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.

*No copyright protected material used.

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 

 *No copyright protected material used.

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

 



*No copyright protected material used.



 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

*************************************************

 

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.  

 

***********************************************

 

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".   

 



  *No copyright-protected material used.

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.

**********************************************

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.

***********************************************

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. 

**********************************************

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.

**********************************************

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

*No copyright-protected material used.




Make an Ordinary Picnic Posh

I'm Diabetic...  what can I eat at a picnic???

Today is NATIONAL PICNIC DAY!!!!!!!!!!!  There are so many great places here in Wichita to enjoy a picnic lunch!  Even though it is Tuesday, you can plan to enjoy the day in a very special way - with that special someone!  It seems as though life gets so busy, it's nice to take a day to just do something a little different. 

If and when I get the opportunity to picnic with my favorite person, I like to do more than just the run-of-the-mill sandwiches or cold fried chicken.  I like to make Turkey rolls and a special salad that tastes so much better than any potato salad I've ever eaten.  This salad is also much lower in carbohydrates, so it is a diabetic-friendly choice.

Not-Quite-Middle-Eastern Salad

• 1/2 head cauliflower
• 2/3 cup sliced stuffed olives
• 7 scallions, sliced
• 2 cups triple washed fresh spinach, chopped fine
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 1 small ripe tomato, diced small
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper

Run the cauliflower through the shredding blade of your food processor and put it in a microwaveable casserole. Add a couple of tablespoons of water, cover and nuke it on “high” for 5 minutes. Uncover it as soon as the microwave stops, and let it cool.

While that’s cooking, cut up your other vegetables, and assemble them in a large salad bowl.

Drain the cooled cauliflower well, and dump it in with all the other vegetables. Add the oil, garlic, and mayonnaise, and toss. Salt and pepper to taste, toss again, and serve.

6 servings of roughly a cup each. 5 grams of carbohydrate per serving, with 2 grams of fiber, for a usable carb count of 3 grams. 1 gram protein.

I plan to purchase a nice Longaberger picnic basket someday.  Yes, I know how expensive they are, but I would like to have the best if I plan to picnic on a regular basis.

Right now I have a picnic basket that serves the purpose.  I try to get the nicest, most sturdy paper plates I can find, as well as good quality cups and cutlery.  The most un-romantic thing to have happen is for your fork to break while you're trying to eat.  That could be a real mood buster.

I pack linen napkins instead of paper.  Sometimes I opt for "real" cutlery as well, or at least get the kind that looks real.

Individual glass bottles of lemon water are included in my picnic basket.  I squeeze the lemons ahead of time and put the juice in ice trays.  When they get frozen, I pop them out and put them in the bottle with the water!  The frozen lemon juice cubes serve a dual purpose - they keep the water cold and provide alkaline friendly lemon juice as they melt.

Others may choose the traditional sandwich, chips and soda - but I like to dress a picnic up a little bit to make it special.  When you add a bit of personality to your picnic, it shows the one you love that you put a little bit of yourself into it and they appreciate your effort.

Now all you have to do is find the perfect spot to eat your lunch.  Here in Kansas there are so many wonderful places to enjoy a picnic!  When it is Springtime in Kansas, we just hope it won't be raining or worse - severe weather!  We do have an occassional tornado around here. 

I hope you take the time and effort to pack a picnic for the one you love today!  Enjoy your day.  
*No copyright-protected material used.

No BPA This Earth Day

Practice kindness and
common sense on Earth.

 

I'm happy to announce that Spring is in full swing here in Kansas!  The temperatures will rise and that means that folks will be getting outside more. 

No matter what type of activity you choose, it's a good idea to carry a bottle of water with you.  Staying properly hydrated is a part of good health and wellness.  Your body needs 8-8oz. glasses of water every day.

I want to talk about the type of water bottle you should choose.  By now I'm sure we are all familiar with BPA and other chemicals that are found in traditional plastic water bottles.  Some claim their plastic does not contain these harmful chemicals, but let's look at the facts.

When plastic is "recycled", it's actually "downcycled" and could be made into most anything - from carpet padding to plastic fencing - to a plastic water bottle.  The plastic loses integrity with each reincarnation.  The process is not pure in it's true sense.

