I'm Not A Supermom

2012-01-30T14:10:00.000-05:00

What's as painful as a root canal without anesthesia?
Shoe shopping with a little boy.
Another mom heard me mutter under my breath, "Just shoot me now" and she laughed as her little boy's disgusted look on his face was the same as my son's.

2012-01-24T21:26:00.000-05:00

We are learning opposites here. Up, down; front, back, etc.
3 1/2 year old son: "Look Mama. I have a little hand, you have a big hand."
I said, "Yes. And see my foot is bigger than your foot, but someday your foot will be bigger than mine."
Son: "And I have a cute little butt and you have a great, BIGGGGGG butt!"
My answer: "Gee, nothing gets by you does it?"

All I Really Need to Know I Learned from CandyLand

2012-01-23T13:17:00.000-05:00

Though I secretly moan to myself when my son brings out Candyland to play, it does teach some really good life lessons. Jen from 4tuante has some really great ideas about the game of Candyland.

Check this link out. It may have you re-thinking about dreading the game!

4Tunate - All I Really Need To Know I Learned from Candyland

2012-01-23T08:36:00.000-05:00

A typical start to a day in a house with a little boy like mine.....
"Watch this Mama!" CRASH! BOOM! Then an "OWWWWWWW!!"
Then, an evaluation of whether 911 is going to be the next number I call.
If I could just have an ounce of that energy...just think of all that I could get done!

I Taught My Son the Value of Fixing Over Just Throwing Out & Buying Another One

2012-01-09T11:41:00.000-05:00

My 3 year old son only has 2 pairs of shoes – one pair he wears to school and out to other places and a pair of waterproof work type boots (just like his daddy’s) that he wears outside for playing in the mud and such.

Now before you think he is deprived, he does have a pair of insulated winter boots for the snow season.

Still thinking he’s deprived?

Why does he need 5+ pair shoes? He’s 3 and will be outgrowing them before he wears them out!

I have heard many parents talking about how they just had to get those shoes because they were so cute! After all, retailers have done a pretty good job at brainwashing us to think our kids need to have at least seven different pairs to wear, lest someone else think we were being uncouth for wearing the same pair more than once in a week.

I might be wrong, but I’m pretty sure that my son’s pre-school doesn’t keep a fashion offense folder. Now I know, little girls have different, often color coordinated outfits that require matching shoes, right? But that leads into another topic of how many outfits does one toddler need?

Back to shoes.

I don’t have that many pairs of shoes myself. I have a pair of athletic shoes, a pair of boots and maybe 2 pairs of dress shoes. Oh wait, I am a little excessive, I bought myself a cheap pair of dress boots recently. Think I am fashionably challenged? Maybe so, but I just choose to spend my money on other things other than multiple pairs of shoes I never wear.

I wonder how many people have not only a closet shoe rack, but also an under the bed shoe organizer in addition to an over the door shoe organizer hidden behind the closet door. There’s a reason why those organizing items are such a hot buy – so many people have a shoe fetish and they are teaching their kids the need to have multiple pairs, too!

When as a country, did we think we needed excessive amounts of anything just to get by?

I remember as a child we only had two maybe three pairs of shoes. One pair for school, one for church and one for playing, which usually were the old pair of school shoes. When they got dirty and scuffed up, we were handed some rags and shoe polish and were instructed in the fine art of shining shoes. Slave labor or a lesson in frugality?

My son’s play boots have laces, but also a zipper making them fit better. His one boot zipper had been pulled too hard and came off the one side. Thinking they may have been broke for good, I sighed as I said we may have to go shoe shopping to buy him another pair. I was disappointed at having to spend money when these hadn’t even worn out.

My son, not caring about the money, but viewing the act of shoe shopping as being on the same level as having a splinter removed, asked the million dollar question, “Mama, can’t you just fix them?”

I thought, why not? I shouldn’t succumb to the notion that once broke, we just throw it away and buy another one. That kind of thinking has contributed to the fact that we have an overabundance of cheap goods, being made outside of this country, contributing to lost jobs and goods that are basically…..well….crap.

What happened to the time when we fixed what was broke, wore things, drove cars and used up stuff till there was nothing left? Then we took the scraps and made something new out of them. That was true recycling and it wasn't just recycling materials, we recycled our money making it stretch further. This ultimately allowed us to get more for our dollar than we do now and it taught us to rely on ourselves more thereby making us collectively stronger.

If I sound a little preachy, well that may be an accurate accusation, but I am proud that I am teaching my son the value of a dollar comes in more than one fashion. I am teaching him that you can learn to fix things yourself, making what you spent your money on last longer.

And I did. I managed to fix the zipper, much to his amazement and mine. But he doesn’t care about that. He’s too busy jumping up and down for joy over the fact he isn’t being drugged to the shoe store.

Oh wait, he now has come to me with a broken toy stating he thinks it’s time we go to the toy store and get a new one………sigh. I have a long way to go.

Oh, I get it now! Women view shoe shopping as therapy!

Julie

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2012-01-06T13:36:00.002-05:00

Before I became a mom, when I would see a child acting up in public, I would say to myself, “Why can’t they control their child?”

Now that I am a mom, when I see a child acting up in public I say, “Gee, I’m glad it’s not my kid this time!”

Possible Cure for Leukemia Found in Fish Oil??

2012-01-06T09:17:00.000-05:00

My Note: I caution you on the title of this press release as it is a leap from curing leukemia in mice to curing it in humans. However, this is very promising and a glimmer of hope. Human clinical trials will be starting soon, so if you or someone you know is interested, they should contact their doctor to see about getting added to the list.

Fish oil has many benefits and it would be wonderful if this could be added to its long list of health benefits, but of course more research is needed. The great part is, fish oil would not interfere with any medications being taken, allowing the patient to experience a possible successful treatment without having to stop current treatments.

I highly recommend printing this out and taking it to your doctor so he/she can look into this research further and offer to help get you in touch with the those conducting the clinical trials.

Leukemia is such a frightening disease, especially to those of us who are parents. I pray to see a cure for it, wherever it may come from, in my lifetime.

Possible Cure for Leukemia Found in Fish Oil

by Press Release : Dec 29, 2011 : Pennsylvania State University

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/12/111222103112.htm

"We have shown that some metabolites of Omega-3 have the ability to selectively kill the leukemia-causing stem cells in mice. The important thing is that the mice were completely cured of leukemia with no relapse." -Sandeep Prabhu

NOTE FROM FOUNDING EDITOR: I'm sorry for those of you whom this discovery may be coming too late. Though it may take some time before the patent is approved, if it is granted, its value will be beyond comprehension, both in what it will accomplish and its monetary worth. -Steve Shultz

(Pennsylvania) - A compound produced from fish oil that appears to target leukemia stem cells could lead to a cure for the disease, according to Penn State researchers.

