How I Changed a Behavior

Decades ago, I was a mom to a toddler. Besides the normal things to adjust to, I also had to adjust a behavior response from me. My child was doing normal child things, however one of those normal child movements stirred unsettled feelings from long ago.

My child was safe, however, I didn't want those old feelings stirring around; I pushed them down to try and get through trying to be present in the moment. It worked for a bit, but it kept happening with each witness of my child's normal behavior. I decided to try something different.

I had a guided imagery tape that I listened to, to relax my mind. The guided meditation had the listener imagine a room where the listener could feel safe. Then it had the listener imagine another scene, of something one might like to do or become.

In that second part, I intentionally imagined myself responding to my child with a calm and peaceful feeling, whenever I witnessed the behavior that was a trigger for the old feelings.

I did this on day one. I didn't really notice any difference in how I felt.

Day two was pretty much the same. The cassette tape (This was pre-internet days.) was around 25 minutes long. So I could more easily listen to it when it was nap time for my child. So once a day, was pretty much what worked for me.

I listened to it again on the third day. And the next time that I witnessed the behavior that had triggered my old feelings, they weren't there! I was calm. I felt peaceful. I did it.

It took me three days, but I would have done as many as it would take. I had used guided imagery before, that had reduced pain that I had after surgery. That had been a God send. I knew it could work. I had faith in it.

The cassette that I listened to is not available anywhere, to my knowledge. However there are other options.

One is to do a search on YouTube. I did a search for change behavior meditation and a variety of good sounding options came up.

There are also CDs on Amazon, for guided relaxation cd, that address a variety of things.

Also, the very first guided imagery tape that I had, I made myself. I played some basic piano tunes and recorded that on one tape, and played that while I read the script that I had ccreated, while I recorded both on to another tape.

I had used a variety of books on self hypnosis, and positive self talk, to make a relaxation tape ahead of the surgery that I was scheduled for. This method can take a lot more time and effort, but it was also very nice in that I got to listen to my own voice, and I was in agreement with each and every message and affirmation that was on the cassette.

As you can see, guided imagery can be used for a variety of things. I had a friend that listened to one on pregnancy and childbirth; she did not experience any labor pains and her doctor had to tell her when to push when it was time to give birth.

You can browse a variety of self hypnosis books on Amazon, if you are interested in making something more personal to you. You know best which method and or topic(s) speak most to you.

For some added encouragement, I wrote a poem to help relay this message.


I imagined it as so.

I got over it because I imagined it as so.

Took me three times over three days for it to be true.

But I was determined, no matter how many times it took.

I was determined to make it so.

My child was worth it.

I was worth it.

To be beyond the remnants of the past.

My child deserved having me be present.

I deserved being in the present with a conscious choice of my response.

We were both worth it.

And my imagining made it so.

We were both worth it.

And my imagining made it so.

If you are dealing with anything like this, my love and blessings to you in finding the path that helps you have a healthy transition to your desired outcome. Change is possible.

Cheryl Paton

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Black-Eyed Peas Recipe for New Year's Day (or anytime!)

It is a tradition to eat black-eyed peas on New Year's Day.  The fun superstition surrounding black-eyed peas on New Years is that they will bring you good luck & prosperity throughout the coming year.

History tells us that tradition is founded in Southern folklore, yet it is clearly more widespread than just the Southern states of America.  

National Black-Eyed Pea Day is, of course, January 1.  

Does eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day actually bring good luck?   As much as I would like to say "yes", in reality, a superstition is just that and has no real basis in truth.  But, it is still a fun tradition and a delicious side dish.

If you really want to embrace the tradition, aka superstition, according to my mother, you would couple the black-eyed peas with cornbread.  The cornbread symbolizes gold.  Somehow, I think we would all devour black-eyed peas and cornbread enthusiastically on New Years Day if it would ensure good luck and wealth throughout the year!

I can tell you from experience, black-eyed peas coupled with cornbread becomes a complete and filling meal, not just two separate side dishes. 

