Nicey and Spicey

 

I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.  - Proverbs 7:17

 

Today is NATIONAL DESSERT DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I'm a little quirky where desserts are concerned.  My favorite treat has to be anything that has cinnamon in it or on it!  I have a theory about my love of spice.  My daddy used to wear Old Spice cologne and I absolutely adored it!  To this day, when I smell anything baked with cinnamon and cloves and spices - it takes me right back to when I sat on daddy's knee.  It's like a warm hug! 

It's well known among Type 2 Diabetics that cinnamon is one of the best spices to use to lower blood glucose levels.  However, if you are thinking that you can have the cinnamon in fried ice cream and expect to have your blood glucose level drop, I'm afraid you will be a little disappointed with the result. 

Did you know that cinnamon was included in almost every prescription issued in ancient China?  That's right!  It was regarded as a tranquilizer, tonic and digestive aid, as well as being good for depression and a weak heart.

If you are going to use a spice in a dessert, cinnamon is a safe bet.  In our house we fix cinnamon toast once in a while.  We don't use the sugar with cinnamon, but powder Stevia, which seems to work just as well. 

Back before Type 2 Diabetes was a part of our everyday life, my husband made the best cinnamon rolls!  People everywhere requested he bring a couple of pans of rolls to share!  Even the people I used to work with wanted him to bring the cinnamon rolls in for them. 

We've had to make some pretty drastic changes in our lifestyle, but one thing we have not given up is cinnamon.  I know some diabetics who keep a container of cinnamon in their vehicle and if they feel like they are going a little high, they just eat a spoonful of cinnamon.  Now, I gotta tell ya - I cannot do that - I would gag! 

Cinnamon is my secret weapon in savory dishes.  It's a nice surprise and adds unexpected depth.  - Michael Psilakis

My two favorite foods are apples and cinnamon, especially this time of year when Autumn has set in and everything is so crisp and cool.  I like to make my own apple chips because they are probably the most guilt-free snack ever, and they remind me of my mom's baked apples. 

When I go to buy apple chips in a bag at the store, I'm amazed at how much they charge for such a small bag.  I can make my own and add all the cinnamon I want for a fraction of the price!

APPLE CHIPS
If you have a dehydrator you can use that, but I just preheat my oven to 225F. 

You can use any type of apple you want.  My personal preference is Golden Delicious.

Core the apples.  I leave the peeling on (fiber is our friend) - but you can peel them if you want.

Slice the apples horizontally.  You can slice them as thick or thin as you like.  I like mine a little more chewy, so I tend to slice thicker.

Put the sliced apples on a foil-lined or parchment paper-lined cookie sheet
(for easy clean up).

Sprinkle the desired amount of cinnamon on the sliced apples.

Bake for 1 hour.

Flip them over and bake for an additional hour.

Note:  Keep the oven door cracked to let moisture out. 

My apple chips rock!  They are so much better than any I've ever gotten out of a bag - and I don't have to break the bank making them.

Cinnamon-Apple tea???  What's the deal with cinnamon, anyhow???  Anti-fungal?  Anti-bacterial?  Anti-clogging?  Improves circulation?  Helps inflammation from arthritis?  Hmm...  worth a try!!!

Add to fruit smoothie or put it in oatmeal.  How will you incorporate more cinnamon into your diet? 

A little side note:  there are some people who are actually allergic to spices!  Cinnamon, garlic, pepper and vanilla cause allergic reactions in some folks.  If your body has hives, itching or you have any problems breathing, get to the emergency room fast!

*No copyright protected material used.

Ovarian Cancer

If you never read another post from this blog... please read this one!!!

 

Today is WORLD OVARIAN CANCER DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I was recently told that I have cancer and will be going in for a total hysterectomy soon.  The news came as a great shock, but we just take each day as it comes and trust that God has a plan.

This day is dedicated to creating and raising awareness about ovarian cancer, the women’s cancer with the lowest survival rate for which there is little awareness and no cure. On this day, ovarian cancer awareness organizations from across the world will aim to have a singular focus and message for ovarian cancer and its symptoms.

World Ovarian Cancer Day will take place on May 8th each year.

Because I literally received my diagnosis just a few weeks ago, this is a cause that hits very close to home!  I am so glad that there is a day to make women aware of the dangers of ovarian cancer, particularly when diagnosed in the late stages.  Ovarian cancer has the lowest survival rate of all gynecologic cancers, and is characterized around the world by a lack of awareness of symptoms and late stage diagnosis.  This is almost certainly a death sentence.

I am so so so SO blessed to have been diagnosed early!  I thank God that I was vigilant about keeping my appointment with my OB/GYN.  I came so very close to canceling the appointment, thinking it was really not necessary.  How wrong I would have been!!!

Today is the first World Ovarian Cancer Day.  Ovarian cancer organizations from around the world will unite to educate their communities about ovarian cancer and its symptoms. For women living with the disease, and their families and friends, World Ovarian Cancer Day will build a sense of solidarity in the fight against the disease.

My message to you today is - Keep your appointment with your OB/GYN.  If you do not have one - get one!  A total hysterectomy may be a very scary thing to face, but it's sure better than facing ovarian / uterine cancer!  I am so very blessed!!! 

