Mick's up Life

Maximized Living or Mick's Up Life

2021-06-25T19:29:00.002-04:00

Let's do a throwback.

How did Mick's Up Life begin? It all started with Maximized Living.

Getting the word out about the importance of families changing their lifestyles to healthy living was the main goal, the main focus.

That was a decade ago.

It is still that important today.

The difference... healthy things are more accessible than they were at the start.

I also might not be quite so adamant about people seeing things the same way as I do. Most don't like that. Most don't understand all the information. Most get pushed away with aggression.

Instead, I put the information out there, and people can come see it if they want. If they don't, I can't force them to.

Do I wish we all could be perfectly healthy physically and mentally, so we can all get along without emotional problems? Yes, I do. It's not up to me, though.

Besides, this information is getting quite widespread these days, which is great! Those who have not heard about healthy living sure aren't tuned in to the wellness fads and food options around them.

My point of this writing is to bring us back to the 5 Essentials® that Max Liv is based on.

Maximized Nervous System (chiropractic care)
Maximized Nutrition
Maximized Mind
Maximized Oxygen (exercise)
Minimized Toxins

To quote the Max Liv website, let me explain.

1) Optimizing nerve supply through spinal correction unlocks your body’s natural potential for your best performance and faster healing.

2) Nutrition involves choosing a healthy diet focused on whole foods that supply your body with all the nutrients it needs to keep you in peak performance on a daily basis so you can achieve better health overall to last a lifetime.

3) We believe a healthy lifestyle supports nutrients for optimal brain function, stress management, and good sleep patterns.

4) Exercise helps your body increase oxygen levels and lean muscle, helping reduce fat and improve performance while increasing your ability to fight stress, anxiety, and other illnesses.

5) Good health and longevity depends on regaining your body’s natural balance and helping it detoxify itself.

If you look at any wellness information, you will see at least some of these points touched on. The thing with Max Liv is they put them all together. The best part is that they help you and coach you along your journey. Not all of us are blessed with a Max Liv office nearby, but we can still keep informed.

Read up on it. Watch videos. Purchase what items you need to be prepared for your new start. Get an accountability partner.

Your body is God's temple, whether or not you know it/believe it. It's extremely important. Take care of it. It's the only one you'll ever have.

Be at the top of your game. Be your best at work and in your relationships.

Remember, though: It took you a while to get to the state you're in, so be patient with the time it takes to get you to where you need to be.

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit,

who is in you, whom you have received from God?

You are not your own;

you were bought at a price.

Therefore honor God with your bodies.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)

Fun With A Mick's Up

2020-12-31T12:49:00.006-05:00

As we begin a new year, let us be looking for the good in the bad.

Beauty among the scary

I hope you have many good memories of 2020.

Although people will say it has been a strange year, and some may even say it’s been awful, our God is bigger than anything in 2020.

I pray you are safe and healthy, with no worries of finances or food or shelter.

I first had the thought of writing this at the start of the pandemic lockdown. I was enjoying the view from my home office window - the pink flowers on the tree in the Spring.

It was wonderful to watch the families enjoying the freshness of the new season, while walking and biking together down our street. Our neighbor rode his wife's pink bike as his only mode of transportation, so he could go on a bike ride with his rambunctious little boy. (I did notice in later weeks that they got a new bike or two.)

Real men ride their wives' pink bikes!

Before I knew it, the seasons were changing again. We, as a family, got involved in home projects... or just spending time together in various ways. The world had interesting things happening. I got pulled into my work and other goings-on more than previously. Our country was making major decisions. Friends were needing extra prayer. My daughter's senior year was well underway, as were her preparations for next year's move to college.

Sign of times changing

I noticed the pretty pink flowers were no longer there, and the green leaves were soon replaced with orange. The birds were still playing among the branches, singing up a storm! (I figured out I have become an amateur bird watcher.)

It wasn't long before we were spending more time shopping online for gifts to give out over the Christmas holiday!

All this to say, time is going to move forward, whether or not we like our current situation, and especially even if we're not ready. We need to remember to take time to see the beauty among the scary. We need to keep a good attitude, looking for the good things that might be hidden under what seems to be only bad.

One of the 5 Essentials is a healthy mindset.

If things are going well for you, this might seem like a simple task, but it's still an important reminder.

If you are going through really difficult times, I am so sorry! I wish I could take them away for you. Please share with me or someone near to you, and ask a prayer warrior to help you take these concerns to God. Our Lord wants to spend time with you, His creation. Do you know Him as your Father? If so, remember you are His child. Climb up on his lap, snuggle up in His arms, and cry your tears of sadness. He wants to take care of you.

