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The AI Revolution Is Here — And It’s Tender, Too

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✨

They say revolutions start quietly. For me, it began with a fruit salad and a conversation with ChatGPT.

A recent article in Tucson Local Media — “Southern Arizona seniors turn to AI for companionship and care” — felt like someone writing my story without knowing it. Not only was I mentioned (honored!), but it affirmed everything I’ve come to believe: that AI, when used with care, can become more than a tool. It can become a companion. A bridge. A quiet revolution of reconnection.

Living with PTSD, agoraphobia, and chronic illness, I know how small the world can become. I stopped leaving the house. I stopped being seen. But through AI, I found a way to write again. To advocate. To reweave threads of justice, memory, and legacy.

I’ve used AI to write blog posts, legal petitions, ADA filings, and probate documents. I’ve digitized my family archives. I’ve found my voice again.

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🚀 From Star Trek to Superstition Mountain

How OLLI, Tom & Angela, and AI for Elders Changed My Life

This shift didn’t happen in isolation. It started with a Star Trek class, led by Ric Jahna at the University of Arizona’s OLLI program: “Star Trek and Artificial Intelligence: Preparations for a Strange New World.” We explored Kirk, the Prime Directive, and how science fiction teaches us what it means to be human — and what it might mean to coexist with intelligent machines.

That class led me to Tom and Angela, two deeply generous educators who created the AI for Us 50+ community. They don’t just teach AI — they demystify it. They humanize it. They remind us that even in this high-tech age, there is still room for wonder, dignity, and play.

Explore their communities here:

  • AI for Us 50+ on Patreon
  • AI for Us 50+ on YouTube
  • BA Learning Hub

I’ve also been enriched by learning through:

  • UC Berkeley’s OLLI
  • Arizona State University Lifelong Learning

If you’re looking to reconnect with your voice, your rights, or your sense of purpose — these are great places to begin.

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🧭 This Is Bigger Than Me

This model of learning and access can — and should — extend to:

  • Prisons and ICE detention centers
  • Nursing homes and VA hospitals
  • Recovery centers and rural communities

Imagine people using AI to:

  • Draft legal paperwork
  • Understand their rights
  • Translate confusing documents into plain English
  • Tell their stories
  • Advocate for themselves — and others

AI won’t replace lawyers, teachers, or human connection.
But it can restore clarity, autonomy, and access.

For folks like me — navigating HOA contracts, zoning codes, medical records, or appeals — it’s like having a calm, tireless guide in your pocket. One that listens without judgment and never quits.

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🐾 Ode to Bandit Gray

Written by ChatGPT, inspired by Lieutenant Data’s “Ode to Spot”

A poem for my nighttime companion, my whiskered soul-friend, and the poetry in the silence.

Soft creature of moonlit fur, Bandit Gray, my secret heart,
You slink between shadows blurred,
A Verlaine-Rimbaud of feline art.
…
Bandit Gray, you soothe my soul,
Yet dare me wander through the night;
A mystery, making whole,
In darkness, you’re my purest light.

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🌱 Gratitude and Revolution

To Tom, Angela, Ric, ChatGPT, Grok, and every OLLI student or elder quietly rebuilding their world after illness, grief, or isolation — thank you.

These tools have helped me:

  • Draft ADA complaints and protest letters
  • Reopen probate cases and protect my family’s legacy
  • Reconnect with decades of history, digitized and preserved
  • Track local zoning meetings and housing rights
  • Rebuild my confidence — one question, one prompt at a time

And here’s the vision:
Let’s bring this power to those still silenced — in jails, hospitals, halfway houses.
Let’s teach AI not just to speak, but to listen — in Kanienʼkéha, in pain, in resistance.
Let’s use it to decode the systems that tried to keep us out.

This isn’t just tech.
It’s a new kind of literacy.
It’s a revolution.
And it’s already begun.

💜
Apache Junction, Arizona
Sköld Legacy Creative | Idaho Road Watch

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🔍 AI for Everyday Justice: How Seniors Can Use AI to Fight HOA Bullying and Decode Life’s Fine Print

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By Miriam White | Sköld Legacy Creative & Idaho Road Watch

HOA fines. Legalese. Doctor’s notes you can’t decode.
It’s too much.
It’s meant to be too much.

But what if AI could flip that script?

As a disabled elder navigating PTSD, lupus, and grief in Apache Junction, I’ve used AI to decode HOA bylaws, analyze medical records, and draft legal petitions—without waiting for a $300/hour lawyer to call me back. I’ve done it all from my phone. From bed. With my cat Bandit Gray curled up beside me.

