Hello gang,
I apolgize for my long hiatus. I was reviewing a few of my posts and realized just how tremendously long it has been since my last post. Sorry!
Well, just to update everyone, we moved this past summer, not far, but to a new and improved home. It was definitely a "God Bless" find. The architecht is Joseph Aronson who is actually pretty renowned, come to find out. He authored a couple of books about furniture design and architecture. It is a unique and beautiful home that is a welcome relief after the place we were living.
Another update is that last November, for Thanksgiving, I did actually get out to Arizona to visit with my sisters. I got to see the Grand Canyon which was breathtakingly amazing. That was a great vacation.
Another update to the vacation need I had posed is that I did ultimately go to Niagara Falls. We stayed on the Canadian side, but no, they didn't ask for my passport, so still no stamp. That's been a while ago, so it just goes to show how slow these updates have been.
Just about a week ago we had guests in and I got the opportunity to visit a local historical homestead called (hope I spell this right) The Boscobel. It's a Federalist Era Home along the Husdon and you can see West Point Academy from the landscaped front lawn.
Lastly (though I assure you there has been much more to update, I just cannot recall everything right now), two out of three of my sisters are coming to visit me for a week long vacation. I'm so excited! I want to take them to La Manda's up the street for dinner in honor of the one sister who isn't able to come out. Amanda's very involved in her school work right now as she's working on her Master's in Psychology. Funny thing is, this was one of the things listed on my front page "to do in Westchester" list...and I only just now put that together! Everything has a way of working itself out in life with or without our help. It's gotta be God! :)
Friday, October 28, 2011
Thursday, January 7, 2010
www.411fit.com
What a great website to work toward health goals. This site is free and keeps me motivated by giving me a daily grade dependent upon how I've eaten & hydrated for the day. Did I mention, IT"S FREE!!!? It is very user friendly (easy to navigate) and well developed (not made on the cheap). You oughta check it out...whether you need to lose weight or you just want to achieve healthier habits...this one's great!
www.411fit.com
www.411fit.com
Friday, December 4, 2009
Some Great Reads!!!
Just wanted to tell folks about a few great books I've had my head in lately (besides the afore mentioned Willard Harley titles). These are all worthwhile titles that can help improve or enhance your life in various ways:
- Anxious to Please: 7 Revolutionary Practices for the Chronically Nice by James Rapson & Craig English
- Square Foot Gardening and All New Square Foot Gardening by Mel Bartholomew
- Miss Craig's Face Saving Exercises by Marjorie Craig
- Facercise by Carole Maggio
- The 50 Best Ways to Simplify Your Life by Patrick Fanning and Heather Garnos Mitchener
- The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-free Play by Neil Fiore
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
David Has Left the Nest...
Going through quotes and ran across this one; it made me think of my son David who just left home recently.
"We've been protecting our children for so long. I think, if there's a mistake, it is that we're afraid to trust. They are programmed to be independent."
~ Gilbran-Hesse
"We've been protecting our children for so long. I think, if there's a mistake, it is that we're afraid to trust. They are programmed to be independent."
~ Gilbran-Hesse
Found in a Fortune Cookie
I thought this one was a real keeper. My fortune cookie said: "For light, go directly to the source of the light, not any reflections." (Of course, I know that "God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all!")
Wisdom of the Proverbs
Proverbs 12:25
Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression.
Is there something you are anxious about? If you are depressed, ask God to reveal the cause. It is possible that the root cause is anxiety.
William James - A Quote Worth Reading
A great many people think they are thinking when they are merely re-arranging their prejudices.
Rules for Living by Thomas Jefferson
Thought I'd share some quotes here that blessed me a lot by Thomas Jefferson. These are entitled "Rules for Living". Enjoy!
- Never trouble another for what you can do yourself.
- Never spend money before you have it.
- Take things always by the smooth handle.
- Nothing is troublesome that we do willingly.
- When angry, count to ten before you speak, if very angry, to a hundred.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Lesson of the Morning Glory!
Thank you Laura, for sharing this inspirational story. I am reposting it here because I loved it so much! Hope you do too.
I planted seeds in my little garden this year. I have never planted seeds before, because I am not a very patient person, and waiting for the little green shoots to rise above the ground, was just too much for me. But this year, I thought I would give it a try. I thought it would be a good metaphor for me, to plant something and watch it grow, much as I have many times, planted thoughts, dreams and affirmations and watched many of them become a reality.
And so, in the Spring of this year, I planted my garden. I chose many types of flowers and among them, Morning Glories. Within a month, many of the other flowers were bursting through the earth, but not the Morning Glories. Each morning, I would run outside to check on them, and nothing, nothing for several weeks more. I was about to give up on them. I was sure that they just did not 'take' so to speak. But finally, it happened! They had broken through the earth, and were starting to climb. And climb, and climb, and climb, they did....with their big, beautiful, heart shaped leaves.
And so, the saga continued, nothing for weeks and weeks and weeks but more and more beautiful leaves. And I thought to myself, "Well, leaves are nice, but that is all I will probably get at this point." And then, one fine and glorious morning, there it was, the most beautiful sky-blue morning glory I have ever seen!!! It seemed like a miracle to me. I had waited over 3 months for this one delicate, funnel-shaped flower to show up and now here it was, in all its splendor. It reminded me of just how many times I had waited in life for something I had longed for, and how incredible it felt when it finally arrived, and also, how many times, that I had wanted to throw in the towel, and just give up. But I wasn't prepared for what was to happen next, with these little flowers, and I was surprised and deeply saddened by it.
