DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER~National Marriage Week #5-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA

National Marriage Week 2026 will be observed from February 7 to 14. The theme for this year is "Man and Woman He Created Them: Together With Purpose."

Sometimes marriage can seem like a never-ending see-saw ride, where couples came together, fell apart, broke each other's heart's, came back together, ect.

Couples begin to think "can you start over in a marriage?"

The answer is YES!

A “marriage reset” can feel like a breath of fresh air.

An opportunity to rediscover what made it all so special in the first place.

Gladys Knight - 'The Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me' Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lGrShe7t7c&list=RD1lGrShe7t7c&start_radio=1

Every relationship faces its ups and downs - marriage is no exception; differences between two people can sometimes lead to disappointments and distance - but this does not mean the marriage bond is broken … it simply means you've come to a rough patch in your journey together.

Sometimes life crowds our time together, responsibilities once considered a blessed purpose come to feel like a burdensome responsibility, and the spark that once lit everything up seems like a distant memory. It is not that love has vanished, or that the marriage is broken; it just feels buried under the weight of time, responsibilities, and unspoken emotions. Every marriage has its seasons: moments of sunshine, a few storms, and sometimes long stretches of calm that can feel a bit too quiet ... nothing seems to be happening - a disquiet that seems suddenly very loud.

Love evolves, and so does a relationship; the reality is that we all have expectations of what marriage will be like, but our partners can never live up to all of these expectations. At the same time, our partners have expectations of us that we may not always meet - this is normal. As the marriage unfolds, expectations loosen up - reality sets in … and spouses learn to give each other grace; to learn more about each other's wants, needs, desires; and to grow at their own pace through these learning phases.

Reconnection Stage: This stage involves making a conscious effort to reconnect, prioritize quality time together, and rekindle intimacy.

If your union has reached a place where you find neither of you can agree on anything … chances are that you are not really fighting about what to eat for dinner but rather are stuck in a cycle of negativity. It is easy to blame your spouse for everything that goes wrong in the relationship, but the reality is that it takes two people to make a marriage. Taking time to reflect on your own actions, habits, and areas for growth can strengthen your role in the relationship and create space for positive change (this approach has been very beneficial for me, and Holland). Peace can become a lens through which you see the world. Be it. Live it. Radiate it out. Peace is an inside job that creates a a warm, welcoming, living space around us.

When I was a teenager, I read two things that stuck in my mind - and I rule my life by them: "Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today" & "Remember the past, plan for the future, but live for today, because yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come." Life is limited - wasting it on pettiness is ridiculously pointless.

We know our minds are powerful tools - and when used effectively, they can offer the means to create the Life of our Dreams; daily reminders to be grateful where we are today - and to know that where we are is part of the journey to  our dreams.

A simple intentional thought.

A simple supportive action.

A simple reconnection message.

Gerry Rafferty - Right Down the Line: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR8RiBMecx4

Offering positive affirmations is a simple undertaking that often reaps substantial rewards.

A little love goes a long way …

Feelings of happiness, joy and abundance grow when we make up our minds to be happy. Find joy in everything you choose to do. Every task, your relationship, your home environment; it’s your responsibility to love it, or change it.

The path to getting where you want to be isn’t always going to be easy;  but as long as you show up each day and keep focused on your dreams and goals … you will get there. It may not happen overnight - and in fact it may take longer than you had hoped - but you can get there. Consistency and believing in what you have together are key.

Intentional reconnecting will get where you want to be 💞

On other topics today …

While drinking my morning coffee, I noticed that the predicted rain had arrived; and that my night-owl Taurus had drifted off to the backbeat of the rain maker clouds:

The predicted rainfall has begun in earnest …

Raindrops picking up speed & my bull taking things slow 😉

Chuckling to myself at the sight of his Q-tip "nose ring" (his nose has been broken so many times in his young adult years [cowboy, oil rigger, young & stupid], that he swears by this method when sleeping). Then I finished scrolling FB silliness - and slipped into the back room for a quick workout …

My eyes saw 'Gratitude', 'Love', 'Man', 'Health' = I'm gonna be running with it & giving it full reign.