Ovarian cancer is diagnosed annually in nearly a quarter of a million women globally, and is responsible for 140,000 deaths each year.  Statistics show that just 45% of women with ovarian cancer are likely to survive for five years compared to up to 89% of women with breast cancer.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• All women are at risk of ovarian cancer
• Awareness of the early warning signs of the disease could save lives
• Diagnosis at an early stage vastly improves a woman's chance of survival
• Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage.
• The cervical smear test (Pap test) will NOT detect ovarian cancer

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can often be confused with other less serious conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders. Symptoms include:

• Bloating that seems to be persistent
• Increase in abdominal size
• Feeling full all the time
• Loss of appetite
• Frequent urination

I described it as a feeling of misery.  I truly knew something was wrong when I was eating so little and feeling so full - all the time!  It didn't make sense and frankly was frustrating me!  I'll be really honest - I love to eat, and I was sort of mad when I couldn't enjoy food anymore!

On Easter Sunday this year, I wanted to wear a nice dress that I recently purchased.  I tried the dress on before I bought it, and it fit.  When I tried to button and zip the skirt, it was too small.  Something was messed up about that. 

I was eating less, my abdomen was increasing in size and my Easter outfit did not...  well - fit.

That's when I made an appointment to see my OB/GYN.  I explained how I was feeling and he did an exam.  After the exam, he said he needed to do a uterine biopsy. 

About a week later the results of the biopsy came back and showed that I have a pre-cancerous condition.  He explained that it is not cancer - yet.  The cells are becoming cancerous.  It was caught in time. 

So if this had gone undetected my story may not have had a happy ending!  As it is, I will have the hysterectomy and the cancer will be gone and life will go on for a very long time, I hope!

If you notice changes and you have an uneasy feeling about things - a sense that something is not right - make an appointment.  I would rather keep the appointment and be told that I'm wrong than to not keep the appointment and find out that I was right.  By then it could be too late.

The earlier the diagnosis of ovarian/uterine cancer is made, the better your chances of survival. 

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!!!

 

*No copyright protected material used.



Meditation & Miracles

Prayer may not change things for you, but it for sure changes you for things. - Samuel M. Shoemaker


 

Stress is a very real part of this life.  This comes as no surprise to anyone, does it?  People have all sorts of ways to combat stress and some of those ways are not the most healthy.  My coping mechinism used to be food.  Junk food.  Evil, wicked, gross, disgusting junk food.  Let me tell you - there is a better way to cope with stress and maintain the wellness and peace of mind you deserve!

There are few things in this world that I appreciate more than a beautiful garden.  I do not (by any stretch of the imagination) claim to be a gardener, but I do admire those who have a green thumb.

Today is GARDEN MEDITATION DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!  We do not have a garden at our house, but we do have a small area in front of our house with shrubs and assorted landscaping accents.  There is a bench to the side where I sit and read devotionals in the morning.  A garden can set a mood for meditation faster than any atmosphere.  So calm and serene, it makes my blood pressure lower and suddenly all of my cares and worries disappear.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.  - Psalm 19:14

May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the LORD. 
- Psalm 104:34

Lately during my meditation, I have been expressing thanks to God for allowing my cancer to be detected and removed - Thank you, God!!!  It seems with every meditation of my heart there is a miracle in my life!  To God be all the glory!!!

While I'm reading devotions, there is a little duck couple that waddle up the sidewalk every morning expecting to be fed.  The female is more bold and aggressive than the male.  She does not know the meaning of the word "shy".  She not only waddles up the sidewalk, she quacks loudly as she is waddling, as if to say, "We're here - where's the corn?"   

Of course I have the food right beside me, but I like to see just how brave mama duck is, so I don't feed them right away.  How close will she get??? 

I was just finishing up my devotionals when they came into the yard.  I thought, "Oh, this is good timing."  I sat on the bench quietly and watched them as they approached.  As I watched the ducks the hymn "In The Garden" came to mind and I began to sing.

They were not accustomed to hearing me sing and were taken aback.  They stopped in their tracks and stood perfectly still and looked at me as if to say, "You've never done this before - should we be frightened?" 

I kept singing.  Pretty soon, the boisterous mama duck decided that there was no danger and kept waddling toward me.  Papa duck followed, keeping a close watch for anything that might cause them harm.  

I've named the duck couple Harry and Matilda.  When I watch them waddle around together I just think of a cute little couple named Harry and Matilda.  Sometimes she quacks at him in a certain way and you just know she's telling him off!  He loves her anyway and keeps her safe.  She's the only duck for him and it's obvious by the way he protects her.  He's the only duck for her because she has no trouble communicating with him. 

They are so cute together - happy and contented.  

I just finished singing when brazen little Matilda waddled up to me, closer to me than she had ever been.  She shifted her head to one side as if to say, "That was beautiful - I wish I could do that!"  

Harry and Matilda then ate their corn.  It seems they nod their heads at me as if to say "thank you" (I could be imagining that), then fly away.

Enjoy a garden meditation today.  It's good for your soul.

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Ode to my Not Brother, John

This is John Minton, my not brother

There are two special holidays today - and I'm not comfortable with either one, to be perfectly honest.  Today is BABY DAY!!!!!!!!!!!  Most of you are aware of the fact that I've spent the better part of my married life in doctor's offices and fertility clinics.  The fight was in vain and I have no children. 

Today is also BROTHER AND SISTER DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!  Well, I was adopted and raised an only child.  When I was in my early 20's, I did get a copy of my sealed adoption papers.  I was born on April 2, 1961 at Wesley Hospital here in Wichita, KS.  I am the youngest of TEN children.  Yes, Matilda, I really do have nine siblings running around - somewhere. 

