Artificial Intelligence, Anyone?

 As a blogger, I was excited to learn about AI and the advent of ChatGPT.  It seemed that was all you heard about online.  Everyone jumped on the bandwagon, and to be honest, I checked it out myself.

I found ChatGPT very useful but a bit limited.  It is unable to access any information after 2021, so you sometimes do not get current or even correct information because of that. 

However, after the big "hooplala" started to fade, it seemed that everyone was getting into the AI ring.  I could easily list about 75-100 new AI tools that are now available for writing, editing videos, text to talk for videos, copywriting, marketing, art, and more.  It seems everyone wants a piece of this pie.

I have used ChatGPT in the past to help me gather information for some of my blog posts, but I rarely just copy and paste the results into my blog.  I usually have to "tweak" it some to fit my niche, or I have to rewrite parts to bring it up to date.  Even with the need to make those changes, it really does help you put out content on a regular basis.

Lately, ChatGPT has been either down or very, very slow. Maybe because they are working on updating it or something.  So I have been trying out some of the other tools available that are also free to use (although they usually have a finite number of times you can access it before they want money). Let me say here that ChatGPT is open source and totally free unless you choose to upgrade it.

Anyway, today I decided to use TailWind's Ghostwriter tool to write this post.  It was really supposed to be about living with a compromised immune system in the post-Covid-19 era.  Since I live with my youngest daughter who underwent a Kidney/Liver transplant 6 years ago and is always going to be on medication to keep her immune system fairly inactive, we still have to be very, very careful in order to keep her healthy.  Hence, the choice of topic for this blog post. 

I know I changed my mind, but I will post for you what I got from using the TailWind Ghostwriting tool so you can see what you get:

The Overlooked Struggle: How Immunocompromised Individuals Are Still Facing Restrictions

As the world slowly begins to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a collective sense of relief and excitement. However, for those who are immunocompromised, the end of restrictions doesn't necessarily equate to a return to normalcy. The reality is that these individuals are still facing numerous challenges and limitations that most of us don't even consider. 

In this article, we will explore the ongoing struggle that immunocompromised individuals are facing, the continued need for caution and public health measures, and the importance of advocating for their rights. 

We will also delve into the specific restrictions these individuals are dealing with and the negative impact it's having on their personal and professional lives. Ultimately, our goal is to increase awareness and empathy for this overlooked struggle and encourage society to take action towards creating more inclusive and accommodating environments.

Need for Continued Caution:

While it's important to acknowledge the progress being made in overcoming the pandemic, we must also recognize that immunocompromised individuals are still at risk. As we move forward, it's crucial to advocate for their rights and create more accommodating environments.,

As the world adjusts to the "new normal," it's important not to forget about the needs of immunocompromised individuals. While many people may see vaccination as the way to move on from the pandemic, it's not that simple for those with weakened immune systems. It's crucial for us to push for more inclusive policies and accommodations for the immunocompromised community.

This starts with amplifying the voices of those who may feel unheard. By advocating for immunocompromised individuals, we can help ensure that their unique needs are taken into consideration when policies are being made. This may include pushing for more remote work and education options, as well as accommodations for medical appointments and treatments. 

We must also work to create more accessible and accommodating public spaces. This may involve mask mandates and social distancing guidelines that take into account the needs of immunocompromised individuals, as well as increased sanitation measures in high-traffic areas.

Overall, advocating for immunocompromised rights isn't just important during the pandemic - it's something that should be a priority in our society. By prioritizing the health and safety of all individuals, we can create a more inclusive world that works for everyone.

The continued restrictions faced:

Despite the initial lift of restrictions for fully vaccinated individuals in some areas, immunocompromised individuals still face a range of limitations due to their increased vulnerability to infections. Many are still advised to stay home, limit contact with others, and avoid crowded areas - all of which can be hugely isolating.

This continued isolation has led to an array of challenges for immunocompromised individuals, including mental health struggles, financial difficulties, and problems with basic tasks such as grocery shopping. Furthermore, the lack of clear guidelines and protections for immunocompromised individuals has resulted in many feeling unsupported and neglected by society.