I've posted my workout - along with examples of how to proceed with each exercise set. I am sorry about the poor quality if at least 2 of the exercise examples … for whatever reason the internet geeks {making things better for you!} decided to break the link between Blogger & YouTube uploads, I could only do what I could do with what I have to work with. I hope at some point, links will be allowed to flow between Blogger & YouTube again. Things flowed  much easier that way.

The Darebee Feel Good Now Workout is a mostly cardiovascular-activation type of workout. It will make you move your body, it'll work your heart and lungs and it will leave you feeling better after you finish than you did before you started. And that is, actually, exactly what makes exercise good for us.

Muscles Used.

March Steps w-Arm Circles~10-15 reps x2; Windmills~8-12 reps x2; Raised Arm Twists~10-15 reps x2; Side Jacks~12-20 reps x2

The Arms Circle Marching On Spot exercise is safe for a 69-year-old woman to do. These exercises are designed to be low-impact and suitable for various fitness levels, making them ideal for seniors. They help improve shoulder mobility and reduce stiffness, contributing to overall well-being and independence. It is important that you maintain a steady marching rhythm while keeping your shoulders relaxed and engaged. This exercise is designed to strengthen and tone your upper body, particularly your arms, shoulders, and back muscles. One common mistake to watch out for is swinging your arms too forcefully. Instead, focus on maintaining controlled movements and keeping your arms at a comfortable height. Another mistake is tensing up your shoulders, which can lead to strain and discomfort. Remember to keep your shoulders relaxed and engaged throughout the exercise. Always prioritize safety; if there is excessive pain, stop.

Arms Circle Marching On Spot~10-15 reps x2

The Touch Touch Windmill exercise is generally considered safe for a 69-year-old woman to perform, provided she has a good range of motion and sufficient strength. It is a multi-planar exercise that can help strengthen the core, hips, and shoulders, which are important for overall stability and balance. However, it is crucial to listen to your body and stop immediately if you feel pain, dizziness, or discomfort.

Windmill Toe Touch~8-12 reps x2

Get ready to tone your core with the Standing Torso Twist. This exercise targets your obliques and helps improve your overall stability. The safety of performing the Torso Twist Arm Swings for a 69-year-old woman depends on her overall health, fitness level, and any specific health conditions she may have. Listen to your body: if you experience pain or discomfort, stop immediately.

Torso Twist Arm Swings~10-15 reps x2

Side Jacks are a variation of jumping jacks where you take a step sideways with one leg instead of jumping outward with both legs. This movement makes side jacks easier on your knees but less intense than regular jumping jacks. Side jacks can be useful for warming up, dynamic upper back stretching, or improving coordination. They work a few more muscles than more typical low-impact cardiovascular exercises like cycling or walking. The safety of Side Jacks for a 69-year-old woman depends on her overall health and fitness level - it is crucial to listen to your body and stop immediately if you feel pain, dizziness, or discomfort.

Step Side Jacks~12-20 reps x2

As with marriage, so it is with your health and body toning - the rough edges are being worked on to hone a beautifully shaped diamond.

Diamonds are forever.

*February 7, 2026 - NATIONAL MARRIAGE WEEK #1-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/national-marriage-week-1self-care-2026.html

*February 8, 2026 - CHAPTER 2~National Marriage Week #2-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/chapter-2national-marriage-week-2-self.html

*February 9, 2026 - LOVE~National Marriage Week #3-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/lovenational-marriage-week-3-2026self.html

*February 10, 2026 - TEAM UNITY~National Marriage Week #4-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/team-unitynational-marriage-week-4.html

TEAM UNITY~National Marriage Week #4-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA

National Marriage Week 2026 will be observed from February 7 to 14. The theme for this year is "Man and Woman He Created Them: Together With Purpose."

I'm not feeling too swift today ⚕️

I was drinking my morning coffee, and gazing out the window … when I noticed Park Maintenance walking the grounds & spraying the ground. Whatever they were spraying to combat the gnat swarms has made me a little loopy, so I hope this post comes together in a coherent fashion 😉

"Take one for the team" is more than a slogan - it becomes a motto when a married couple reach the cooperation stage.