I've made half-hearted efforts to search for siblings, but have not had any luck.  I was born "baby girl Minton" to Charles and Lena Minton.  Since I was a preemie I had to stay in the hospital for a while, but I was adopted a few weeks later by James and Betty Turner. 

I never moved from Wichita.  If someone in the Minton family wanted to find me, it would not have been that difficult.  So - what is left when you take away babies and siblings?

I'm glad you asked!  I declare today is FRIENDSHIP DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Today is the day you show your love and appreciation to those people who are not related to you, but you feel closer to than any blood relative (or so I've been told).  If I had my life to do over again...  I would not change a thing!  I was (and am) so blessed in my life and have made so many great friends! 

One day, when I was feeling particularly brave, I decided to search the last name "Minton" on facebook.  I friended a few of them from Wichita and the surrounding area, but only got one response.  I met a very nice man named John Minton.  I explained my situation to him and he let me know I was not his sister.  I was okay with that.  If God wants me to find people, I'll find them. 

I'm so glad I made a new friend!  John is a terrific singer and he makes YouTube videos of his adventures in the wild.  He loves nature and is most comfortable outdoors.  I've subscribed to his videos and watch the new ones as they come out.  John's channel is 7344 Wild.  I invite you to take a look at his videos.  I like his Elvis impression the best.  I go watch it when I need to laugh! 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOKqh6FhbaM&feature=share&list=UUfFNIzurOFV1TxL29E7xUUA 

So, if John had been my brother that would explain my craziness - it would have been something in my genetic make-up.  As it is, I'm still a victim of my environment.  I can blame all of my nut cake behavior on my adoptive parents!  They would not be shocked by that - believe me!  My poor parents got blamed for a lot of things throughout my life! 

The friends I have on facebook are more like family to me.  Between the Diabetic Online Community (DOC), John, Lucinda, and assorted special groups I have joined, I feel as though I am part of a very large family!  I stay in touch with groups about Diabetes, Dyslexia, Grief and some Christian groups.  By the time I work on my blog, read other people's blogs and interact with my blog's facebook group, then chat with people in these other groups - wow - the day goes by quickly!  God has put so many neat people in my path, and it is my personal mission in life to be as encouraging to them as possible.

In my effort to encourage others, a very strange thing happens...  I find that I am the one who walks away feeling strengthened and encouraged!  Iron sharpens Iron.  Friends are so very important, aren't they?

So, John - I'm sorry we're not related, but I'm sure not sorry we met!  God Bless you, my not brother!!!

Here's John walking along the Santa Fe Lake trails.
http://youtu.be/OWlz-Ir6eEA

Have a very happy Brothers and Sisters Day (or in my world it's called "Friends who are closer than brothers or sisters Day")!!!

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One May or the Other

"We had so much fun hanging the May basket on our neighbor's door handle, ringing the doorbell - then running like mad!!!"  - Linda Palmer

 

May 1st is known as May Day, when we traditionally observe the ancient pagan planting festival and international working class holiday.  In elementary school, I remember walking around the May pole, and making May baskets out of construction paper and glue.  We filled them with flowers or candy and gently carried them home.  I especially enjoyed hanging the basket on the neighbor's front door, ringing the doorbell or knocking on the door, then running away!!!

But today I want to talk about another kind of May Day.  It's known as a "mayday" - a distress call, used only in cases of "grave and imminent danger" by those at sea.  

Many people think that one "May Day" has something to do with the other, but that's not true.  The root of the distress call "mayday" is French -  m'aidez (help me) or m'aider (to render help to me).  There are no flowers or festivals associated with this whatsoever.  If you hear someone yell "mayday" three times in a row, they are definitely in trouble! 

I was not at sea when I had to use a distress call, but I was at the end of my rope medically speaking.  By the time I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes my body was definitely sinking fast!  Since I have suffered with sciatica since 1984, I did not realize that the increased numbness in my right leg was actually the beginning stages of diabetic neuropathy.  Silly me - I just thought my sciatica was worsening.

My kidneys were not functioning well and for a while I had to take medication for that, as well as increasing the dose of the blood pressure medication I was taking.  

There was talk of possible tooth loss at the Dentist's office.  I had very severe periodontal gum disease (gingivitis) and my gums bled quite easily.  If gums become too red and swollen, they cannot hold the teeth in place, thus, the teeth fall out.

Thankfully my eyes always passed the eye examinations with flying colors!  I had the typical changes that come with age, there was no sign of diabetic retinopathy!  My Optometrist said, "If you had not told me you are diabetic, nothing in these test results would have indicated it to me."  What a wonderful report to get!  My eyes were spared and I was (and am) so grateful to God!

Still, I knew I needed guidance after my devastating diagnosis.  From the moment I was diagnosed, I believe with all my heart that God put some pretty wonderful people in my path!  When you say "mayday" to God, you don't even have to repeat it three times - He is there once he hears the faintest whisper from you - He's already helping you by the time you say "may..."

The day I was diagnosed we were in church getting ready to have a potluck lunch after the morning service.  My best friend was a Diabetic Educator.  She carried a glucose meter around with her, and asked me if she could check my glucose before we ate.  She checked it and it was over 300!  

