Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Papagni Winery

 





Third generation valley farmer, grape grower, and wine maker Demetrio Papagni is a leader. His family legacy has been growing grapes for wine making which started back in Bari, Italy. Demetrio's family dreamed of making fine wines and came to the Central Valley in 1912 and started on their American Dream. This tradition continues today and he is proudly  the owner of Papagni Winery in Madera, California. This tradition of excellence continues in the wine industry today!


He's   stayed true to his Italian Roots by creating unique varietals such as the signature Alicante Bouchet.  You can visit the wine tasting room on weekends. It is located at: 9505 Road 30 1/2 Madera, Ca 93636. https://papagniwines.com/

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

What Holiday Movies Have You Watched Already?

 


Getting the holidays off to a good start, I've watched 1) The Holiday, 2) Serendipity, 3) The Santa Clause , and 4) Christmas With The Kranks. 


There are so many good one's this year I've decided to get a head start.


Here are some of my favorite scenes.

Driving on the Left, The Holiday








Wednesday, November 1, 2023

The Thankful Journal by Gina Meyers

 



Every November, since 1998, I have handmade a journal for my family to draw and write in. Specifically what they are thankful for. So many years later--the sentiment is the same, writing down gratitude makes us more grateful for what we have.

So come every November the 1st, like clockwork, I get out either a new notebook, the old tattered "Thankful Journals" from years past, a piece of paper and a pen and I write what I am thankful for. It has been fun reminiscing on what the children through the various stages of their lives have been grateful for.

My children have love teasing me about how I have occasionally changed the name from The Thankful Journal to the Gratitude Journal, but the sentiment is the same. :) 


Be grateful for the good things in your life and they will multiply.


I am halfway through Rhonda Byrne's book, The Magic. Rhonda's book, The Secret, has sold over 30 million copies worldwide. 


In 2011, I felt inspired to write Attitude of Gratitude. Attitude Of Gratitude is like my life, a work in progress. The tips and the sections in the book are meant to bring peace, joy, and a fulfilling life. Though none of us know how long we have to live, the purpose and intention in Attitude Of Gratitude is to enjoy the life that God has given us. Through the exploration of a new concept with key principles, Attitude Of Gratitude will tell you exactly what to do in any and all situations by looking within. Through reading stories of challenge and inspiration as well as reading quotes from famous individuals, the reader will focus on the three C's, the only three things that matter in this universe, Choice, Catalyst, and Companionship. Through the analyzing of these three C's or key principles, you will change the life you have into the life of your dreams. As Socrates said, "the unexamined life is not worth living." Ponder upon the meaning of this statement while you read quotes and short stories.


You can now listen to Attitude of Gratitude on Audible or you can purchase the PDF or E Book on my website. Recently, I wrote, Attitude of Gratitude Journal. Easily, you can print out the pages and create your own Thankful/Gratitude Journal.


https://ginameyers.com/shop/ols/products/attitude-of-gratitude-digital-book


https://youtu.be/RsQuD4u57cs?feature=shared




https://www.amazon.com/Audible-Attitude-of-Gratitude-Journal/dp/B0CH1TWHKM

Like what Napoleon Hill says in his best-selling book, Think and Grow Rich, your mind has the capacity to reach anything you set out to do. But you have to be ready to hear it.

People come into our lives for a reason. Mainly to teach us lessons. When a person has a good intention to bring about a positive change in your life, you have willed this person to cross your path. When you open your heart, mind, body, and spirit, and are ready to hear what you need to hear in order to succeed with whatever goals you have in life, you have the ability to succeed.

Attitude of Gratitude Journal is like my life—a work in progress. The tips and the sections in this audiobook are meant to bring peace, joy, and a fulfilling life.


Read Gina's Favorite Books of 2023

https://shepherd.com/bboy/2023/f/gina-meyers



Monday, October 23, 2023

Manifesting Mondays, Living With Intent what I learned from Mallika Chopkra, Eckhart Tolle, Rhonda Byrne, and myself, by Gina Meyers


 

I recently found this photo on my phone. Even though the picture is from another season, it reminds me there is beauty is all seasons.



And here's a picture from October 22, 2023.


Last week I listened to a talk hosted by Fresno State and Speech given by Author, Mallika Chopkra, daughter of Deepak Chopkra.


This is what I learned from  Mallika which she told us she wrote about in her book, Living With Intent: My Somewhat Messy Journey to Purpose, Peace, & Joy. She uses the  Intent Acronym.


