ENDLESS~Pi Day & Self-Care 2026; Castle Rock-WA

I woke up this morning, looked out the front door - and couldn't see a thing past a few feet from the stairs: heavy fog shrouded everything … even totally hiding the bright lights from the Space Age Truck Stop, across the freeway. The endless freeway traffic could clearly be heard - but that was it. I started praying for the travelers, while being thankful we were not part of the dicey situation:

A very foggy PNW morning; freeway totally shrouded in thick fog; Castle Rock-WA

8:50 AM~35-degrees & the sun is trying valiantly to pierce the heavy fog; Castle Rock-WA

The fog was completely gone by 9:40 AM. The temperature had warmed to 50-degrees, with sunshine by afternoon; Castle Rock-WA

Holland showed me internet pictures of flooding at the RV Park in Clatskanie-OR … that forced evacuations, and caused damage to dozens of trailers and other vehicles - that took place this morning. The flooding was caused by rising waters due to an atmospheric river, breaking a 100-foot section of a levee around the Clatskanie River, according to Corey Padrón, director of Columbia County Emergency Management. The Clatskanie High School is now the primary shelter for those affected, with the city of Rainier offering temporary shelter for those with RV's. The emergency response includes crews from the Clatskanie Fire District, Columbia County Search and Rescue, and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. Tides are expected to return later in the day and could bring higher water levels, with first responders relocating RV's from flood-prone areas as a precaution. The situation is being monitored closely, and residents are advised to stay alert and follow local officials' guidance.

Flooding at the RV Park in Clatskanie-OR that forced evacuations, early this Saturday morning~March 14th, 2026

Park is about 3 years old - we watched it being put in the first year of our Road Gypsy stint, in Clatskanie-OR; poorly planned at the bottom of Clatskanie hill - very near to the Clatskanie river, with no adequate drainage.

Nearly 200 residents evacuated from Clatskanie RV Park due to flooding:  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFdFGIl5J-4)

Before we left CA, a few weeks ago; Holland was thinking about renting a space in that RV Park, because I did not want to come back to this region; thankfully, he changed his mind - and thank the Lord, that His loving protection over me is endless (even when I am gripping about reroutes to places, I'd rather not be … His eye is always on me, and He shadows me with His wings).

So, this morning - even before I knew about the Clatskanie flooding, my thoughts were coming to grips with being here, in this spot, possibly longer than Holland is thinking. While I was sipping my coffee, I mentioned that to Holland, & he said, "So what are you saying?" I said, "What I am saying is the I give - I cry "Uncle!" I know when to give up the fight. Remember what I said in CA before we pulled out of there? I said then, that I had the feeling we'd be in WA longer than you're thinking - possibly a year. Maybe longer. I'll probably die in Longview, because no matter how many times I try to escape … I keep getting dragged back. I get the feeling the Ruach HaKo'desh will keep me in an apache leg lock until I give; so, I give. And that's why I also said before leaving CA, that I would be as good as gold once we got back here: I don't have to like the situation, but I don't want to be limping through life either, because I insist on wrestling with Elohim's decisions. And I don't want to be endlessly gripping about, it either. I know how to gracefully let go when locked in an endless tussle."

Life is short. I don't want to go out with a bang … I want my spirit to slip out of my skin peacefully. It has struggled enough through this Life - it deserves a peaceful rebirth, when that time comes.

Apache Leg Lock; When Jacob tenaciously (means in a very determined way) wrestled with Yeshua, he walked with a permanent limp afterwards. Scripture refers to this instance as Gid hanasheh (Hebrew: גִּיד הַנָּשֶׁה‎‎), often translated as "displaced tendon."

The ancient, famous wrestling match highlighted in Genesis 32:22-32, is significant as it symbolizes Jacob's physical & spiritual struggles relating to self-reliance, throughout his life: both with others, and with Elohei. It represents a transformative moment where Jacob not only receives a blessing - but also a new identity as Israel, which means "he struggles with God". The narrative illustrates that personal encounters with Elohei often involve struggle, vulnerability, and perseverance, highlighting that divine blessing can come through wrestling with life’s challenges and with God Himself.

And maybe … just maybe, here - where I fervently do not want to be - is where I will come to the end of myself to become the person Elohim knows me to be, to fulfil the purpose I keep endlessly longing for. Perhaps in that metamorphosis, lays the peace that has always eluded me.

The blessing to come, is what my main focus will be on in 2026, while here. Endless self-care & personal growth, that will reap endless benefits.