These ongoing restrictions serve as a reminder that more needs to be done to ensure that those with compromised immune systems are not left behind in the wake of the pandemic. The next section will examine some of the specific problems that isolation creates for these individuals in their personal and professional lives.

Problems that isolation creates at work and at home

Isolation has not only affected the mental and financial aspects of immunocompromised individuals' lives, but it has also caused significant difficulties at work and home. One of the main challenges is the inability to work in a conventional office environment, which has caused job loss or a significant reduction in work hours for many. Working remotely has become the new norm, but not all jobs allow for it, creating unequal opportunities for those who cannot work from home.

Moreover, isolation has made it difficult for immunocompromised individuals to manage their households, especially if they live alone. Simple tasks such as grocery shopping, getting prescriptions filled, and running errands have become a challenge, putting their health at risk if they have to leave their homes. Additionally, they may have to rely on others for help, which can be inconvenient and create feelings of guilt and dependence.

Children of immunocompromised individuals also face difficulties in remote learning and socializing, causing added stress for parents who have to juggle work, homeschooling, and caring for their family's health. The lack of in-person interactions further exacerbates feelings of isolation and loneliness, causing significant mental health issues.

In conclusion, isolation has not only created mental and financial difficulties for immunocompromised individuals but also created problems for them at work and home. Society needs to provide more support and clear guidelines to ensure that they are not neglected or left behind in the wake of the pandemic.,

It's easy to forget that, while most of us have taken steps towards returning to our pre-COVID-19 routines, there are people who still cannot. Immunocompromised individuals have to navigate a world that is not designed with their unique needs and challenges in mind, and it's our responsibility as a society to create a more equitable and accessible environment for everyone. 

We need to continue advocating for their rights, supporting them with resources, and prioritizing public health measures that keep them safe. As we move forward, let's keep in mind that the fight against COVID-19 is not over for everyone, and that we all have a role to play in making sure that everyone can participate fully in society. Let's not forget the words of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, who said, "We must continue to demand that our rights be protected, that our dignity be respected, and that our voices be heard."

Not bad, huh?  This will still need to be "tweaked" if I were to use it as a blog post.  I have to add the images later myself, and that is always a struggle to find the correct image to align with the posts, but so far I have been able to do so.

If AI interests you, there are many, many videos about all the different ones out there now on YouTube.  I can also provide you with a long list of AI tools divided by use/application if you want it.  Just subscribe to my blog and send me message that you want one.

Tik Tok and all the Hullabaloo around it!

 Today's ramblings are courtesy of the internet and all the articles about banning Tik Tok due to possible use by China as a means to spy on Americans and cause undue influence on Americans beliefs and actions.

First, I have Tik Tok on my phone, but rarely use it.  I downloaded it so I could see the shorts that my youngest sends me from Tik Tok.  Otherwise, I am not on the platform. As I stated, my youngest daughter spends almost all of her free time watching Tik Tok videos and claims that she learns interesting and useful things all the time just by watching them. So, I am not on the ban the platform bandwagon as yet.

The US Government has tried before to ban this platform and failed.  I am not really sure that our government has the power to ban an app from existence.  There are still ongoing talks to ban Tik Tok from government phones, which I agree with.  Why do you need a social media platform on a work phone anyway?

This action is quickly being followed by other nations.  The UK and the EU both have enacted bans of Tik Tok on government phones due to the possibility of surveillance and safety of user information. 

Tik Tok is located in Beijing, China and is owned by a private company called ByteDance.  The company denies any sharing of information with the Communist Chinese Government. This company is doing quite a lot to try to show the world that using the platform is safe and secure.

They are moving the customer information servers to other countries; they have engaged with the US Government and are diligently trying to meet their requirements to assure the safety of the platform.  There are, however, still many politicians who fear the company and the possibility of using the stored information about its users for covert intelligence and policy determination, as well as the possibility of making the younger users believe false information that is pro-China and anti-US.  Since the demographic of this platform is mostly teens and young adults, this is not a silly concern.

Overall, this is an issue that is yet to be resolved and is getting major coverage in the news media, so you can't help but see it or read about it, unless you live under a rock.