Overview of the Stages of Marriage

Honeymoon Stage 🥰: This initial phase lasts from a few months to about three years. Couples are often deeply in love, experiencing intense passion and excitement. Everything about the partner seems perfect, and the focus is on building intimacy and trust. 

Realization Stage 🤔: As the honeymoon phase fades, couples begin to see each other more realistically. This stage involves recognizing each other's flaws 🔍 and differences 🤷‍♀️ , which can lead to disappointment 🤨 and conflict 😡 Communication becomes crucial as couples learn to navigate these challenges.

Rebellion Stage 😈: In this stage, individuals may assert their independence more strongly, leading to power struggles 😤 and disagreements 😟😪 Couples must learn to resolve conflicts peacefully ✌️ and negotiate 🤝 their needs to maintain harmony 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨

In our marriage, the Honeymoon Stage, the Realization Stage, & the Rebellion Stage of marriage occurred simultaneously 😵‍💫; pretty much from the start 😱 

Joan Baez - 'Diamonds and Rust' Lyrics: 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ST9TZBb9v8&list=RD1ST9TZBb9v8&start_radio=1)

Cooperation Stage 👌: After navigating the rebellion stage 🔄, couples often reach a point of cooperation 💕 They learn to work together as a team, balancing their individual needs with those of the relationship 💞 This stage emphasizes compromise and mutual support. We reached this stage about 6 months ago - it's a continual work in progress.

Marriage hinges on team cohesiveness = a harmonious whole = unity.

Team unity 💎 begins with self-sacrifice.

With the small acts of service my husband does, he goes out of his way at times to make sure my life is as easy as possible, in acts of service he can manage without spiking his pain level beyond tolerable - I say small because we are retired; he no longer has to put in long, grueling physical labor. We do not have children together, so he doesn't have to field child-rearing landmines … and my children vacated my life years ago. Our life is pretty laid-back and carefree; the heavy-lifting, stress-filled days, are behind us. His acts of service now are shouldering the hook-up, maintenance, and security of our home on wheels: and taking on the "responsibility" of me (I don't like that mindset - it's makes me sound like a liability instead of an asset; but it's how he was raised - it's the macho cowboy way 🤠 of gender roles; he comes from genuine cowboy stock - himself worked on a ranch doing range patrol, cattle drives, and fence line work; & some of his cousins' children still do the rodeo circuit).

My acts of service are making a comfortable home 💕 & create a serene environment 😇; preparing healthy, tasteful, & purposeful meals 🥗🍲🥣🥧🐟🍗🥩🥖 (body fuel with medicinal benefits); smoothing the rough edges without undue exertion 💎; & meeting him halfway with emotional understanding 💝 - while trying to decipher the needs, wants, & desires, he's not communicating very well 🤔

His presence in my Life makes my life easier 😎; my presence in his life makes his life easier 😘

His height makes my life easier; my short stature makes it easier for him to feel needed 🦁 - beyond the basic every day acts of service he shoulders to keep our free-wheeling lifestyle rolling smoothly along. His quiet ways of getting me out of my head and out of house … makes my life easier - sometimes this comes in the form of an order-to-go meal 🥢🍕🌮; or in the form of an impromptu short, local, drive 🚘 (surprising me with an uploaded playlist of my favored tunes 📀): other times, it involves him not knowing what to say or do … so, he quietly gets busy doing a job 🛠💼 around the house that he's been putting off for a while (like switching out the microwave; leveling the washer-dryer combo; resetting the bedroom sliding mirror closet doors; resetting the sliding farmhouse doors; switching out switches & switch plates; ect.: things he gets busy doing in the moment that he's aware will make my hausfrau tasks easier) - things he understands with his manly brain 🧠 that will convey to me by example that he loves me the best way he knows how 💝; my quiet ways of allowing him space to unwind at his own pace 🐢, in his own way 🎧💻🤘; of observing 👀, taking note of limitations 🤔, & guiding him into a restful state without making it obvious that he needs to take a break 😘 His dinking around inside and outside of Independence, to make life on the road safe and worry-free, makes my life easier; me taking care of interior necessities that make life on the road safe & worry-free, making his responsibility tasks easier & attitude lighter when it comes time to move on.