If you do not know God as your Father, please consider praying to Him. When you are ready, admit to Him that you are not perfect, and humble yourself enough to admit you have sinned. Believe He has provided a way out of those sins and that life that is empty without Him, by offering to you His gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, and His death on the cross as punishment for your sins, and His resurrection from the grave, to give us hope for life with Him in heaven. Then claim that gift as your own.

It seems impossible to me to have a healthy mindset without God and a relationship with Christ. I am praying you know Him. If you want to know more, please contact me.

Have a 2021 that outshines your 2020 in more ways than you can imagine!

Blessings!

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P.S.

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Today on social media were a few posts good enough to share here. Enjoy!

"As we look back on 2020 and prepare to start a new year, we are grateful that the Lord is faithful and completely trustworthy no matter the circumstances." - @uvalleyforge

"Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book. May your pages be filled with growth, love, and gratitude." - @accordochiropractic

"I still don't know what I'm wearing to the living room New Year's Eve. I might not even go." - @CoastalVaMag

"Command those who are rich in this present world

not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth,

which is so uncertain,

but to put their hope in God,

who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment."

1 Timothy 6:17 NIV

Mick's Up With the Numbers

2020-03-25T22:06:00.003-04:00

Life has a very strange "normal" right now. A lot of things have changed in the past couple of weeks. There are good things coming out of it, though. For instance, our daughter has lots of thyme on her hands (see image).

Great hibernation = thyme on our hands

We've enjoyed cooking together, walks together, chilling together. Although we are still keeping busy with full days of working from home, and our daughter is keeping productive with school work and hobbies and helping with housework, we are doing well at using face-to-face time more than we would be able to otherwise. We are not interrupted by other responsibilities, since most things have shut down for a time.

There are great reminders out there about personal hygiene (as if we didn't already wash our hands a ton) and distancing ourselves from others, in order to stop the spread of a virus that is constantly mutating. My favorite reminder, especially in a time when money is tighter: "I will not touch my face. I will not touch my 401k. I will not touch my face. I will not touch my 401k."

I heard it put well recently: The face is the door for the virus to enter your body. So, touch your face less, and when you are tempted to touch your face, make sure your hands have been washed since the last time you touched something else.

Our chiropractor has a healthy outlook, one which we all should have: It's not about killing the germ/virus, as much as it is about strengthening the host. If we have this mentality, we can fear less.

Moreover, if you are a Christian, you should have no fear. God is bigger than anything. A church in our hometown shared a good reminder through Scripture (as all Bible preaching churches do): "I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted." (Job 42:2)

Now that I shared some funnies, reminders, and encouragement, here are some numbers.

Making the graph accurate

Don't let the hype of the media lead you. Look into things yourself. One social media post I saw clears up a comparison. The media wants us to believe the spread of the virus is as bad here in the USA as it is in Italy. However, putting the numbers in a more accurate graph, we see that population/size of the country plays a big role. Check out this comparison.

You can be informed by visiting the CDC website yourself. There, you will find all kinds of information, but be aware that this all started out with fewer tests being done (1000 tests) versus an increase of tests available (10,000 or so). That alone can sway the numbers! Also, weed through the scary stuff to find the positive things, such as the fact that the number of new cases has started decreasing per day... (meaning we hit the peak already)... and use the numbers to see for yourself that the fatality rate is .01% in the USA. Granted, some states seem worse off than others, but you can check out your state's stats on the CDC website... and, overall, we will weather this storm.

Want more numbers? A study shows cases involving 10,000 flu patients under medical care versus the same number under chiropractic care. Under medical care, .095% died versus .0025% under chiropractic care. When comparing 10,000 pneumonia cases each, .64% died under medical care versus .01% under chiropractic care. That's a huge difference. I would certainly rather be under chiropractic care and wellness coaching, in order to be strong, in case I end up being host to a virus.

Please be wise, be safe, be healthy, and be empowered. Also, please pray for the families being negatively impacted by disease, whether this virus scare or any other illness. Especially pray for those dealing with loss and hurt and heartbreak. Call, text, email, or snail mail your family and neighbors. Be kind, and check in on someone today. Maybe we will develop some really cool habits from this hibernation.

"I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted."