When glass is recycled, it turns into glass again.  Glass is the most safe container to drink from.  And let's face it, when you drink water from glass, it tastes like water and if it is in a plastic container there is always that plastic aftertaste!  Who needs that?

What about a stainless steel or aluminum bottle?  Well, there are usually some decorative paints used on those and they could cause harm as well.  It would seem that we are back to glass containers.

Yes, glass is a bit heavier than plastic.  But I'd rather carry a bottle that I know is not going to cause me harm and deal with the weight issue.  It's not that much heavier.  

I can hear you saying, "But glass will break easily!"  This is also true, however, there are water bottles on the market that are glass on the inside and have a clear plastic coating that is BPA free and FDA sanctioned.  The plastic contains the glass pieces if the bottle should happen to break or shatter.  I like the plastic coating because it creates improved slip-resistance as well. 

Most of us are trying to be more environmentally responsible these days.  The statistics are still staggering:

• Americans throw away over 25,000,000,000 styrofoam coffee cups every year.
• Americans toss plastic bags and other plastic garbage in the ocean.  We kill as many as 1,000,000 sea creatures every year.
• Americans use 2,500,000 plastic bottles every hour!!!  Most of those bottles are not recycled.

On a more practical note, those of us who choose to add a lemon slice to our water for the alkaline benefit should also consider choosing a glass water bottle with a wide mouth opening. 

Knowledge is power.  So, now that you have the information, what will you do with it? 

I'm not going to tell you to go out and hug a tree, but I will ask you to refrain from using styrofoam coffee cups and plastic water bottles. 

Show some class and choose the glass!

Have a very happy EARTH DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*No copyright-protected material used.

Play Like a Child

BE A KID NOW & THEN!!!!!

 

We have discussed many facets of wellness, from nutrition and positive attitude to the importance of exercise every day.  Today I want to explore wellness from a slightly different perspective.  When was the last time you - um...  played?

Yes, play - that's what I said.  Think back.  You remember play, don't you?  That activity you took for granted growing up and thought you would always carry with you.  Along with play comes a pleasant side effect that is sadly unfamiliar to many people - fun.

I recently located some of my friends from high school, and as I speak with them as adults, my mind goes right back to our high school days - and I remember some good times with them.  We've all slept a lot since high school and there is a lot of muddy water under that bridge, but it is nice to have those memories of carefree living (meaning we were not financially responsible) and a lot of fun along the way.

Perhaps I'm the least mature of all my friends, simply because I was not forced to grow up at any point in my life.  Yes, I married and have to be mature in that relationship, but since I don't have kids, I never had milestones to really remind me that time is ticking away.  I'm basically the same person I've always been.  

What's that saying, "Growing up is mandatory but growing old is optional."  I don't want to ever grow old.  I want to be one of those old ladies who amazes everyone because I can live quite independently for a very long time.  That's the goal.  I want to keep my independence - even if I end up living alone one day.

I wouldn't mind being alone, but I don't ever want to be lonely.  The two are not the same.  You can be alone and not be lonely.  I cherish my solitude - I do!  The time I spend alone is time that is not wasted.  That is my time! 

Something happens to adults along the way.  We forget how to play and have fun.  I realize that most adults call that "vacation" or "camping" (ugh) or "boating" or "sports".  Those things are fine and good - but I think we should try to do something fun every day.

I hear you saying, "I can't afford to do something fun every day."  You are obviously lacking imagination, my friend.  Fun does not have to cost money.  Fun is what happens when you allow play into your everyday life!

Now you're asking, "OK, Linda - how do YOU play?"  Alright - I am more than prepared with an answer to that question - thank you for asking!

I live near a lake.  Every morning when I get finished with devotionals and coffee, I take a small bowl of grain out to the lake and feed the ducks and geese.  I know a lot of people discourage that, but it is something I have done since we've lived here and I enjoy it.  That is my way of connecting with nature and having fun.  Yes, the grain costs money, but it's a minimal expense.

There is one "duck couple" that comes around every morning and demands to be fed immediately!  If I happen to be running a little late, heaven forbid, mama duck comes right up to the deck where I'm sitting and lets out the loudest QUACK!  She will get my attention and get me motivated. 