Roses and geraniums and daisies and most other flowers bloom and stay around for a while, but not Morning Glories. Morning Glories open themselves up to the world, in the morning, in all of their glory, hence the name, Morning Glory. And if you look closely at them, you will see how extraordinary they are, both in colour and texture, and that in their centre, is a kind of golden light that shines from within.But here is the hard part... At the end of the day, they turn a most beautiful shade of lavender, and then close up, wither and die. They live for only one day, and then they are gone. I cannot tell you how much this saddened me, and what a profound effect this little flower had upon my life. I kept thinking how sad to be so beautiful and live for only one day. And then, I suddenly realized what a gift they were. You see, it doesn't matter how long your life is. It only matters that you were here, in all your glory, that you opened up completely, and let your light shine, and that you brought joy to those who came into contact with you. That's what matters to the morning glory, and that's what really matters to all of us.
The morning glories make me appreciate every new day now, in a way I didn't before. Each evening, I go and visit with them, knowing those particular ones won't be here tomorrow, new ones will take their place. If we knew when we woke up in the morning, that we only had that one day to really live, life would be very different indeed for many of us. Now, each morning, I give thanks that I have been given the gift of another day, in all its glory. We can learn from all of life, if we remain open to the beauty that is all around us. And nature can be one of our greatest teachers.
What a profound lesson from such a simple flower. Thank you, my sweet little morning glories!
Veronica Hay
Veronica Hay is an inspirational writer and author of In A Dream, You Can Do Anything, An Extraordinary Collection Of Words. Her work inspires others to be more of who they really are. For more insights and inspiration you can visit her website at: http://www.insightsandinspirations.com/ or email her at veronicahay@telus.net
I planted seeds in my little garden this year. I have never planted seeds before, because I am not a very patient person, and waiting for the little green shoots to rise above the ground, was just too much for me. But this year, I thought I would give it a try. I thought it would be a good metaphor for me, to plant something and watch it grow, much as I have many times, planted thoughts, dreams and affirmations and watched many of them become a reality.
And so, in the Spring of this year, I planted my garden. I chose many types of flowers and among them, Morning Glories. Within a month, many of the other flowers were bursting through the earth, but not the Morning Glories. Each morning, I would run outside to check on them, and nothing, nothing for several weeks more. I was about to give up on them. I was sure that they just did not 'take' so to speak. But finally, it happened! They had broken through the earth, and were starting to climb. And climb, and climb, and climb, they did....with their big, beautiful, heart shaped leaves.
And so, the saga continued, nothing for weeks and weeks and weeks but more and more beautiful leaves. And I thought to myself, "Well, leaves are nice, but that is all I will probably get at this point." And then, one fine and glorious morning, there it was, the most beautiful sky-blue morning glory I have ever seen!!! It seemed like a miracle to me. I had waited over 3 months for this one delicate, funnel-shaped flower to show up and now here it was, in all its splendor. It reminded me of just how many times I had waited in life for something I had longed for, and how incredible it felt when it finally arrived, and also, how many times, that I had wanted to throw in the towel, and just give up. But I wasn't prepared for what was to happen next, with these little flowers, and I was surprised and deeply saddened by it.
Roses and geraniums and daisies and most other flowers bloom and stay around for a while, but not Morning Glories. Morning Glories open themselves up to the world, in the morning, in all of their glory, hence the name, Morning Glory. And if you look closely at them, you will see how extraordinary they are, both in colour and texture, and that in their centre, is a kind of golden light that shines from within.But here is the hard part... At the end of the day, they turn a most beautiful shade of lavender, and then close up, wither and die. They live for only one day, and then they are gone. I cannot tell you how much this saddened me, and what a profound effect this little flower had upon my life. I kept thinking how sad to be so beautiful and live for only one day. And then, I suddenly realized what a gift they were. You see, it doesn't matter how long your life is. It only matters that you were here, in all your glory, that you opened up completely, and let your light shine, and that you brought joy to those who came into contact with you. That's what matters to the morning glory, and that's what really matters to all of us.
The morning glories make me appreciate every new day now, in a way I didn't before. Each evening, I go and visit with them, knowing those particular ones won't be here tomorrow, new ones will take their place. If we knew when we woke up in the morning, that we only had that one day to really live, life would be very different indeed for many of us. Now, each morning, I give thanks that I have been given the gift of another day, in all its glory. We can learn from all of life, if we remain open to the beauty that is all around us. And nature can be one of our greatest teachers.
What a profound lesson from such a simple flower. Thank you, my sweet little morning glories!
Veronica Hay
Veronica Hay is an inspirational writer and author of In A Dream, You Can Do Anything, An Extraordinary Collection Of Words. Her work inspires others to be more of who they really are. For more insights and inspiration you can visit her website at: http://www.insightsandinspirations.com/ or email her at veronicahay@telus.net
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Just Checking In
Admittedly, it has been a very long time since my last post. I will never-the-less keep this short too, but wanted to reassure "my peeps" that I am alive and well. Walter's business is growing and his clients are very happy with his services. He has endeared himself to his clients and now some are referring him to other business owners.