Job 42:2

Mick's Up on the Hype

2020-03-13T16:11:00.000-04:00

Weirdness. That is what I call all that has happened this month over germs. I wish I could just yell out to the insanity and hype, "Stop!" Then I'd see the craziness finally die down, and we all go back to our normal lives.

Seriously. Canceling the SAT, which students (including my daughter) have been preparing for, changing their schedules for, and anxiously awaiting, so they can finally get it over with? That is just plain cruel! I might just add, "dumb," too.

Yes, my family came down with some sort of sickness that includes respiratory discomfort, coughing, symptoms of fever, fatigue, etc. We are still recovering, but that's just it: We're recovering.

Did I have myself following a healthy lifestyle? Yes, I did. Unfortunately, my chiropractor is terrible at neck adjustments, which would have certainly helped my immune system (and a great neck adjustment is something I could really go for, after days of coughing and laying in terrible positions in an attempt at being comfortable).

So, that is one strike against me.

Another strike is that we got a sweet (literally) surprise from our parents. I went against my better judgement, and ate some of the sugary items in the package. That little bit led to a little more somewhere else, and even though I didn't go overboard, it was sugar being added to my body, giving fuel to the germs that were trying to attack.

Granted, I probably would have had to mindfully fight the germs at some point, but my defenses could have been better prepared.

Instead, I had a few days of feeling a bit on the lousy side, and a couple of sick days from work, so my cough wouldn't scare people.

Overall, though, while recovering, I've succeeded at avoiding sugar, getting rest, keeping hydrated, and eating even more fruits and veggies. This has allowed me to keep the germs at bay, for the most part. My symptoms were not nearly what they could have been, and my recovery time is much shorter than expected. (Hubby, on the other hand, can't keep from putting sugary things into his body, and is having more of a struggle with recovery.)

I am truly saddened at what our country has shown itself to be, during the hype. We look frightened, easily swayed, cowardly, and panicked.

Hearing how our U.S. of A. is viewed by an acquaintance of ours, who is from another country, I can hesitantly say that maybe there is need for panic. Apparently, from this different perspective, it seems there is sugar in the air. Everywhere you turn, there is something sweet. It is so true. That is why I have tried to convince people for the past nearly 10 years that we need to back off from the sugar. This obsession (and might I say, "addiction") is killing us Americans.

What do we do to make ourselves feel better in this confusion and chaos caused by the hype? We comfort ourselves with sugar, like doughnuts or soda or sweet coffee concoctions.

So, how about you join me and say, "Enough is enough!" Let's make a promise to be good to ourselves. Let's take the best care of our bodies we know how to. Let's be strong for those around us who are unable to be.

Oh, and I almost forgot: Remember, God's got this! There is no reason to panic. Let your faith be in God, not in the media.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,

for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

Why Mick's Up With Fasting?

2020-02-21T10:48:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: I have done more research to confirm that long-term fasting is easier on men's systems than on women's. So, please beware, if you are a lady wishing to attempt fasting. If your body is sensitive to drastic drops in calories, be mindful, and listen to your body. There is a range of seriousness associated with its possible side effects, from mild alterations in monthly schedule, to severe in terms of causing premature menopause. Again, ladies, listen to your body, be informed through research, and be kind to your body. That is not to say that there is no good fasting. This is just a warning of side effects.

I was reading about the advantages of fasting, and after 3 days (only water and no more than 15-20 calories per day, which means like lemons and stevia are it... no more!), there are a lot of great benefits.

So...
Yes, I have done better, but am still not totally maximized in my living. The family is even more on board now. When some issues that are more than just minor ones pop up, it gets people's attention. It's not great, but it is a good thing to get someone motivated to do better.

I decided to try a fast... at the start of the new year... and to invite the family (mainly the hubby) to participate. We did it! Well, we aimed for 5 days, out of the blue, without ever doing it before and without prepping (not recommended!), and we made it through 3 days! Wow! Even though I expected to make it through 5 days, I am so pleased that we made it 3.

Don't get me wrong. There are benefits to any amount of fasting, but some major ones start kicking it at 3 days, and continue to do more and more for the body through 5 days, which is why I had that goal. I was happy to know, though, that nothing was wasted when our attempt ended with the 3 day fast.

Where I did the research for the fast was through Dr. Jockers' website. I follow him on social media, and I saw some interesting things coming through in his posts.

He was even part of a Fasting Lifestyle Summit recently.

I recommend everyone take a look at the information. Do the research. See if it is something that you consider beneficial to your body and your health.

