Hello and welcome back everyone. I'm participating in the Ladies of Hive weekly contest again. The purpose of the Ladies of Hive Community community is to empower, support and encourage all ladies on Hive in a positive environment. Since it's inception, they have lived up to their commitment to allow all women to flourish in that environment. When time permits, I participate in the contests to lend support to their efforts and also share my responses to the thought-provoking questions and topics.

This week I'll share with you my responses to the following challenge questions provided in the official contest post: https://peakd.com/hive-124452/@ladiesofhive/ladies-of-hive-community-contest-57

Some may brush their teeth, drink of water, kiss the kids goodnight, fluff up their stuffy bear, pray, check the smartphone one last time. What are your night time rituals just before bedtime?

First, I'd like to offer my input into the use of the term "rituals". From the question provided and the example, I feel that rituals are much more than brushing your teeth, taking a drink of water, completing household chores, and other activities. These can be viewed as routine tasks that an individual may engage in.

There is a huge distinction between routines and rituals. I view rituals as tasks on a higher level. Some may feel that a ritual is spiritual or religious. It doesn't necessarily have to fall in those categories.

I say this because my concept of a routine is to complete one or more items to a satisfactory conclusion without much effort.

The tasks may be mundane, such as I may complete certain items to ensure these tasks are done in an efficient manner. Many times, I don't even have to think about doing certain tasks. When it's time for bed, it's automatic.

A ritual can be a task also. However, it goes much deeper than just routinely performing a job. I feel that I need satisfaction in doing the task that will benefit me either short or long term. Then, I'm motivated to continue the task.

Some will say that all the above are rituals since they benefit you in the long run. But many don't take time to see the value of the benefit. That's where the tasks become mundane and boring.

If you stop to think why are you doing these tasks, then I feel the tasks turn into rituals that can become fun and positive. They motivate you to do even better at the tasks.

All parents, at some point, perform some of the following tasks such as:

• preparing your children for bed and on the time schedule you set for them;
• having them bathe and brush their teeth;
• reading to them;
• saving this time to talk through any issues they may have to discuss;
• giving them a goodnight hug and kiss; and
• preparing their items for the next day.

These routines are tiresome, especially after a long day you've had yourself. I know for a fact they are after working outside the home daily for eight hours. These actions much be completed. However, they are more than a routine.

They serve as a valuable and motivating purpose. We all want our children to get enough rest for their next-day activities. We want them to brush their teeth to have healthy teeth and gums to prevent dental problems. We want to connect with them by talking or reading to them. And finally, we want them to reassure them of love and affection. These are the reasons that routine tasks can become rituals. The tasks are the motivating factors to raise happy and healthy children to the best of our ability.

My routines are simple. Checking the thermostat, cleaning the kitchen, doing laundry, turning off all lights, both inside and out, tidying the kitchen, and setting the alarm are my routines.

Many years ago, I read where turning negative thoughts toward mundane and boring tasks can be channeled to positive thinking.

Hating to wake up to dirty dishes in the morning, I make sure to rinse and place them in the dishwasher. That way, the previous day's kitchen tasks are taken care of. Knowing I don't have any kitchen items left over brings a smile and positive attitude. I can start fresh that morning. Also, the kitchen smells better!

After entering into a special electricity plan with my provider, I check each night my thermostat, turn off all lights, and unplug all electrical appliances (except refrigerators) to keep my electric costs under control. I have a special incentive to perform these actions to lower my costs. Each month I receive my utility bill puts a smile on my face as I know I've done my part.

Other rituals relate directly to my health:

• Drinking a cup of herbal teas. Not only do the Chamomile or Sleepy Time teas help relieve stress and relax me, they coat my stomach to absorb all the medicines I take before bed.

• Brushing and flossing teeth ensure I won't encounter any diabetes-related dental problems;

• Reading. I have problems sleeping eight hours or more. Reading helps, even if I don't finish but one or two pages. I settle into my quiet place. Before long, I'm falling asleep.

Whose or what picture is on the home page of your phone? And why did you pick that?

The topic of wallpaper images individuals upload to their phones is truly interesting. It's all about personal preferences.

I've seen screen images related to sports, selfies, gaming, bitmoji, gifs, and other, more personal images of family members.

When I first purchased a mobile phone, the wallpaper image I chose was a standard ones that came supplied with the system.

To this day, I haven't changed. If I want to find a new wallpaper, I just look in the system inventory and chose one.

Currently, my wallpaper is of a beautiful landscaped Fall season with trees, leaves, mountains, and a nearby waterfall.

If I happen to desire another one, it'll be to change from one season to the next. I'll soon locate wallpaper for a Winter landscape.

I'm simple in my approach.