Our family took a short weekend trip to Baltimore, MD to attend a wedding of a young couple who we have worked with in our ministry work. The young man we've seen grow up from elementary school age and we are very good friends with his parents. The young woman oversaw our youth fellowships in the area and had a very positive impact on David. So you can see why this was meaningful for us to attend.
These days I am taking up hula and building some proficiency, though still not as coordinated as I want to be, but am still enjoying it none the less. I am also doing aerobic workouts to energetic music such as Jock Jams, disco, pop and various fitness/workout music. It's been fun, though sometimes hard to get motivated at first. Once I get going, I get very energized.
So that's a little bit of what's happening here in my little corner of the world.
Our family took a short weekend trip to Baltimore, MD to attend a wedding of a young couple who we have worked with in our ministry work. The young man we've seen grow up from elementary school age and we are very good friends with his parents. The young woman oversaw our youth fellowships in the area and had a very positive impact on David. So you can see why this was meaningful for us to attend.
These days I am taking up hula and building some proficiency, though still not as coordinated as I want to be, but am still enjoying it none the less. I am also doing aerobic workouts to energetic music such as Jock Jams, disco, pop and various fitness/workout music. It's been fun, though sometimes hard to get motivated at first. Once I get going, I get very energized.
So that's a little bit of what's happening here in my little corner of the world.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Dr. Willard Harley, Jr.
I would like to recommend one of the greatest and most practical books I have read in a VERY, VERY long time that I firmly believe will help others. (This time it's not the Bible, though I HIGHLY recommend that too!!!) No, this book (and others that I am presently reading that are equally great), is entitled His Needs, Her Needs by Dr. Willard Harley, Jr.
The other book I'm presently reading is entitled, Fall In Love, Stay In Love and it is also great! I actually came upon this author by doing a Google search and sort of "happened upon" his website http://www.marriagebuilders.com/, and I am deeply grateful to God that I did.
I would like to encourage all those I love and hold dear, who are in marital relationships (both healthy and troubled), as well as those in broken relationships (or perhaps are no longer in those relationships for whatever reason) to explore the website and the writings of this author. He genuinely wants to help people in relationships and has put forth great effort in studying why marriages, having started out so strong, become strained and what can be done to heal the loss of love. His writings are non-judgemental, very well researched and have a "how to" platform, making them very practical. He uses great analogies that people can relate to, as well as accounts that illustrate the lessons described. (Love Busters, Love Banks, etc. to name a few!)
I admire this man's writings because he reminds me of how Moses, when called by God in the burning bush, turned aside to know "why". In Moses' case, he wanted to know why the bush wasn't consumed; in Harley's case, he wanted to understand why marriages that start out so great, turn sour. He then takes his research further to see if, those very things that made for the breach, can be reversed, and if reversered, would love be restored? His discoveries prove that not only can the relationship be mended, it can actually be sweeter than it ever was at the outset!
Please, folks...for the sake of your vows, for the sake of your children, for the sake of your spouse, and most importantly, for the sake of self love, I urge you, for whatever reason (even if you just need help understanding yourself or the opposite sex), do yourself a big favor and give these books and website some consideration. Don't quit or give up on the potential of what love can be and what God meant for you to enjoy, when there are sound resources that can really help make things sweet again, if you're willing to try...
God bless you in your relationships with love that sustains you, provides joy, and that grows sweeter day by day!
The other book I'm presently reading is entitled, Fall In Love, Stay In Love and it is also great! I actually came upon this author by doing a Google search and sort of "happened upon" his website http://www.marriagebuilders.com/, and I am deeply grateful to God that I did.
I would like to encourage all those I love and hold dear, who are in marital relationships (both healthy and troubled), as well as those in broken relationships (or perhaps are no longer in those relationships for whatever reason) to explore the website and the writings of this author. He genuinely wants to help people in relationships and has put forth great effort in studying why marriages, having started out so strong, become strained and what can be done to heal the loss of love. His writings are non-judgemental, very well researched and have a "how to" platform, making them very practical. He uses great analogies that people can relate to, as well as accounts that illustrate the lessons described. (Love Busters, Love Banks, etc. to name a few!)
I admire this man's writings because he reminds me of how Moses, when called by God in the burning bush, turned aside to know "why". In Moses' case, he wanted to know why the bush wasn't consumed; in Harley's case, he wanted to understand why marriages that start out so great, turn sour. He then takes his research further to see if, those very things that made for the breach, can be reversed, and if reversered, would love be restored? His discoveries prove that not only can the relationship be mended, it can actually be sweeter than it ever was at the outset!
Please, folks...for the sake of your vows, for the sake of your children, for the sake of your spouse, and most importantly, for the sake of self love, I urge you, for whatever reason (even if you just need help understanding yourself or the opposite sex), do yourself a big favor and give these books and website some consideration. Don't quit or give up on the potential of what love can be and what God meant for you to enjoy, when there are sound resources that can really help make things sweet again, if you're willing to try...
God bless you in your relationships with love that sustains you, provides joy, and that grows sweeter day by day!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Been Awhile...