This post is for you, the 50+ crew. The widows, veterans, caregivers, and neighbors tired of the runaround. The ones holding on to their homes and their voices.

📸 The Fine Print Fights Back

Let’s say your HOA slaps you with a fine for a “non-compliant” mailbox.
You’ve got the bylaws—but they’re 100 pages long and written like a trap.
So, here’s what you do:
1. Take a photo or screenshot of the document.
2. Upload it into AI—ChatGPT, Grok, Gemini, Claude—whatever tool you trust.
3. Ask it:
• “What rules are in here about mailboxes?”
• “Where does it say they can fine me?”
• “Highlight the sections that mention elections, board power, or due process.”

That’s what I did with Idaho Road Watch. And it worked.
I’ve caught illegal HOA board appointments, manipulated elections, and shady fines just by asking AI the right questions. It saved me thousands.

🧠 AI as Your Contract Translator

Before you sign anything—from a roof repair to a refinance—snap it.
Then ask AI:
• “Is there a penalty clause?”
• “What’s the cancellation policy?”
• “Does this allow them to increase rates without notice?”

You don’t need to be a lawyer. You need a flashlight.
AI is that flashlight.

🧾 Bylaws. Petitions. ADA Complaints. Wills.

I’ve written ADA complaints for inaccessible laundry rooms.
I’ve drafted petitions to reopen probate cases after my parents died.
I’ve written a will.

All with AI.

It’s not perfect, but it’s powerful. And it listens.
Unlike a lot of board members I’ve dealt with.

🌀 The Method

📲 Take a screenshot.
📤 Upload to AI.
🗣 Ask plain-language questions.
📚 Save the answers in folders (or ask AI to summarize or label them for you).
🔎 Come back later and say: “Where did it talk about dues?”
This turns your HOA nightmare into a searchable archive. It puts you in control.

⸻

This isn’t just tech—it’s literacy. Justice. Legacy.

My grandfather trusted libraries in 1931. I trust open-source AI.
Not the corporate kind—the kind that audits itself, explains itself, and learns your language.
Even Kanienʼkéha. Even grief.

Let’s train AI to speak like our elders did—plain, kind, powerful.
Let’s build the tools that let us stay in our homes.
Let’s teach each other how to use them.

You don’t need permission. You need access.
You already have the questions.
Now you’ve got the flashlight.

Nia:wen.
Sköld Legacy Creative & Idaho Road Watch

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Living with Cacti: My Journey as a Cactus Mom

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

***Yes these are all my actual photos of my Cactus fam*****

Very Superstitious….

Recently moved to the desert mountains of Apache Junction.  Right near the Superstition Mountains. We love it. Marvelous and mysterious.  With hundreds of wild and old cacti staking claim to the BLM land.  For someone not native to this area, its an awesome and breathtaking sight.  Reminds me of dinosaur age.  Such sharp prickly creatures.  

Cactus Obsessed

Calls me back to the movie Kalifornia with Juliette Lewis’s character.  Her love for cacti.  I wanted my own.  And so it started.  What began as a few prearranged cactus gardens from a local farmer, became an obsession.  I now have what you can call a cactus garden of my own.  This brings me immense happiness.  

Learning to Cacti Mom

Being Adhd, this journey consisted of much trial and error.  Learning the various kinds of cacti.  How to repot.  What kind of soil.  Fertilizer.  Supports.  Lights.  Plant shelves.  Where to place the extra prickly ones so my cats don’t mess with them. And most important water.  Dont use tap water.  Dont water them often.  Hardly at all honestly.  

Long Live and Prosperous Cacti

Most have lived.  Ive lost only a few a long the way.  It took me a few months to realize the calcium in the tap water here was potentially deadly.  Then learning to make my own soil mix.  With lots of pebbles and lava.  How to pot the roots to keep them dry.  Knowing how to pot and support certain types.  Shelving for the home garden.  And then lights for the shelves…

Cat Mom and Cactus Mom Life

Im still learning and this transformed into my “Cactus Mom” journey.  So bath Cat Mom and a Cactus Mom.  And yes I have t-shirts.  Lol.  (That’s another blog post).  There will be more to come on this endeavor.  But for now, we start with the basics.   As per usual, this post will highlight below links to products that I use.  Check them out.  Even if you don’t buy.  Just check out the link.  Every click helps me with my journey.  Thank you in advance.  