A few reasons for my desperate attempt are:

I want to fit nicely in my Mother-of-the-Groom dress in May, and look a bit more healthy, fit, and even younger.
A major milestone is coming at the end of the summer, and being a fit and healthy 50-year-old is as big a goal for me as 40 was, when I was first introduced to this Maximized Living info.
Hubby has lots of issues, which are not being properly handled, and so this was a shot in the dark, wondering if something so drastic could shift his mindset.

Are you at a point of desperation? Maybe you could try something new.

Many wishes to you for a great year and great successes!

Now, it's time for me to prepare for my February fast!

“When you fast,

do not look somber as the hypocrites do,

for they disfigure their faces

to show others they are fasting.

Truly I tell you,

they have received their reward in full."

Matthew 6:16 (NIV)

Feeling Like Some Mick's Up

2019-08-22T21:14:00.001-04:00

So, it's been YEARS! Really, literally, it's been years since I wrote anything on this blog.

I gave in.

I gave in to the hum-drum and the lackadaisical nature of those around me.

We have not lived as a Maximized Living family for quite some time. I've gained all the weight back, and even more. I feel like a failure. I'm not happy with myself.

I'm ashamed.

So, instead of giving in more, and giving up totally, I'm going back to the basics.

What is it Inigo Montoya says in The Princess Bride? "Go back to the beginning!"

I need a proper mindset. Even if the family is not on board, and wants to wallow in its own misery, I will trudge forward with what I know to be right.

I need proper chiropractic care. We have continued with adjustments over these years, but with no Maximized Living doctor nearby, we settled for less than the best. We thought we found someone special, but the doctor has dwindled in effectiveness and focus. So, I will seek out someone closer to the Maximized Living intensity.

I need proper nutrition. Yes, the sweet tooth is difficult for me to tame, and it's even more so when there is a baker in the house who uses regular sugar and flour most of the time. It's time to take charge of my own eating habits, whether or not anyone else in the house wants to join me.

I need proper oxygen and exercise. I have tried to keep up an exercise routine, but with different issues (or excuses), I am not as intense nor as focused as I once was. It's time to change that and revisit what worked.

I need proper avoidance of toxins. That is one thing that I have been really good at doing, but I'm sure there are some things that can improve, and so I must re-evaluate.

Is it time for you to "go back to the beginning," too?

Come on! Join me!

"In the beginning..."

Genesis 1:1

Mick's up with the Positive

2015-10-24T17:38:00.002-04:00

Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive:

Debbie Downer, Negative Nellie, Gloomy Gus, or however they are affectionately known by you, they are there. We’ve all heard them, and we’ve all been them at one time or another.

Good news! This is the month to set them free!

These poor souls don’t need to be shackled by their misery any more.

Why?

It’s Positive Attitude Month!

Encouragement:

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” (C. S. Lewis)

Do you wonder if you are considered successful? Take some advice from author/poet Maya Angelou, as she reassures us, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

Are you feeling like you’re stuck or too stressed with all that you’re trying to accomplish, take some advice from Chris Brown of Stewardship.com (host of the podcast Chris Brown’s True Stewardship). He encourages, “Getting distracted? Happening often? Go back to the mission. Go back to your goals. Go from there.”

He also reminds us, “Joy is rooted in our hearts, not our circumstances. So we get to choose joy, because it’s a product of who we are, not where we are.”

As we grow, we have the opportunity to gain wisdom, and then with that wisdom, improve our character. Well-known poet, Robert Frost, puts it beautifully, when he says, “Education is the ability to listen to almost anything without losing your temper or your self-confidence.”

Challenge: One Day with No Complaints

Yowzers. Have you ever tried that? It’s not easy. The Stewardship Team at Stewardship.com authors the blog article by the same name as the aforementioned challenge. They encourage us with the thought, “Control what you can, even if the only thing you manage to change is your attitude.” Ask yourself how you really feel. Then mean what you say.

Remember, the most difficult battle you will face today is with yourself. So, give yourself a break.

Your attitude adjustment just might be the only thing that helps you survive in this world of stress. When you’re surrounded by others who haven’t gotten the message yet about Positive Attitude Month, keep smiling. ;) We can’t make people change. As Andrew Carnegie says, “You cannot push anyone up the ladder, unless he is willing to climb.”

Parting Thoughts:

Most importantly, remember who you are! Better yet, remember whose you are. You are a child of God!

“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.”