Even though Holland is an original vagabond legend who had already spent the bulk of his life on the roads we've traveled together these 34 months 🚘⛽️🗺️🧳🏔️👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨, he promised me he would take me to those places - so the gypsy in me  could experience them, myself. His agreeing to Road Gypsy with me, seriously makes my life easier; and I gently prod him into tourist mode so he, too, can enjoy road gypsy retirement enjoyment 😎 - easing the decades old road-weary-work-horse mentality of racing from one job to the next. Life, for both of us is to be enjoyed, not simply endured. So, it is easy to thank him for all the noticed things - and the other things he isn't even aware of that he does to make my life easier. Under all the gruff bluster 🦁, and macho attitude 🤠, he really is a good man 😘 - and he deserves recognition for that. And, on the flip-side, he is becoming more vocal in appreciation for the little things he notices I do, to make his life easier, too.

And because we are a team … I am careful to keep the scales balanced: I've learned to be careful saying what I liked, or where I'd like to be - because he would file those words away, and start researching the best ways to make those things come about: he never forgot a single word I ever uttered - he'd always surprises me, saying, "See Baby? I always hear what you say, even though sometimes you don't think so. I hear you & I remember everything you say."

Every decision Holland made, he considered me: even when he was frustrated, or angry with me - whether it was researching and planning a scenic route from A to B, he'd rather have skipped; broadening his food intake to include exotic dishes I enjoy (like Chinese, Thai, Indian (Asia), & Jewish dishes); the music that bounces off Betsy's cab walls while on the road … all these things are love concessions.

Bryan Adams - 'Everything I Do, I Do It For You' song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0pdQU87dc8&list=RDY0pdQU87dc8&start_radio=1

I am appreciative & I keep the Team  Work balanced, so my husband never has need to feel the weight of unified responsibility rests solely on his broad shoulders.

I pay attention to what he says; I pay attention to the vibrations of a wounded heart shared with me in unguarded moments; I learn his likes & dislikes - then, I do what I humanly can to make his life easier, to shower him with love to soothe, and to surprise him with unexpected preferences & interests he, as a bachelor would not indulge himself with. Because he does so much for me, and gives me freely what is within his power to give - I return the favor.

Traveling Wilburys - 'Handle With Care' song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBkN03eF1x8&list=RDTBkN03eF1x8&start_radio=1

That's Team Unity 🤝

My Senior Exercise Plan today worked lower body muscles … and was done to the raindrop tempo on Independence's rooftop 😁

The gluteus maximus doesn't just help fill those back pockets in jeans and shorts, it also helps with posture, sprinting, jumping and kicking. As a matter of fact it powers so many of our upright movements that it's a wonder we haven't got more workouts dedicated to working out this particular muscle group. The Darebee Butt Lift Workout lives fully up to its premise and promise. The exercises will help lift your butt.

The safety of the Darebee Butt Lift Workout for a 69-year-old woman depends on her individual health and fitness level. It is generally recommended that seniors engage in exercises only if they are comfortable with the movements and can perform them correctly. The workout includes exercises that may be challenging for some seniors who experience joint health & vertigo (balance dizziness), so always prioritize safety; if there is excessive pain, stop.

Side Kick~8-12 reps x2; Bridges~5 reps x3; Back Kicks~8-12 reps x2; Donkey Kicks~12-15 x2

The Side Kick exercise targets the glutes, hips, and thighs, promoting strength, stability, and flexibility; the core muscles are also engaged. The safety of Side Kicks for a 69-year-old woman depends on her overall health and fitness level. Side kicks, like other high-impact exercises, can be particularly risky for seniors due to the potential for joint strain and muscle soreness. It is crucial for individuals to assess their fitness level and consult with a healthcare provider before engaging in any new exercise routine. Side kicks, along with other high-impact exercises, should be approached with caution and may not be suitable for all seniors.