When I get out to the lake, the little duck couple waddle up to me and mama duck acts so innocent, as if to say, "Oh, you heard a loud quack?  Hmm...  wonder who THAT could have been, 'cuz it sure wasn't me!"

I'm like, "Yeah, right!"

Don't forget to let yourself be silly now and then.  Let your inner child go out and play!  Goofing off, even with a few close friends, can put them at ease as well.  And don't forget to hug those friends!  Hugging helps you feel more calm and close to the people you are embracing.  It's a definite mood enhancer and actually eases physical pain!  It's a good thing!

Smile!  I know everyone says it - but if you smile it makes you release endorphins and helps you get over a funk if you're in one.  Studies have shown that people who give genuine smiles have lower heart rates than those who maintain a neutral expression.

Have you ever sat in a park and watched children?  What is one common factor among all of them?  Other than the fact that they are all short and wearing the cutest clothing ever, they are probably jumping around - a lot!  Try to jump up and down a few times.  That will kick-start your silliness and surely put a smile on your face! 

You might want to explain what it is you're trying to accomplish if you do this around your friends.  Don't just start jumping up and down without warning them.  They might think you choked on a piece of food or something.  You don't want them to start doing the Heimlich maneuver on you if you don't 'xplain yourself, Lucy!

I invite you to find something fun to do every day!  It can be anything - use your imagination.  Remember, it doesn't have to cost a lot of money.  It does, however, have to make you smile - maybe even make you laugh.  That will lower your blood pressure and help your overall wellness.

Speaking of play - today is KINDERGARTEN DAY!!!!!!!!!  Friedrich Froebel started the first Kindergarten in Germany way back in 1837.  Mothers are still thanking him for freeing up 1/2 days for them and giving them a break from their 5 year-old children.

*No copyright-protected material used.

From a Patient's Perspective

There's Value in Volunteering!!!

Good morning!  It is Saturday, April 20th.  It's a lovely Spring day here in the Midwest.  Look mom, no tornadoes (yet!)

A couple of weeks ago, I talked a little bit about the wonderful Admitting Clerk at the Hospital we were at a few years ago.  Today, there are a group of people from this same facility I'd like to honor - the awesome volunteers!
I was not the patient - therefore, I was the one who observed all of the little "extras" that went on at the facility.  What an eye-opener!

My husband and I choose to go South for our vacation destination for one simple reason - Southern Hospitality!  The South earns a blue ribbon in my book and if there was a Doctorate available, they would get that from me too.  The folks there have a genuine gift for displaying "down-home charm".  Frankly, I always wondered if it was just "put-on" as part of their "show".  After we spent a week in a hospital down South, I was convinced, these folks are not "put on" - they are the real deal.  They really care.

The volunteers at the hospital went above and beyond the call of duty.  A few times during our stay I saw them make my husband smile.  That was priceless considering the circumstance. 

I first noticed the volunteers when I was waiting for the six-hour surgery to be completed.  A lady wearing a little blue jacket adorned with all sorts of pins and an identification badge came into the waiting room.  She was carrying a rather large basket.  It struck me as cute, as the woman must have been a grandmother.  She looked happy and upbeat as she meticulously arranged the contents of the basket on a tray.  They were cookies!!!  

My curiosity got the better of me and I had to go check them out and start a conversation with her.  She was more than happy to take a little time to talk with me.  She told me that every morning she brings in a large basket of homemade cookies for the families of those going in for surgery.  I could tell immediately that she understood the significance of the task she performed, and how far-reaching it was. 

She said, "Folks who are waiting for someone they love to come out of surgery need a little taste of home, not some packaged cookies from the grocery store!"

What a sense of purpose.  Such a seemingly small thing to do - but wow, what an impact it made on those in that waiting room!  I got the sense that she poured her all into what she did.  She obviously loved and cared for others.  This was her mission and her way of showing love and concern for the families.  

Later in the week, another lady wearing a little blue jacket came into the hospital room carrying a guitar.  "Is there a song you would like to hear?", she asked.  We requested a couple of hymns and as she played we sang.  We had a conversation about music and she joked that what she did would be much more difficult if she had to push a piano around with her instead of carrying a guitar!  Again, the love was felt. 

The healing properties of love outweigh any other medicine known to man.

All of these "little things" added up to one very successful outcome!  Healing through positive feedback and prayer - and love.  Just love.