I am still making up my mind.  I can see both sides of this issue and will wait to make a permanent stand once I see what the Tik Tok Company does to ease the political concerns of our government as well as the other governments.

What do you think about this issue? Have you any thoughts on the matter?  If so, please, let's talk about it.  Leave me a comment and we can begin a conversation (as long as we both can do so civilly).

Now, totally unrelated to this topic, I want to tell you that today is National Panda Day!  Can you think of anything cuter?

  Resources for further reading:

• https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/16/uk-bans-tiktok-on-government-devices-following-us-move.html
• https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/23/eu-commission-bars-employees-from-using-tiktok-citing-security-risks.html
• https://www.cnbc.com/2022/12/13/lawmakers-unveil-bipartisan-bill-that-aims-to-ban-tiktok-in-the-us.html
• https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-eu/sharing-an-update-to-our-privacy-policy

With Easter coming upon us, you might enjoy a previous post about my attempts to make Easter decorations for work here.

Ageing--the Good, the Bad, and the Ridiculous

 Recently, I have been thinking more and more about growing older and what exactly that means to me and what I expect for myself.  There was a time when I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 62, when I feared I might die.  I was not ready to throw in the towel at 62.  I had always said I intended to live to 100 because I want to see how the world turns out.  

So, I did what I knew I had to do and I fought cancer.  I had chemotherapy, which was arduous and unpleasant.  I had 33 radiation treatments during which I had to lay on a table with my breasts exposed while strange people walked around behind me. I learned to divorce myself from my body to prevent embarrassment from being so exposed.  I did everything in my power to be healthy again.  I ate right, I got plenty of sleep, I spent time with my family.  Eventually, it all paid off and I beat cancer.

Once you have had cancer, there is a place in your mind that always says, "just wait for the next shoe to drop", so there is a constant tension.  I decided that instead of waiting I would become VERY proactive.  I went on a Keto diet which has had success with keeping cancer at bay.  I began an exercise program and exercised for 1 hour 5 days a week.  I joined a group of people who became my friends and I enjoyed my social activities with them.  I decided I wasn't dead yet, so I would choose to live.

Now here I am, age 72.  I still intend to live to 100.  I still do everything I can to stay healthy.  But, somewhere in my head there has been a shift, or a change of attitude about what it means to me to grow older.

I watch my sister, who is only 3 years older than I am, grow weak and feeble. She has serious memory issues and is frequently incapacitated by illness and requires hospitalization.  This has become her norm.  Is this what I want for myself?  Am I a bad sister for not wanting to be like her?  

We have always been diametrically opposed in our thoughts and actions.  She has been uncaring about her health and just living her life the way it came.  I have always been interested in ways to improve health.  I love exercise and when I found Keto, I began to feel better with that diet.  We have never seen eye to eye on much.  It seems, looking back, that I was more the big sister to her because I spent years taking care of her and her children.

But now I am thinking about how I want to spend the rest of my life.  Do I want to be healthy? Uh, yes! Do I want to be able to be independent? Uh, yes again!! So what do I need to be doing now to accomplish this?

Ageing today is not the same as it was for my mother and father or my grandparents.  There is much scientific investigation into the physical aspects of ageing that show promise in possible slowing down the process or even halting is entirely.  There is much scientific investigation into the psychological aspects of ageing that show promise in alleviating some of the negative effects ageing has on your self-worth.

Our society adores youth.  It has always been a youth oriented society.  Is this a good thing?  I don't know.  I don't see it changing anytime soon, so we must learn as older adults to make our way in a society that demeans and devalues us.  Sad, but true.

Here are a few articles you might enjoy:

• https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/10/adults-control-aging
• https://www.wired.com/brandlab/2018/04/the-future-of-getting-old/
• https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/ss/slideshow-aging-surprises

Boomers get blamed for everything

I was surfing the internet the other day, which I do frequently when I am between projects or just bored.  I ran across an article that interested me and before I knew it, 3 hours were gone and I was "down a rabbit hole".  The article was about how the boomers had ruined everything for the millennials.  Here is the link to that article.  I read the entire article and then sat and gave it serious thought.  Then I searched for other articles on the topic, making sure I got views from various sources and age groups.  I even went to Reddit and Quora to read what they had posted.  