The compound - delta-12-protaglandin J3, or D12-PGJ3 - targeted and killed the stem cells of chronic myelogenous leukemia, or CML, in mice, said Sandeep Prabhu, associate professor of immunology and molecular toxicology in the Department of Veterinary and Medical Sciences. The compound is produced from EPA - Eicosapentaenoic Acid - an Omega-3 fatty acid found in fish and in fish oil, he said. (Photo: The compound shown above is D12-PGJ2, which closely resembles delta-12-protaglandin J3, or D12-PGJ3, a compound that targeted and killed the stem cells of chronic myelogenous leukemia or CML in mice. Credit: Sandeep Prabhu)

"Research in the past on fatty acids has shown the health benefits of fatty acids on cardiovascular system and brain development, particularly in infants, but we have shown that some metabolites of Omega-3 have the ability to selectively kill the leukemia-causing stem cells in mice," said Prabhu. "The important thing is that the mice were completely cured of leukemia with no relapse."

The researchers, who released their findings in the current issue of Blood, said the compound kills cancer-causing stem cells in the mice's spleen and bone marrow. Specifically, it activates a gene - p53 - in the leukemia stem cell that programs the cell's own death.

"p53 is a tumor suppressor gene that regulates the response to DNA damage and maintains genomic stability," Prabhu said.

Killing the stem cells in leukemia, a cancer of the white blood cells, is important because stem cells can divide and produce more cancer cells, as well as create more stem cells, Prabhu said.

The current therapy for CML extends the patient's life by keeping the number of leukemia cells low, but the drugs fail to completely cure the disease because they do not target leukemia stem cells, said Robert Paulson, associate professor of veterinary and biomedical sciences, who co-directed this research with Prabhu.

"The patients must take the drugs continuously," said Paulson. "If they stop, the disease relapses because the leukemia stem cells are resistant to the drugs."

Current treatments are unable to kill the leukemia stem cells, Paulson said.

"These stem cells can hide from the treatment, and a small population of stem cells give rise to more leukemia cells," said Paulson. "So, targeting the stem cells is essential if you want to cure leukemia."

During the experiments, the researchers injected each mouse with about 600 nanograms of D12-PGJ3 each day for a week. Tests showed that the mice were completely cured of the disease. The blood count was normal, and the spleen returned to normal size. The disease did not relapse.

In previous experiments, the compound also killed the stem cells of Friend Virus-induced leukemia, an experimental model for human leukemia.

The researchers focused on D12-PGJ3 because it killed the leukemia stem cells, but had the least number of side effects. The researchers currently are working to determine whether the compound can be used to treat the terminal stage of CML, referred to as Blast Crisis. There are currently no drugs available that can treat the disease when it progresses to this stage.

The researchers, who applied for a patent, are also preparing to test the compound in human trials.

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Why Do I Take Shaklee Supplements?

2012-01-05T14:11:00.000-05:00

Many people have asked why I take vitamin supplements and why Shaklee’s.

The reason I take vitamin supplements is because even though I try and eat right, it is nearly impossible to do. The guideline is to follow the www.choosemyplate.gov. The Choose My Plate guidelines are good to follow, but it is extremely hard to do so on an everyday basis.

Why? Well, I’m a realist. Trying to find fresh, organic whole foods in the Midwest in the middle of winter that has all the nutrients I need is virtually impossible. Even if I could, I doubt I could afford it. I try and buy fresh, organic food when I can and when it’s on sale, but I can’t do so every day. It’s just too expensive.

Then there’s the fact I admit I don’t live like a purist. I eat refined sugar, though not as much as some. I eat red meat, though again not as much as I used to. I do try to eat right most of the time, but hey, I sometimes eat a hotdog or two with chips and a pop, too. So see, I’m not perfect and I’m not going to “preach” to you either. I just try and do the best I can and fill in the gaps with good supplementation.

I also live in the city and not on the farm. Factor in the many other reasons and that is why I take vitamin supplements. Notice that they are called “supplements”. Vitamins are designed to supplement a good diet, not replace it. You can’t eat donuts and drink pop exclusively and expect to be healthy.

Now, the reason I take Shaklee supplements is because in my opinion they are the best. No other company can match their extensive scientific testing and research. I believe no one can match their quality control measures and their high standard of manufacturing. To learn more on how Shaklee goes above and beyond check out their Health Sciences information page.

Watch this Shaklee Difference video, and get an inside look at Shaklee product development and delivery through the eyes of the Shaklee Scientific Advisory Board, Shaklee Independent Distributors and Dr. Jaime McManus, Dr. Carsten Smidt, Cindy Latham, Les Wong, Doug Debernardi, ingredient suppliers and more. Find out why world-class athletes turn to Shaklee for top performance.

I have come back from some pretty serious health challenges and I didn’t start to improve until I started a vitamin regimen of Shaklee’s supplements. I no longer take any pain medication and I continue to improve my health through better eating habits when I can, exercising and supplementing my diet with the best.

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I Want to Lose Weight………Now!!

2012-01-04T08:51:00.000-05:00

When it comes to weight loss how fast is fast enough for you?

In the beginning we are all “Gung Ho” aren’t we?

We make good choices about what we eat, we are exercising and we are hopeful every time we step on the scale.

But for some, like me, that number we see staring back up at us may not be going down as fast as we think it should.

For others, that number may have started out dropping fast, but has now stopped.

For some others, maybe that number hasn’t even dropped at all.

So, how fast is fast enough? I know for me, I like to see results fast, and who doesn’t, right? The hard part is watching and waiting to see the results which can take up to two weeks for some people! Ugh! It takes all the strength I have not to beat the daylights out of that scale!

How do we stay motivated when we aren’t seeing results fast enough?

One thing to remember is, you didn't put all that weight on overnight, so don't expect to lose it overnight either.

Fast weight loss rarely lasts and is really unhealthy. When you lose weight fast, it’s usually water, which means you could be de-hydrating yourself and you can also lose muscle. Losing muscle is not what you want to do. The more muscle you have the more calories you burn.

The best way to lose weight is how you put it on – one pound at a time. The average weight loss is about 2 pounds a week, give or take a pound or two.

2 pounds a week may not sound like much, but it's the surest way to keep it off.

Some weeks you will lose more and some weeks you will lose less. Women especially tend to lose weight at a slower rate than men and our weight tends to fluctuate depending on the time of the month.

So that week before your period, don’t beat yourself up too much if you see that number grow by 3-5 pounds. Just keep on what you are doing and after your period you should see a nice decrease in the scale numbers.

When it comes to weight loss, slow and steady does win the race. It may not be exciting, it can be frustrating at times, but if we shift our focus from short term to long term, then it will be easier for us to see our progress.

Remember, we put it on a pound at a time. That is exactly how we need to lose it.

Keep up the good work!

Julie

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Happy New Year! And There are some great things on the way!

2012-01-03T07:20:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Everybody!

I'm a bit belated in my wishes, but it's because I have been working on some new ideas for everyone.