It has been quite some time since my last post...even longer since I said something with any substance. Sorry gang. It may be just a bit longer until I really get on this thing. Suffice it to say that life has bee pretty busy these past few weeks. We had a friend stay with us for nearly a week just last week. It was a much needed vacation for her as she has two teenage kids and a husband with early onset Alzheimer's; he's considered at stage six, so it's progressed quite a bit. We just wanted to make sure she got spoiled rotten, as her last visit out here was all about everyone else getting refreshed - everyone, that is, except herself. She was yielding at their every whim to ensure everyone stayed happy. Needless to say, she is the one who was in the greatest need of the vacation, and the one who benefitted the least from that round. This time however, we did it up really good! It was all about pampering her. She called this week and said she's going through "Uyehara withdrawals".
This upcoming week we will be hosting a major ministry event in our county. It's going to be Hawaiian Luau theme, "God's Aloha tu da Max!" Half of the state will be coming together. Walter and another gentleman are going outside the box to take on the Children's Fellowship portion of the day. I will be working with another lady to coordinate group contests/activities for a two hour time slot. Should our timed activities come up short, I have a back-up plan to teach some basic hula dance steps/motions...did I say "basic"? Yes, that's precisely what I meant to say, "Basic with a capital B." I'm ready to teach the kao, kahalo, hela, havela, kui, and ami...show some hand motions that are commonly used, and perform one of the most elementary dances that most toddlers start with, "Pearly Shells". David says I'm getting pretty good now . (Boy, I've got hime fooled!) The main thing is to not bob up and down, but to stay as level in your dance (knees gently bent, lift heel and hip at same time) as possible, all the while, making sure you smile really big, and perform graceful hand motions (viewing hands while dancing - the body performs the dance, but the hands tell the story). At least you can "look" like you have a little bit of aloha with this bit of knowledge/ability. It is fun, I must admit.
So, a big weekend...praying for sunshine, but light rain is in the forecast...we are prepared to do our activities under a pavilion (worst case scenario). We'll break bread together, have musical performances, teachings of the Bible, worship, activities - basically, a whole lotta godly fun!
This upcoming week we will be hosting a major ministry event in our county. It's going to be Hawaiian Luau theme, "God's Aloha tu da Max!" Half of the state will be coming together. Walter and another gentleman are going outside the box to take on the Children's Fellowship portion of the day. I will be working with another lady to coordinate group contests/activities for a two hour time slot. Should our timed activities come up short, I have a back-up plan to teach some basic hula dance steps/motions...did I say "basic"? Yes, that's precisely what I meant to say, "Basic with a capital B." I'm ready to teach the kao, kahalo, hela, havela, kui, and ami...show some hand motions that are commonly used, and perform one of the most elementary dances that most toddlers start with, "Pearly Shells". David says I'm getting pretty good now . (Boy, I've got hime fooled!) The main thing is to not bob up and down, but to stay as level in your dance (knees gently bent, lift heel and hip at same time) as possible, all the while, making sure you smile really big, and perform graceful hand motions (viewing hands while dancing - the body performs the dance, but the hands tell the story). At least you can "look" like you have a little bit of aloha with this bit of knowledge/ability. It is fun, I must admit.
So, a big weekend...praying for sunshine, but light rain is in the forecast...we are prepared to do our activities under a pavilion (worst case scenario). We'll break bread together, have musical performances, teachings of the Bible, worship, activities - basically, a whole lotta godly fun!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
I Posted a New Poll: What Is Your Favorite Color?
Just in case your favorite color is not listed (or if you want to specify more accurately your exact shade of your favorite color) you can utilize this spot for your posting. Feel free to elaborate "why" if you so desire.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
A Worthwhile Quote...
"Man finds it hard to get what he wants, because he does not want the best. God finds it hard to give, because He would give the best and man will not take it."
~George MacDonald
~George MacDonald
Monday, March 2, 2009
Frugal Tips...
Please submit your favorite frugal/thrift (not cheap) tips. I distinguish cheap as that which is done to save money at the expense of others (i.e., stiffing a waitress of her tip or stealing hotel room items...CHEAP!).
One recent frugal tip that I did this past month was to write an email to request coupons from my favorite cheese manufacturer. They mailed me 4 coupons for $1 off, and threw in one FREE purchase to boot. I use their cheese as frequent as is feasible, but it's not cheap in our local grocery stores. I told them that as much as I love their cheese, it's not economical for me to buy very often, so I have been left to buy it for special occassions, like when I have guests over. I have recruited quite a few folks to their cheese. (You are all probably wondering what cheese I'm referring to: Boursin, Gournay Cheese with garlic and fine herb flavoring).
Buy online overstock/clearance items from high end stores. I recently found several items from Lands End for less than what I'd pay at Walmart, but rather than cheap quality, they are well made and in classic styles that will endure for years rather than for a season. Also, avoid buying trendy pieces, rather go trendy on small ticket items like accessories that can update a classic, enduring article of clothing.
Check out the scratch and dent section of the grocery store for canned and boxed food items. For perishables, you can consider the day old baked goods and freeze them for later use. I do this with meats and produce that is discounted for quick sell. I immediately will prepare it (i.e., portion out meat servings, cut up fruits and veggies, and then freeze them for later use). I also will make a big pot of beans or grains and portion them out into one cup servings and freeze them for meals. Saves me time and money! When I have leftovers I will do likewise, portion out a serving or two for a meal later. I find that others are more inclined to eat leftovers if some time has passed before you reintroduce the food again. Also, I will use leftovers to make a stew, soup, or casserole.