The more I read, the angrier I became.  It isn't that the facts presented were untrue or slanted (much).  Yes, because of our age now, we do possess the most money, power, etc.  The generations that came after us do not have the same base we do and do not have the American drive that we had drilled into our heads.  I did not take umbrage to the facts they presented but rather to the tone and the vitriol expressed by many of the authors.

I feel that putting all of the baby boomers into a neat little package and then condemning the package is morally wrong.  It is just another form of Ageism in my book.  I understand where most of the younger generation is coming from, but the reality is that we inherited the world we live in, just as they will.  Our parents made messes and mistakes that we had to either correct or learn to live with.  

Most of the people in my generation grew up in a family that either struggled or just made it by.  We, as a group, were not this elite, entitled group.  I grew up learning to make things for myself and when I wanted something from a store, I had to wait for a holiday or birthday to maybe get it.  My parents worked really hard and they told me that I would have to do so too.  We were not poor, but we were far from rich.  Both my parents had to work and my sister and I were "latch-key" babies before there was such a term (much to my chagrin because my sister was mean).

It is not our fault that we were the first generation to have access to birth control and as a result had much smaller families.  Our smaller families, in turn, also had small families.  So the result of that one event in our society is that the Boomers continued to be the largest group with all the following groups being much smaller.  Now, we have a generation coming up that may or may not even have families, so our population will just continue to get smaller and smaller which will have a positive effect on the economy, the environment,  and all the other complaints being thrown about.

Here is another article if you care to join me down the "rabbit hole". This is also another article to peruse.

My answer to all this angst is to tell the younger generations to just wait a few more years and we will be mostly gone.  We are losing our generation daily and when we are all gone, you can run the show.

Are you new to crafting? Don't know what to do or how to do it??

Today I want to talk about crafting.  I have always done crafts from as far back as I can remember.  It helps that my mother encouraged me and bought me any supplies that I needed, but usually I was more a "trash to treasure" type of crafter as a child. I never really thought about the fact that some people have never in their life made something from nothing and don't know the satisfaction that brings.  So here is a post that addresses how to get started on that first project without breaking the bank.

Why craft?

https://thecardswedrew.com/how-to-make-paper-rosettes/

Crafting is a fun and creative way to express yourself and create unique items for yourself or as gifts for your loved ones. However, it's easy to get intimidated by the cost of crafting materials, especially if you're just starting out.  That said, crafting brings you such a sense of accomplishment when you see that you created something that never existed before.  It builds your self-esteem and improves your mood.  Making something requires concentration, some dexterity, and the ability to follow instructions.  Once you have a few projects under your belt, you will start to see possibilities all around you that are speaking just to you!

How do you start crafting?

1. Start with simple projects

One of the best ways to start crafting without spending a lot of money is to begin with simple projects that require only a few materials. For example, you could start with a basic knitting or crocheting project that only requires a single skein of yarn. Alternatively, you could try making paper crafts using just scissors, glue, and paper. Starting with simple projects not only helps you save money but also allows you to build your skills gradually.

https://housing.com/news/home-decoration-ideas-with-paper-for-walls/

2. Look for free tutorials online

There are many websites and YouTube channels that offer free crafting tutorials. You can find tutorials for everything from knitting and crocheting to woodworking and jewelry making. By following these tutorials, you can learn new skills and techniques without having to pay for a class or workshop. Watching and following video tutorials also helps you understand the process from beginning to end so you start out knowing exactly what you will end up with.  It's uncomfortable to be making something that you don't really know how it is going to look like when you are done--kinda makes you nervous and hesitant, which then shows up in the finished project.

https://www.smartschoolhouse.com/diy-crafts/toilet-paper-roll-crafts

3. Use what you already have

Before you go out and buy new materials, take a look around your home to see what you already have. You will be surprised at all the materials you have in your home that are perfect for crafting.  Got boxes?  Cardboard is a wonderful material to use.  There are artists that use nothing but cardboard for their work! Got old magazines? Magazine paper is thick and colorful, so it is perfect for use in some craft projects.  Have you ever seen a portrait made out of little pieces of magazine papers?  They are beautiful!  Do you have empty toilet paper and paper towel rolls? There is a plethora of crafts that can be done with these little jewels. 