#Below are a couple low-impact alternatives to the intensity of a regular side kick - do the bodyweight diagonal punch & a choice of 1 side kick exercise shown:

Bodyweight Diagonal Punch~10-12 reps x2

Side Lunge Kick.gif~8 to 12 reps x2; if vertigo is an issue you can use a chair, or counter support, if necessary.

Standing Side Kicks exercise~8 to 12 reps x2; if vertigo is an issue you can use a chair, or counter support, if necessary.

It is generally safe for a 69-year-old woman to do the Bridge Exercise. The bridge exercise is a low-impact, functional movement that strengthens the core, glutes, and lower back, making it a perfect exercise for seniors looking to stay active and reduce injury risk.

#Here is an alternate Bridge exercise that may be easier on some backs:

Bodyweight Glute Bridge Walk~5 reps x3

The safety of performing the Push Extensions Back Kicks exercise for a 69-year-old woman depends on her individual health condition and fitness level. Factors such as joint health, balance, and any underlying health conditions should be considered; it is essential to listen to the body and not push beyond one's limits to avoid injury. Always prioritize safety; if there is excessive pain, stop.

#Here is an alternate standing extensions back kicks exercise that may be easier on the hip flexor joints; if vertigo is an issue you can use a chair, or counter support, if necessary:

Standing Back Kicks Exercise~8-12 reps x2

The safety of performing leg extensions, including Leg Extensions/Donkey Kicks, for a 69-year-old woman depends on her individual health condition and fitness level. Leg extensions can place stress on the knee joint, and those with pre-existing knee issues should be cautious. It is crucial for individuals to listen to their bodies and stop any exercise that causes sharp pain.

#Here is an alternate standing donkey kicks exercise that may be easier on the knee joints; if vertigo is an issue you can use a chair, or counter support, if necessary:

Standing Donkey Kick~12-15 x2 

*February 7, 2026 - NATIONAL MARRIAGE WEEK #1/2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/national-marriage-week-1self-care-2026.html

*February 8, 2026 - CHAPTER 2~National Marriage Week #2/2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/chapter-2national-marriage-week-2-self.html

*February 9, 2026 - LOVE~National Marriage Week #3-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/lovenational-marriage-week-3-2026self.html

LOVE~National Marriage Week #3-2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA

National Marriage Week 2026 will be observed from February 7 to 14. The theme for this year is "Man and Woman He Created Them: Together With Purpose."

Love.

The first marriage = Adam & Eve, may have occurred without love as we know it being a main component; and in many countries globally, arranged marriages still occur, with love being the least consideration - and in many other countries, people marry for convenience, and love doesn't necessarily mean much: however, in America, people stake their entire lives & fortunes on love's gamble 💘

I can honestly state (and Holland agrees), that our marriage was arranged 💞 long ago - and love this time 💖, for me, came slowly 🤔 & somewhat begrudgingly 😒

God Knew That I Needed You: 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0ZzZFJ_nAI)

Our love story is unique, with many tosses and turns before coming into play and eventually happily entered into. Holland at 27 yo., was at a crossroads in his life & was given a vision 🥰 by God ☝️ of his future wife 💞 - the image was so clear, he said, that he held onto it & waited 34 years for it to come into being ⏳ We had never met each other before the Fall of 2021, but he tells me that in the Fall of 2018, he had another vision of me crying so hard 😭 he physically felt the pain 😔💯 of my anguish. While that sad vision played out, he tells me that he begged God for relief, saying, "How long Lord? She's in so much pain and there's nothing I can do to help her!" My husband Bob, was at that point in time, dying; I was heartbroken 💔 I cried alone, in the dark of the night, in an unfamiliar hospital where hope was quickly evaporating & my 44 year marriage to the love of my life was ending. I cried while Bob slept - I knew Elohim saw me and was comforting me, holding my heart tenderly and holding me so I didn't fall apart; I was unaware that unknown eyes 👀 full of love ❤️ were also watching and praying a healing over me 🙏🕊️