We will be having some upcoming posts on easy ways to get healthier and lose weight.
Yes, it's that time of year again when many of us "Try Again" to get fit.

I, too have fallen off the wagon when it comes to losing weight and getting fit. I allowed stress, and the day to day busyness of life to creep in and wreck my schedule.
My frustration grew right along with the pounds that slowly crept back on.
If you've been there, then you know how defeated it can make you feel and how easy it is to just let things go.

But, I have a new sense of purpose, I am ready to re-start and I'm looking for others who are ready, too. I'm looking for other people who, like me, are busy beyond belief and who live in the real world.
We (let alone our families) don't eat Tofu, we don't have 3 hours a day to work out, we’re crunched for time and out of dinner ideas and we can't always afford a personal trainer to "whip" us into shape.
All we have is ourselves....and each other.

So let’s band together and share our goals and the things that work for us. We can also hold out a hand to a friend and hoist them back up if they fall off the wagon.

Studies have proven that those who seek out other people whose goals are the same, and they work together to achieve those goals are more successful than those who try and do it alone.

So, if you are looking for some easy ways to get healthier this year and are looking for some friends to help you through it, then come back often and see what we will have.

Please feel free to share your goals, your dreams of a better you and maybe some tips to help others who are right there with you.

If you are on Facebook, we now have a new group called "Time To Be Healthy"
This new group is open to anyone whose goal is to finally get healthy.
Whether it is to lose weight, kick a bad habit like smoking, or just get fit, this is the place to come.
You can state your goals, share what's working for you and find plenty of support.

Come Join Us!

Julie

Cell Phones and 3,092 People

2011-12-14T07:14:00.000-05:00

‎3,092 people died last year due to crashes involving cell phone use.

Everyone of those people was someone's child, someone's mom or dad, a loved one. Somewhere someone is grieving a senseless loss because someone just had to read that incoming text.

Was it worth it?

Next time, it could be you or your child who dies.

Now, is it worth it?

Let's put down the phones people, while driving.

No call or text is worth your life, your children's life or someone else's child's (like mine) life.

I see so many people doing this, it scares me.

Please stop!

Help a Small Child Countdown to Christmas

2011-12-07T09:43:00.000-05:00

If you have a toddler, preschooler or kindergartener then you know how hard it is for them to wait for Christmas. This tree can help little ones countdown to the big day and help them learn number recognition.

My 3 year old was always disappointed every morning he woke up and saw that Santa hadn’t been here yet. He was having a hard time understanding that he had to wait till the 25th.

To make this really simple project all you need is some green construction paper, some round white stickers and a small red stamp that has a design of a decorative ornament on it.

Cut out your tree, no need to be perfect, or if your child is old enough, have them cut it out.

Then take a sheet of circle shaped white stickers and number them from 1 to 25.

Then have your child put the stickers on himself. It’s OK if the numbers get put on upside down, it’s their project and it adds to the charm if it’s not perfect.

Then have them stamp off the numbers each day adding an ornament to the tree every time they stamp a day off. My son is quick to remind me we have to stamp off another day.

We hang ours on the refrigerator and I keep the stamp out of my son’s reach so I don’t end up with “ornament stamps” all over my house.

Try this easy project and watch your children get excited as they stamp off the days one by one.

Enjoy!

Julie

Rough Morning

2011-12-01T10:30:00.000-05:00

It has been one of those mornings.

You know the kind, where literally everything goes wrong starting with the sleepless night you had before.

Today I’m not sure if my name is Mom or Monster.

My 3 ½ year old decided this morning was a good morning to pick a fight, dig his heels in and refuse to do anything I wanted starting with breakfast and it just got worse from there.

I picked the wrong morning to pick a fight, dig my heels in and refuse to do anything my toddler wanted starting with breakfast and it just got worse from there.

These mirror images of each other set us up for World War 3.

He and I both did one thing together though – we both lost our cool.

It was ugly and I mean ugly. I’m sure you could see the mushroom cloud from space.

He screamed and threw a fit, I tried rationalizing, pleading then finally yelling and I yelled loud.

When it came to getting what I wanted done it was a disaster. I used every threat I could come up with, stopping short of any physical threat of course. I couldn’t get him to do what I wanted to do and he couldn’t get what he wanted so the battle lines were drawn.

I’m sure the Mother of the Year award is out of reach now, not that I ever thought I would even be nominated anyway.

I just believe that when you make a reasonable request, the child should follow it. At least what I believe to be reasonable. What’s reasonable to a toddler is an entirely different thing.

I just know that there are things that if you the parent, cave on, then the behavior will be that much worse the next time you make a request.

How did it get so bad? I refused to let him “win.” And he wasn’t willing to let me “win”. That’s it, plain and simple. Neither one of us was willing to budge as we both watched the clock ticking away, counting down the time for when we had to leave for school. To say we are alike would be an understatement and never as much as when we are both being too strong willed for our own good.

After the battle, we finally met in the middle, a place where both exhausted sides could compromise a little. We were still able to hold on to our dignity and feel like we both won, if just a little. But how pathetic is that? I mean, a mother and son should never go to war against each other. I should be his backup, not his enemy. How could I have been so stupid as to fight over something so insignificant? Was it really that important he do what I said for him to do? I thought about how awful it would be if something happened to him today and his last memory of me was us fighting. I literally felt sick.

When we had calmed down, I sat on the floor and held him tight in a hug. I apologized for losing my temper and yelling things I shouldn’t have and explained my reasons. I let him explain his, but I never really got any apology from him and being he is a young child I felt foolish for expecting one. He naturally did what all children do; he lost interest in the conversation and changed the subject.

We went to pre-school and I stayed while he did the first two activities. I explained to the teachers why I wanted to stay for a short time, stating we had a really rough morning. Bless them for their insight as it must have been written all over my face.

They both said they understood and said they have been there with their own children before and to not take it as being a bad mom. They said sometimes, it’s just the situation and no one can have the perfect answer all the time. They shared examples of where they “blew it” which made me feel a little better, but not much. I said I wanted to stay as a feeble attempt to make sure he knows I love him and I’m interested in what he’s doing, but it was probably more for my own selfish reasons in an effort to feel less guilty.

The fact that he was being defiant and that I was not willing to budge caused such a rift between us. I now am plagued with guilt and sit here in tears and in shame for my lack of being the parent in a bad situation.

Not only am I not Supermom, there are times like these where I don’t even feel I’m a decent mom. I want to be though. I really, really want to be a good mom! More than anything, for I know if I mess up being a mom, nothing else I ever accomplish will mean anything.

I have to stop writing now, as I only have an hour left before I have to go and pick him up. That doesn’t leave much time to finish crying and get my work done. But I am sure of one thing, I will be the first parent in line to pick him up. I can’t wait to see him, hug him and tell him how much I love him and to say I’m sorry about his luck at drawing me to be his mom.

Signed,

One bad and sad mom.