One recent frugal tip that I did this past month was to write an email to request coupons from my favorite cheese manufacturer. They mailed me 4 coupons for $1 off, and threw in one FREE purchase to boot. I use their cheese as frequent as is feasible, but it's not cheap in our local grocery stores. I told them that as much as I love their cheese, it's not economical for me to buy very often, so I have been left to buy it for special occassions, like when I have guests over. I have recruited quite a few folks to their cheese. (You are all probably wondering what cheese I'm referring to: Boursin, Gournay Cheese with garlic and fine herb flavoring).
Buy online overstock/clearance items from high end stores. I recently found several items from Lands End for less than what I'd pay at Walmart, but rather than cheap quality, they are well made and in classic styles that will endure for years rather than for a season. Also, avoid buying trendy pieces, rather go trendy on small ticket items like accessories that can update a classic, enduring article of clothing.
Check out the scratch and dent section of the grocery store for canned and boxed food items. For perishables, you can consider the day old baked goods and freeze them for later use. I do this with meats and produce that is discounted for quick sell. I immediately will prepare it (i.e., portion out meat servings, cut up fruits and veggies, and then freeze them for later use). I also will make a big pot of beans or grains and portion them out into one cup servings and freeze them for meals. Saves me time and money! When I have leftovers I will do likewise, portion out a serving or two for a meal later. I find that others are more inclined to eat leftovers if some time has passed before you reintroduce the food again. Also, I will use leftovers to make a stew, soup, or casserole.
Poll Results of Favorite White Wine Variety
Reisling was the BIG WINNER with NINE VOTES. Runner up was Chardonnay with ONE VOTE. Thanks for submitting your vote(s). Now, go out and pick yourself a nice bottle of Reisling, pour yourself a glass, fix yourself a nice hot bath, and open up a good book. Enjoy!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Learing about the Lymphatic System!
I typically will spend a few days learning about random things that I think will be profitable either to myself or to others. These past couple of days I've been learning more about the lymphatic system and it is quite fascinating!
The lymphatic system doesn't pump the lymph throughout your body on it's own, it needs you to make some effort. Can you say exercise? A really great exercise that helps keep the lymphatic system moving along smoothly (as opposed to getting clogged up in the nodes) is rebounding. A rebounder is basically a mini trampoline, though there are varying degrees of quality. A gentle bounce, called the "health bounce" for five minutes a day is all that is needed to capitalize on rebounding's benefits for lymphatic health. In fact, it's encouraged that you start out gently in your routine rather than starting a rigorous workout.
The gentle action is enough to move the fluids so they can promote healing throughout your body. After all, you wouldn't want to counter the healing benefit by injuring yourself! Also, drink plenty of fluids, water being the ideal, to keep the lymph fluids moving along nicely.
One other notable tidbit is gentle massage to your lymph node areas, especially where there may be excessive build up. This is what was happening to me with my right under arm shoulder area. For years I thought I was having carpal tunnel issues as the pain was affecting the rest of my right arm, even down to my hands. Who knew? I simply started to massage the area to try and isolate where the pain was sourced from. Ultimately, I ended up at the swollen lymph node under my right armpit. (I just had a mammogram about two months ago with a clean bill of health, so was able to rule that out right away). Every opportunity I get, I try and massage this area to work the node. It's amazing to me the relief I have experienced. Though not 100%, there is a very noticeable improvement. It must be that the swollen node was not allowing room for nerve activity to happen fully.
About 3-4 years ago I was encouraged to have carpal tunnel surgery. I didn't feel conforatble with that; it just didn't seem like getting cut up was the solution, but rather seemed quite rash and extreme! I am SO GLAD that I didn't go that route, as clearly, the source of the problem would still exist and I'd have had a needless surgery. I am one of those folks who likes to explore the least invasive, most natural/gentle form of remedy first. I just don't understand how medical professionals can honestly go there as the first mode of solution, that, or drugs! But, then again, I DO KNOW that they have to work with health insurance policies, and sadly, homeopathic/ natural cures are not covered!
I have nothing against medical professionals, rather, I know they're of great value when you really need them. Same with meds and surgical procedures. It's just that these days, there's way too much relinquishing of our own will to the will of our caregivers. There's also not enough information being provided to the patient as a natural alternative to all these drastic measures. We have to take charge of our own health and learn what is available, especially what's going to have the least consequences and be the least invasive.
It's okay to ask your healthcare provider about alternative options to things they suggest. Ask them what is the least invasive option. And also, don't feel compelled to have something done that you're not at peace about. Sometimes the doctors are right, but sometimes they have been know to misdiagnose things. Not because they're stupid, but because they may not have all the facts about your situation.
Good health to you!
The lymphatic system doesn't pump the lymph throughout your body on it's own, it needs you to make some effort. Can you say exercise? A really great exercise that helps keep the lymphatic system moving along smoothly (as opposed to getting clogged up in the nodes) is rebounding. A rebounder is basically a mini trampoline, though there are varying degrees of quality. A gentle bounce, called the "health bounce" for five minutes a day is all that is needed to capitalize on rebounding's benefits for lymphatic health. In fact, it's encouraged that you start out gently in your routine rather than starting a rigorous workout.
The gentle action is enough to move the fluids so they can promote healing throughout your body. After all, you wouldn't want to counter the healing benefit by injuring yourself! Also, drink plenty of fluids, water being the ideal, to keep the lymph fluids moving along nicely.