Before Bob's spirit left him in December of 2018, he held my hand and said to me, "I want you to marry again Val; you have a lot of love to give. You need to be loved. Get married again." I did not want to hear that! I had been very happy with Bob; I could not imagine life with anyone else. I did not entertain thoughts of remarriage - after Bob's passing, men in general were the last thing on my mind. From January of 2019 to November of 2022, men were not even a passing blip on my solo lobo radar. For 4 years I had been adjusting 🚧 my life to an unwanted status 😟, refocusing life goals 🙄, revisiting old road trip haunts ⛽️🚗, rethinking 🤔 and seriously considering the road gypsy life 🗺️ that had been put on hold when I married Bob decades ago - and revising, rebuilding, reshaping, and learning to enjoy my new life as a solo lobo. I wasn't aware of Elohim's workings behind the scenes of my daily life. I wasn't aware that Holland was patiently waiting 😇 for my awareness. So, when I finally did find my way to the hilltop where he was waiting 🏔️😎 ... I was still unaware & totally caught by surprise 😳 when the scales fell off my eyes during an October revival 😍 We had been friends for 18 months 🤝 Holland had recognized me straight off 🥰 (as soon as I walked across the fellowship threshold), but kept silent because I was always mingling with a small group of gathered friends & I talked about Bob. A lot. He did, on occasion, make obvious overtures 🤞 (filling my coffee mug when it needed filling, making sure I had something to eat, asking me how I was doing, ect.) … but I always maintained a friendly distance. I wasn't interested in a romantic interlude; I'm not a game player. And remarriage wasn't a consideration - even though Holland had been waiting & Bob had made clear his thoughts on the matter. It didn't cross my thoughts until it crossed my thoughts; suddenly & unexpectently. But I still took time to warm up to it 🦋: it took time to let go of the memory of Bob's love.

I was so caught up in grieving and missing the love that had vanished from my life 😢 … that I almost missed out on the generous love being gifted me 💝

John Michael Montgomery - 'I Can Love You Like That' song:  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZxuHCicPNs&list=RDBOuysItlfL4&index=12)

Holland had waited patiently. He didn't press me. He didn't crowd me 🤠 He kept things friendly. He didn't say a single word about any deeper feelings - until he texted me in November, and made clear his feelings & intention 📱 Things moved pretty quickly after that ➡️ the text was made before Thanksgiving, and we married as the New Year began 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨 We had been friends for 18 months before we tested the waters of couplehood, and waded deeper into the depths of marriage. There was a brief break in-between, but that was my doing: I was still dealing with trigger issue fallout 🤦🏻‍♀️, and still hung up on memories 🧠 I was unwilling to shed. But there was no doubt in Holland's thoughts about how things would be. And it didn't take long for my thoughts to catch up with his 😘

Newlyweds~2023

Tracy Byrd - 'Keeper of the Stars' Lyrics: 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOuysItlfL4&list=RDBOuysItlfL4&start_radio=1)

My February 22, 2023 Post~MY SWAN-MAN: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2023/02/my-swan-man.html

We both had lots of love left to give - and Elohim was providing the vessels to pour the love into 🎁💖 

I am still blown away by the vision Holland never gave up on.

Holland still chuckles when I call him my swan man.

You may be thinking to yourself that all this sounds pretty far-fetched 🧐🤔 - but it's all truth: there were witnesses to the decades-old vision & there were witnesses to the unfolding of our life story to date 🙏⛪️☝️✝️💞

We can both truthfully say - and stand by - "it's a God-thing." Our marriage couldn't have happened any other way. And as we've enjoyed the contented fun side 🤩 of this new life 🦋👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨, we've also hung on for dear life 🤦🏻‍♀️ and rode out the choppy waves 😤🌊🤬 of this union. Over the course of 37 months, we've tested every level of love there is to experience: some good, some not so good = all lessons in love that builds a strong and lasting covenant marriage 📝💞

As we walk into 2026 📅, we are both thankful 🙏 that Elohim brought us together & grateful 👏 that despite ourselves 🤷‍♀️😵‍💫, He keeps us together 🩹 He never promised us a rose garden ✌️; He just promised we'd never be alone in our own private portion of the garden of life.