I (Incubate)

N (Notice)

T (Trust)

E (Express)

N (Nurture)

T (Take Action)  


How often are you living with intent? Often, based upon life stressors we live by the seat of our pants, everyone becoming amateur firefighters, dealing with whatever emergency is critical to extinguish in the moment. Living with a life full of gratitude like Rhonda Byrne describes in her book, Magic helps to calm the nerves and build a plan for each day. By having an Attitude of Gratitude we can have the life of our dreams. 

PDF version of Attitude of Gratitude by Gina Meyers


I just finished listening to the book, A New Earth: Awakening To Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle. Mallika recounted a story of arranging a meeting in San Francisco with Eckhart Tolle which was nine months in the making. She described not feeling great and needing to catch a plane from Southern California to Northern California for their very important meeting which she hoped to use some tidbits of wisdom from Mr. Tolle for her Power of Intent Book she was still in the process of writing. 


From the story she described, she was expecting life shattering information from the world-described spiritual guru, but what she got instead was a man who was "Living in the now." She described it being 12 noon and there were church bells chiming in the distance. In that very moment, Mr. Tolle asked Mallika, "do you hear that?" She stated she suddenly became calm and started living in the moment and enjoyed listening to the church bells.


There is a famous phrase and it goes something life this: 

"People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime." But you are going to BE with you for your lifetime, so no matter what season you are in, "you've got you kid." So here's looking at "YOU Kid."

In Acts 14:17, it says, "he has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy." The seasons were even brought up in Genesis, so we now there has been a design all along for seasons changing.

In Ecclesiastes 3:1: it says, "there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens."


And for living in the now, Matthew 6:34 The Good News: Don't worry about the things that haven't happened yet. Live in the moment, and leave your worries for tomorrow.


Buy Dream It Alive Manifestation Kit Today!


So for this Manifestation Monday, what qualities are you going to exhibit to live a life full of intent and gratitude. Here is a list of important qualities to obtain or if you already have them, keep it up. 

1. Have a passionate mission.

2. Have a tremendous willingness to collaborate

3. Are not obsessed with perfection.

4. Thoroughly master the core skills in life.

5. Set priorities and stick with them.

6. Are willing to take risks.

7. Learns how to relax and reflect.

8. Learns how to visualize. 



Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Figuratively Speaking: A Game of Exaggerated Language by Gina Meyers

 


It figures I would come up with a game based upon my experiences being a fourth grade substitute teacher for two weeks.


The game is simple and fun.The object of the game is to learn the difference between literal and figurative language.  Sometimes when I speak, I am literal other times figurative. But most of the time, I'm sarcastic, unintentionally of course. LOL.


A hyperbole is a figure of speech that uses an exaggerated or extravagant statement to create a strong emotional response. As a figure of speech, it is not intended to be taken literally. Hyperbole is frequently used for humor.


They ran like greased lightning.


He has tons of money.


His brain is the size of a pea.


He is older than the hills.


She is as big as an elephant!

I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.


I have told you a million times not to fib.


I was hopping mad!


I nearly died laughing.


There are a million other things to do.


You're always doing that.


Go and catch a falling star. 

Saturday, June 3, 2023

Dr. Allan G. Hedberg, Thoughts on His 86th Birthday

 


Hear words of wisdom from Dr. Allan G. Hedberg concerning his 86th birthday.







FAMILY LEGACY MEMO #2


SO, I AM NOW 86 YEARS OLD


The other day, I reached the 86th  milestone of life.  It came and allowed family and a few friends to express best wishes for the future over brunch with Bernice and an office party.  Within 24 hours it was a fleeting memory. All my family joined in with cards, phone calls, and gifts.  These are times when you reflect of the value and the depth of family relationships 


The age of 86 is not a particularly profound birthday or age milestone.  It is significant, however, when celebrating and placing a personal meaning on the event in some special way.  To me, the day was not particularly profound, but it does present opportunity for reflection.  I now share my reflections with you in this family legacy manifesto (#2).  


REFLECTIONS:

On the day of my birthday, three clients expressed not only their well wishes, but their admiration for my appearance of being less than 86, They each called attention to my lifestyle that is active and vigorous for my age. I guess I can add my ongoing commitment to my professional practice and my patients as a clinical psychologist. I guess I can include my commitment and involvement with my family and friends in that as well.  