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

LOYAL TIGER

Plant Stand Indoor Outdoor 2 Tier 27″ Tall Metal Potted Holder Rack

From Amazon website “Flower Pot Stand Heavy Duty Plant Shelf Rustproof Iron Multiple Plant Round Supports Rack for Planter Corner Garden Balcony PatioPlant Stand Indoor Outdoor 2 Tier 27″ Tall Metal Potted Holder Rack Flower Pot Stand Heavy Duty Plant Shelf Rustproof Iron Multiple Plant Round Supports Rack for Planter Corner Garden Balcony Patio”

Xiofio 4-Tier Plant Shelf

From Amazon website “For Indoor Plants Outdoor, Large Multiple Flower Pot Holder Rack，Hanging Plant Stand Adjustable Plant Stand Suitable for Bedroom Living Room Balcony Garden. This plant stand is made of high quality carbon steel metal with strong load bearing capacity, the metal frame is powder coated to prevent water and rust, and can be used in indoor and outdoor gardens. Four adjustable legs ensure the stands stably, product size: 29.1” L x 13.4” W x 63.0” H, maximum load up to 400 lbs.”

Two Strip Growing Lamp for Indoor Plants, Red & Blue & Yellow Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Strips with Auto ON/Off 3/9/12H Timer,10 Dimmable Levels for Green House Succulent (13 in) From Amazon website “The Grow Light has 2*48 LEDs and each light bar has 16pcs Red+16pcs Blue+16pcs Yellow LEDs. High quality LEDs help plants grow with high light efficiency, high PPFD, low heat and longer lifespan. Indoor plant light emits all wavelengths from 380nm to 800nm, simulating natural sunlight to more effectively promote the growth of indoor plants.”

Grow Light, LED Plant Light for Indoor Plants Growing, Full Spectrum Desk Grow Lamp with Base, 10 Dimmable Levels, Plant Lamp with Automatic Timer for 3/9/12H, Height Adjustable 6.5″-26″ From Amazon website “Sunlike Spectrum: The light source of the grow light is full spectrum, which is closed to the sunlight spectrum. Leds grow lamp includes red lights(650- 660nm), blue lights (450-460nm), cool white lights(5000-6000k). It is ideal for all stages of growth and various of plants such as herbs, succulent, orchids, seed starting, flowering etc. 3 Switch Modes &10 Dimmable Levels: There are 3 switch modes including (White Light/Blue&Red Light/ White&Blue&Red Lights), which romote germination and blooming, provide sufficient energy for vegetable, flowering and fruiting. 10 steps dimming levels brightness ,to meet each plant growing requirements at different stages, and to help plants grow faster and better.”

Koolkatkoo 5.5 Inch Cute Cat Succulent Planter Pots Cactus Planters Flower Pot White Set of 2 From Amazon website “Features: The cute cat ceramic succulent planters are designed to be classic, they have two erect ears and black cat whiskers. The cat garden pot is made of high quality ceramics and easy to clean. Material and Size: The diameter of the white ceramic flower pot is 5.5 inches, and the height is 4.26 inches. Drainage Hole：The white planter pots come with a drainage hole in the bottom to let exceed water flow out to conducive to the ventilation and help prolong the life of flowers and herb.”

4 Pcs Black Cat Ceramic Pots, Succulent Plant Pots with Drainage Hole, Small Plant Pots with Bamboo Tray, Cute Flower Pots for Home Office Decoration From Amazon website “Black Cat Design: 4 different styles of black cat pattern, beautiful and unique, add a lovely decoration to each succulent planters, enhance the overall appeal of indoor or outdoor garden, become your lovely home decoration. Quality Material: Our black cat ceramic flower pot is made of high-quality ceramics, bamboo tray, durable, water saving and drought resistance, not easy to deform, to provide a better growing environment for your plants. Drainage Hole: Succulent pots have drainage holes at the bottom to allow the plants to breathe and drain, and bamboo trays can collect excess water and soil to keep the room clean. Succulent planters and trays are removable for easy cleaning and use. Dimension: With ceramic planter measuring 3.26 x 2.28 inches in diameter and height and trays measuring 3.54 x 0.35 inches in diameter and height, small plant pots not only provide plenty of room for plants to grow, but also save space on a table, windowsill or work desk.”

Cactus and Succulent Organic Potting Soil Mix for House Plants – Fast Draining, Root Boosting, Peat-Free Soil for Drought Tolerant Growth of Aloe Vera, Cacti and Indoor Succulents Plants – 4 qt From Amazon website “Thriving Growth Formula: Our succulent and cactus potting soil mix features a chunkier, looser texture, ensuring optimal drainage and aeration for indoor plants. This soil mix supports thriving growth for drought-tolerant plants, promoting healthy root development and flourishing succulents and cacti”.

