s intent. When approaching an area like a mall, parking lot, movie theater, convenient store, neighborhood or anywhere there is or could be people, always drive in there with a very slow speed, never chance going fast even if you’re in a hurry, those minutes can wait because it’s crucial in saving lives.

• NEVER-EVER-BACK-UP IN A HURRY or back out fast, always go slowly backing out of anywhere, Check all sides of vehicle several times, people, children and animals can pop out at any minute and not seen coming around cars. You never know when a child or animal could break free and run into the road or pass the back of your car. Take a breath, Stop the Rushing!

• When coming back to your parked car or while still in your vehicle and a car next to you is backing out, getting ready to back out or coming into the space next to you, wait until they fully back out or pull in, to get in or out of your vehicle.

• When there’s a hold up in traffic and there’s several cars trying to get into traffic where you had stopped at, let one car in as you go and then the next person can let the next car in and so on or if a total traffic jam, an accident and traffic is stopped or it turns into one lane (before reaching the area police controlled) the courteous thing to do, as each car goes, is to let ‘one’ car in . Another words, for the traffic to move faster and more fair, it shouldn’t be everybody passing cars up while everyone’s going ahead and everyone trying to get ahead of each other. Work together in a traffic jam, accident or such. It will move things along more quickly..

• Keep your vehicle maintenance and inspections up to date. Not only will this prevent sudden stalls, but to avoid vehicle failure by checking tires, car lights, brakes and engines regularly. Make sure you have a first aid kit in the car and have sufficient insurance coverage to protect you, if you are involved in an accident.

Your safety is your responsibility, the less you assume, the safer you will be when getting behind the wheel.

Any activity that diverts your attention from driving– whether it’s texting or talking on your phone, eating, drinking, talking to fellow passengers or children in your car, fiddling with the music or navigation system, loud music playing in your vehicle, vehicle mis-function or being tired or under the influence of some substance… THESE ARE DISTRACTIONS !!!

Commit to driving defensively and use common sense safety rules and tips, to protect yourself and others from mishaps that can happen on the roads.

There are certified defensive driving course to learn about more safe driving practices in detail.

If anyone has any other tip or rule to share, leave the comment below.

Safety First and safe traveling on the roads, out there to All!!

C .Star. V

Happiness and Well-Being

Remember You’re A B C’s

By C. Star V.

Avoid negative people, places, things, resources and habits

Believe in yourself or no one else will.

Consider things from every point of view

Don’t give up and don’t give into the demons that can take hold, just keep focused, stay calm and pray

Enjoy your life, in whatever it is today, yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come

Family and Friends are hidden treasures, love them, enjoy them as riches

Give more of your time and money to things that will assist you, not hurt or hinder you

Hang on to your good memories, dreams and healthy habits

Ignore those who discourage you, expect you to do wrong things, and all haters or jealous people

Just, keep on the right track, it will lead you to better days and the right things

Keep trying the right path, no matter how hard it seems, eventually it gets easier

Learn to Love, work on and accept yourself, before you try to love and accept another

Make it happen, don’t keep wasting time that you could be using, ask for help or stop waiting for others to help

Never lie, cheat or steal it will only come-back and set you back, make fair deals

Open you’re your eyes, you may miss how things really are, don’t just judge

Practice and teach good judgment, reliability, responsibility and good manners, it will make a difference

Quitters never win and winners never quit

Read More, learn about more and how to do things, this is how the mind grows, it’s important in your life

Stop procrastinating, start wherever you are, with whatever you have and do whatever you can

Take control of your own destiny, you’ll have a better chance at where it will end-up

Understand, what efforts it really takes and what others have gone through, to get along better with others in life

Visualize being happy and healthy and visualize whatever you are trying to achieve

Want it, then make more efforts, make better priorities and choices

X-out upsetting memories that make you feel bad and replace, with good new ones

You are unique, nothing can replace you, yet you are not alone, we are all in this together

Zap evil by being able to better recognizing it around you, manage anger with coping skills and prayers

*~Happiness & Well-being are for those whom chose to make the efforts and believe in it~*

C .Star. V