"Covenant Marriage" to me, means a Biblical Marriage ☝️ ✝️📖; not a State Contract Marriage, or a Church Contract Marriage. Covenant Marriage, by Biblical Standards is all that interests me 🎯 = Elohim's Laws, which aren't as strict as they seem, to some - and should not be restrictive or argumentative for people claiming to be Christians. Christianity by it's very nature is a walk of a life based on the example of Yeshua Ha'Mashiach (Jesus, the Messiah = Son of God, Prince of Peace, Savior-Redeemer-Deliverer). Yeshua perfectly exampled how easy it is to obey and do the Will of Elohim (Father God): if we claim His Name, we need to do His walk. If we are honoring Elohim … we will honor Him in all aspects of the Life He blesses us with 😇

Marriage serves as a spiritual discipline that will (ofttimes against their will) help individuals confront their weaknesses and grow spiritually. Through the challenges 🔥 and joys of married life 🕊️, couples can learn to love God and each other more deeply.

Fat & sassy us, in Kingman-AZ last March; Holland has agreed to an updated "couples picture" this year (we only have 2): this is a major concession for him - and I appreciate the willingness 😘

There are 8 recognizable levels of love 💗; and they all play a part in our life at some point 👊

Philia = this is an affectionate love between close friends; a love without romantic attraction.

Pragma = this is an enduring love.

Storge = this is a familiar love. This type of love is a relationship that graduated from friendship to a sexual relationship. This is a ((surprise!)) love relationship because the people involved ofttimes cannot comprehend the moment they realized their friendship had morphed into an Eros love situation – it is a gradual transition.

Eros = this is a committed romantic love; with sex definitely figured into the game plan. Eros generally leads to a traditional marriage scenario with procreation plans.

Ludus = is an uncommitted love; flirtatious, and in many instances deceptive. People who engage in this type of love will have many love engagements, but always remain foot-loose and fancy-free: uncommitted.

Mania = this is an obsessive type of love; it leads to unwanted attentions, jealousies, or unhealthy possessiveness.

Philautia = in its healthy sense, self-love is a generalized love for oneself to build confidence: to be comfortable in one’s own skin; an easy, comfortable love that flows between family members and friends – a desire to share enjoyment of time and activity. The unhealthy flip-side leads to narcissism, which is destructive to one’s self … as well to the populace, in general.

Agape = this is unconditional love; a love that transcends all other love. It is totally selfless in every regard. This type of love is a love of choice in action – it does not involve emotions of familiarity. Agape love requires faithfulness, commitment, and the sacrifice of self – without expecting anything in return.

Anyone who has been married for a considerable length of time will honestly tell you that love surges 🥰, wanes 🤨, & surges 😘 again: many times 🙄 throughout the duration of their union 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨

Spending time together intentionally 💝, becomes essential to sustaining married life. One simple, effective way, couples can nurture this intentionality is through regular "date nights." Holland has been good about making sure there are Date times in our relationship - the first thing he said after bringing marriage into the conversation was, "and we'll make time for date time once a week" … and that has held steady, no matter where we are, what's going on with us, or how steady the waves of Life are: Date Time never wavered. He considered me 💓: even when he was frustrated, or angry with me.

Tracy Byrd - 'Someone To Give My Love To' song: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPpOAfiHZrg&list=RDBOuysItlfL4&index=24)

Today, we're just laying low & lollygagging the hours away in Independence's domesticated cocoon. It's a little chill here, in Coalinga. Rain is in the forecast - and it feels like it may arrive sooner than projected.

4x Beast Betsy & 5th Wheel Independence = Home Sweet Home.