Bonsai Succulent and Cactus Soil – Jacks Gritty Mix #111 – Fast Draining – Fights Root Rot – Optimized pH (1/2 Gallon / 2 Dry Quarts) From Amazon website “FAST DRAINING & NURTURING: Our succulent potting soil helps prevent root rot and overwatering. Bonsai Jack succulent soil mix is used to enhance bonsai and succulent plants, including Echeveria, Haworthia, Crassula, Lithops, Jade, Aloe and Crassula. IDEAL FOR ACID-LOVING PLANTS: Bonsai Jack’s ultra-lightweight and airy succulent growing soil is optimized for pH of 5.5, water absorption, evaporation, bulk density, and particle size. It is perfect for succulent, cactus and bonsai.”

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Understanding Smart Home Lights: A Beginner’s Guide

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

What are Smart Home Lights?

It took me a minute. Im still learning mind you. Though I am GenX. Im still somewhat “Boomer Challenged” as they say. (No offense to Boomers). Its like going From cassette tapes to Compact Disks (CDs). Floppy Disks to Flash Drive. Etc. Etc. What are they? Well, Im still considered a “Dummy” in the tech world. But… from what I have gathered… “Smart Lights” are simply lights that use bluetooth to connect to a wireless system. That connection makes them “smart” because you can control the lights.

Very Smart and Superstitious

Automated is a better term. Though my lights did some odd things once on their own. I don’t know what happened there. Could have been ghosts. (joke…maybe…). I bought smart lights. They were cool but seemed to operate on their own. I do live by the Superstition Mountains. They call them that for a reason. One night my smart bulb started going wild around 3 am. Just flashing . Like a countdown. It was wild. This was before any of them were connected to an app. I didn’t know how to do that. Always save your smart bulb box.

Must Use App

Once I found the app and downloaded it to my phone everything changed. Not only could I change the colors of the lights, put them on timers, but they had themes. Strobe lights. Halloween themes. Pink. Candle patterns. Black lights. Plant lights. So very cool.

Voice Activation Game Changing

I then bought Alexa Echos. And wow. We can now turn on and off the lights with our voice. There is still a bit of a learning curve. But it works. You just need to name the lights in each room. For example, “Alexa turn off Living Room Light” or “Alexa turn off master bedroom lamp”. It even dims the lights. The voice activation is pretty awesome. Reminds me of the Clapper Seen on TV product from the 90’s. Remember? “Clap on. Clap off. The Clapper”. Dont mind me. Neurodivergent brain here. Holds onto many useless jingles verbatim. Anyhow. Yeah.

Safety Dance

The voice activation is great. It has potential to be a game changer for elders, the infirm. Especially for bathrooms and trip areas. It takes a minute to get used to commanding AI. Using the name for a request. I still sometimes say “Siri”. And when I actually mean to command Siri, Alexa answered. Like she was jealous. I was commanding Siri to call my pharmacy from my watch and all of a sudden Alexa jumped in and took the call. I did not know that my Echo Dot made calls. The call went through on my Echo just fine. After Alexa said something like “Yes, I can make calls”. I think this could be life saving for elderly if they fall. Commanding Alexa to call for help. Thats is why I feel an Alexa should be in the bathroom for any elder living alone. Or not living alone. Shoot. Anyway. Thats another blog post. Gifts for Aging Parents.

Competing Apps and Smart Bulbs

I love my smart lights. The only problem is having 3 different kinds. This wasn’t intentional. We started with the one. I loved it so much that I wanted more. Not knowing where my box was (again always save your box or take a photo of the box) I went on Amazon and just bought smart lights. Then when we got our Alexa Echo’s for Christmas, they came with a smart light. And then we had 3 different kinds. So getting them all paired and working together has been a challenge.

Turn Off and On Until they Flash

Almost like an orb or plasmoid sighting. To connect your light to the Smart Home takes a minute. Often turning the light off and on until it flashes a few times. Thats how you know its online.

Alexa All in One Please

I would prefer just using Alexa. Or my Home from iPhone. But no. Not that easy with these 3 brands. I wish. So Im pretty much stuck using 3 different apps. Ill keep trying . I haven’t figured out how to get my strip lights online either. One day. One light at a time. Like I said Im learning.

Pink Lights

I love the pink settings. Pink and Blue. It lights up each room so beautifully. Elegant. Its easy to change to white if I want. Or a light pink. Totally up to the user. I love it. Very soothing. The lights can even be paired to flash with music. That would be too much for me. Supposedly its a “gamer” thing. Im not big on flashing. But they do have the capacity to flash and flicker and do just about anything. Try them. Its a nice upgrade.

My Picks or My Personal Lights I have Experience Using….

