How can we inspire?

Happy Tuesday to you all!  Every Tuesday Joyce lists a new set of Hodgepodge questions on her blog. I answer them and post my answers on Facebook, and then on Wednesday AM I post them on her blog Hodgepodge site. Over 50 people, mostly women, answer the questions each week on her site and it is really fun to read through everyones' answers.  You are welcome to join in!

1.  Share one way you think the world has changed for the better since you were a kid. 

Obviously the accessibility to the internet and to the quick information has certainly changed my life, and all our lives.  But, I think the cellphone has been the one thing that has bettered my life.  As a kid my parents were out of touch with me as soon as I walked out the door. We were "on our own" until we walked back in the door.  And, when I went off to college I only talked to them once a week on the dorm phone. I know it was all they knew - but thinking back it was sad because we didn't have much communication and closeness.

 Now, it is SO much easier to stay in touch with your children, regardless of their age.  I have loved being just a call or text away from my daughters - and I also love that they can reach me whenever they want to talk to me.

2. How 'bout one way it's changed for the worse? 

Technology has also made us all a bit more stationery.  Children don't get outside and play as much as they used to before there were video games, on demand movies, etc.   It has certainly been a part of the obesity problem here in the United States.

3. Starlight, starfish, starling, Starbucks...your favorite 'star'?  

This is an interesting question right now because I am part of a group called Moms For Gun Sense in America. I receive info from them via Facebook, and one of the concerns they have is American companies that allow patrons to freely carry weapons in their stores and outlets.  Starbucks has been pointed out by this group of moms, and the group has asked we boycott the stores. I have no problem with that! For one, I am a DD coffee drinker anyway - but I also prefer to support companies and stores with gun restrictions.

Back to the question, my favorite 'star' has got to be starlight! I love a clear summer night with starlight!  I am fortunate to live in an area without a lot of reflecting city lights so it can be pretty dark in my neighborhood at night when I walk my doggie.  I love looking up at the hundreds of stars in the night sky!  So beautiful!!

4. Name a song that's overplayed, but you love it anyway. 

"Get Your Shine On' by Florida-Georgia Line.   It has become THE country music song of the summer and the duo who sing it have won all kinds of awards for the song.  It's fun - it's happy - it's catchy - so I find I sing along.  But, yes, it's definitely overplayed.

5. When did you last have homemade ice cream?  Your latest favorite flavor? 

I assume Joyce is asking about REALLY homemade ice cream...not store bought.  I can't remember when I last had it hand-churned in an ice cream maker.  I was a kid.   My favorite flavor now?  Well, I have to brag a bit: my hubby used to work for Ciao Bella Gelato and Ice Cream and they have a key lime pie & graham cracker ice cream sandwich that is to die for!  Try it!

6.  What do you think is the best way to inspire or motivate people? 

Good question.  I think if we knew the answer then we would not have as many people on  unemployment and "living off the system."  Somehow we need to make ALL people feel connected, and valued... and let them know we ALL will be better off with equality and shared benefits.   I think if people didn't feel they are being taken for a ride, or being lied to, then they would be more inspired to work.   We need to let ALL people know they can reach for their dreams! Yes, we have differences that make us each unique and special - but the differences should be celebrated! They should not used for limiting endeavors and holding people back.

7.  When was the last time you were without power? 

* Without electricity?   A few months back, during a storm.  The power was only out for ten minutes or so.  Seemed longer! ha

* Without power in society?   The last time I voted!  I know I must vote but I feel like my little vote doesn't really matter.  I really think we should go back to a system of straight voting...no winning/losing districts, no early results, etc.

8. My random thought.

August is here - already!  I hate how summer seems to fly by!  It seems where-ever you turn it's all about "back to school" sales already.  Ugh.   I look forward to ONE think in the fall, and that's football.  I love SEC football (Go Gamecocks!!) and NFL games.   Thank god for it.   Do you have a favorite team?