Today is also National Pi Day, which celebrates the mathematical constant נ, that represents the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. Pi is an irrational and transcendental number - approximately 3.14, but its digits never end: its decimal expansion goes on infinitely (endlessly) without repeating.

{{Pi Day Has An Unexpected Origin, And It Started With Pie

~Rin Velasco - USA TODAY NETWORK - New England

https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/holiday/2026/03/13/pi-day-march-14-origins/89134038007/ 

Pi Day is celebrated annually on March 14, because its numerical date aligns with the first three digits of the mathematical constant נ, 3.14.

And in some places the celebrations of Pi Day are a little nerdy.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology has a tradition where the school will usually release decisions on college admission on Pi Day, according to their website, in keeping with their characteristics as a STEM-focused school.

Here's what you should know about Pi Day and why its celebrated.

Is Pi Day a national holiday?

Yes, Pi Day is a national holiday, as it was made so by the U.S. House of Representatives when the governing body passed a 2009 resolution that recognized March 14 as National Pi Day.

Who started Pi day?

The late physicist Larry Shaw started celebrating Pi Day to bring his coworkers together and have fun in 1988 while working at the San Francisco science museum, the Exploratorium, according to the museum's website.

Pi Day: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi_Day

He created cute traditions like bringing in a table of fruit pies and having boombox parades while reciting the digits of Pi and singing "Happy Birthday" to Albert Einstein, who was born on March 14.

"Pi Day became an annual Exploratorium tradition for staff and the public, and the idea snowballed into something much bigger," the website said. "Now it’s celebrated by math lovers and educators worldwide."}}

On the back of that silly celebration acknowledgement, harsh realities were also acknowledged.

When the world careens endlessly towards a downward spiral - we, who know better, must always take the high road & keep our hearts pliantly soft … trusting our Father to deal effectively with the madness:

Anti-Semitism is endless …

Dinesh D'Souza On Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, And Israel | Ep. 65: 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wa0F12jNII)

Shae Wilbur - 'Your Love is Endless' Lyrics: 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EP18uindAQ)

PEACEFUL RAINY SHABBAT~Self-Care 2026; Castle Rock-WA

Today dawned a rainy 48-degrees 💧, this morning 😒 Chilly, wet days call for a comforting & satisfying 😊 homestyle beef & cabbage meal 🍲 … I saw a beef-cabbage casserole the other day on FB - so, this morning, I altered the recipe some to fit my needs in my kitchen 😉: a slowcooker meal kinda fit the slo-mo 🐢 Day.

Supper underway around 8:30 AM.

While the rain fell outside Independence's 4 walls & supper's simmering scents filled our tiny home with delicious aroma, I warmed up with a workout designed to keep my body moving - with focus on improving circulation, agility, posture endurance, and strength-endurance 💪 benefits: I do love working my body to it's potential; so it moves smoothly through the days, for me 😁

With the weather being so damp and a little hard on my aging bones, I did a few warm-up exercises first - warm-up activities gradually increase the heart rate, helping seniors transition into a higher activity level. This gradual elevation is essential to prevent sudden spikes in heart rate during a workout, which could be risky for older individuals: Neck Rolls: Gently roll your neck in a circular motion, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. This exercise helps relieve neck stiffness and prepares the neck muscles for movement. Shoulder Circles: Rotate your shoulders in circular motions, first forward and then backward. This exercise improves shoulder mobility and reduces stiffness. Arm Swings: Swing your arms forward and backward in large motions. This exercise increases blood circulation to the arms and prepares the upper body for activities like reaching and lifting. Side Bends: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and gently bend from side to side. This exercise prepares the core muscles for movement and reduces the risk of strains during activities that involve twisting or bending. These exercises are gentle and safe, making them suitable for seniors like the 69-year-old woman. They help to increase flexibility, reduce stiffness, and prepare the body for more intense physical activity. It is important to perform these exercises slowly and with proper form to avoid any potential injuries. Warm-up exercises for seniors should typically last around 5 to 10 minutes (about 1-2 minutes EA movement). This duration allows for adequate preparation without overexertion. The specific time may vary based on individual needs and the intensity of the planned workout.

The Darebee Winter Arc Workout is a total body strength workout workout is suitable for all fitness levels - designed to help you maintain strength and develop muscle tone. It utilizes dumbbells to trigger strength adaptations necessary for stronger muscles, tendons, and ligaments, enhancing power in movements. The workout includes a variety of exercises to build muscle, improve power, and boost endurance.

Muscles Worked.