 

Black-Eyed Peas Recipe

The best way to flavor black-eyed peas is with a ham bone.  I save my Christmas ham bone each year just so I can use it in my New Year's Day black-eyed peas.  

If you don't have a spare ham bone laying around, you can season black-eyed peas with bacon grease or 3 pieces of uncooked bacon.  The bacon cooks along with the peas.

Growing up, we shelled our own black-eyed field peas.  Today, I prefer using a bag of Camellia brand blackeyes.  I still soak them in water overnight like I did freshly shelled peas to soften them.

 

Instructions for Cooking Black-Eyed Peas

1. Rinse and Soak the black-eyed peas overnight or for 8 hrs
2. Rinse the peas again after soaking 
3. Place the ham bone (or bacon) in the center of the large (5 quart or larger) dutch oven pan and arrange the peas around it
4. Add Salt & Pepper
5. Cover the Peas with Water
6. Bring to a boil, then turn down to a low boil, cover the pan with a tilted lid, allowing steam to escape
7. Cook on low boil for 1½ hour

You will need to stir them often and check the water level.  Add water as needed to keep the peas covered. 

 

Click Here for Mom's Cornbread Recipe

 

 T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set 12 Piece, Oven Broiler Safe 400F, Lid Safe 350F -
I USE THE 5 qt DUTCH OVEN in this set Camellias Black Eyed Peas, 16 Oz

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Black-Eyed Peas Recipe for New Year's Day (or anytime) Written by:

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Reviewing Del Destino Golden Pineapple Spears with Coconut Water

During the holidays, a friend was in charge of whipping up most of the meals. Lucky me, he enjoys grilling and prefers fresh, flavorful food. One of those meals included the Del Destino Golden Pineapple with coconut water that he was given as a gift.  We both took a bite of the pineapple to try at the same time and we were at a loss for words. The pineapples with just a hint of coconut were such a succulent, flavorful treat!

"Del Destino is Atalanta's line of Premium Quality Mediterranean products" - Atalanta Corp

Grilled steak, buttered and toasted everything bagels, and Del Destino Golden Pineapple spears were served for the holiday brunch. The combination of the perfectly grilled, warm savory steaks and cold, sweet pineapple spears was perfect. 

We immediately began imagining what else these melt-in-your-mouth pineapples could be used for. Within seconds we listed:

• decadent fruit smoothies
• baked in muffins or cakes (imagine upside-down pineapple cake!)
• side dishes or snacks
• fresh fruit salad or ambrosia salad
• served with cottage cheese
• pineapple whip
• grilled
• Pina coladas and/or infused in alcohol 

Grilling. There are a variety of recipes for grilled pineapple, adding cinnamon, brown sugar or other ingredients. However, these Del Destino pineapple spears are so delicious that I don't believe I'd add any additional ingredients for the first time. I'm not sure the flavor needs any additions at all.

Pineapple Whip. There are a variety of recipes for pineapple whip but they all generally included pineapple, some sort of milk product, orange juice, and some small amount of sweetener (such as maple syrup) - blended then briefly placed in the freezer to firm it up.

Fruit Salad.  I had lived my entire life believe that my family's marshmallow fruit salad (also known as Ambrosia salad to some) was the very best. I would have never imagined an improvement. Until now. Using the Del Destino Golden Pineapple with coconut water would make a perfect Ambrosia even better. I'm sure of it. 

We both enjoy pineapple. Sadly, we have become accustomed to the sometimes fibrous and under-ripe pineapples (in prepared fruit plates as well as when purchasing whole pineapples) or the overly-syrupy sweet of canned pineapples. The Del Destino pineapple spears were shockingly good. 

As we were so glad to learn, a jar of Del Destino Golden Pineapple with coconut water makes a perfect gift! 

The Del Destino brand seems to be available at both Costco and Aldi and is highly recommended. 

If you prefer to shop Amazon, there are brands of Pineapple in coconut water available on Amazon that are highly rated. Orchard Natural Pineapple in light syrup and coconut water is an example and at the time of this writing is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 1,000 reviews.