I no longer felt hungry and I was visibly shaken.  We walked back into the sanctuary and sat down.  She began to explain diabetes to me.  When she started talking about ketones, I just lost it.  I cried uncontrollably for a long time.  Finally, she grabbed both of my shoulders and looked me square in the face and said, "You can BEAT this!"

She made me believe I could - and I felt better.  She is just one example of the wonderful people that God has set before me.  It's been an incredible journey.  I was introduced to holistic medicine and their method to reverse diabetes a couple of years ago, through my Chiropractor.  It's true that when I eat a high-alkaline diet, my neuropathy (and my sciatica, for the most part) is improved.  Drinking water instead of soda improves everything as well.  Staying hydrated is key.

I met so many great people through the Diabetic Online Community (DOC) and received so much love, concern and support there.  My friend Nick Faulkner made YouTube videos in the U.K. about how he reversed diabetes.  I have the link here in the Right-hand margin if you'd care to watch them.  Meeting Nick was certainly a God thing.  What encouragement I gained from his knowledge and experience! 

What struck me most about the videos was the severity of Nick's symptoms - and how they nearly mirrored my own.  Apart from the fact that I had no sign of retinopathy, we were basically on similar paths.  We're also very close to the same age and live similar lifestyles.  I was already on a high-alkaline diet for my neuropathy by the time I saw the videos, but when I saw how successful he had been, it reaffirmed my belief that I was indeed headed down the right path.

I see God's Hand in my journey with diabetes.  He's taking such good care of me, and I know He will care for me in the future as well.  I cried out to Him - "mayday... mayday... mayday" and I knew He heard and answered my distress call.


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Pixie, Bob, Wedge or Shag

I look so thrilled!  Of all the many
cuts my Aunt Mary gave me, this
shag was really not my favorite!

 

 



Today is HAIRSTYLE APPRECIATION DAY!!!!!!!  

Since my Aunt Mary was a very successful hairstylist in Hollywood during the 1950's - 1970's, I was privy to the most trendy and popular hairstyles.  This should have made me very happy, and most girls would have been thrilled to have such a perk.  Sadly, I was not happy about my Aunt giving me a new "do" every time she came to visit us in Kansas.  Sometimes the hot new styles in California are not so hot in Kansas.  I was teased about my hair - a lot.

I felt like my Aunt's guinea pig - her prototype.  If she could make a style look good on me, then she would go back to her shop and declare that she knows how to make the stars in Hollywood look good as well.  I was the one she "practiced" on.


It sounds like I was a spoiled rotten child, and I guess I was.  I did not appreciate the styles my Aunt gave me.  I went along with this scheme because, for one thing, I was a child.  I didn't have the right to declare that "this is my hair and I'll do what I want with it!"  I will admit, however, I said it quite often in my own mind!   

My Aunt styled my hair from the time I was an infant.  The day before I went to Kindergarten in 1966, she gave me a Pixie cut.  Then in the late 1960's she fixed it in a bob.  I actually liked it best because my hair had never been long before.  A bob is not long hair - but it was long to me!  

I've heard people say that the 1970's was a bad fashion decade.  Well, that was the least of my worries.  A new hairstyle was emerging and I just knew my Aunt would be visiting, and I knew what that meant.  Sure enough, Aunt Mary came for a visit in 1974.  I was holding my breath, hoping she would not want to change my Bob into...  a SHAG!  The inevitable happened.  We were sitting at the dinner table.  That's always where she would ask me if she could try a new "do" on me.  

With excitement in her voice, she exclaimed, There is a new hot hairstyle and I wonder if you'd mind if..."

Did I want to?  No - but did I want to hurt her feelings?  No way!

So, why am I not smiling in my 8th grade photo?  Hmm...  perhaps it's because I'm not diggin' on my haircut.  It was my secret.  I did survive the shag and my hair eventually grew out.  But for the record, I did not even almost like it.  

Then when Aunt Mary flew back to Kansas from California in 1976, my then grown-out shag was turned into a wedge cut, made famous by the Olympic figure skater, Dorothy Hamill.

By the time I graduated high school, I was once again sporting my favorite style.  I chose the bob.  That is the longest my hair ever grew! 

There was a girl in my high school named Simone.  She was so pretty and had beautiful long blonde hair.  I was so envious because I always wanted to have long hair. 

My Aunt enjoyed a great deal of success styling hair.  She did what she loved to do, which is the real key to success in any business.  She's dead now, along with the rest of my family.  I have some great memories of her and the times we spent at my mama's house. 

The taller the hair, the closer to heaven.  - Chonda Pierce



I'm so glad I was not rebellious in those years.  I'm glad I was obedient and did as I was told.  So, Simone had long hair and I didn't - so what?  Does that matter now?  No. 

Today I appreciate what I did not appreciate back then - having family around who loved me and took very good care of me.  I cherish those trendy hairstyles I got to sport.  Yes, even the shag!

What does a good hair day have to do with wellness?  Most women would look at you and say, "Are you kidding?  Everything!"  A good hair day can make the difference between low self-esteem and soaring above the clouds. 

One thing is for certain, whether you have a feather cut, pixie, bob, wedge or shag, the basic health of your hair is what matters most!

To keep your hair healthy, it is important to follow some simple rules.  My Aunt Mary taught me that what you eat and what you do to protect your hair impact it more than the type of products you apply to it. 