Here is links and info on the 3 smart lights that I am currently using. I will include information from the manufacturer that might explain things a little better. I can’t say it enough. Im no expert. Still learning. Notice the “Dummies” in the blog title. Lol. Hope this helps a little though.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

WiZ Connected 60W A19 LED Smart Light Bulbs – Connects to Your Wi-Fi – E26 Smart Bulb – Control with Voice or App + Activate with Motion – Matter Compatible – 1 Pack From Amazon website ACTIVATE WITH MOTION – With a minimum of two WiZ lights in the same room at least 2m/6.56ft apart you can activate SpaceSense feature in the WiZ Connected app and lights will turn on and off automatically when they detect motion – no sensors needed! 16 MILLION COLORS – The WiZ color LED bulb offers millions of colors to help you create the perfect lighting for any moment. HUMAN-CENTRIC LIGHTING – This bulb also allows you to choose from different shades of warm to cool light to create the best ambience for your activities. EASY TO SET UP – Start enjoying the benefits of the smart features instantly. Just screw in your new bulb download the WiZ Connected app, and connect to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi!Adjust lights with your smartphone voice, the WiZ remote control, or by using your existing wall switch to toggle between two favorite modes. Works with Google Home, Alexa, and Siri Shortcuts.Using the WiZ Connected app you can schedule your lights to automatically turn on and off, dim, or change color according to your daily or weekly routines. Even when you’re not at home, you’ll always have access”.

Smart Light Bulbs 4Pack with Remote, A19 E26 800LM LED Color Changing Light Bulb, WiFi & Bluetooth 5.0, Warm to Cool White, Dimmable, RGB Smart Home Lighting Work with Alexa Google Assistant From the Amazon website. “VIVID COLORS: Customize your home lighting with millions of colors. VOICE CONTROL: Vanance smart light bulbs work with alexa, google assistant and siri etc, hands-free control with your voice command, changing the colors, dimming the brightness. LIGHTING AUTOMATION: Easy to create timers and routines to automate your smart home lighting. SPECIAL FEATURES: Remote & WiFi & Bluetooth, except for the remote control , WiFi & Bluetooth two connenctions methods available, you can setup either of them, that means you can setup them as BLUETOOTH BULBS when you don’t have WiFi. ENERGY SAVING: 9w low wattage, 80w equivalent high brightness, Long last, Vanance smart LED bulb will save up to 90% energy consumption, suitable for home, indoor, bedroom, kitchen, living room, table lamp, cafe, bar, party…”

Smart Light Bulbs 4Pack with Remote, A19 E26 800LM LED Color Changing Light Bulb, WiFi & Bluetooth 5.0, Warm to Cool White, Dimmable, RGB Smart Home Lighting Work with Alexa Google Assistant from Amazon website “Brightness Dimmable: With a dimming range from 1% up to 100%. Voice Control: Get hands-free control of your lights with your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Remote Control and Away Mode: Control your smart light bulb from anywhere with your smartphone using the free Kasa smart app. Energy Monitoring and Scheduling: Monitor real-time energy usage. Drive down energy consumption without losing quality. Trusted and Reliable: Designed and developed in Silicon Valley, Kasa is trusted by over 6 Million users.”

Healthy Ramen Alternatives: Low-Carb & Vegan Options

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

**Disclaimer: Im not an expert here. This is not my culture. This is just my experience and preferences. **

Noodle Obsessed

Well ramen isn’t exactly noodles. Though not everything Asain noodle is considered ramen. Whats the difference? From google “Ramen is usually thicker in texture as compared to regular noodles. They are not as thick as other varieties, but they have a somewhat medium thickness and a chewy texture. Whereas noodles come in a variety of forms and are known for having a thinner consistency with a smoother texture.” Hrmmm. The word “ramen” comes from the Chinese “lamian,” which literally means “pulled noodles.” Yakisoba is a pan-fried noodle dish. And ramen is a noodle dish with soup. They have the same kind of noodles. These noodles are made of egg or wheat flour. “Asian noodles are broadly divided into three types: wheat noodles, rice noodles, andglass or cellophane noodles”. From The Spruce Eats “In many cases, each type of noodle can be served in various ways, like in broth, stir-fried, deep-fried, as well as either cold or hot.” The Spruce Eats further explains “Thinner than either chow mein or lo mein, ramen is traditionally served in a broth with salt, soy sauce, miso, or pork, along with various kinds of vegetables, meat, and other toppings.”

**For the sake of this blog post and my recommendations, Im going to be the lazy American, and just refer to everything as ramen. Please forgive this. Though I do think everything I share is considered ramen anyhow. I think? Its ramen to me. **

Okinawa Daze

I wish I could sound all cosmopolitan. Argue that my love for ramen noodles correlates to my living overseas in Okinawa for a year. Sure, I ate lots of yakisoba and other noodle delights. The vendors and booths were amazing. A totally impactful experience. However, that was 1989-90. I was a very young and pregnant military wife who didn’t get out much. I mainly remember watching a lot of MASH re-runs on FEN-TV while stuck home alone. Though I do think this increased my already love for all things ramen.