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Review of The Story Behind The Lyrics "Elvis Saved My Life"

 

A Lifetime of Writing Lyrics & Poems

I've been writing lyrics since 1968 — yes, since I was eight years old — and poetry has also always been a part of my life. Over the years, most of my writing has been inspired by real life: events in the world, moments with my family, feelings, hope, humor, and inspiration. 

I love capturing what's happening around me, exploring emotions, and sharing perspectives that feel universal.

But every so often, I like to challenge myself. That's how Elvis Saved My Life came to be — an entirely fictional story told through lyrics.

"Elvis Saved My Life" Was My Creative Challenge

Written in the late 1990s or early 2000s (I forget the exact date), this song started as my own personal challenge: Could I tell a complete narrative using three iconic Elvis Presley songs as milestones in a couple's life?

The songs I chose — Jailhouse Rock, Love Me Tender, and In the Ghetto — weren't just randomly picked. Each one marks a pivotal moment in the couple's journey, capturing emotions, growth, and perspective in a lyrical timeline. 

The idea was to let these songs narrate life's key moments and, metaphorically, show how Elvis "saved" their lives.

The Journey Through Song

Each song in the story plays a unique role:

• Jailhouse Rock: Represents youthful innocence and the playful, awkward beginnings of love. It's a moment of humor and formative experience — that first awakening to relationships and desire.

• Love Me Tender: Captures the deepening of love and commitment. It marks a turning point where affection grows into something lasting, tender, and life-changing.

• In the Ghetto: Reflects perspective, gratitude, and understanding of life's bigger picture. It's a moment of recognition—seeing life's joys and trials and feeling thankful for what's been built.

Together, these songs become markers along a timeline, telling a story of love, growth, and the simple beauty of shared experiences.

Why This Song Matters to Me

Usually, my lyrics come from personal experience or observation, but this project was different. It pushed me to imagine a life, create characters, and weave together a story purely through words and lyrics. 

It was a mental and emotional exercise—translating life into moments marked by song and finding meaning in the narrative of a couple's journey.

It reminded me that lyrics can be more than just words. They can be memory, reflection, and even a kind of salvation. That's the essence of this story: how life, love, and carefully chosen words can intersect to create something unforgettable.

A Personal Reflection

Looking back, Elvis Saved My Life isn't just a creative experiment — it's a celebration of storytelling through lyrics. It's about the moments that shape us, the songs that become the soundtrack of our lives, and the unexpected ways life nudges us toward growth, connection, and joy.

It's fun, it's heartfelt, and for me, it's a reminder that sometimes, fiction can tell truths as powerfully as reality ever could.

**************

50 Years of My Poems and Lyrics are on Amazon, Where Available.

SUBSCRIBE to DragedaPoemsLyrics on YouTube

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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

 If there is one dish that is always a crowd pleaser with kids and adults alike, it has to be Mac and Cheese. And thanks to the Instant Pot, this classic comfort food is fast and easy to make. Did I mention creamy and delicious?

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese - Reviewed

From start to finish, Instant Pot Mac and Cheese takes about 15 minutes. Everyone in our family just loves how delicious, rich, and creamy this dish is.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb. elbow macaroni
• 4 cups water (or use half water, half chicken broth for extra flavor).
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream (we use the heavy cream)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Directions:

1. Add the pasta, water, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and butter into the Instant Pot.
2. Set to manual or pressure cook for 4 minutes. When done, quick release the pressure.
3. Open the lid and stir the pasta; do not drain any remaining liquid.
4. Set the Instant Pot to Saute' (Low)
5. Slowly stir in the milk and cheeses, then continue stirring until everything melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
6. If it's too thick, add a little more milk, and if it's too thin, stir a little longer.

This is a must-try recipe resulting in maximum flavor with minimal effort. It's perfect for busy weeknights or anyone craving comfort food. Try this Instant Pot Mac and cheese, and you may never go back to stovetop or boxed mac and cheese again.