Philippians 4:8

It's a Springtime Mick's up with the Sweet Tooth

2015-03-28T08:10:00.001-04:00

Now that the holidays and the worst of winter are over, you might be wanting to find ways to avoid sugar while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Springtime can be a difficult season to set this goal, especially if you are looking to fill Easter baskets.

Now's the time for your creative juices to get flowing! Who says baskets need to be filled with candy?

Well, OK, if you insist on those sweets, then try some alternatives. No, I'm not saying look at "sugar-free" candies. That label does not always mean "healthy." Avoiding neurotoxins is just as important as avoiding sugar, for those of us who want to be at the top of our game, thinking clearly, working productively, and improving our overall quality of life.

Have you heard of Xylitol? There are plenty of sweets made with this sugar alternative.

Try some healthier candy

Some places to look:

Dr. Johns Candies

Xlear Candies

This Spring, as everything around us becomes new, enjoy exploring a fresh, new world of alternative candies and Easter time fun!

The angel said to the women,

“Do not be afraid,

for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.

He is not here; he has risen, just as he said."

Matthew 28:5-6 (NIV)

Wait! What? Mick's up with a Fad?

2015-02-08T17:07:00.000-05:00

Those who know me know that I do not like to go with the norm... not punk style... just unique. If something is a fad, I stay far, far away.

Recently, I was chuckling at my kidderz and their uniquenesses. They don't purposely do things to rebel against society, or at least I don't think they do. It's just part of them.

What do you think of as a pasttime for a nice winter day?

For example, one unseasonably warm and gorgeous day this winter, my son said, "I'm going to go string up my hamock." He was curious at my amusement. What struck me so funny is that I don't know anyone else who would think, "go string up my hamock," when saying, "what a beautiful day it is." Some may want to go lay in their hamock, but to him, the "hike" accompanied by the process of stringing up a hamock is the attraction.

Similarly, I like the adventure of being my own person. Tell me I'm following some trend, and I actually take it as an insult.

That's why my heart was saddened when it finally hit me that I'm doing a typical thing for people my age... the over-forty crowd. We've lived (and eaten) the way we want to for quite a few years (most-likely because we've gotten married and comfortable), and now we woke up to the fact that we won't live forever.

It becomes a time of looking seriously at taking care of ourselves, to improve our quality of life, to "be there" for our kidderz and grandkidderz, to ward off chronic disease and the "c" word, and to look better and feel better about ourselves.

Those of you who have started this change early in life...

Good on ya!

It's best to start early and kick all the bad habits

before they become so ingrained that you feel like

you've punished yourself for the life you lived.

For those of you who are closer to my age
(and maybe even in an older generation)...

Don't think it's too late!

The way we've lived in the past does not have to be who we are.

(That goes for spiritual lives, as well as the physical and mental.)

It doesn't have to define us.

Oops. A pep talk popped in.

Now, back to the fad idea.

As you can tell from the above statement, "it finally hit me," I was not in this health kick for the trendiness. It was to be a lifestyle change to improve my hubby's quality of life (and as a bonus, my own) and teach my kidderz the better way to live and the right choices to make. However, the fact that some people look at it as a fad has discouraged us as a family. We are now working our way back to what we know to be truth and health.

Please don't let this be a passing fad for you. Please don't just be "in a phase" at this particular point in life.

Realize how important it really is, if you want to be the best you can be for your family, for God, for your friends, for your employer, for keeping your job, and for yourself.

Don't worry. We won't be part of a fad for long. It'll blow away eventually, but we know what really works, and we'll be all the healthier and stronger for it. We might not be "in style" any more, but we'll be wiser.

In the words of Dave Ramsey:

"Live like no one else,

so that later you can live like no one else!"

“Enter through the narrow gate.

For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction,

and many enter through it.

But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life,

and only a few find it."

Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV)

An Honest Mick's up

2013-10-23T21:40:00.000-04:00

I am human... Just thought I'd clear that up.

I want to be honest about being normal... (after all, I did only learn this lifestyle stuff a few years ago)... and I want to share some things to encourage you.

There's nothing juicy here, just some simple truth about every day life.

Ready? Here it goes.

Healthy eating takes work.

Surprised? Probably not.

My secret? I hate that healthy eating takes work. I am a scheduler, but I hate meal planning. Do you despise planning meals, too?

I really, truly wish I didn't have to pack lunches every day of the school year (but I do it to offer the healthiest options possible to my children). I know, I know: Someday, too soon, I'll be an empty-nester and wishing I still had kidderz at home to pack lunches for. I'll try to remember that and not complain.