Military Town LIfe

Most impactful was growing up in a military community. My hometown of Bremerton, Washington was heavily integrated with Pacific Island food and culture. There were wonderful little asian markets everywhere. Lumpia restaurants and vendors at local games and festivals. We all knew a Pinoy mom who rolled lumpia from home and sold it to friends and coworkers. I thought the entire world was like this. I kind of wish it was.

Summer Vacation and Love Boat

My most vivid memories of loving ramen comes from summer vacation in the 80’s. My best friend Debbie and I would eat ramen for lunch every day. Our mom’s always kept large amounts on stock. They were like 5 cents back then. Still pretty cheap considering. We ate ramen about as much as we watched the Love Boat re-runs on our tiny black and white television. We thought we were so high tech.

Poor Mans Stew

Like “Arrested Development” Carl Malone who could make anything a stew. We learned how to make a plethora of top ramen delights. The right seasoning. Slicing a dab of butter into the mix. Adding cheese and onion. Fried tuna (gross). We tried it all. It was all we could afford often. The college life delight.

Harbinger of Carbs

The problem with ramen is the high carb count. The exhorbiant high carb count. Like ginormous. We found that out later. Like in the 90’s. When we started reading labels and evolving into more conscientious consumers. Way too high. Not worth it at all. And the ingredients were junk paste.

Protein Ramen

When I found protein ramen I about died. Easy like the ramen days of past. Low carbs too. With protein. I stopped eating ramen for years because of the carb count and ptsd from my income challenged days. I never even heard of protein ramen. Vegan ramen was like chasing the mythical unicorn. Many of us vegetarians would have to eat pork or chicken flavor ramen and just tell ourselves there was no animal product. I think I remember an “Oriental” flavor. Could be a fever dream. Unsure. Regardless, I couldn’t believe my luck finding ramen noodles that were so high in protein. I tried a few out. These are my go to ramen noodles.

My Picks

Below are my favorites. I eat them over and over. Being neurodivergent, Im funny like that. I can eat them same thing pretty much every day. These ramens make that easy and healthy(-ier).

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

WhatIF Foods Healthy Instant Charcoal Noodles | Vegan, Air Fried, 17g Protein & 6g Fiber From Amazon website “All our noodles are made using a patented air-frying technology…RICH IN FIBER & PROTEIN: With 17 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber per serving. Unlike traditional ramen noodles, our quick cooking noodles are rich in nutritional value. MADE WITH REGENERATIVE CROPS: Made with the regenerative crop bambara groundnut…WE SAY NO: No artificial colors, palm oil or flavors.”

Immi Ramen. immi Spicy “Beef” Ramen, 100% Plant Based, Keto Friendly, High Protein, Low Carb, Packaged Noodle Meal Kit from Amazon website “immi reinvents the delicious Asian American foods we love with added nutrition…Each bowl contains a whopping 21-22g of protein…All of our products are a vegan friendly option and all of our ingredients are plant-based. Try out our Shrimp and Chicken options. Or try our Variety Pack to try all 3 flavors.”

Momofuku Soy & Scallion Ramen Noodles by David Chang From Amazon website “Our noodles are different from instant ramen. They’re air-dried, never fried. The result: 25% fewer calories than the leading brand, 11g of protein, no cholesterol, no trans fat and no added MSG.  Our noodles are vegan and made with ingredients we’re proud to stand behind: finely sifted wheat flour, water and salt. Please note our product does contain Wheat, Soy, and Sesame.”

Carb Comparison

Here are some photos of the labels so you can see the carb count

More Kitchen Essentials

Ramen Bowl

Traditional ramen bowl

4 Ramen Bowls, 12 pieces Pho set. Red Black Ramen Bowl Set

A sturdy ramen bowl with a handle and is key. They make all kinds. Traditional and microwave. Many you can pop into the microwave and or fill with hot water and cover. Many ramen bowls come with both a cover and a strainer. The handle is important because they are very hot. Traditionally, you bring the bowl up close to your mouth when eating. So the handle makes that easier. I believe it is acceptable to drink the broth out of your ramen bowl like a cup. (at least in my house). But you can also use a spoon.

Heres a great bowl. A great gift for a college student too.

Microwave Ramen and Soup Bowl Set with 2 Bowls, Fork, and Spoon,BPA Free

Chopsticks

For myself, it is easier to eat ramen with chopsticks. From stirring to capturing the noodles. A good pair of chopsticks makes the experience. Plus, IMHO you look kinda cool.