One other notable tidbit is gentle massage to your lymph node areas, especially where there may be excessive build up. This is what was happening to me with my right under arm shoulder area. For years I thought I was having carpal tunnel issues as the pain was affecting the rest of my right arm, even down to my hands. Who knew? I simply started to massage the area to try and isolate where the pain was sourced from. Ultimately, I ended up at the swollen lymph node under my right armpit. (I just had a mammogram about two months ago with a clean bill of health, so was able to rule that out right away). Every opportunity I get, I try and massage this area to work the node. It's amazing to me the relief I have experienced. Though not 100%, there is a very noticeable improvement. It must be that the swollen node was not allowing room for nerve activity to happen fully.
About 3-4 years ago I was encouraged to have carpal tunnel surgery. I didn't feel conforatble with that; it just didn't seem like getting cut up was the solution, but rather seemed quite rash and extreme! I am SO GLAD that I didn't go that route, as clearly, the source of the problem would still exist and I'd have had a needless surgery. I am one of those folks who likes to explore the least invasive, most natural/gentle form of remedy first. I just don't understand how medical professionals can honestly go there as the first mode of solution, that, or drugs! But, then again, I DO KNOW that they have to work with health insurance policies, and sadly, homeopathic/ natural cures are not covered!
I have nothing against medical professionals, rather, I know they're of great value when you really need them. Same with meds and surgical procedures. It's just that these days, there's way too much relinquishing of our own will to the will of our caregivers. There's also not enough information being provided to the patient as a natural alternative to all these drastic measures. We have to take charge of our own health and learn what is available, especially what's going to have the least consequences and be the least invasive.
It's okay to ask your healthcare provider about alternative options to things they suggest. Ask them what is the least invasive option. And also, don't feel compelled to have something done that you're not at peace about. Sometimes the doctors are right, but sometimes they have been know to misdiagnose things. Not because they're stupid, but because they may not have all the facts about your situation.
Good health to you!
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Inspirational Blog - Roy Lessin's Meet Me in the Meadow
I found this inspirational blog from the co-founder of daysprings. On many occasions it has enriched my life. You may enjoy it too, so I have posted it here. Please feel free to bookmark it to your favorites if you so desire. I did!
http://roy.dayspring.com/
Recent excerpts from Roy Lessin's blog:
Fret Busters #23, #24
“Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.” Psalm 37:3
Great Quotes
You open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:16
God chooses the weak things and the despised. Paul seems almost at a loss to know how to define the things, so weak and despicable in men’s eyes, that God elects to use. In a telling phrase he sums them up as the “the things which are not.” I Corinthians 1:28.
http://roy.dayspring.com/
Recent excerpts from Roy Lessin's blog:
Fret Busters #23, #24
There is one thing that God says to every believer, regardless of his circumstances — “Trust Me.”
“Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.” Psalm 37:3
Confidence is not based on you having all the resources needed to take care of yourself; confidence is based upon the truth that God is faithful.
Great Quotes
You open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:16
It is much that He should satisfy the need, the want; but He goes far beyond that. Pity is moved to meet our need; duty may sometimes look after our wants; but to satisfy the desire implies a tender watchfulness, a sweet and gracious knowledge of us, an eagerness of blessing. God is never satisfied until He has satisfied our desires. –Mark Guy Pearse
God chooses the weak things and the despised. Paul seems almost at a loss to know how to define the things, so weak and despicable in men’s eyes, that God elects to use. In a telling phrase he sums them up as the “the things which are not.” I Corinthians 1:28.
Do you fall in that category? Do not despair. Far from being at a disadvantage as compared with others, you may in fact have the edge over them. For at least you are already at zero, and have not a long way still to go to reach God’s starting point!
–Watchman Nee
Humility
Those who walk before God in humility are:
Weak enough to lean upon His strength;
Small enough to look upon His greatness;
Patient enough to wait upon His timing;
Empty enough to draw upon His fullness;
Poor enough to depend upon His riches;
Needy enough to count upon His grace.
“I love being nothing so He can be my all.” -Don Lessin
Emerson - A Heart Reignited
Reading an Introduction into The Essential Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson, I was stirred by the words of Mary Oliver. As she described Emerson I was reminded of how “like-souled” we are and how in many ways I desire to be like him in his simplicity in observing life, his contentment, and yet his deep thinking, active mind to find beauty in the most common observances of everyday life.
I have felt for some days, perhaps even weeks, as though I were half dead in my soul, trying to figure out why I should still draw breath daily when my life felt purposeless and empty of aim. Mind you, I was not suicidal, but rather, just sort of living on "empty". Life lacked something.
Last night, my soul’s embers, once thought smoldered and cold, were suddenly stirred while reading. Reignited was this small spark, a flicker, that turned into a slow and steady flame. I know now that much of what was lost was my own observation of life, life with its daily common happenings. Instead, I had been filling my day with the clutter of duty, chores, deadlines, etc… the mundane…all these calling me to attend to them, but all the while neglecting what has been a passion in life, the keen observation of life all around, and drawing upon the hidden lessons that life wants to teach me if I will stop and observe.
How seldom I had opened the doors so that I might step outside and see the happenings in my community. Here, I have been granted this unique privilege to live in this particular time, and in this unique area of the world. But sadly, my only portals to see outside this vessel had been the media…the news, magazines, articles, television, the internet, etc. To my own detriment I had ignored the most obvious portal of all – my own eyes, my own heart, my own understanding. How about those things I look upon, learn about, apply my heart to understand about what I am seeing. What about my perspective? Why should everyone else's perspective about life be more esteemed than my own? After all, they cannot see what only I can see. If perchance I understand what I am observing, I might in turn also elevate those who are involved.