Weights used today - 5-lb. first; then switched out for the 8-lb. to finish the second set (this is my routine, which may not work for others - if necessary, start with a 2-lb & bump up to a 3-lb. if that works for you, or start with a 3-lb, bumping up to a 5-lb.)

Alternate weights.

Exercise Form Examples follow below: Split Lunges~10-12 reps x2; Side Lunges~10-12 reps x2; Bicep Curls~10-12 reps x2; Arm Raises~6 reps x2; 1 Arm Bent-Over Rows~8-10 reps x2

Split Lunges w-Dumbbells: are safe for a 69-year-old woman to do with dumbbells, provided she is in good physical condition and has a stable environment. However, it is essential to consider her specific health and fitness level, as well as any potential concerns such as balance, coordination, or mobility issues; it is recommended that a 69-year-old woman with a history of balance issues or mobility concerns should consult with a healthcare provider before starting this exercise. Split lunges with dumbbells offer several benefits for a 69-year-old woman, including: targeting & strengthening key muscle groups such as the back, hips, and legs - which is crucial for preventing falls, making daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from the floor easier. Weight-bearing exercises like lunges can increase bone mineral density, a critical defense against osteoporosis. Regular movement boosts energy, confidence, and mood, contributing to a better quality of life.~Aim for 10-12 reps, x2

Side Lunges w-Dumbbells: can be safe for a 69-year-old woman if she has the necessary strength and flexibility. However, it is crucial to ensure the woman has adequate strength in her legs and flexibility to perform side lunges safely. If necessary, use support like a chair or wall to improve balance and stability. Focus on maintaining proper form to avoid strain and injury. Stop immediately if painful discomfort occurs. Side lunges with dumbbells offer several benefits for a 69-year-old woman, targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, which are essential for mobility and stability;  Side lunges stretch the hip flexors and hamstrings, improving flexibility. Side lunges mimic everyday movements like walking and climbing stairs, making them essential for maintaining daily activities. By challenging balance, this exercise helps improve balance and stability, crucial for preventing falls and maintaining independence. Incorporating side lunges with dumbbells into a regular fitness routine can significantly enhance the health and well-being of a senior, contributing to an active and fulfilling lifestyle.~Aim for 10-12 reps, x2

Alternate Bicep Curls w-Dumbbells: are safe for a 69-year-old woman to do. This exercise is a low-impact, joint-friendly movement that helps build strength in the biceps, forearms, and grip without overstraining the joints. It supports independence with daily tasks and enhances posture and arm endurance. The exercise is simple to perform and can be done seated or standing, depending on the individual's balance and comfort. It is recommended to start with lighter weights and gradually increase resistance for safe and steady strength development. Stop immediately if painful discomfort occurs.~Aim for 10-12 reps, x2

Lateral Raises w-Dumbbells: are safe for a 69-year-old woman to do. This exercise is recommended for seniors as it strengthens the shoulders and improves posture, which are crucial for maintaining upper body support for daily activities. It is important to perform this exercise with light weights to avoid unnecessary strain on the shoulder joint, which can become more vulnerable with age. Stop immediately if painful discomfort occurs. The key condition for safety is controlled movement and consistency, rather than maximum load.~Aim for 6 reps, x2

1 Arm Bent-Over Rows w-Dumbbells: can be safe for a 69-year-old woman if she follows proper form; it is crucial to maintain a neutral spine, keep the back straight, and avoid rounding or hunching. Using a controlled tempo for each repetition and focusing on squeezing the back muscles at the top of the movement are key to safety. Start with lighter weights (3-lb) and gradually increasing to a 5-lb dumbbell, as she gets stronger is also important. Stop immediately if painful discomfort occurs. The Bent-Over Rows with Dumbbells offer several benefits for a 69-year-old woman, including: targeting the latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, and trapezius, which are essential for pulling movements and overall upper body stability. The rowing motion can help improve posture and reduce the risk of back-related issues. Regularly performing bent-over rows can contribute to improved bone density, which is crucial for maintaining healthy bones. Engaging multiple muscle groups during the bent-over row can boost metabolism, aiding in weight management and overall health. These benefits make bent-over rows with dumbbells a valuable addition to a fitness routine for older adults, helping to maintain strength, improve posture, and support overall health.~Aim for 8-10 reps, x2

The newsfeeds coming across my laptop screen 💻 are not telling me anything new & the politicians are not behaving any differently than they have been since 2009 - when Hell was unleased on Americans by the devilish homosexual prez … crowned man-god of the demonrat party: islam 👺 breeds hate - it is a terrorist political agenda posing as a religion & now America 🗽 is under direct threat 😈 due to the obamanite sympathizers 😵‍💫🤯 that have joined with the socialist-communist agitators 🥴🤡 taking root in America's families, schools (elementary thru Universities), state churches (those with career pastors & government grant monies), America's military, local civil offices & media sources, & governing seats of high power.