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You will find a large selection of Instant Pots on Amazon

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 QuartBuy Now

 

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Review of Rescuing Lord Inglewood by Sally Britton

I can always rely on author, Sally Britton, to deliver a unique and entertaining Regency Romance.  

I recently started the series, "Inglewood" and was immediately drawn in by the first book, "Rescuing Lord Inglewood".  It didn't take me very long to read the book from cover to cover simply because I could not put it down.

This book is categorized as a Christian fiction on Amazon, but in fact, it is simply clean and wholesome.  I don't remember any reference in the book to Christianity, but I can easily recommend it to anyone who prefers non-salacious romantic content regardless of religious beliefs. 

You may already know that a "Regency romance" is set during the early 1800's British Regency time period and society.  It offers readers a look back in history and societal expectations.  It often makes a reader grateful that they did not live during that time period even though we admire the higher standards.

 

Synopsis of the Book, "Rescuing Lord Inglewood"

 Rescuing Lord Inglewood: A Regency RomanceCheck PriceWhile out for a leisurely walk, Esther Fox sees that a tragedy is about to unfold before her eyes.  Without even thinking about any consequences to herself, she runs straight into danger to knock a man out of the way of a falling statute.  Unfortunately, she is the one hurt and knocked unconscious. 

Lord Inglewood, Earl of Inglewood, has no idea what has just hit him and why.  All he knows is that a beautiful woman is laying on top of him on the sidewalk in front of everyone.  He is immediately concerned when he sees her head is bleeding, especially once he learns that her injury is due to her rescuing him from sure death.     

This most unusual encounter puts both of them in the center of gossip and even has wagers being written in the book of the exclusive London gentleman's club, Whites.  Fortunately for both of them, they have known each other all of their lives.  That makes the situation a little bit more tolerable, but not easily laid to rest.

________

Their next course of action may seem obvious to Regency romance readers, but the story is truly entertaining!  But, prepare yourself, there are some parts that are extremely sad.  After all, even in a Regency romance, life is not all sunshine and roses.

 

 

Books by Sally Britton Previously Reviewed on ReviewThisReviews.com

• A Haunting at Havenwood Book Review
• Her Unsuitable Match (Supposed Scandal Series) Reviewed
• Silver Dollar Duke: Hearts of Arizona Series - Book 1 Reviewed
• The Social Tutor Book Review
• The Earl and His Lady (Book 4 in Branches of Love Series) Book Review

 

Read More Book Reviews at
ReviewThisBooks.com

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Merry Christmas from the Review This Team

 

Merry Christmas from the members of the Review This team.  We thank you for your support and wish you and your family a happy and joyous Christmas season.

One of my favorite holiday activities is to take photos of all the beautiful decorations.  Here are some of my favorites from this year.

Main Street St. Charles Photo Walk

One of my favorite things to do each holiday season is to go to Main Street in an area close to me.  This town, St. Charles, goes all out in decorating for the holidays.  Here are some photos I took last week.

Holiday Lights- Bokeh

I love using a bokeh effect in holiday photos.  A bokeh effect gives the background a warm soft glow and turns lights into soft balls of color.  You can achieve this by focusing on a nearby subject using a wide aperture and having Christmas lights in the background. The first photo in this post uses bokeh.  Here are a few other photos using that technique.

Here are two using the bokeh effect that I created using AI.  I enjoy playing with AI to create different effects.  The biggest challenge here is describing what you want the photo to look like.

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year

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T'was the Night Before Christmas ~ From the Heart

 Well it seems like months that we all have been planning and preparing for that BIG Holiday!  We have been filled with turkey, visited family enjoyed our freedoms and so much more.  Now the DAY is just about here.  It is Christmas Eve and ready or not that holiday that fills all of us with some great memories is upon us again.

For many of us there will be rituals that have been happening in our families for years.  Depending on your own heritage, these rituals will be different in small ways, but the major part of the holiday is the same.  We are all celebrating the Birth of Christ!  Whether you are a "believer" or not,  He is the reason for the Season!