https://youtu.be/AlWs-yweNg0

4. Shop at thrift stores and garage sales

Thrift stores and garage sales are great places to find crafting materials at a fraction of the cost of new materials. Look for yarn, fabric, buttons, and other crafting supplies. You can also find inexpensive tools and equipment, such as knitting needles and crochet hooks. Don't forget to look through the clothing at garage sales.  Deconstructing clothing can provide you with a mass of things to use when crafting. Don't be afraid to haggle at garage sales; you may be able to get an even better deal.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/live-bohemian/3338467317/in/photostream/

5. Join a crafting group

Joining a crafting group is a great way to meet other crafters and share materials and ideas. Many crafting groups have "stash swaps" where members can trade materials they no longer need. You may also be able to borrow tools and equipment from other members. Check with your local library, community center, or craft store to find a group near you. You can also find these groups in online forums, crafting sites, and even on social media.  You can get support while socializing.  Crafting has always been a social activity--think quilting bees.

Now that you have all this information, I want to leave you with a few websites I found that might get you started.  The hardest part is deciding what you want to do, so trolling the internet is always a good starting place, so here goes:

https://abeautifulmess.com/daisy-statement-necklace/

http://hocuskocis.blogspot.com/2012/07/diy-shrinky-dink-necklace.html

https://www.apieceofrainbow.com/how-to-make-wreath/

In conclusion, crafting doesn't have to be expensive. By starting with simple projects, using free tutorials, using what you already have, shopping at thrift stores and garage sales, and joining a crafting group, you can save money and still enjoy the many benefits of crafting. So get going and start your project.

I am off to make paper jewelry later today.  I found an artist whose earrings are so beautiful and they are made only of layered paper and paint.  Can't wait to get started!

https://www.allthingspaper.net/2018/09/8-artisans-who-make-beautiful-and.html

tags: craft, crafting, crafting with paper, crafting with what you have, crafting tutorials, crafting groups, making crafts from nothing, starting crafting

Getting Older is Not for the Faint of Heart

 As I approach mid 70's, I sometimes reflect on the changes I am dealing with as I age.  I also do quite a bit of reminiscing about my life, but today I want to talk about how growing older affects us all.  

Recently I have been having issues with my joints.  I realize that working 27 years as a psychiatric nurse may have played a part in this issue I am now having.  I worked long hours on my feet, often dealing with out of control people; sometimes being assaulted by my patients.  It was hard work and, although I am now paying the price, I truly loved my job.  I loved my patients and I thoroughly enjoyed my team.  That said, unfortunately, I am now paying a fairly high price for my service.

I developed the most extreme pain in my right knee last Autumn and it grew to the point that I could not move my right leg without screaming.  So.....many moons later, I now have my own personal titanium knee residing inside my leg. Yea! That experience took many long months to recover from and included three times a week physical therapy.  I am happy to say that, for the most part, all of that is over and I now have a fully functioning leg with only minor issues.

I thought I was through with all of that when my right foot went kaput.  Now, I have had bunions on both of my feet since I was in my 20's and they have never bothered me.  Now, all of a sudden, I developed a hammertoe next to the big toe on my right foot.  That was most unpleasant, but because it continued to rub against my toe, I developed a large ulcer and that sent me to see a Podiatrist who said I would have to have bunion/hammertoe surgery.  

I was not a fan of this idea, so I went for a second opinion.  The new doctor said he would see after we healed up my ulcer. So, three weeks later, I saw him and he said if it wasn't hurting me, no surgery.  I was ecstatic because I do not want anyone else cutting on me.

I thought I was in the clear and I was feeling pretty good.  I was able to walk my dogs again, I was able to exercise again, I was feeling like myself again.