I was asked how I do it. What are the keystones of my life that keep me vigorous, productive, and healthy?  I had to admit that I really never thought much of that particular question nor was I  generally aware that I really do live a productive life above the line that most people experience at this same age.  


When I was asked this question by three people, it prompted me to note the keystone components of my lifestyle.  That prompt caused me to pause and reflect.  At the time I gave three or four points that they were requesting in the hopes of not only answering their question adequately, but giving them guidance in their own life as to how they can live a high quality of life at whatever age that they were at the time or will attain.  Now I have sat back and reflected more seriously and more comprehensively as to how I have lived and how I shall live.  Here goes…


First, let me comment about my general health and well-being.  Shortly after I started my doctoral studies in 1964, at Queen’s University, I contracted Sarcoid disease and was hospitalized.  It took me about two months to recover.  I was supported and encouraged by Bernice and our daughter Carrie who took her first steps outside my hospital window as I watched and clapped.  I kept attending classes every day and engaged in my graduate program without missing a step.  It was tough. I was totally tired and often napped.  I recovered with much support from Bernice, friends, and the church we were attending at the time.  


The next time I sought medical attention was not because I needed it, but because Bernice wanted me to get a comprehensive medical examination.  After resisting her for awhile, I finally consented and did so in 2014, fifty years later.  I had not seen a doctor or had any medication during that 50-year span.  Interestingly, I had no medical issues at that time either until 2022, when I developed some type of heart condition resulting in a very slow heartbeat, fatigue, and a low pulse.  Within 6 months of consulting a variety of medical consultants and following certain medical procedures, I recovered and have had no medical issue since.  I live a full physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and recreational life.  I trust the Lord that this will continue for many years into the future.  


First and primary, I want to thank the Lord that I have lived a healthy life, a full and successful life, and a life that has been sprinkled with international travel, many friends, a great church community, a full and satisfying professional career, and the writing of 15 books and over 175 articles on a variety of topics related to psychology. I have had a satisfying teaching career, and the satisfaction that comes with being a leader in the national community of psychologists, serving as president of several different psychological associations and business enterprises.  I would add to this the enjoyment and the satisfaction that comes from knowing that I have been a consistent and faithful leader within my church and the general Christian community for the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ and its impact on people the world over.  


At the same time, let me add that life has not been without its trauma and high levels of stress, disappointments, hurts, painful experiences, and heart breaking relationships.  To be sure, I have been let down, betrayed, falsely accused, attacked, and abandoned by many, the worst of which has been a few close friends I have fostered over the years.  Each of these experiences were difficult to overcome and live beyond.  I have done that fairly well, although such experiences never leave without marks being left behind on your memory, personality, emotions, and world view.  Obviously, each of these is a topic in and of itself, but not at this time.  


KEYSTONE MARKERS:

So, what are the keystone markers that have shaped my life and allowed me to live the life I have lived?  What are the keystone markers that have helped my cope with frustration, hurts and hardships?  What are the keystone markers that have allowed me to be successful, achieve, and contribute to the life of others? 


It is important to note that these are not iron clad and they are not proven patterns of behavior, or are guaranteed to help anyone live a life even close to what I have experienced.  They mark my life.  I do recommend that you consider such components for your life and encourage such living in the life of your children. Perhaps you can pick out a few pointers and make them your “key stone markers” as you go forward.


  1. A life based on the Christian faith. Such living is marked with an ongoing confidence in God’s prevailing purpose for my life and to use my life for the good of others. With faith genders hope.  Hope genders confidence and expectation that good will prevail and that God’s will is stronger than any other force and will ultimately prevail.

  2. Engage in creative activity.  Creativity is a journey of the unknown.  You start somewhere, but do not know where we’ll end up.  The journey is unique, stimulating and the result surprising.  It is not uncommon for one creative project to generate another and then another.  Each project adds zest to life.  I have had many such projects. And many more to follow.


  1. Routine physical exercise. To be sure, bodily movement is important for health.  However, it’s not just the day-to-day routine activity but it is the times of excess where you exert energy,  stretch the limits, push the limits, challenge the heart, and experience exhilaration.  Twenty minutes of such activity each day is minimal, but still helps.  It may not be all at once.  It can be in spurts of three of five minutes each.  For me, it’s a middle of the night exercise of 20 minutes and a visit to the local fitness center three to four times weekly, 40 minutes each visit.