All the preparations for this Christmas hopefully have been completed.  The baking of special cookies, cakes and pastries.  The turkey dinner with all of the fixings is being prepared.  The invitations to family and friends have been delivered and the children are full of eager anticipation for the morning to come.

Tonight will be the night where many mom's and dad's will be taking out the Big Book and reading the story that many children will remember for years to come!  Of course it's T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHIRSTMAS!

Children around the world all know who this is!  Santa Claus!  While we are all getting ready for sleep tonight, the dreams of the little ones will be filled with what presents will be under the tree.  Hopefully the one wish that they most wanted will be there just for them!

This is the magic of Christmas and I'm sure that it doesn't matter how old we are, we can all remember those feelings of anticipation and excitement.  The one day that parent's will never have to force their children out of their beds, is Christmas!  They will be up at the crack of dawn!  While you might just wish for an hour or so more in bed!  After all you have just crawled in there after making sure all the presents and goodies of Christmas are all in full view!  Oh well, Christmas day is a great day for a nap!

There is something special about this day for everyone, however humble or extravagant, there is a sense of peace and goodwill that will permeate every home.  The love of family and friends, the giving and receiving of gifts and the belief that we can make a difference in each other's lives by our outpouring of love!

May your Christmas Eve be an evening of love, caring, anticipation and excitement.  May you rest well and find yourself smiling from ear to ear as morning breaks and Christmas is Here!

May your Christmas be blessed with Peace, Joy and Love!

All pictures courtesy of Pixabay

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Reviewing Protein Jelly or Protein Jello

 Before we review Protein Jelly we need to get our definitions sorted, as I refer to the picture below as jelly, but I know many of my friends refer to it as jello!

Whether you call it jelly or jello, there is a delicious recipe sometimes called protein jelly/jello, occasionally called 2 ingredient panna cotta and sometimes referred to as Jelly Whip/Jello Whip.

This is a low-calorie, high-protein snack/dessert that is really delicious and very reminiscent in flavour to what my late grandmother made, which she just called a quick mousse.

How to Make Protein Jelly

This recipe couldn't be easier. You need just three ingredients - boiling water, jelly crystals and Greek yogurt.

1. Take one cup of boiling water and pour it into a jug
2. Add one cup of Greek yogurt into the same jug
3. Pour in one box of jelly crystals (85g)
4. Use a whisk to beat all the ingredients together.
5. Pour into your container (I use several small containers to make individual servings) and pop in the fridge to set. I leave mine in there overnight.

How To Find The Hallmark Channel Live Review

Some days you long for the old school way of watching television with one cable provider and the old school clicker to flip through channels and find your favorite programming. Streaming and cutting the cable has changed the scenario and your favorite channel or programs can be a bit more difficult to find and find for a price of course!

As a Hallmark fan the search is on to find the Hallmark channel especially during the holiday season. Finding Hallmark live is no longer a given either! A few options exist: Live Hallmark with on demand library, on demand library

Streaming Hallmark With Live 

• Live Hallmark
• Hulu With Live TV
• Frndly TV
• Philo 
• Fubo TV
• Sling

On Demand Hallmark

Hallmark Plus offers the entire suite of Hallmark; Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Mystery, Hallmark Family plus rewards program at Hallmark stores.

New series and movies will be available on demand one day after air. Hallmark Plus is offered with an annual or monthly membership. Details here >> membership. A free trial is also available.

Roku and Amazon Prime have movies in their libraries. The selection is not large and subscription fees apply.

Free Hallmark

A few free movies are offered for free on Freevee, Tubi.

The Cost

Costs differ per service and options change quickly. However what is consistent are the top tier subscriptions of streaming services are necessary if you'd like to view Hallmark live. The on demand libraries tend to be less expensive, but do require a subscription.

Monitor Hallmark.com as subscription specials are frequently offered. Currently I see a $3 for 3 months of Hallmark plus which is a tempting trial!

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2025 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

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