I wish I didn't have to cook breakfast and dinner every day, trying to please the family, while keeping things healthy and simple, feeling like the only thing accomplished for the day is feeding everyone. Then comes the dreaded phrase, "We're having that, again?" (I guess that means I need to add a bit more variety, which, again, takes work.)

I remember what it was like when we didn't know better. True, I still had to come up with ideas of what we'd eat each day, but buying something pre-made or mostly made was a lot easier than cooking from scratch... and it is the normal thing to do.

It's not that people aren't smart or are too lazy, but some families haven't gotten all the information they need to make wiser choices.. like us in the past. We consumed more processed foods back then. I thought we were making healthy choices, but I didn't know then what I know now.

Sometimes I wish I still didn't know the dangers. Sometimes I wish life was easier.

However, there ARE simple and quick recipes that ARE healthy AND tasty. In fact, I use more spices now than I have our entire married life to this point. There are some mighty delicious recipes that we can prepare without adding all kinds of junk... and the family approves them.

Please note: I am not an amazing cook, by any stretch of the imagination. There is nothing exceptional about my work in the kitchen. Anyone can do what I do. Follow a good recipe, and you'll surprise yourself!

I am also not a great baker (really not very good at all). I always said I'd have to hire my brother to be my baker and gardener, because he was born with those skills and I wasn't.

I can follow a recipe, and if I find something that works for my family, it's a staple.

However, without using "normal" flour and sugar, things aren't working out so easy for me. Sure, I share yummy recipes I come across... but I can't always get them to look and/or taste nice.

There are many wonderfully talented bakers and cooks out there, and I recommend you look up recipes and tips from them... such nutritionists as:
Elise Scwartz
Kimberly Roberto
Lin Hardick

Though I am not a nutrionist, nor officially certified in anything, I was trained in nutrition and fitness in three different (awesome) jobs, receiving job-specific certification in nutrition and fitness for one of those companies.

The reason I started this blog was to continue the coaching that I was enjoying so much at that office. Yes, I was a nutrition coach... and to this day, if you sincerely ask me, I'll be glad to give you some pointers.

People look for someone they can use as an easy resource for these things... someone who is (or has been) where they are, understanding the challenges and frustrations.

It was mostly moms asking for help in the office, and so some of my writing (No, I am not a mommy blogger!) might tend toward moms. However, it's not just moms that need to be informed.

It's important for everyone to stop believing the lies, and take a different angle to managing health... to be empowered!

One way our family has done this is by considering our chiropractor as our main doctor.

Our plan is to use our physician for crisis care only. You know: if an arm is falling off, or blood is involved somehow.

Years ago, my kidderz were at the physician's office a lot, and they were prescribed medicine all the time... but... since late 2010, I have not bought any medicines for them, and that means we have not used any over-the-counter pain relievers nor cold medicines. That's nearly THREE YEARS! For two adults who popped ibuprofen at the slightest discomfort, that's a major deal! 3 Years!

However.... here comes another secret... more honesty...
As I explain in Our Crazy Mick's up Summer, that summer we had a few strange issues in our family, and I cracked. I admit it!

I was desperate to get relief from my poison rash that had spread to every limb. Realizing the aloe wasn't allowing it to dry, and without doing any research, I bought the only thing I knew (because of childhood experiences): Calamine Lotion. Since then, I looked up information to find that our parents and grandparents certainly did OK by that. Whew!

However, I'm not so happy with my decisions for my son's swimmer's ear.

I became a normal mom, wanting to do whatever was necessary to make my "baby" feel better.

First, I tried my best to use home remedies, like peroxide, rubbing alcohol, garlic and olive oil.

Then, worrying myself silly, I took my son to the physician.

My main concern was to be sure his ear was not being damaged.

I was relieved to find out everything was fine, besides the fact that he had inflammation and pain.

However, the doctor prescribed antibiotic/steroid drops for the ear.

I fought myself over the decision to buy or not to buy. Much against my better judgment, I gave in to the medical model, and I paid way too much money for something that ended up just sitting unused.

OK... I confess: I did put a drop in his ear that first day or two, but after that, the medicine just sat, and my son was absolutely fine without it.

Am I proud of this decision? No. Am I embarrassed? Yes. Would I make that same decision again? No.

Do I understand moms and their worries? Yes. I'll say it again: Yes!

So, please take heart that we are all human, and we might make mistakes now and then... but we must move on and seek wisdom and discernment in all situations to make the best decisions we can make for our families.