Anyone with a functioning brain cell could have seen this mess coming.

🚨CRISIS: 3rd & 4th islamic Terror Attacks in U.S. in Just 12 Days, Democrats Blame “Islamophobia”: 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8H6KMd_XbtA&list=PLjMHBev3NsoV3kHckydY58R7TaYsizl45)

Americans need to get real 🤔 & understand that muslims 🤥 will never integrate: their main purpose for coming to American, is to infiltrate-separate-conquer 🎯; they have no other purpose for being. A muslim is a suicidal time bomb waiting on orders to go off. islam is a demonic movement that invites demonic possession 👹 - there is nothing at all "peaceful" about islam 💩; and if you cross a muslim, you will quickly realize that there is nothing peaceful about a muslim lifestyle, either: it's all smoke & mirrors.

NO! I do not apologize for speaking truth. If you are offended by truth being said aloud - that's your issue, not mine.

That said & enough time spent on that bit of unpleasantness … I'm going to check in on Friends' Blogs; eat the wonderful smelling meal I prepared for us; get back to working a couple more rows on my WIP, after kitchen clean-up; & finish up the sitcom series 🎬 based around characters are of mixed Irish Travelers and Romani heritage, that I've been watching on YouTube, this week 💻🎧

My Post was featured on another [tiny home] Blog.

YUM!

VAL'S SLOWCOOKER CHEESY CABBAGE-BEEF HOT POT; Castle Rock-WA:  (https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/03/vals-slowcooker-cheesy-cabbage-beef-hot.html)

And as the day fades into night, I'm entering into my Shabbat Rest ✡️🕯️🕊️☝️ for a recharging balance ✝️🔋, & shelving worldly concerns 🌎🤦🏻‍♀️ until Monday 📅

I don't want any negativity ⚡️ (I'm even reining my own thoughts in, for the next 48 hours) to mess up the peaceful vibes 🧠💗 I'll be courting & enjoying - if worries and complaining raise their chaotic heads 😱 … I will shut it down. I don't want to hear any of it, coming from anyone, about anything; I don't want my my peaceful mindset messed with.

VAL'S SLOWCOOKER CHEESY CABBAGE-BEEF HOT POT; Castle Rock-WA

Val's Slowcooker Cheesy Cabbage-Beef Hot Pot; Castle Rock-WA

There's something about a satisfying cabbage based meal 🍲 that goes hand-in-hand with chilly, wet rainy days 💧 … cabbage also goes well with the month of March, which features an Irish holiday 📅☘️

This hot pot is simple to pull together, using simple ingredients.

Keep an eye on it while it cooks - I started the crockpot cooking at 8:30 AM - and we were eating our first bowl, at noon.

Val's Slowcooker Cheesy Cabbage-Beef Hot Pot ~serves 4 to 6

1-lb Hamburger, precooked * 1 med-size Cabbage, sliced * 1/2 c. Rice, raw * 1 med-size Yellow Onion, sliced * 2 Garlic cloves, pressed * 1 can Tomatoes, stewed * 1 c. Water * 1 tsp. Beef Bouillon * 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning * 1 tsp. Salt Substitute * 1/2 tsp. Black Pepper, ground * Shredded Cheddar Cheese

1 med-size Skillet * 8-Qt. Crockpot Slowcooker * 1 Cutting Board * Pyrex Measuring Cup * Measuring Spoons * 1 Kitchen Vegetable Grater * 1 Lrg. Cooking Spoon, slotted * Serving Ladle * Serving Bowls

1) With vegetable grater, grate cheese & place in container; refrigerate until serving time.

2) In skillet, brown the hamburger - enough to keep it from sticking together in the slowcooker; set aside.

3) Slice cabbage & onion; add half to crockpot; add garlic, rice, tomatoes w-juice, water, & seasonings. With slotted spoon, lift ingredients from crock edges to allow liquids to run to the bottom of crock.

4) Add hamburger - top with remaining sliced cabbage & sliced onion. Place lid on crock and set temperature to HIGH - reduce to LOW in about 1 hour …

Supper underway.