I was recently thinking about how many doctors I have managed to accumulate in my retirement.  There is my PCP, whom I really like; there is my Oncologist, who is very sweet and I like very much; there is my Orthopedic Surgeon, whom I dislike intensely; there is my Podiatrist, who is very sweet; there is my Sleep Doctor, who I cannot stand so I only see his PA; there is my Endocrinologist who follows my thyroid; there is my Hepatologist who is following my liver; there is the Audiologist I see for my hearing loss; there is my Optometrist who keeps my eyesight manageable; and then you add the mammogram, the bone scan, and all the lab techs.

It seems that I am accumulating doctors at an alarming rate.  I can remember the time, not too long ago, when all I had was my GP and I only saw him once a year.

Aging sucks for your body! Don't let anyone tell you different.  The flip side is that aging does not have to suck for your mind or your emotions.  Those are solely under your control.  I firmly believe that.

Even with all that has been going on with my body, I still am actively enjoying my life.  I look forward to learning something new each day.  I enjoy spending time with my family and my fur-babies.  I love socializing with my friends, either in person, on the phone, or online.  Everyday is a chance to improve and make things more enjoyable for myself.  I think it is all in how you look at aging that really makes the difference.  

I hope my story encourages you to really reflect and find the joy in your own life!

"Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever." - Walt Disney

Why Having a Pet is so Good for you, No Matter your Age

Pets just make us happier and healthier

I have always had a pet for as long as I can remember back. It seems that having a dog or cat was just the normal thing to do for me.  I do know that some people don't have pets now and some people have never had a pet.  What a shame.  I find as I age, the benefits of pet ownership are so great that I can not imagine being without my fur babies.

I have researched this topic quite a bit and here is what I have found out:

• Pets help keep your brain healthy. (https://www.sciencealert.com/pets-help-to-protect-your-brain-as-you-get-older-study-suggests)
• Pets can serve as a source of comfort and support. (https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets)
• Pets help to lower your stress and anxiety which in turn may lower your blood pressure (https://www.onehealth.org/blog/10-mental-physical-health-benefits-of-having-pets)
• Pet ownership may act as a buffer against loneliness (see above url)
• Pets help your heart stay healthy (https://www.cnn.com/2020/02/20/health/benefits-of-having-a-pet-wellness/index.html
  
• Pets can help to reduce pain (https://www.onehealth.org/blog/10-mental-physical-health-benefits-of-having-pets)

There are many other benefits to owning pets that I found, but those are the top ones for me.  That said, I looked to see if owning a dog vs. owning a cat made much difference and I believe the answer is no.  The benefits of dog ownership include:

1. Dogs make us feel less alone.

2. Dogs are good for your heart.

3. Dogs help you stop stressing out.

4. Dogs help us cope with crisis

5. Dogs encourage you to move.

6. Dogs make you more attractive—even virtually.

7. Dogs make us more social.

8. Dogs are so adorable they make us love them

9. Dogs make us happier

10. Dogs help seniors with cognitive function and social interaction

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/10-science-based-benefits-dog/

The benefits of cat ownership include:

1. 
   Lower stress and anxiety.
2. Improve your cardiovascular health.
3. Prevent allergies.
4. Reduce feelings of loneliness 

(https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/joys-of-owning-a-cat.htm)

There was one amazing benefit of cat ownership that I was unaware of and the is:

THEIR PURRING HELPS TO HEAL BONES, TENDONS AND MUSCLES

A cat purring is one of the most comforting sounds in the world and while it certainly means your cat is happy and comfortable, the sound has also been long associated with a therapeutic healing ability on human bones and muscle.

A cats purr creates vibrations at a frequency of 20-140 HZ, and studies have shown that frequencies in the 18-35 HZ range have a positive effect on joint mobility after injury, scientists have begun talking about how the cat noise could help humans.

(https://www.goodnet.org/articles/7-scientifically-proven-health-benefits-being-cat-ownerPets)

Overall, I believe that there is enough scientific and anecdotal evidence to show that having a pet in your life is a huge benefit, even if you don't know it.

That said, go out and get yourself a pet now if you don't have one.  It is never too late to reap the benefits of owning a dog or cat; and there are so many out there that need homes and people to love and be loved by.  Go, Adopt!