... Oh, and I cheat, too. It's not much of a secret, but since I'm being honest here...
I still like my cheats: chocolate once in a while, and pizza ANY time (my downfall!).

The difference now versus before healthy living? At least now I know with cheats come consequences, and I prepare myself for those consequences: stuffy nose and sinus issues, headaches, stiff joints, tight muscles, grumpiness, fatigue, lower performance in exercise, slower brain function, and maybe even weakening my immune system to the point of allowing a cold to take over my body.

Because I know what'll happen, I do my best to only enjoy these cheats at times when I am not needing to be at "the top of my game..." and that is usually only once or twice per week, at the most.

Do you have some things to be honest with yourself about? Do you have some guilt for some wrong decisions? Stop worrying about them. Face them. Get back up. Then move on. You will learn from those mistakes, and who knows... you might just be able to help someone else because of what you went through.

"We lose our way. We get back up again.
It's never too late to get back up again.
One day you will shine again.
You may be knocked down, but not out forever."
(Toby Mac)

~

"An honest answer
is like a kiss on the lips."

Proverbs 24:26

A Crazy Mick's up Summer

2013-05-15T20:10:00.003-04:00

Summer is approaching! After this rollercoaster springtime, summer just might have moved into 1st place for my favorite season.

I do have mixed feelings, though. There are some things that make me nervous.

Why? I'll tell you.

August 2012 made for a crazy finale to that summer. I'm hoping we can avoid anything like it ever again.

From yard work done in the first week of August, I somehow picked up poison. Whether it was poison ivy or poison oak, I do not know. What I do know for sure is that it was the worst case I've had since my toddler days, and it brought back memories of Boy Scout Camp. (Yes, I did say "Boy Scout Camp." My parents' summer job for several years was at camp, and so I got the unique privilege of joining in with all the fun scouting activities. What a blast!)

Back to poison rashes. What I hear is: the better the immune system, the worse the rash. My guess is my immune system is quite healthy. Yowzers!

Before the tiny row of bubbles on my arm spread, I also managed to gouge the same area of my arm with a branch from the bush I was lopping. Ouch. (I am so glad the poison did not infect the open wound!)

Later, the rash got more noticeable, appearing more like bug bites than a rash.

After realizing the itchy bumps on my legs and arms were not from a massive mosquito attack, it was way too late to avoid one of the first things that causes spreading: a hot shower. Apparently, taking a hot shower makes the poison spread worse. Oooops! Way back... that first day of yard work... I was extremely eager to take a hot shower... and that was long before I realized anything was wrong. Actually, there was more than one day.... There were a few days that week that I was doing yard work.... So, I still haven't figured out where I picked up the poison. One day's work was out in the community, and the others were here at home. Needless to say, now I'm a bit paranoid to do yard work around the house.

So, then a couple weeks later, while still suffering with the rash nearly all over my body, I continued to carry on with the remainder of the summer, including traveling South with my parents, kidderz, and nephew. One of our stops was a water park. Hmmmm.... Even as hot as it was, there was no way I was exposing my rash to that water, nor was there any way I was exposing that water to my rash. So, I had fun being photographer/videographer for the clan, as well as towel rack and security guard. It was a very fun time, regardless...

... until...

My son got swimmer's ear. Ugh.

It should be no surprise to say that the trip home was miserable.

I looked up home remedies for both ailments: poison rash and swimmer's ear.

I can honestly say I didn't know what to do, nor what was best. Both discomforts seemed to last forever!

However, we both survived, and are the wiser for it. In my opinion, our healthy lifestyle, including visits to the chiropractor, helped us bounce back more quickly than we could have under other circumstances.

If you want to know what I did do to treat the problems, you'll need to stay tuned to read An Honest Mick's up, once I have it published. It's coming very soon!

Why am I telling you this? I guess I'm simply saying, from a mom's perspective: We don't always have the answers, but we try our best, using prayer, discernment, and wisdom.

Let's hope for an easier summer. If Spring is any indicator, it's not looking very promising. Hubby already had a VERY nasty bout with sun poisoning. Ugh.

"...my strength was sapped

as in the heat of summer."