“Grace is not a prayer, but a way to live.”

2011-11-29T14:48:00.000-05:00

Grace is such a sweet word. I picture a woman with grace as being beautiful in everything she does.

My mother was a woman with grace. She was very polished and seemed to handle every situation with such a level of grace that it earned her a great number of admirers. Though my mother was like this, I am not.

This leads me to wonder if grace is a God given talent or is it a trait that can be learned?

I think just like those with a talent for music, you are born with a certain amount of grace instilled in you. And just like anyone can learn to play music, I do believe a certain amount of grace can be learned if someone is willing to put forth the effort required to learn something that may come easier to others.

It may also be possible that grace is something that is taught at such an early age that it appears that it was a talent a person was naturally born with.

So, what is a person like me who wasn’t born with a significant amount of grace and whose mother passed away before she was able to instill any grace lesson plan onto me to do?

One way may be to seek out a woman with grace and observe her mannerisms. How does she handle certain situations with ease and is there a secret to her grace? If I were to ask what her secret to handling everything with grace was, I wonder what she would tell me.

Some women would simply smile and politely thank me for my kind remark and have no earthly idea why she behaves the way she does. Those would be the ones with the natural born talent.

Another, perhaps older woman with grace would smile and say, “My dear, if you want grace, you must first ask God for His grace. Then live the way He intended. Love one another, help others when you can and to forgive when it’s needed. That is living with grace.”

She might continue by saying, “You must practice being graceful in everything you do. Picture yourself being the person you want to be in every situation and practice, practice, practice.”

Just like any skill that is learned, I must study those who have already mastered the skill and practice the methods they use till I am good at them.

Even if I never master the skill of being graceful in every situation, I know the mere fact of trying to improve myself in that area will allow me to achieve a certain level of gracefulness I didn’t have before.

Though I may never achieve the level of grace my mother had, I like the idea of trying and to even be a little like her would be well worth the effort.

If you long to be a woman of grace, I wish you well in your efforts and if you are already a woman of grace, please share some of your secrets with us!

Julie

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Are You Going to Over-Commit Yourself Again This Holiday?

2011-11-23T10:52:00.000-05:00

"Over-commitment kills relationships and steals joy."
~Susie Larson
Are you starting to over-commit yourself already this holiday season? Are you secretly dreading the holidays and can’t wait till they’re over because of all the work that’s in store for you? Then maybe you are over-committing yourself.

When you promise too much to too many people you aren’t helping any. You are actually causing harm. You are harming yourself and the ones around you, because when you over-commit by promising too much, you end up worn out, grouchy and depressed.

This causes the people around you harm when your actions reflect your bad mood. In essence, you hurt their feelings. You get short tempered with your kids for causing more havoc and chaos (why can’t they behave better?), you get angry at your spouse for not helping more (after all they are his parents!), and irritated with your family for expecting you to do it all (can’t someone else host the party this year for a change?)

So, how can you stop over-committing yourself and still get all the things done on your to do list? Well, the simple answer is, you can’t.

Sometimes, doing less is actually doing more. Sit down with your spouse and your children if they are older and make a list of all the things you think you need to do. Then prioritize.

Do you have to put up all the holiday decorations in the attic or can you do without a lot of it?

Less is more and a few pretty things looks so much better than a bunch of decorations just put out everywhere just because you have them.

Do you really have to get a present for everyone?

This year might be the best time to talk with all the adults in your circle of friends, family and co-workers and discuss a no gift holiday. I bet many of them will be relieved you brought it up. Include anyone over 18 in the no gift tradition.

You can also draw names for the kiddos in the family if there are many children. They can do the exchange amongst themselves and the kids will really get a kick out of drawing a name, keeping it a secret and shopping for the gift. Remember to set a dollar limit like $5 or $10.

This greatly eases the burden on everyone and relieves a ton of stress. Thanksgiving time is a great time to draw the names.

One exception from the name drawings and no gifts holiday may be older parents or grandparents. They deserve our gratitude and anything we can do for them. But avoid trinkets. Few people need more “stuff”, so maybe everyone going in together to buy something they really need that no one can afford on their own is a great idea.

Do you really need to attend all the parties you’ve been invited to?

No, of course not. Find out if which events are really important to everyone in your household to attend and only commit to those activities. School plays and any religious ceremonies might be some important ones not to miss.

If you feel you must attend more than one holiday party, then make your appearance brief, but friendly. An hour is long enough as long as you make a point to try and visit with everyone briefly and remember to be lively. Just long enough for them to know you were there, but not so long as to cut too much into your time.

Do you have to make everything yourself?

Don’t bother making something from scratch if you feel it’s too much to do right now. Just swing by the grocery store and pick up some cookies or cupcakes. Buy a cheap plastic, decorative plate or container and have it ready for you to transfer the goodies from the store’s plastic box onto your plate and no one will be the wiser. Some inexpensive bouquet of flowers or wine for the hostess is also a nice touch.

When it comes to hosting your own family holiday party, it’s OK to ask for help. Ask everyone to bring something to share. So what if everyone shows up with desserts. Most people won’t complain about having more choices in goodies.

Also, though we are all trying to be more Eco friendly, I think it’s OK to occasionally break out the plastic utensils and paper plates. What dishes you do have, ask for help cleaning up. Some great conversations are to be had when one is washing, one is rinsing and one or more is drying.

Keep the menu simple, no big turkeys or hams unless you really want to. If someone makes a snide comment about the store bought cold cuts tray, then smile and say you look forward to attending next year’s party at their house!

If you do want to cook, then ask for help making the side dishes. Light some candles, put on some music and crack open a bottle of wine for the helpers to make it fun. Cooking can be fun and festive with a group of people and some good conversation. Your guests will enjoy themselves and you more if everyone, including their hostess is having a good time.

Did you remember yourself?

Shortly before the holiday’s craziness begins make an appointment for yourself at a salon. Just make sure to make your appointment weeks ahead of time as this is their busy season. Get your hair done, your nails and maybe even a massage. Taking some special time for yourself and maybe giving yourself a new look does wonders for your mood and your outlook.

Most of all remember what the season is all about. It will help put things into perspective.

Then sit back, enjoy your loved ones and accept all the compliments on a great time had by all!

Wishing you a fun filled, stress free and safe holiday!

Julie

Visit us on the Web at: Project MAHMA

What a Way to Wake Up

2011-11-23T07:35:00.000-05:00

Nothing like hearing the garbage truck outside in the early AM to make you leap out of bed in a single bound, trip over the covers that were knocked on the floor, rush down the stairs while putting on your robe inside out, rush outside to chase the truck down all while dragging your garbage can behind you - only to discover it's the wrong day and your garbage collection company doesn't come till tomorrow.

Yep, nothing like that way to start a morning.

Where's my caffeine….

New Coupons!

2011-11-21T14:43:00.001-05:00

Coupons.com has added a ton of great new coupons this week!