… and continue cooking, until liquid is absorbed & rice is soft.

Stir, reduce temp & continue cooking.

Keep an eye on the cooking - when the liquid has been absorbed, check the rice for doneness.

5) Turn slowcooker off, & ladle cabbage-beef mixture into serving bowls; top with shredded cheese. YUM!

Spoon up, top with shredded cheese & enjoy. YUM!

SOMETHING'S GOTTA GIVE; Castle Rock-WA

I don't want to be here; but I don't want to argue with my husband … or with Elohim, if it is His Will ☝️ that keeps dragging us back here.

I'm trying to keep to my promise, to "be as good as gold" 😇; but at some point during the day, the golden promise gets nicked, and a little tarnish 🤨 sets in.

The dreary rainfall 💧, isn't helping - it brings with it, bluesy vibes 😒

Something's 🤷‍♀️🤞 gotta give 🤦🏻‍♀️✌️

Rainy, busy freeway activity.

Big Mama Thornton - 'Ball And Chain' song: 

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

Today, I enjoyed a lying down, lower body workout: if getting up off the floor is difficult … these exercises can be done on the bed:

Alternate Iron Cross Leg Stretch: the safety of performing the Bodyweight Alternate Iron Cross Leg Stretch exercise for a 69-year-old woman depends on her overall health, fitness level, and any specific health conditions she may have. Mobility Work~Aim for 10 reps per side, x2; with a 1–2 second pause at end range.

Adductor Stretch: is safe for a 69-year-old woman to do. It is lengthens the muscles along the inside of the thighs and helps improve hip mobility, side-to-side movement, and flexibility for walking, bending, and balance activities. This stretch is particularly beneficial for older adults and seniors, as it supports hip mobility, overall leg function, and reduces the risk of groin strain. It is important to perform the stretch with proper technique and to avoid pushing the stretch beyond the point of mild discomfort. Consistency in stretching can gradually build flexibility and range of motion over the long term.~Aim for 10 reps x2

Alternate Leg Raise: is safe for a 69-year-old woman to do. This exercise is a gentle, low-impact core exercise that helps build strength in the lower abdominals, hip flexors, and thighs. It can support better posture and improve everyday movements like walking, lifting the legs into a car, and standing up from a chair. The key is to move slowly, stay comfortable, and remember that you don’t need a big range of motion for this lower ab workout for older adults to be effective. Keep breathing calm and steady - never hold your breath. Skip this exercise if lifting your legs feels painful, causes sharp pulling in the hip or groin, worsens back pain. Doing Alternate Leg Raises regularly can be a simple way for older adults to improve core stability, support the lower back, and strengthen the lower abdominals and hip flexors used in daily life.~Aim for 10 reps reps per side, x2

Flutter Kicks-hands under hips: generally safe for a 69-year-old woman, provided she maintains proper form and technique. Flutter kicks is a popular abdominal exercise that targets the lower abdominal muscles and hip flexors. It is advisable to perform the exercise with controlled movements to avoid strain and injury.~Aim for 10 reps x2

Scissors: is generally considered safe for a 69-year-old woman to do, provided she is in good health and has no underlying health conditions. It is a low-impact exercise that can help strengthen the legs and improve coordination, which are beneficial for overall health and mobility.~Aim for 10 reps x2

Frog Leg Crunches: the safety of performing the Frog Leg Crunches exercise for a 69-year-old woman depends on her overall health, fitness level, and any specific health conditions she may have. Skip this exercise if lifting your legs feels painful, causes sharp pulling in the hip or groin, worsens back pain. The Frog Leg Crunches are an effective core exercise that primarily targets the rectus abdominis and hip flexors. They help improve lower abdominal strength and stability, which is crucial for overall fitness and flexibility, contributing to better posture and functional fitness.~Aim for 10 reps x2

Side Lying Clams: generally, this exercise is safe for most individuals, however, it is crucial for the individual to avoid pushing the stretch beyond the point of mild discomfort. The side lying clamshell is a versatile, low-impact exercise that is aiming to strengthen the glutes for hip stability = Gluteus medius: key for hip abduction and stabilization;  Gluteus maximus: assists in hip extension and external rotation; Gluteus minimus: supports hip abduction and internal rotation = reducing the risk of knee, hip, and lower back injuries, & improves overall lower-body strength, for enhanced lateral movement control.~Aim for 10 reps reps per side, x2

Then, I tapped 📱 a friend to let him know we're back in town …

And, ended the Day as usual, lately … ✂️🐢