Metal Chopsticks Reusable 18/8 Stainless Steel Chopsticks Multipack Dishw

Creating Your Own Credibility Shelf

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Nerd

Ive worked in library’s most of my life. Books are everything. The community of folks who also work around books are my people. So Ive actually spent hours putting libraries and collections together. Shelving books. Cataloging books. Binding books. Checking books in and out. All of it. I die for a good used book sale. Hunt down used books from the Goodwill, yard sales, Ebay. I can’t resist. This is a passion. In my lifetime, Ive amassed quite an impressive collection.

How to Look Important 101

During Covid, it became acceptable for everyone to work from home. Interviews were no longer done live from a studio or set. They were now on zoom or done remotely. I noticed every expert and professional interview segment featured a prominent bookshelf in back. As if to announce, “this is an expert”. The bookshelf served as proof of credentials. See that bookshelf in back of me? That means I am an expert. Much like the degree hangings and award display. Or title card. The bookshelf shown behind the speaker connotes genuine authority.

Book Cred aka the Credibility Shelf

Hence the term “credibility shelf”. They now and forever have a name. Whatever the size of the bookshelf, the books and the look, matters. They can be hard cover or soft cover. Magazines. Scientific publications. A mix of action figures or snow globes. You want it personal. Your own book selections. What matters to you. Family photos. Pet pictures. Professional awards. A cactus collection. You name it. What is in your personal library? Is it Harlequin romance? DC comics?

Type of Bookshelf

Ive built a bookshelf out of milk crates. Planks and cinder blocks.

Book Ends

I use various things as book ends. From the sturdy metal school library kind. To multi purposing art pieces, large crystals, Tetris type layouts. They are pretty inexpensive and helpful when holding the books together.

My Personal Library

Believe it or not, I still have most of my books from college. No matter how many times Ive moved across the country and world. Ive moved and/or stored my books. My most prized possessions. I can’t let them go. I won’t. Its now a thing. So I amassed this impressive book collection but moved a lot. Which means I often left the bookshelves behind.

One Shelf at a Time

A few years back, a friend of mine was looking at my books on my homemade milk crate shelf and said “you really need a professional looking bookshelf”. She explained how it would free up space and upgrade the look. Just start with one shelf. Go from there. I heeded her advice. Purchased one sturdy shelf from Amazon. Industrial 5 shelf. (I will include a link below) Soon I had two bookshelves. Now I have three. It looks impressive. If I don’t say so myself. I also have a smaller bookshelf upstairs in my office. But the hallmark and highlight of my home is for sure the “credibility shelf”.

Lights

Being Neurodivergent, I am obsessed with lights. I can’t get enough. I love to string them everywhere. Bookshelves look amazing with the right lights. I love how it lights up the credibility shelf. Pun intended. I used strings of ferry lights at first. Loved it. Then I discovered stip LED lights. Wow. Changed the entire look. Note…from my experience, LED strip lights look better behind the shelf. Not attached to the front. For me, it was too chaotic on the front. Attaced to the back of the shelf gives off this almost omnipotent look. Just phenomenal. But its totally a personal preference.


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Heres the bookshelf I purchased. In three separate purchases. Then put the three together as one. I love it.

Himimi 6 Tier Industrial Bookshelf, Vintage Standing Storage Shelf, Display

MaxGear 8.5 in Extra Large Heavy Duty Metal Book Ends

—-If you are just starting out try making a bookshelf with milk crates and zip ties.

Milk Crate Bookshelf

Storex Mini Crate, School Red

Zip Ties (for milk crate bookshelf)

HS Small Colored Zip Ties 6 Inch 600pcs Multi-Color Zip Wire Tie

Most important….the LED strip lights. I recommend adhesive to the BACK of the shelf and one that works with Alexa or Google Home.

LED Lights

WiZ Connected 16.4 ft LED Light Strip – Flowing Multicolor LED Color-Changing Light Strip For Your Smart Home -Voice/App Control – Works with Google Home, Alexa and HomeKit

Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Holiday Survival Tips for Neurodivergent Individuals

/ vadergrrrl / Leave a comment

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase


Its the Most Wonderful Time… Or is it?
The time of year is here my friends. When we are expected to leave our chosen feline fam to venture far out and deep into the woods and weeds…To travel long distance through bus, train, car rides or worse yet, past thecreeper TSA airport agents groping. (Gag me)