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Seattle's Best Coffee® - $1.50 off ON ANY Seattle's Best Coffee®

Dunkin' Donuts® Coffee - $1.00 off any 11oz or larger bag of Dunkin' Donuts® Coffee

Smart Balance® Milks - $0.75 off any one (1) Smart Balance® Milks

Welch's - $1.00 off any 4-Pack of Welch's Fruit Fizz

LaCroix® Sparkling Water - $0.55 off any OFF any LaCroix® Sparkling Water 8 pack flavors at Target

Borden® Cheese - $1.00 off ONE (1) package of Borden® Pizza String Cheese

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter! - $1.00 off ONE ICBINB! Tub product

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter! - $1.50 off any ONE ICBINB! All Purpose Sticks

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter! - $1.50 off TWO ICBINB! Tub products

HOT POCKET® - $2.00 off ONE (1) HOT POCKET® brand Family Value Pack, 49.5-58.5 oz. packages

HOT POCKET® - $1.00 off 3 boxes HOT POCKETS® sandwiches, 7.5-9.5 oz. packages

HOT POCKETS® Brand Snackers - $1.00 off 2 HOT POCKETS® Brand Snackers

Gold & Silver - $1.00 off 3 Gold or Silver Line Frozen Vegetables

Kentucky Legend - $2.00 off Any Kentucky Legend Whole, Half, or Quarter Ham or Turkey Breast, or our NEW Premium Bacon

Hanover Foods - $1.00 off Two Hanover Baked Soft Pretzels

Goya® Rice Mixes- $0.55 off Goya® Low Sodium Yellow Rice or any Goya® Rice Mix

Goya® Adobo- $0.55 off Goya® Adobo

Big G Cereals - $1.00 off any TWO BOXES Chex® cereals: Rice Chex®, Corn Chex®, Wheat Chex®, Honey Nut Chex®

Crunchmaster® - $0.75 off Any One (1) Bag or Box of Crunchmaster® Crackers

Pillsbury - $0.30 off 2 Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits

Pillsbury - $0.50 off 2 Pillsbury Crescent Dinner Rolls

Pillsbury - $0.40 off any TWO Pillsbury® Sweet Rolls OR Grands!® Sweet Rolls

Pillsbury - $0.50 off TWO Pillsbury Pie Crusts

Pillsbury - $0.40 off any TWO Pillsbury® Refrigerated Pizza Crust, Breadsticks, Loaves or Dinner Rolls

JET-PUFFED - $0.40 off any ONE (1) JET-PUFFED Mallow Bites or Flavored Marshmallows

Chef M.J. Brando - $1.00 off any (2) Chef M.J. Brando appetizers

Old Wisconsin - $1.00 off any TWO (2) Old Wisconsin 1.5oz Sticks.

HORMEL® - $0.55 off any two (2) HORMEL® Pepperoni packages

Crunchmaster® - $0.75 off Any One (1) Bag or Box of Crunchmaster® Crackers

Reser's Sensational Sides - $1.00 off ONE (1) Reser's Sensational Sides item

Dr. Oetker Ristorante pizza - $0.55 off any one (1) Dr. Oetker Ristorante pizza, any variety

Delizza Patisserie - $0.75 off any one (1) package of any Delizza Patisserie Products

Seneca - $0.55 off any one (1) Seneca Farms Oatmeal 2-Pack

Bridgford - $0.50 off Any One (1) Bridgford Foods Monkey Bread

Yoplait - $0.40 off SIX CUPS Yoplait Yogurt

Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt - $0.40 off Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt

Diamond Crystal Sea Salt - $0.40 off Diamond Crystal Sea Salt

Diamond Crystal Salt Sense - $0.35 off Diamond Crystal Salt Sense

HOUSEHOLD

Ace Hardware - 50% off One regular priced item under $30 (Valid at participating Ace Stores on 11/26/10 Only)

Vanity Fair® - $1.00 off any TWO (2) packages of Vanity Fair® Napkins

Scotch-Brite - $0.75 off Scrub Sponge 3-pack or Larger

MORTON® ICE MELT - $1.00 off ANY ONE (1) MORTON® ICE MELT JUG

Crayola® - $0.50 off any Crayola® Fab Snaps™

OFFICE SUPPLIES

ColorLok - $1.00 off HP ColorLok Paper

PERSONAL CARE

John Frieda® - $3.00 off any John Frieda® Precision Foam Colour

o.b.® - $1.00 off any (1) o.b.® product (except trial size)

Efferdent - $0.75 off any Effergrip or Efferdent

Effergrip - $0.75 off any Effergrip Denture Adhesive product

Tassi - $4.00 off Tassi Ultimate Hair Holder. Save Your Do When You Do Your Face! Great Gift!

BreathRx - $3.00 off 1 BOTTLE OF 16 oz. BreathRx Mouth Rinse

PET CARE

Dentafresh - $1.00 off ONE (1) package of Dentafresh Tasty Treats for Cats.

PHOTOGRAPHY

JCP Potrait Studio - Holiday cards as low as 59cents each. PLUS 40% off collections and $3.99 sheets!

Picture People - $18 Big Bundle Package. 25 PHOTOS OF YOUR FAVORITE POSE

Sears Portrait Studio - FREE Designer Montage & Extra 20% OFF purchase. NO SESSION FEE.

TOYS AND GAMES

Hasbro - Free EASY-BAKE Ultimate Oven Refill Pack (32344 asst.) when you buy one EASY-BAKE Ultimate Oven

Hasbro - $5.00 off your total KRE-O Construction set purchase of $20.00 or more

Ding Card Game - $3.00 off one Ding Card Game

HOME ENTERTAINMENT

$3.00 off The Nutcracker: The Untold Story

4 Disney Movies for $1.00 Plus Free Pluto Ornament. FREE SHIPPING on initial order with membership.

BOOKS & MAGAZINES

People Country - $1.00 off Off People Country Music Special

Essence Magazine - $2.00 off the December Issue of Essence magazine

ENTERTAINMENT

Chuck E Cheese - Save $30.00 at Chuck E Cheese

DISH NETWORK - $20.00 off for 12 months includes $75 VISA Card

~Healthy Nutrition – Changing brands can change your life! As the number one national nutrition company in America, we’ve been helping people live healthier for over 50 years. Are you ready to change your life? Visit our website and see how we can help – To Be Healthy

The hard questions are now coming

2011-11-18T07:51:00.000-05:00

The hard question is now here - "Mama, where is your mama?"
It is hard to make a young child understand why one grandma lives 15 minutes away who he sees regularly and one he can't see, because she lives with Jesus.
He wants to get in the car and drive to heaven so he can see her.
I can feel the sting of the tears as they try and fill my eyes.

How Sad a Clean Fridge Can Be

2011-11-17T10:01:00.002-05:00

We are trying to sell our house and I’m emphasizing the word “trying”. The market is horrible and we aren’t having much luck. So when the realtor office calls to make an appointment for a viewing, we get very zealous in our efforts to make everything look as perfect as we can.