Emerson in his introduction to his first published essay entitled Nature wrote, “The sun shines to-day also.” (This is our day to live, much like others who lived so fully before us! They had their time; we now have ours!)
Harriet Martineau wrote of Emerson, “His influence is of the curious sort. There is a vague nobleness and thorough sweetness about him, which move people to their very depths, without their being able to explain why… He conquers minds, as well as hearts, wherever he goes; and without convincing anybody’s reason of any one thing, exalts their reason, and makes their minds worth more than they ever were before.” 9th June, 1848
I want this to be the theme of my life, that others were better for having been in my presence, that they were edified, elevated, improved, for having known me. People should be left better than we find them! As a young girl I can recall my mother's teachings: "People cannot be replaced," she would say, "things can be replaced, but not people!" She helped me realize the worth of a man.
Emerson would daily jot notes in his journal – simple observances versed profoundly, and vice versa, profound observances versed simply. He wrote with eloquence. He was inspirational, yet modest. Some favorites of the thoughts he preserved in his journals:
And perhaps my favorite (taken from Ms. Oliver's introduction):
This last quote noted here gives wings to my petitions, reminding me that yes, I see the situation…indeed, it is right here; I am not denying it. I simply choose to change my perception, viewing it instead with God beside me. He is in the picture. Viewing it from God’s vantage point, suddenly, all appears possible!
I have felt for some days, perhaps even weeks, as though I were half dead in my soul, trying to figure out why I should still draw breath daily when my life felt purposeless and empty of aim. Mind you, I was not suicidal, but rather, just sort of living on "empty". Life lacked something.
Last night, my soul’s embers, once thought smoldered and cold, were suddenly stirred while reading. Reignited was this small spark, a flicker, that turned into a slow and steady flame. I know now that much of what was lost was my own observation of life, life with its daily common happenings. Instead, I had been filling my day with the clutter of duty, chores, deadlines, etc… the mundane…all these calling me to attend to them, but all the while neglecting what has been a passion in life, the keen observation of life all around, and drawing upon the hidden lessons that life wants to teach me if I will stop and observe.
How seldom I had opened the doors so that I might step outside and see the happenings in my community. Here, I have been granted this unique privilege to live in this particular time, and in this unique area of the world. But sadly, my only portals to see outside this vessel had been the media…the news, magazines, articles, television, the internet, etc. To my own detriment I had ignored the most obvious portal of all – my own eyes, my own heart, my own understanding. How about those things I look upon, learn about, apply my heart to understand about what I am seeing. What about my perspective? Why should everyone else's perspective about life be more esteemed than my own? After all, they cannot see what only I can see. If perchance I understand what I am observing, I might in turn also elevate those who are involved.
Emerson in his introduction to his first published essay entitled Nature wrote, “The sun shines to-day also.” (This is our day to live, much like others who lived so fully before us! They had their time; we now have ours!)
Harriet Martineau wrote of Emerson, “His influence is of the curious sort. There is a vague nobleness and thorough sweetness about him, which move people to their very depths, without their being able to explain why… He conquers minds, as well as hearts, wherever he goes; and without convincing anybody’s reason of any one thing, exalts their reason, and makes their minds worth more than they ever were before.” 9th June, 1848
I want this to be the theme of my life, that others were better for having been in my presence, that they were edified, elevated, improved, for having known me. People should be left better than we find them! As a young girl I can recall my mother's teachings: "People cannot be replaced," she would say, "things can be replaced, but not people!" She helped me realize the worth of a man.
Emerson would daily jot notes in his journal – simple observances versed profoundly, and vice versa, profound observances versed simply. He wrote with eloquence. He was inspirational, yet modest. Some favorites of the thoughts he preserved in his journals:
“We live amid surfaces, and the true art of life is to skate well on them.”
And perhaps my favorite (taken from Ms. Oliver's introduction):
Prayer is the contemplation of the facts of life from the highest point of view."
This last quote noted here gives wings to my petitions, reminding me that yes, I see the situation…indeed, it is right here; I am not denying it. I simply choose to change my perception, viewing it instead with God beside me. He is in the picture. Viewing it from God’s vantage point, suddenly, all appears possible!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Consumer Reports Picks the Best Cup o' Brew (Article)
Consumer Reports Picks the Best Cup o' Brew
Our top-rated Colombian coffee is also a CR Best Buy
By ConsumerReports.org
Folgers, Maxwell House, and Starbucks are America's best-selling ground coffees. But all three were iced by Eight O'Clock Colombian coffee in our taste tests. As for Starbucks, it didn't even place among the top regular coffees and trailed among decafs.
Our tests of 19 coffees also show that some of the best cost the least. At about $6 per pound, Eight O'Clock costs less than half the price of Gloria Jean's, Peet's, and other more expensive brands.
Like your joe without all the caffeine? Dunkin' Donuts and Millstone were the front runners among the decafs. But Folgers Gourmet Selection Lively Colombian came in close behind and costs up to $3 less per pound. But even the best decaffeinated coffees couldn't match the best regular brews in our taste tests.