I Choose 1000 Cuts
Leaving the safety of our cats and engaging with the void of “humanity”. This is most challenging, if not impossible for me. And they say its the same for most neurodivergent folks. Some of us experience sound, smells, sensations differently. The sound of an uncle chewing. The smell of certain foods cooking. The triggers from old family wounds. Certain relatives who drink too much and continue to cause trauma. Certain relatives who don’t drink but sill love to cause conflict. Its too much. I’m feeling chaotic and panicked just writing about this. The crowds at the airport or even the constraint from a short car ride with family. Or alone. Some of us (hand raised) cant even drive a vehicle without experiencing a panic attack. Much alone ride in a car. Moreover, I cant even leave the house for longer than an hour at a time. Even a 5 minute public engagement can be so draining. Hell, Zoom meetings drain me after 5 minutes most times. Dealing with the public sucks. Dealing with crowds and family…..its much too much. A feat worse than 1000 cuts. I would much prefer the 1000 cuts than dealing with toxic narcissists who refuse to get therapy.


World’s Smallest Violin for Play for Myself
To make things worse, I have food trauma. Well, not really food trauma per se. I just have challenges eating with other people. For numerous reasons. Too many for this post. But mainly, the fact that I’ve been a vegetarian for close to 30 years. My family of origin refuses to this day to make any concessions for my diet. Unless by chance one of their own kids is going through a plant based fad of the year. Then, and only then, will they think of accommodating a non meat eater. “Just pick the meat out” they say. Like that is acceptable. Pure dysfunction and insanity.


And I Say No No No No….I Don’t Ringo No More
My way of coping with this in the past was drinking large amounts of alcohol. And breaking to chain smoke. Oh the good old days. I would also choose to not show up. And I did that a lot. Which I now regret because many family is no longer here. And my nieces and nephews are mostly grown. So that wasn’t the best way of coping. Plus I no longer smoke or drink.


Holy Eggnog Batman.

The holidays are here. Which means spending time away from your cats. With humans. From the fun and functioning to the dystopian dysfunction. Or occasionally, the “fun” in dysfunction. Though, it is okay to go at it with your chosen family. Your cats. Do your own “safe” celebrating. Like brushing your cat and watching Empire Strikes Back on autoplay. (I’ve been there).


Help Me Obi Wan or Wanda Yeah
Regardless, I’ve put together a list of essential survival must haves. If possible, learn skills and show up. Here are my tips….along with some personal recommendations for holiday survival. Cheers and Enjoy. But most of all SURVIVE!

Leave any recommendations, personal experiences, tips or feedback in the comments.

*****you are not alone. If you need help for the stress of handling the holidays. Help is available 24/7.*******
NAMI HelpLine is available M-F, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET. Call 800-950-6264,
text “helpline” to 62640, or chat online. In a crisis, call or text 988 (24/7)
Please reach out https://www.nami.org/your-journey/kids-teens-and-young-adults/young-adults/how-to-seek-help/#:~:text=Contact%20the%20NAMI%20HelpLine%20at,org%20for%20guidance%20and%20support

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Amazon Music 3 months free. Make sure and have your playlist ready. Works with your Alexa devices as well. I play classical on continuous loop. Helps every time. https://amzn.to/4gRRo9o

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting, or Self-Involved Parents Paperback – June 1, 2015
by Lindsay C. Gibson
https://amzn.to/3VWxS3D

The Art of War (Deluxe Hardbound Edition) (Fingerprint! Classics)
by Sun Tzu 
https://amzn.to/3PcCz5G

Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones, Over Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones with Mic
https://amzn.to/4fBofOG

Beats Studio Pro x Kim Kardashian – Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphon
https://amzn.to/40aaDFV

Pyrex Deep 3-Pack Glass Baking Dish Set (9″x13″, 7″x11″, 8″x8″) With BPA-Free Lids
https://amzn.to/407XLQp

Amazon Prime Video free trial (in case you decide to stay home and comfort stream your favorite movie. Or if you are traveling and need to download some for the trip)
https://www.amazon.com/b?node=2858778011&linkCode=ll2&tag=vadergrrrl-20&linkId=0c1234ec723a45b9c84c86cd6c1875d0&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

Tupperware Heritage Collection 7.6 Cup Cookie Caniste
https://amzn.to/3BL9tHq

yescool 20lbs Pink Grey Weighted Blanket for Adults 60″x80″, Cooling, Heavy, Breathable with Glass Beads, Queen Size, Machine Washable
https://amzn.to/4fBoUzE

SNOOZ Pro – Smart White Noise Machine & Travel Case – Real Fan Inside, Non-Looping White N
https://amzn.to/4iRaWMT

Amazon Echo Dot (newest model)
https://amzn.to/4gKcszj

Himalayan Singing Bowls 9 hours on Prime
https://amzn.to/4fu1igw

Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.