One of the things we do of course is de-clutter the most cluttered room in most American homes – the kitchen. Since we have a toddler and very busy lives we have one of those refrigerators where the outside is so covered up with calendars, grocery lists, photographs, inspirational sayings, drawings and of course magnets. So many magnets holding up so much stuff that no one truly knows the color of the outside of our refrigerator.

So, one of things that must be done is to remove all of those things clinging to the outside of the refrigerator like barnacles to a boat. Not to mention all the other stuff that collects on the counter. This requires a good size plastic container with a lid so it can be literally thrown into a closet on our way out the door moments before the potential buyers pull into the driveway.

I wonder if they can hear from outside the banging of stuff hitting the back wall of the closets and the slamming of doors and know that we truly do not live this clutter free of a life? I feel sort of like I’m living a lie when I look around our gleaming rooms so free of personal things as if a very impersonal, organized, almost perfect family lives here when in actuality a very busy and a very imperfect family does.

Upon arriving home I feel a sense of relief I don’t have to clean anymore today and there is something soothing about coming home to a clean house. It certainly is good for the soul to live a cluttered free, clean house type of life, even though my subconscious knows the closets are about ready to blow with all the stuff crammed inside.

I stop, breathe deep and relish in the moment of cleanliness for just a moment. I’m awakened from my Zen type state with the crash of cars being dumped out of the toy box all over the floor and the sounds of normal life starting to wind back up. I’m happy and hopeful for the moment, but it’s the stark nakedness of the refrigerator that causes me to stop and ponder a bit.

I’m reminded of a time in my life when my refrigerator was always clean and clutter free and you’d think I would long for that time, but actually it reminded me of a sadder, more lonelier time when I was by myself. I never want to go back there again. I want my cluttered fridge back!

When we start to put everything back on the refrigerator, my son putting his magnets and drawings back on and me putting all the calendars, lists, etc back on I’m filled with a sense of happiness and gratefulness.

This cluttered, over-full refrigerator is a sign that a real family lives here, with all the joy and laughter and love that is reflected in every magnet holding up every crayon scribbled drawing and long to do lists. I smile as the clutter transforms the kitchen back into “our” kitchen and truth be told, I wouldn’t trade my refrigerator for anything in the world, except maybe a bigger one, of course.

I think we need to go out and get some more magnets, we have a lot more life yet to add to the old “icebox.”

Julie

*If you are a stay-at-home mom who has ever struggled to make ends meet, or a working mother who would like to transition to a business that allows you to spend more time with your family, then Project MAHMA is for you!

Visit us on the Web at: Project MAHMA

Making Fire Drills Fun

2011-11-11T09:54:00.000-05:00

We started doing home fire drills with our 3½ year old. I felt it was time to teach him what to do in case of a fire and learn to do those things without Mom and Dad being there to instruct him. Though it seems like a scary thing to teach, I feel it's essential.

I lived through a furnace fire a few years back and only by the grace of God did I survive. My dog woke me up as I was already being overcome with smoke. The smoke alarms were going off, but I didn't wake up till my dog jumped on me and started shoving his nose in my face. I owe that dog my life. I used to think I knew what to do in case of a fire, but I found out how hard it is to remember the right things without practicing them. When your adrenaline is pumping out of fear, it is essential to just know automatically what to do and the only way to do that is to practice often till it becomes just an automatic response.

I began our fire drill by making it exciting and talking about it like a game. This made it more fun for him. We practiced with him in bed. I pressed the button on the fire alarm so he would know what it sounded like. Then while I was constantly saying, "Beep, beep, beep!" we ran down the steps and put shoes on fast. I had him unlock the door and open it himself, run out in the cold without a coat, run next door and pound on the neighbor's door yelling, "Help! Fire!" over and over.

I then told him to not wait for Mom or Dad and to never, ever go back in the house. I told him how he should wait at the neighbors for the firemen and their fire trucks which he thinks seeing them is cool.

It can be challenging trying to teach something very serious, but still keep it fun enough so as to not lose the child's interest.

Do make it fun, but also throw curve balls at them once they get good at doing it one way. Once your child learns what to do by going out the front door, teach them the other ways they can get out, like what do if they can’t get out the front door, etc. I tell them they may not be able to see and if the house is full of smoke how they can crawl like a baby on the floor.

Often times you are met with questions of what a fire can do, if they will have to go to the hospital and who will get their pets out. I recommend being very honest and frank, but always follow up with some reassuring words such as, "Fire can be very scary and can hurt really bad, but know that Mama or Daddy will always find you and come get you" or "We will get your doggie, you just go next door and wait for us."

I urge you to take the time to do this with your children together as a family and with each child individually and practice it often. Offer rewards such as a treat later or stickers or whatever you want as an incentive to practice and to make it rewarding for doing the right thing.

My dad had very smart words. He said, “Hope and pray for the best, but prepare for the worst.” These are very good words to live by in preparing for disasters. Though I don’t like scaring my child, I do want him to know what to do in case of an emergency such as a fire so he won’t freeze in fear. We will practice at least on a monthly basis so he will do it automatically thereby possibly saving his own life.

I pray it’s a skill we never have to use.

*For information on Children’s Health please visit our website To Be Healthy – Children’s Health to find quality products for the health of your children and everyone in your household.

Shop from Home this Holiday!

2011-11-10T15:10:00.000-05:00

If you’re like me, the holidays, though wonderful and joyous, can also be a source of added stress as we try and pack more things into our already busy lives. And holiday shopping can be one of those things that can add stress and take so much of our time.

The last thing most people need is more “stuff” and gift cards can be a little impersonal, so what do we buy the people on our list?

How about giving something unique this year that will be very much appreciated?

How about giving the gift of good health this year?

Shaklee has designed a couple of wonderful gift packages that are easy to wrap and go as they come in a festive box and you can order them all from the comfort of your own home.

Just click on the links and learn more or to order. Remember, membership saves you 15% that can pay for itself in one order! And if you order any Vitalizer membership is free!

A year of Cleaner, Healthier Water - Cheaper than bottled and healthier, too!

Ø Get Clean Water Filter and 4 filters – Item #59769 - $99.95 Member Price

Spa Shea Butter & Stress Relief Complex – Relax and soothe

Ø Pamper Me Now Gift Set – Item #59767 - $57.70 Member Price

We are also offering these other special gift packs that may not come in a fancy box, but we are offering a fancy special - buy 3 packs, get one FREE!* See below for details. All prices listed are Member prices.

You can shop for 4 people or even for yourself while you save money and time! Below are these special packages along with some gift ideas to go with them if you like.

Ø Spa Package – Go to the spa without ever leaving home! Put in a cute basket or box with a bath pillow and maybe some nice chocolates.