• Omega 3's are an essential part of maintaining healthy, shiny hair!  Salmon is one of my favorite sources.  I also take Flax Oil capsules every day.  Other sources are avocadoes, walnuts and pumpkin seeds.
• Limit the amount of time you spend in the hot Summer Sun.  I know we are sun worshippers, but if you have to be out for an extended amount of time, at least wear a hat.  
• Drink water!  Your skin and hair need to be well hydrated.
• If your hair is color-treated, beware of the chlorine.  One Summer I had color-treated my hair and after swimming, it turned green!  Be careful!
• I refuse to fry my hair.  I do not put chemicals on it except to color treat (and I leave that to my hairstylist).  I will not use a flatiron or blow dryer!  Those are two tools that can fry your hair and wreck your hair's integrity permanently.
• Be careful when choosing your method of root touch-up.  Some are better than others. 
• Trim the damaged ends of your hair about 1" every 3 months.
• Don't over-brush your hair.  It creates more damage.
• Don't color your hair too much.  Avoid bleach completely.
• Take your multi-vitamin every day.
• Eat more protein.  Legumes, beans.  Protein shakes.
• Give your hair a break!  Don't wash it every day.  Try washing every other day.
• Use a sodium-free / sulfate-free shampoo.    

Nobody messes with these
tresses except ME these days!
Today I have happy hair!!!

Now that my hair is finally "my own", I've had a desire to let it grow longer.  The ability to wear my hair up is a new adventure for me.  When my hair was shorter, it did not take as long to style, but I just allow more time when getting ready to go out.  

Even though I wore some trendy tresses in the past, I'm enjoying my longer locks now.

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Just a Quick Note

JUST A QUICK NOTE... 

Hey you guys, I've linked with Bloglovin.com with hopes that my blog will gain a little more exposure.  Check it out if you'd like to see some pretty amazing blogs!  Oh...  and while you are there, please FOLLOW my blog - thanks! 


It's so simple, just click on the icon and you are done!  Thanks in advance for your support of this blog.  I hope it brings you valuable information you can use regarding health and wellness, along with a dash of humor and a pinch of faith!!! 

http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/7294333/?claim=345qkc3qseb">Follow 

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Shrimp Scampi & Forrest Gump

Yes, diabetics can eat shrimp scampi!!!

 

If you have never seen the movie, "Forrest Gump", then - number one, you need to, and number two, you must be hiding out under a rock somewhere.  Tonight I will be celebrating NATIONAL SHRIMP SCAMPI DAY with this movie!

Since I was born and raised right smack dab in the middle of the United States, I am not at all familiar with anything having to do with the ocean.  I've never even seen the ocean, to be perfectly honest.  That is something that is definitely on my "bucket list".  One of these days, I'm going to leave Kansas and go look at the ocean.  Which one?  I don't know - but I'm determined to see a large body of water at some point before I kick the bucket!

So - I wondered what "scampi" meant.  It is a Venetian term which refers to shrimp cooked in garlic, butter, lemon juice and white wine, commonly listed on menus as "shrimp scampi".  

In the movie, "Forrest Gump", Bubba Blue says:

You can barbecue it, boil it, broil it, bake it, saute it... pan fried, deep fried, stir-fried.  There's a pineapple shrimp, lemon shrimp, coconut shrimp, pepper shrimp, shrimp soup, shrimp stew, shrimp salad, shrimp and potatoes, shrimp burger, shrimp sandwich...

And of course, there's always shrimp scampi!!!

This is a recipe from an Italian cook especially for diabetics. 

Diabetic Shrimp Scampi  (serves 4)

Ingredients:

1 Tablespoon butter
2 Tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
11-15 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 Tablespoon seasoned dry bread crumbs
2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

Heat butter and oil in large non-stick skillet over high heat.  When butter starts to brown, add garlic.  Lower heat; cook 1 minute, stirring to prevent garlic from overbrowning.

Add shrimp; cook 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add wine, lemon juice, salt and pepper; cook 2 minutes or until shrimp are cooked through.  Stir in bread crumbs and parsley.  Serve immediately.

Calories:  110
Calories from Fat:  87
Fat 9.7g
Saturated Fat 2.7
Cholesterol 7.8mg
Sugars 0.3g
Sodium 351.5mg
Total Carbohydrate 3.0g
Dietary Fiber 0.2g
Protein 0.5g

...AND THAT'S ALL I HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THAT!!! - Forrest Gump

 



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Nourishment for the Spirit

A Talented Poet & A Good Friend!!!

 

On this crisp Spring Sunday morning, I'm more than a little excited!  Today I want to introduce you to one of my favorite poets, Lucinda Berry Hill.  Since today is GREAT POETRY READING DAY, I've asked Lucinda if she would share a little bit about herself with us.  Her inspirational devotional book, "Coffee With Jesus", has touched the lives of so many individuals, including mine!  So without further adieu, I introduce the very talented author, Lucinda Berry Hill.

 

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I was born in Millbrook, NY. I currently live in Steelton. I have a 13 year old daughter named Charlotte. I was a single mom for 8 years. I married my husband, Charles and he adopted Charlotte. I’ve had a house cleaning business for over 25 years. I also do some relief care for full time caregivers. In between that and sometimes during I write!!

I started writing poetry when I was 12 years old. I hadn't accepted Jesus as my Savior yet, but God used me anyway.  I wrote poems about and for Him now and then but it wasn't until my mid 20's that I started really writing for the Lord.