Since we were there for such a long while, I began to quickly pick up on who was who.  I silently watched the interaction between the staff and the volunteers.  There was a mutual respect that I had never seen anywhere else.  The doctors, nurses, volunteers and other staff - they had a common goal and worked together to meet it.  Their main objective is to help the patient heal and make the family as comfortable as possible.

Their secret weapon to make that happen was...  love!!!

Everyone at the hospital was wonderful, but the volunteers in blue jackets were my favorite!  They made the entire experience bearable for my husband and I. 

After my husband's (5) bypass surgery the surgeon took me aside and said, "I don't want you to ever cry in front of him.  Don't show any sort of negative emotion because that will affect his recovery.  If you have to cry - leave and cry alone.  We don't want anything but positive energy around him.  Do you understand?"

"Yes - yes, I do", I replied.  And so it is.  There is no negative energy flowing from me - ever!  We take this journey one positive day at a time. 

I don't cry as much as I did in the beginning.  I am an expert at crying - during a workout when tears are masked by sweat.  In the shower when tears can be immediately washed away with water.  In bed I can soak the pillow.

It's been 4 years.  One positive stepping stone at a time, we keep walking.

Thank you to the ladies in the blue jackets - you made everything better!

I wish you joy for your journey today...  and love.  Just love.

Today is VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION DAY!!!!!!!!!!  Enjoy your day!


 

 

*No copyright-protected material used.

  

  

   

Garlic Makes it Good

GARLIC MAKES IT GOOD!!!

 

Shallots are for babies; onions are for men; garlic is for heroes. 
- Unknown

Everyone is aware that a necklace made of garlic wards off vampires, right?  Anyway, it's strongly insinuated that garlic has powers to stave off the most wicked of creatures!  If one smells strongly enough, one can get anything one wants, I suspect!  Garlic keeps me from wanting to talk or kiss anyone who has eaten it.  Where there is garlic breath, there should also be a sufficient stash of breath mints. 

But is garlic the super food that everyone thinks it is?  I thought today, on NATIONAL GARLIC DAY we should get the real story about it.

There is no such thing as a little garlic.  - Arthur Baer

Garlic is part of the onion family and is closely related to leeks, shallots and chives.  Known as a sulfurous food, it has been used as a bug repellent and treats bug bites and minor infections.  It's also been said that garlic heals severe acne. 

It has been used in herbal medicine, phytotherapy and other alternative medicine as well.

Because the aging process is actually just oxidative stress happening in our bodies, antioxidants combat that oxidative stress and protect us at the cellular level. The whole idea behind eating an alkaline-based diet is to slow down the inevitable aging process as much as possible. I'm not saying it's going to keep us from getting those dreaded crow's feet, but I am saying that the antioxidants help to protect us from the more deadly disease processes.

Tomatoes and oregano make it Italian; wine and tarragon make it French. Sour cream makes it Russian; lemon and cinnamon make it Greek. Soy sauce makes it Chinese; garlic makes it good. 
- Alice May Brock (of ‘Alice's Restaurant’ fame)

Since garlic is alkaline-based, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, It has been credited with helping with the following conditions:

1. Lowers blood pressure.
2. Prevents atherosclerosis and coronary blockage.
3. Reduces blood clot formation.
4. Lowers cholesterol LDL levels.
5. Stimulates the pituitary gland.
6. Regulates blood sugar.
7. Reduces risk of certain types of cancer.

Many cultures have embraced garlic as their aphrodisiac of choice.  Which leads me back to the well-stocked supply of breath mints. 

But people who love each other find a way, right???

The humble garlic clove deserves another chance to be part of your arsenal of healthy foods if if isn't already. 

Garlic Linguine With Mushrooms (serves 4)

Ingredients:

Salt
Water
1lb. Linguine
1 oz. Butter
3 oz. Olive Oil
4 Garlic Cloves, thinly sliced
1 lb. Mushrooms, sliced
2 Tbs. freshly chopped Parsley
Black Pepper

Instructions:

1. Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil.

2. Add plenty of salt and the linguine and cook for 8-10 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, heat the oil and garlic in a saucepan then add the mushrooms and sauté gently until golden, stirring from time to time.