  1. Nutritional supplements.  Thankfully, I have not needed or utilized medication until I was 85.  However, nutritional supplements have been utilized for many years.  These include a general vitamin, Vitamin D, Fish Oil, a baby aspirin, and I added Zinc when COVID came bouncing upon us.  That’s it.  


  1. Engage in social relationships and interpersonal relationships.  As a psychologist, I have over 50 years of meeting and talking personally with at least 7 to 9 people daily.  They all add to my life and add a level of stimulation of ideas as well as interpersonal challenges.  In addition, I have always maintained a circle of male friends as well as couples that Bernice and I have enjoyed together over the years.  However, several years back I began to count the number of men in my life who have died and left me behind.  As I write this, the count has now reached 45 men I have considered friends and/or close associates.  Each have left a mark of absence in my life.  Replacing these friends has not been easy.  I do remember with distinction when our three children left the home to go to college and begin their life of independence.  Each left a mark of absence and loneliness in my life even though we maintained a relationship over time from afar.  This was especially notable when Ethan, the last of the three, left home for the university.  He was very special to me as he was the last of our children to leave home for college.  I then lost my last of my three “playmates.” 

 

  1. The relaxation response.  A time of relaxation has become increasingly important and appreciated.  For some, relaxation means living on a chaise lounge.  For me, it is a change of pace, a chance of scenery, a change in routine.  I accomplished this through a variety of relaxation activities and exercises such as fishing, golf, swimming, and sometimes just an afternoon nap.  One of the very important skills I learned in my clinical training as a psychologist was what we know is the “relaxation response.”  That is a systematic method of learning to let go of muscle groups and reduce the sensation of muscle tension, let go, and let the body and mind become tranquil and agile for a designated period of time.  I have taught this relaxation response to hundreds of patients over the years with good results in their life.  




  1. An adequate sleep schedule is vital to healthy living.  Research clearly indicates that adequate sleep falls within the range of 6 to 8 hours per night.  Research also indicates that the early hours of the night are the best and most healthy sleeping hours. REM sleep must be experienced and protected.  I have maintained that throughout my life, generally within the 7-hour of sleep schedule.  While I did not nap throughout most of my years, this has been the case in the last five years whether that’s a nap on the bed or falling asleep in the blue chair while watching the late news.  A nap and sleep for me has been refreshing and rejuvenating.  I benefit from these brief periods of sleep.


  1.  A positive, healthy family life.  Without a doubt, the Hedberg family life has been healthy and supportive, and uplifting.  While we have had our share of disagreements, we have not let those disagreements degenerate into unresolved argumentation, resentment, or unfinished business.  Differences have been resolved and we have moved forward as a family.  While recognizing the role of the parents as the primary decision-maker, we have always allowed our children to voice their opinions and those opinions be considered.  Our family supports and loves each other and together we support friends and those within our realm of social connection.  We celebrate each other’s successes, achievements, and special days.  A positive family life gives energy and reduces stress.  It does not sap energy out of any one family member.


  1.  Healthy eating plan.  Yes, I have at times overindulged on unhealthy food choices.  However, generally speaking, I have tried to keep my food choices in the healthy range and moderate amounts. Fruits and veggies have become increasingly important in my diet. Lately, the goal is to have more chicken and fish and less red meats. The next step is to have less butter, salt, bread and sugar. Over the years, I have been more conscientious in eating more appropriately and healthfully.  


THE NO THANK YOU LIST

Lastly, it may be important to identify several activities in which I do not engage, have never engaged, and continue to vow not to be included in my life.  Yes, there are times and opportunities to which one must say “no thanks.” Without comment, these include the following:

1. Alcohol use

2. Any form of drug use

3. Pornography

4. High-risk behavior and activities

5. Female relationships beyond Bernice

6. Gambling

7. Cussing

8. Self-defeating thinking and talk


In conclusion, I pen this family legacy manifesto (#2) not to be braggadocios, but to be explementary to my family, friends, and those that may look upon my life as an example for their life and style of living.  To be sure, my life has been full of enjoyment, stimulation, excitement, as well as challenges, disappointments, and hurts.  I continue to look forward, however.




The goal and intent have always been to press forward to the high calling that God has called me to live and share with others.  This family legacy manifesto (#2) is one way to share my sense of personal urgency, personal responsibility, and personal benefit for all who have taken time to read this personal document of living life fully.  I keep reminding myself, it is not the years one has lives, but the quality of life one lives.  


Allan

May, 2023