Moisturizing Shower Gel – Item #32549 - $15.25

Shea Butter Cream – Item #32536 - $30.20

Shower Sponge – Item #50554 - $2.55

Ø Baby Package – Something nice for that new addition! Put in a plastic tub with a baby bath book, rubber duckie and a soft bath towel.

Concentrated Gentle Wash – Item #30108 - $19.20

Soothing Lotion – Item #30106 - $19.20

Ø More Energy Package – Give someone the gift of more energy! Include a nice tea mug or water bottle.

CorEnergy – Item #20632 - $32.10

Cinch Energy Tea Mix – Unsweetened – Item #20345 - $25.45

Pomegranate – Item #20337 - $25.45

Ø Immune Booster – For those who are always sick! Give with a warm hat and gloves.

Nutriferon – Item #20960 - $39.00

Defend & Resist – Item #20613 - $17.30

Ø Get Clean Household Kit – Perfect for those with a new home or apt! Put into a carrying caddy with sponges and microfiber cloths.

Get Clean Household Mini Kit – Item # 89108 - $40.00

Below are three packages that are not part of the buy 3 get the 4^th free, but they are wonderful packages to buy for that hard-to-buy person or to reward yourself for being so nice!

Ø Skin Care System – 8 products for a younger looking you! Put in a nice basket or tin with a pretty flowering plant.

Normal to Dry – Item #50916 - $187.45

Normal to Oily – Item #50914 - $187.45

Ø 30 Days to Feeling Better Package – Feel better in 30 days or money back! Include an I-tunes gift card to download music to walk to.

Vitalizer for Men – Item #20282 -$79.25

Vitalizer for Women – Item #20283 - $79.25

Ø Weight Loss – Lose for less than a fast food meal a day! Include an I-Tunes gift card to download music to walk to.

Cinch Starter Kit – Item #59105 - $193.80

If you or someone you know is looking for some extra holiday cash or just a way to pay for the products you already use, contact us today for our part time opportunities!

Happy Shopping!

Julie

*We are personally offering the 4^th pack free special to our new or existing customers only and only on the packages listed. Packages must be ordered in their entirety. To get your 4^th pack free you must order 3 packs, notify us when you order with your order # and what 4^th pack you want. The 4^th pack must be equal to or less than the most expensive pack you ordered. We will then order and pay for your 4^th pack and have it shipped to you. You pay for the first 3, we pay for the 4^th. Some limitations apply. Please contact us if you have any questions.

November Health Update

2011-11-01T10:40:00.000-04:00

November Health Update

In this issue:

· Eat Healthier & Cheaper

· Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Shake

· Profile: A mom who dreamed of staying home with her kids

Eating Healthier & Cheaper

November is here and the holidays will soon be knocking on our door. Cooking, eating and finding ways to pay for all that food are on most of our minds.

The price of food is outrageous! You may be trying to eat healthier, but finding the price of it all a bit too much.

We are the only country in the world whose poor are fat and the rich are thin. The main reason is that the cheapest foods available are the over processed, over re-fined, high fat, high sodium, convenience foods. A healthy diet can cost more and when your cash is limited, you go with what you can afford.

So how do we afford to feed our families and eat right at the same time?

Well, it requires a bit of work.

I can see your shoulders slump and hear your sigh. It’s really not that much work. It just takes a bit of planning.

We all tend to fall into the rut of making the same meals over and over again and I bet a lot of those meals include pouring some kind of sauce over some kind of pasta. Am I right?

Then there’s eating out. Wow! That is not cheap! And let’s be honest, if we knew and saw how that food was being prepared, we wouldn’t have the courage to eat it. The safest and healthiest way to eat is to fix it ourselves. Somehow knowing who touched our food and knowing it was prepared safely goes a long way to enjoying our meals.

Taking some time to plan out meals ahead of time, collect coupons, shop and stock up when items go on sale and cooking, yes cooking your own meals at home is how to eat right and save money.

This will take approximately 1-2 hours a week. More if your family keeps interrupting you as you try and plan this all out on Sunday evening. Warn the next person that interrupts you will cause the family to eat nothing but beans and brussels sprouts the rest of the week!

Now that the kids have left you alone for awhile, take out a simple cookbook, or go online and look at a few simple recipes. Remember to keep the meals simple. Most should be able to be made in less than 30 minutes. Look at the grocery ad for the upcoming week and plan your meals around what’s on sale. Clip your coupons and make your list.

Remember to cook more than what you need for tonight’s dinner. Cooking for two or ten takes about the same amount of time and doesn’t cost all that much more, so cook more and freeze the leftovers. You’ll save money by re-heating leftovers rather than ordering pizza or picking up takeout on your way home. Plus it’s healthier.

When you buy meat, cook it all up at once, divide it up into separate containers, date and freeze. That way, when you have a recipe that calls for meat, you will have the long part, which is cooking it, already done.

Remember to always add veggies or fruit as a side dish. Make it a habit and instruct the kids before they can have seconds of their favorite food, they must finish what’s on their plate first. They may baulk at first, but over time good habits will eventually be learned.

Want to have a quick, easy and affordable convenience food for those nights where there is absolutely no time to cook? Try Shaklee’s Meal Shakes or Cinch Shakes. They’re affordable, they’re good for you and best of all they’re fast and delicious! Kids love them and they are also portable. Something pizza and drive thru tacos are not.

Cinch also has their Snack Bars or Meal in a Bar which are great to tide you over till you get home.

Oh, and sometimes when we change our diet to better food our stomachs and digestive system sometimes go into shock. Your body is so happy to have good stuff that it will excitedly purge the bad stuff causing bloating, gas, etc.

To help your tummy feel better and not drive off your friends, try EZ Gest

So see, there are ways to eat healthier, save money and your sanity all at the same time! Talk about multi tasking!

Spice Up Your Holidays with a Cinch® Pumpkin Spice Shake

Love pumpkin pie, but still trying to stick to your Cinch plan over the holidays? Try this Pumpkin Spice shake recipe to add some variety to your shake. It tastes just like pumpkin pie!

Pumpkin Spice Shake Recipe
2 scoops Cinch Vanilla Shake Mix
8 oz non-fat milk or low fat soy milk
2 tbsp canned pumpkin
½ tsp pumpkin spice
Dash of vanilla extract
Dash of cinnamon
4 – 6 ice cubes
Blend until creamy.

286 calories, 24 g protein, 42 g carbohydrate, 3 g fat*
*Nutrient values when non-fat milk is used

Visit http://cinchclub.com for more tasty and inspiring recipes you can enjoy during the holidays!

Profile - Tori Minder

Tori Minder dreamed of a different life…a life where she could be present for the important moments in the lives of her children. And she wasn’t sure it was possible, until a friend told her about Shaklee.

I have always dreamed of being able to stay at home and raise my children. But when my husband Nic and I found out I was pregnant with our first child we knew that there was no other option for me but to continue working. I continued to teach after my daughter was born and all through my second pregnancy, but I cried most days. I was so afraid I was going to miss all her firsts—the first time she sat up, the first time she stood alone, the first time she walked.