4. Add the parsley, salt and pepper to the mushroom mixture and mix well.

5. Drain the cooked pasta well, return to the rinsed out pan and stir in the oil and garlic mixture, tossing to coat well. Serve immediately.

Make something amazing for National Garlic Day!!!!!!!!!!!!

*No copyright-protected material used.

Find Joy in Juggling

I GOT THIS...  I GOT THIS...  OOPS! - I DON'T GOT THIS!!!

 

I'm so excited because today is INTERNATIONAL JUGGLER'S DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When I was a little girl, my parents took me to the circus every year.  I remember the overwhelming scent of a combination of popcorn and hay.  There were three rings with non-stop action!  I remember trying to keep up with the activity in all three rings at once.  My friend Pete was a juggler and when he performed he got my full attention.  I've always been fascinated with jugglers because it takes so much coordination to keep objects moving like that.  Pete was so good at juggling and told me that he devoted his entire life to his craft.  Like anything in life a person wants, it takes patience to juggle and a great deal of practice.

Pete could juggle literally anything - give him five, six or even seven of almost anything and he would have them moving in no time. He made it seem so easy and effortless. He's very proud of the fact that he can juggle - and he should be.  He's been with the circus nearly 30 years now.  If there was a black belt in juggling, he would have one.

Sometimes everyday life can seem like a juggling act, can't it?  Things seem to be going along fine when one day - you drop one of the balls and it messes up the rhythm that you worked hard to get established.  You have to stop, pick them up, and start all over again. 

When it seems like I've got my routine down and it works, life goes more smoothly than when I find out that something is a bit "off".  Change is inevitable and a part of life but there are some changes that come along and completely knock you off your game.  Those are the changes that can rock your world - not necessarily in a good way. 

I'm thankful for the joy that comes with juggling everything in my life.  Things can be a little hectic and chaotic but you still feel a sense of purpose in it and experience real joy.  I'm okay when I'm juggling stuff because I know God has me in His strong Hands and won't give me anything that He won't help me handle.  

This is not a journey that will ever be smooth as silk - and I know that.  But it's one that I would not trade for anything in the world.  I'm not a great juggler - once in a while I drop everything, have to go pick it up and begin again.

I try to remember that perfection is unattainable and flawless living is futile.  God is there helping me and forgives the wrong I do when I ask.  I have to pick the balls up and juggle again.  To leave them on the floor motionless is the real sin.  

Keep juggling - joyfully juggling.  Find humor where you can and laugh when you get an opportunity.  Be happy and find joy as you juggle along in life.

As Pete says, "When life hands you lemons, juggle them!"  I'll bet you can't juggle and keep your mouth shut!!! 
   
Thank you Vanessa Renee Kemp for sharing this poem. 
It is dedicated to all my Type 1 Diabetic friends:

Acceptance

 Kids want to be different, to stand out in a crowd,

Some dye their hair colours, some dress very loud.

They want to be noticed, they want their own voice,

Well, I’m certainly different; and it wasn’t my choice. My body’s not pierced; my hair is quite plain,

You can’t see my difference, but it’s there just the same.

Some want to be different; most have thought, some have tried,

But I’ve got a difference I’ve tried a lifetime to hide.

When you choose to be different, it’s exciting and new,

If you’re forced without option, we all tend to lose.

The trick to this life is to play your cards well,

Every difference is unique; I’ve heard them all tell.

But saying is one thing, to accept quite another,

We all face a challenge, one way or the other.

My difference was not chosen, I hadn’t a say,

'D' wasn’t my choice, and it won’t go away.

I look very normal, but as hard as I’ve tried,

My difference was great; it was too hard to hide.

So little by little, soon I started to see,

Acceptance must start, and begin here with ME.

I won’t hide in shame, for I’ve done nothing wrong,

We all have a difference, and it makes us all strong.

In an effort to deny and to hide whom you are,

Your life becomes tangled; you don’t get very far.

So accept and move on, you can deal with 'D',

There’s no need to hide, you are strong, you will see.

Your friends will not judge you, be honest and true,

To begin this long journey, you must accept you!

It’s hard to expose all your thoughts and your fears,

But this process of growing will save many a tear.

For it’s harder to hide and to watch from afar,

Than it is to accept and just be who you are.

*No copyright-protected material used.