Tracy Byrd - 'Love Lessons': 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tqd5UAjEVXA&list=RDBOuysItlfL4&index=3)

Laying low included a weigh lifting workout 🏋️‍♀️ I love workouts and include them 👌 in my daily routines every chance I get & when my heart (arrhythmia) and lungs (environmental asthma) cooperate - even a 10-minute daily session can lift energy, mood, and confidence. The key is consistency, not intensity. I like the Darebee workouts because they are effective and offer variety. KNOW YOUR BODY - know persistent or serious underlying skeletal medical restrictions. I have given safe rep counts for healthy seniors below, underneath the original workout read out.

The upper body takes a lot of work: the Darebee Home Upperbody Tone workout provides you with a dumbbell workout that will engage all the major muscle groups and help your body get stronger, look more toned and feel better. Simple exercises using light weights can help improve bone density. Starting too heavy is the fastest way to get discouraged - or worse, injured. Light weights, and slow steady reps, wins over fast, sloppy, choppy moves - which will result in damage. Done wisely and safely, dumbbell exercises can maintain strength, mobility, and bone health well into your golden years.

For a 69-year-old woman, it is generally safe to perform Alternating Bicep Curls with weights between 1-lb & 5-lb weight. This range allows for a manageable weight that can still provide effective strength training without overexertion; this exercise works the muscles in your upper arms that help bend your elbows, which you need to lift a grocery bag or pull a door open. If you don’t have weights, you can simply use household items like soup cans or water bottles. It is recommended to start with lighter weights and gradually increase as strength improves. Always prioritize safety; if there is excessive pain, stop.

The safety of performing Dumbbell Upright Rows for a 69-year-old woman depends on several factors, including her overall health, the weight used, and the form of the exercise: while dumbbell upright rows can be beneficial for muscle development and overall fitness, they should be approached with caution. Keep your elbows at or slightly below shoulder height throughout the exercise. If you medical history includes shoulder issues, or arthritis, avoid upright rows.

The Dumbbell Alternate Shoulder Press is a safe and effective exercise for a 69-year-old woman to perform. It primarily targets the shoulders and triceps while also engaging the core for stability. The exercise mimics real-life overhead movements, such as lifting groceries or placing objects on shelves, and transfers strength to sports and daily life. It is important to perform the exercise with proper form to avoid strain on the shoulders, neck, and elbow joints. To ensure safety, use weights between 1-lb & 5-lb weight to avoid muscle strain or injury.

For a 69-year-old woman, Dumbbell Side Bends may not be safe due to the potential risks associated with improper form and the use of excessive weight. If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis,  osteoarthritis of the spine, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis, this stretch can be unhealthy for your spine and put it at risk of a vertebral compression fracture.

For a 69-year-old woman, in general good condition, it is recommended to start with 2-5 lb. dumbbells and focus on slow, controlled movements. The number of repetitions can vary based on individual strength and fitness level. However, it is crucial to listen to your body and stop immediately if you feel pain, dizziness, or discomfort. Consistency and proper form are key to safely increasing the number of repetitions over time.

Dumbbell Core Twists are generally safe for a 69-year-old woman to perform, provided she is in good physical condition and has a stable core. However, it is crucial to perform these exercises with proper form and control to avoid injury. Start with 2-5 lb. dumbbells and focus on slow, controlled movements.

Dumbbell Overhead Triceps Extensions are generally safe for a 69-year-old woman to do. These exercises are beneficial for building triceps strength, which is important for seniors to maintain hand dexterity and perform daily activities. However, it is crucial to perform the exercise with proper form to avoid injury. Begin with 2-5 pound weights. Listen to your body: if you experience pain or discomfort, stop immediately.

Curls~8-12 reps x2; Rows~8-12 reps x2; Press~6-10 reps x2; Bends~6-10 reps x2; Twists~6-10 reps x2; Extensions~8-12 reps x2

Lollygagging involved a siesta session & a novel indulgence …

My Gift is recharging 😉

Clive time 👌

*February 7, 2026 - NATIONAL MARRIAGE WEEK #1/2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/national-marriage-week-1self-care-2026.html

*February 8, 2026 - CHAPTER 2~National Marriage Week #2/2026~Self-Care; Coalinga-CA https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/02/chapter-2national-marriage-week-2-self.html