And by the time I came home from work, meetings, late afternoons of grading/planning, or conferences, I was totally exhausted and had no energy for my daughter or my husband. I felt like I couldn’t be a good mom, wife, or teacher because my heart was at home. After my son was born, we decided I wouldn’t return to teaching. I thought my prayers had finally been answered.

But after a couple of months of worrying about finances and finding that our money was running out, my husband and I knew I had to go back to work. I sent in applications to different schools and daycares but I hadn’t heard anything yet. I would often call my friend Kara Sears (Senior Director, IN) to talk because I knew we had the same passion—to be at home with our children.

While I was in Tennessee on a family trip, Kara called me and told me she knew a way that I could live out my passion. As soon as I returned home, I called Kara and met with her and her mom. It was then she presented the Shaklee Dream Plan to me. I kept thinking, “This sounds way too good to be true. Is it?” I talked to Nic when I got home and we thought maybe this is the answer we’d been praying for. We continued to meet with Kara and her husband, Kyle to learn more and discovered that Shaklee could give us the life that we want for our family.

We started building in August of this year and thanks to Shaklee, we are creating a healthier and wealthier life. And we’re also sharing Shaklee with others to help them achieve their own dreams.

That’s it for this month’s newsletter! To learn more about the products or opportunity mentioned here, you can visit our website at www.tobehealthy.myshaklee.com or fill out our Contact Form for a free, no obligation Info Packet.

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and go ahead and indulge a little. Just remember, everything in moderation, which is better than having to wear elastic pants the next several months!

To Your Good Health,

Julie

Children Need Bedtime Stories; Parents Need a Wake-Up Story

2011-10-25T21:15:00.000-04:00

Please take the time to view this short video. It' time for us to wake up.

For more information on the cleaning products recommended by Healthy Child Healthy World, Oprah & Dr. Oz, The Cousteau Society and many more, please visit our website Shaklee's Get Clean

An Example of Scary Problems When Taking Synthetic Vitamins

2011-10-25T15:25:00.000-04:00

Hi all,

I wanted to share with the rest of you a letter I sent to someone who was taking some different vitamins and was experiencing all kinds of scary problems. He also wanted to know what the difference was between natural vitamins and synthetic.

Below is a copy of my letter to him. I hope it helps you all understand and hopefully avoid the same problems he encountered.

Julie

Hi,

I came across this info while doing some research for someone else and it reminded me of what you told me about how you initially felt bad when starting your vitamin regime. Since we discussed natural vs. synthetic vitamins and what was the difference, I thought I would share with you what I learned.

Here is the difference between a natural vitamin and a synthetic one:

When you eat an orange for example, you get more than just the natural vitamin C. You get a whole range of vitamins including some nutrients that scientists do not know all what they are yet, but we know the body uses them. So though we haven’t yet learned what these nutrients are, we know they are in the orange for a reason and our bodies know how to utilize them.

Natural vitamins essentially use the entire orange. They basically remove the water and fiber, which is the bulk and what remains are ALL the nutrients which you then take. The body recognizes these nutrients and utilizes them as it needs them.

Synthetic vitamins are just that, synthetic versions of the real thing. For example, using the orange again:

Synthetic vitamins isolate just the Vitamin C compound in the orange and replicate it in a laboratory. Yes, technically it’s the same formula on paper, but without all the other “natural” compounds to go with it your body does not recognize it as Vitamin C. It looks at the chemical and says, “What’s this?” It then will either excrete it or on some occasions it will store it in your fat cells. And with some chemicals, that can lead to a buildup of toxins.

The other problem with synthetic vitamins is they always have other artificial ingredients used as fillers and binders, including artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. These additional “chemicals” often act as stimulants which can cause the problems you experienced – dizziness, lightheadedness, general poor feeling. Many people go on to feel heart palpitations, trembling and nausea. These are all warning signs that the body is reacting to the synthetic chemicals in the vitamins that were ingested.

These chemicals as you can imagine can prove to be ineffective and bothersome at the least and be quite dangerous at the worst. And since your body is trying to rid itself of these chemicals, you are basically wasting your money since you are absorbing very little of any nutrients.

When it comes to vitamins you truly get what you pay for.

Synthetic vitamins may be cheaper to buy because they are cheaper to make. They isolate the chemicals, synthetically reproduce them in a lab and then mass produce that chemical.

Natural vitamins take the whole food and provide you with the natural compounds found in nature. But with the natural vitamins, your body utilizes all the nutrients thereby making the initial investment payoff with better health and no side effects like with the synthetic.

I encourage you to view this short video of why I recommend these types of vitamins and how they merge the best of natural ingredients with the best of science on the best form of delivery to the body. They may not be the cheapest, but they are certainly the best and they have the science behind them to back up their claims. They also provide a 100% money back guarantee if you are ever unsatisfied. You can’t get that from a cheap drugstore vitamin.

View this video to learn more here: The Shaklee Difference

Your health is one area where you should never try to go cheap with. The initial investment may be higher than with the cheap synthetic versions, but you get a better payoff by using products that actually work.

I hope this helps with understanding of what the difference between natural and synthetic and why you may experienced some problems.

Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any other questions.

Take care.

Julie

P.S. Oh, I also forgot to mention that make sure you are not taking any vitamins with iron in them. Men and most menopausal women do not need to supplement their diets with iron and a buildup of iron in the system can cause problems including heart related issues.

Thank Goodness for Stress Relief Complex!

2011-10-17T20:17:00.001-04:00

With a 3 year old in the house, there are times I feel I'm just going to go over the edge.

Between his attitude that enters the room before he does, the screaming of "NO!" at the top of his voice all….the….time, and his overall narcissistic behavior I really do believe that the Terrible Twos are just a warm up for the Tyrannical Threes.

I read somewhere, but I'm too tired to remember where and give her the proper due, but this mother said the age of 3 causes you at times to want to claw your eyes out with your own jagged, unkempt nails.

Yep, that pretty much sums it up for me.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my son dearly and I know there will come a time when I will look back and only remember the sweet times of this age.

Just exactly when will that be do you think? Just asking.

Living with a three year old is somewhat like living with a person with opposite personalities. Sometimes they can be the most loving, sweetest individuals who can melt your heart.

Then at times they can turn on you with vengeance that would make Cujo turn and run with his tail between his legs.

Thank goodness I have my Stress Relief Complex to take when you need a Mother’s little helper, but don’t want to take anything with a prescription and certainly don’t want to take anything illegal.

I like Stress Relief Complex because it gives me that slightly relaxed feeling without feeling groggy and it does not have any of the nasty after effects like Valium can cause.

It may have been designed by scientists, but I’m willing to bet one of those scientists had a 3 year old living at home.

*To learn more about or to purchase Stress Relief Complex, please visit our website: To Be Healthy and save 15%!

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