I believe moving away from family and friends when I was 12 was my start in writing.  I had a sad heart then.  I met a girl who didn't write poetry but she and her sister read a lot of poetry.  I can't say that one person in particular inspires me.  It's a God thing.  He brings people and circumstances into my life that touches me in some way and I have to write.  I've even written poetry about something I misread.  Someone said I will sing into you instead of unto you and off I went with a poem called "Into You."

I've had poems published in newspapers, read at weddings and at funerals. I’ve written poems about 9/11, the Oklahoma City bombing, the trapped minors incidents, the Sandy Hook school shooting and my most recent current event inspiration was the Boston bombings . I published my first book in 1997 my second one in 2001. And my third came out February of last year. "Coffee With Jesus" is a weekly devotional. I used the poems that I’ve written and paired them up with the scripture that inspired them and came up with 52 weeks. I got the idea when a few people told me that they used my previous books as part of their devotional time.

Since the publishing of "Coffee with Jesus" I've written several more poems. Some with a touch of humor, inspired by a friend. I even have ideas for three more books.  

 

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We all know the importance of keeping our bodies and minds in good shape to obtain good health.  A part we too often ignore, however, is the spirit - the soul.  This wonderful devotional book will kick-start your day the way it should be - on a positive and upbeat note.  It's better than just plain ol' coffee, it's "Coffee With Jesus".   

 



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Once Upon a Time: The Story of "D"

ONCE UPON A TIME...

 

In honor of TELL A STORY DAY, I've collected some stories that I think need to be told.  We have what many refer to as an "invisible disease".  Diabetes is not something that is typically visible, rather a very personal battle that happens behind closed doors.  To look at a person you cannot tell they are diabetic.  Just because it seems like a person is coping well with their disease is not a reason to assume that everything is just fine and dandy.  It is not.  We need a cure.  Soon. 

What is diabetes?  Diabetes is a disorder in which the body has trouble regulating its blood glucose levels.  There are two major types of diabetes:  type 1 and type 2.  Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which a person's pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone that enables people to get energy from food.  Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which a person's body still produces insulin but is unable to use it effectively.

These are the voices of diabetes.  These are their stories.

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Max Sonnenschein writes:

Once Upon a Time my kid ate anything he wanted. Those were the days my friend. Oh how I miss the drive through windows and the pizza delivery boy. All that came to a screetching halt when a bomb name Type 1 dropped in our world so we had to give up all drinks w/ sugar and learn a carb to unit ratio that started to rule our meals. Oh yeah, bomb 2 blew up next. This time it was called Celiacs and something called gluten had to go. Well, can I tell you it's in everything including pretzels. Just recently we discovered Glutino chocolate covered pretzels, gluten free of course. Jake loves them. Did I mention that for a small bag they cost nearly $7! So pretzels are back on the island and life goes on. But we still have to count the carbs and inject insulin so even our gluten free $7 pretzels have a larger price.

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LaTisha Conners writes:

Once Upon a Time we were a "normal" American family.  We functioned pretty much like other families.  We all did our daily activities and when the day was over, we slept.  Then my daughter began wetting the bed.  Not just once in a while, but quite frequently.  It was not just once during the night.  When we went in to see the doctor, we heard a diagnosis that changed our family life forever.  Type 1 Diabetes!  Our world has not been the same and we don't sleep much at night anymore.  My daughter has had to learn to give herself insulin shots, using an orange and syringe filled with saline solution.  No, the disease does not cause any outward "signs", but every activity of every day revolves around it. 

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Michelle Wheeler writes:

Once Upon a Time we did not have to think about what we fed our child.  But when my baby started vomiting uncontrollably, I had to get him to a doctor immediately!  The doctor said it was more than likely a virus that was going around and told me to keep her hydrated with juice and pedialite.  Just two days later, she was listless and nearly lifeless!  We took him to the emergency room and he was so dehydrated they could not even start an IV.  They stuck a feeding tube down his throat and did the standard blood tests.  That's when we got the devastating news that our child was a Type 1 Diabetic.  Our small son has a disease?  It took a while for this to sink in, but we gathered our strength and began the fight.  That night at the emergency room his blood glucose was close to 1000!  He went to intensive care for the night, then was transferred to a room.  We learned all about our son's horrible disease - how to give him shots and what we need to feed him.  I don't think people understand how life-threatening this disease is.  Maybe people understand but just don't know what they're supposed to do with that information.  I think we all feel a bit helpless about the disease.

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Here is the story I wish - I wish - I wish I could tell, and hope to tell one day soon:

Once Upon a Time a lot of my friends and I had Diabetes.  Now, we do NOT!

*No copyright-protected material used.

 

 

 

 

Mini-Mayhem at the Mall

In case of emergency, administer raisin pretzel by mouth immediately!!!

 

By now you know me well enough to know that I don't go around drawing attention to myself, right?  I don't wear loud colors or dye my hair pink or chew a huge wad of chewing gum or carry a handbag that looks like the butt of an old pair of jeans.  I'm basically a low-key person and blend in fairly well with others.  I mind my own business and hope that others will do the same. 

A few months ago, my girlfriend and I agreed to meet every weekday and walk our local mall's designated path which was supposed to be approximately a mile.  It sounded like fun - I could walk, talk and do some store window scanning along the way (like window shopping, only faster) - it's the best of all worlds!  