What we tasted
Our coffee experts focused on 100 percent Colombian — a best-selling bean — for regular coffee. Most of our decaffeinated coffees are a blend of different beans.
What makes a great cup of Colombian? Lots of aroma and flavor, some floral notes and fruitiness, a touch of bitterness, and enough body to provide a feeling of fullness in the mouth. Woody, papery, or burnt tastes are off-notes.
Weeks of sipping and swirling confirmed that even 100 percent Colombian coffee and its Juan Valdez logo don't guarantee quality. Our trained testers unearthed other surprises:
Still so-so after all these years
Chock full o'Nuts and Maxwell House have pushed coffee that's "heavenly" and "good to the last drop" since 1932 and 1907, respectively. But off-notes, little complexity, and, for Chock full o' Nuts, variable quality put both behind Eight O'Clock.
When boutique isn't better
Midwest-based Caribou and Kickapoo beat an array of larger players among regular coffees. But Bucks County Coffee, from Langhorne, Penn., tasted only OK, and Peet's, from Berkeley, Calif., was burnt and bitter, despite costing $14 per pound. Peet's, Archer Farms, and Kickapoo also varied from batch to batch.
Caffeine differences
None of our decaffeinated coffees had more than 5 milligrams of caffeine per 6-ounce serving. But among regular coffees, Caribou and Bucks County had roughly four times the caffeine (195 milligrams) of some of the lowest-level brews. Medical experts say up to 600 milligrams per day is probably safe for most and can help keep you alert. But heart patients and women who are pregnant or nursing should stay below 200 milligrams, which might mean sidestepping those brands among the caffeinated coffees we tested.
How to choose
Several of our top coffees could save you $25 to $70 per year over pricier brands even if you drank just one 6-ounce cup per day. Here's what else to think about:
Consider how you take it
Coffees judged very good taste fine black. Milk and sugar can improve a mediocre coffee, but not even cream is likely to help the lowest-scoring decafs.
Choose a good coffeemaker
The best coffeemakers from our January report reached the 195º to 205º F required to get the best from the beans and avoid a weak or bitter brew. A top Michael Graves model costs just $40.
Consider grinding for fresher flavor
Even the best pre-ground coffee can't beat the best fresh-ground when it comes to taste. One top grinder from our January report, the Mr. Coffee IDS77, costs only $20.
Our top-rated Colombian coffee is also a CR Best Buy
By ConsumerReports.org
Folgers, Maxwell House, and Starbucks are America's best-selling ground coffees. But all three were iced by Eight O'Clock Colombian coffee in our taste tests. As for Starbucks, it didn't even place among the top regular coffees and trailed among decafs.
Our tests of 19 coffees also show that some of the best cost the least. At about $6 per pound, Eight O'Clock costs less than half the price of Gloria Jean's, Peet's, and other more expensive brands.
Like your joe without all the caffeine? Dunkin' Donuts and Millstone were the front runners among the decafs. But Folgers Gourmet Selection Lively Colombian came in close behind and costs up to $3 less per pound. But even the best decaffeinated coffees couldn't match the best regular brews in our taste tests.
What we tasted
Our coffee experts focused on 100 percent Colombian — a best-selling bean — for regular coffee. Most of our decaffeinated coffees are a blend of different beans.
What makes a great cup of Colombian? Lots of aroma and flavor, some floral notes and fruitiness, a touch of bitterness, and enough body to provide a feeling of fullness in the mouth. Woody, papery, or burnt tastes are off-notes.
Weeks of sipping and swirling confirmed that even 100 percent Colombian coffee and its Juan Valdez logo don't guarantee quality. Our trained testers unearthed other surprises:
Still so-so after all these years
Chock full o'Nuts and Maxwell House have pushed coffee that's "heavenly" and "good to the last drop" since 1932 and 1907, respectively. But off-notes, little complexity, and, for Chock full o' Nuts, variable quality put both behind Eight O'Clock.
When boutique isn't better
Midwest-based Caribou and Kickapoo beat an array of larger players among regular coffees. But Bucks County Coffee, from Langhorne, Penn., tasted only OK, and Peet's, from Berkeley, Calif., was burnt and bitter, despite costing $14 per pound. Peet's, Archer Farms, and Kickapoo also varied from batch to batch.
Caffeine differences
None of our decaffeinated coffees had more than 5 milligrams of caffeine per 6-ounce serving. But among regular coffees, Caribou and Bucks County had roughly four times the caffeine (195 milligrams) of some of the lowest-level brews. Medical experts say up to 600 milligrams per day is probably safe for most and can help keep you alert. But heart patients and women who are pregnant or nursing should stay below 200 milligrams, which might mean sidestepping those brands among the caffeinated coffees we tested.
How to choose
Several of our top coffees could save you $25 to $70 per year over pricier brands even if you drank just one 6-ounce cup per day. Here's what else to think about:
Consider how you take it
Coffees judged very good taste fine black. Milk and sugar can improve a mediocre coffee, but not even cream is likely to help the lowest-scoring decafs.
Choose a good coffeemaker
The best coffeemakers from our January report reached the 195º to 205º F required to get the best from the beans and avoid a weak or bitter brew. A top Michael Graves model costs just $40.
Consider grinding for fresher flavor
Even the best pre-ground coffee can't beat the best fresh-ground when it comes to taste. One top grinder from our January report, the Mr. Coffee IDS77, costs only $20.
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