I was psyched and ready to go.  Excited and feeling very optimistic about this new adventure, we began to walk at a fairly brisk rate.  Now, mind you - I'm a mere 5'2" tall and my legs are very short.  My girlfriend is 5'7" and has legs that don't quit.  We had two totally different strides - I was almost running to keep up with her pace!  I had a sort of turkey trot thing going on - skipping and hopping every third step or so just to keep up!  I was wearing down quick!

This was not a situation I was at all prepared for.  I had not even thought ahead one bit about how we were so mis-matched in our strides.  It was a challenge, but I thought I could deal with it.  Bless her heart, she was trying to take smaller steps - I could tell she felt bad about it - but she can't help it she is built like a giraffe! 

I was doing alright, or so I thought.  By the time we got to round two, I could feel my blood sugar begin to drop and I knew I needed to do something - get something to eat or drink pretty quick.  I began to look around, hoping to find just a little bit of sugar - it wouldn't take much - just enough to get me through this walk. 

My friend was talking a mile a minute, which is nothing unusual.  I was half-listening, but really had my mind on getting ahold of some sugar.  I carry glucose gel, but it was not on me - it was in my bag, which was locked in the trunk of my car.  I had my keys but we were too far away from the car.  I had to think fast!!!  What could I do???

About that time, the stores were beginning to open.  We turned the corner for round two, and I smelled coffee!  I had not had a cup of coffee yet and it really smelled good!  My initial thought was, "Where there is coffee, there are sugar packets!"  As we got closer, I realized it was the pretzel shop! 

When was the last time you had a pretzel - I mean a real pretzel, not those tough little stick things in a bag you buy at the grocery store.  There are carbohydrates galore in those real pretzels, aren't there???  But I was desperate and made an announcement to my friend (who is thankfully not a diabetic):

"My blood sugar is crashing, and I am going to stop here and buy a pretzel and a cup of coffee!" 

With those words, I proceeded to pass out!!!

When I came to, I was surrounded with EMS people and folks with mall security and a couple of folks who worked at the mall's pretzel shop.  Of course, my friend stood over me looking as though she may pass out herself at any given moment - she was so worried about me.  I think it really scared her! 

I tried to sit up.  "Oh, now take it easy - I think you're ok, but take it slow", the EMS guy advised.  When I sat up, my girlfriend turned and grabbed a cup of still steaming hot coffee, fixed just the way I like it - and a raisin pretzel without the icing, my favorite.  Does this woman know me, or what???

I've heard that if you have five good friends in this life, you are truly blessed.  My friend - she's a keeper - even if she is built like a giraffe!  Some friends would have been scared off by something like that - but not her.  She just keeps hanging around with me - even though I caused a little mini-mayhem at the mall that morning.

Enjoy NATIONAL PRETZEL DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*No copyright-protected material used.

 

Pet Parenting for Dummies

MY DOG IS SMARTER THAN A FIFTH GRADER!!!

 

Today is NATIONAL PET PARENT'S DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  My husband and I have been pet parents for our entire married life.  In those 27 years, we have had three dogs and one cat.  We don't play animal farm and raise herds of animals at one time, but early in our marriage we did have a dog and cat - Peanut and Smokey.  Actually, they were Larry's pets and I adopted them.  I was the new step-mom.

When Peanut died at age 16, we waited about a year.  Everyone is different, but we always say we will never get another pet because we could not possibly love another one like the one we lost.  Well - after about a year we were back at the shelter looking at dogs.  We found one that looked so much like Peanut, but he had one distinguishing trait - he had freckles on his nose!  So, we named him Freckles.

Every dog has an individual personality (every dog owner will tell you that).  Freckles liked to bring his food bowl down to the basement to remind us to feed him.  If nothing was put in the bowl immediately, he would proceed to hit the bowl with his paw until the bowl would turn over!  If we still ignored his request, he began to bark and hit the bowl with his paw!  

No, it was not an act we could take on the road, and nobody at a talk show would care to book us - but he was part of our family and entertained us quite well.

Freckles lived to be somewhere around 15 or 16.  He died of a stroke.  Again we grieved.  We said we would never get another animal.  In about another year, we made a trip to the shelter again.  There was Casey - just looking up at us as if to say, "I'm the one - pick me - pick me!"

Someone had actually adopted him - but then brought him back!  I suspect he had chewed on something, but I don't know for sure.  One thing about becoming a pet parent, you learn to puppy-proof your house!  If you don't want something chewed up, you'd better put it out of their reach. 

On December 23, 2002, Casey came home with us.  He is a Beagle-mix, but has black fur.  He has a Beagle bark which I can distinguish when I'm out walking.  I hear the other dogs in the neighborhood bark, but I know immediately when it's my baby barking! 

Casey is 12 years old now and beginning to slow down a bit (like the rest of us).  He has a bit of gray hair amongst the black, and has had a couple of bouts with cancer.  He has had toes removed from his paw because of cancer.  He's also having some difficulty walking, although he does not seem to be in pain, so we just take him in every couple of months for a shot at the Vet's office. 

If you are thinking about becoming a pet parent, don't do it without counting the cost.  There are plenty of costs involved if you want to be a good pet parent.  Too many people just get a pet because it's cute - but then don't really take care of it.  That's so sad - and so unfair to the animal who cannot speak for itself.  Be sure you know what is expected of you before you welcome a pet into your family.

It's more than just throwing some food in a bowl and making sure there's water.  If you don't truly love animals, then this is probably not a good idea for you.  I'm not saying you have to paint your pet's nails or anything (although some people do), but animals are a great deal of responsibility.  If you work through the day and are not at home with them, make sure you have a plan that includes some exercise for your pet and provides it with some company.

Vet bills can be devastating to the household accounts!  Just know ahead of time that especially as your pet ages, these bills will add up!  Sometimes it may involve some sacrifice on your part.  If you are not willing to do that, then maybe becoming a pet parent is not for you.

It's easy to go to a shelter and see all the cute little dogs and cats and get swept up in their cuteness, but be aware that if you take that animal for your own, you are responsible for it - and while love is a huge part of parenting, there are also the extra expenses along the way that have the potential to put a real cramp in your budget.

I love dogs!  The cuddles I get from my dog make every sacrifice I have to make well worth it for me.  When I get home and see that sweet face and that wagging tail welcoming me - I know I am loved! 

Casey has me wrapped around his little paw - can you tell??? 

Casey owns this house - he just lets us hang out with him.

*No copyright-protected material used.

 

 

People Skills 101

The Golden Rule Applies in Every Situation!!!

 

Today is one of my favorite days.  Here in the U.S., it is ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY!!!!!!!!!!!  I am a retired Administrative Professional, but hope all of those hard-working individuals out in corporate America have a wonderful day and are shown the appreciation they deserve!

When I first began my career, the position was referred to as "Secretary" and yes, Matilda, we did make coffee back in the day!  I did not mind making coffee for my boss - at all!  I did not see it as a lowly task, but I viewed it as a duty I performed out of respect for him.

There's a reason my boss got the "big bucks".  He was a bright, creative individual with a gift for making quite a lot out of very little.  Have you ever known someone who could go into a room with a glob of clay and walk out with a masterpiece?  That is what my boss could do!  If I could make sure he got a decent cup of Joe in the morning, I was happy to help in that small way.

As his secretary I was not only expected to be highly organized, be dressed to the nines, have my hair and make-up done, but take dictation and type and know my alphabet so I could file.  There were also those odd errands to the grocery store or to the Dry Cleaners if he was pressed for time (get it...  Dry Cleaners - pressed)???  I also took care of petty cash, so ran to the bank as well (I didn't actually run - I took the company car).  Yes, I'm on a pun roll...  somebody stop me before I get run over by my own pun!  Whoops - too late!!!

On my 20th birthday, in 1982, he told me I possess a quality that no other secretary has.  He told me that I know how to speak that one universal language - the language of love.  He said, "Anyone can be friendly, but you have a real knack for befriending people - and there's a difference - a difference you can feel."  He went on to say that I show the love of Christ to everyone who comes through the doors of his office.  I nearly cried when I heard that!  My boss and his wife were prominent figures here in my city, and were also very active in their church.  Such a statement from him was high praise indeed and meant the world to me!   

I do not mention that to brag, but to encourage the young people who are interested in being in this field to go the extra mile with everyone you meet.  This is not a field you want to go into wearing blinders.  It is not easy.  You will encounter mean people - ones who think because they are executives and you are not, they have the right to cop an attitude with you.  Decide what Christ would do.  Did He ever fight fire with fire?  He chose His battles very carefully and never lost his composure based solely on emotion.  Be wise at your workplace.  Don't be quick to let your temper flare.  Choose the high road - always choose the high road!

Remember that when an executive has a bad attitude toward you, it is not about you.  You are just the first face he/she sees when they walk through the office door.  They do not "know" you - they know your boss.  They know if something has not gone their way with their dealings with your boss - not you.  Be kind.  Be gentle.  Be the verbal punching bag.  I used to think of it as saving my boss from having to hear it.  I used to go home at night and tell my parents jokingly, "It's just one more service I provide!" 

It was almost like a game of sorts for me.  The more angry and loud they got, the kinder and sweeter I got.  Some people react well to kinder and sweeter and calm down.  Others get even more angry and louder.  I used to bet inside my head which way it was going to go...  I was usually fairly accurate.  I am a pretty good judge of character, even if I say so myself. 

People skills are learned over a lifetime, but when someone walks into your boss' office and they are clearly not happy, you have about five seconds to decide how you are going to play it.  You'd better choose correctly.  Nine times out of ten, calm, cool, kind but direct is best.  Professionals understand direct communication and the calm, cool part needs to be your own unique touch!  Make sure it is a genuine kindness.  Never be condescending!  Executives immediately sense that attitude and balk at it!  If they decide to tell your boss you took that tact, then the fur really hits the fan! 

I wish I could have worked with him longer, but he retired in 1985 and I was beginning a new chapter in my life - as I was engaged to be married in 1986.  The timing was right for me to leave and so I found employment elsewhere.  Unfortunately, I never found the same close-knit work environment I had when I worked for him.  A job like that only comes around once in a lifetime - if you're lucky!  Scratch that - I was blessed, not lucky!  God placed me in a wonderful job.  Not many people think of their boss as more of a friend than a boss.  He was a great boss - as well as a good friend. 

Sadly, he passed away a few years ago.  The service was beautiful and the attendance was amazing.  He left a real legacy behind and I am very proud and honored that I was able to be a part of it - even though every morning began with me standing at the ol' Bunn coffee maker, brewing our morning java!

Enjoy your day - and hug a Secretary...  um - Administrative Assistant... um - Administrative Professional!!!!!!!!!!!

"PEOPLE COME BEFORE THINGS."

- Jim Turner

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