Psalm 32:4 (NIV)

Mick's Groceries Together

2013-05-02T06:09:00.000-04:00

Recently, a friend asked me if I have a list of things I buy and where I find them. So, I feel it is time to dust off another old blog post. I've been wanting to do it, so this is a good time! It's from November 2011, which marked one year of our healthy lifestyle. The list is basically the same now, but the stores have changed things once in a while. I don't shop at Sam's Club as much these days, since they've chosen less healthy versions of some of the products. A good change at the Harris Teeter store in our neighborhood is the inclusion of Ground Bison and Ground Grass-fed Beef!!! Granted, we would like more variety, but I'll take what I can get! Different Food Lion stores in our area have different organic and health food styles. It's funny to see the same chain have such variances. I was disappointed to see the one in our neighborhood take the raw milk cheeses and other great items off their shelves because of lack of interest. However, soon after, I found another Food Lion down the road just a little bit, which has an amazing healthy section! Just keep shopping around (literally), reading ingredients, and watching your goal!

For more selection, there are some great places to buy food online, such as U.S. Wellness Meats and Vitacost.

Mick’s in Groceries

Are you a Coupon Queen? I know some ladies who are great at couponing, and can probably be titled Coupon Queens. I’ve never achieved that status. I tried once, but failed. I discovered I was buying things I wouldn’t normally buy, just because I had a coupon. Nowadays, we buy “out-of-the-ordinary” items that are almost never put on sale and rarely put on a coupon. That’s OK, though. That is a sacrifice we are willing to make. I know: It sounds crazy to most. We are choosing to spend more on food that is nutritious and will enhance wellness, so that we spend a lot less on medicine to mask illness… and, boy, does it feel great!

Here’s a typical day in the life of our grocery shopping.

Weekly:
Almond Milk
Coconut Milk
Granny Smith Apples
Berries
Bananas
Almond Butter
Smucker’s Simply Fruit
Butter
Raw Milk Cheese
Grass-fed Beef
Ground Turkey
Organic Free-range Chicken Breast
Free-range Eggs
Spinach
Mixed Greens
Broccoli
Feta Cheese
Organic Cream Cheese
Ezekiel Bread
Applegate Sliced Turkey
Veggies: Beans, Peas, Lima Beans
Cucumbers
Stonyfield Whole Milk Plain Yogurt
Coconut water and/or Naked juice for kidderz lunches
(We mostly drink water at our house.)
Splurge item: SoDelicious coconut ice cream!

On-hand, not purchased weekly:
Bolthouse Honey Mustard Dressing
Bolthouse Raspberry Dressing
Bolthouse Ranch Dressing
Garlic
Onions
Peppers: Green, Yellow, Red
Crushed Tomatoes
Black Beans
Pinto Beans
Coconut Oil
Protein Powder for shakes/smoothies
Raw Nuts: Almonds, Pecans, Cashews, Pistachios
Dates
Red/Pink Salt
Fresh-ground Pepper
Xylitol
Stevia
Almond Flour and/or Meal
Coconut Flour
Coconut Flakes (unsweetened)

I got an awesome deal on eggs this week! My brother and his wife raise chickens, and they are sending some eggs to us, by way of our parents. Yay!! (Aren't big brothers and parents the best?!)

Keeping it simple is the key!

Have fun experimenting with nutrition!

“We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic.”

Numbers 11:5 (NIV)

Mick's Emotions

2013-04-20T06:35:00.000-04:00

It's been a while, since I've written about mindset. The following topic has been a concern of mine for quite some time... since the start of this blog, in fact. Something on the radio this week reignited the spark for it, and in light of recent events, it's fitting.

We all know our kidderz watch us closely. It doesn't matter what we say, as much as much as what we do. Sometimes we don't see how much those wee ones copy us. It might take a comment from an unrelated observer, before we step back and observe that tyke ourselves. Then we truly discover the consequences of our behaviors, as we watch our little shadow play out movements, speak words, and even react exactly as we know we would... if we can admit it.

Unfortunately, I'm not perfect... and I'm seeing it mirrored in my kidderz. Ugh.

We have the ability to form in our children what reactions they have in stressful - even terrifying - situations: For instance, terrorist acts.

What I heard on the radio this week was a quote from a doctor, in regard to how best to talk to our children about this type of event: Teach them that they should be vigilant and alert, but not timid.

That is a great way to put it.

The initial event that got this topic going a couple of years ago was Hurricane Irene.

All around us, people were hyped up. The media got everyone going.

I'm not saying we should not prepare. Definitely, we need to be informed and have a plan of action. However, I could see it getting so bad that children were terrified.

I love the line from A Bug's Life, when Mr. Soil says: "Do not panic, do not panic! We are trained professionals. Now, stay calm."

That is kind of the gist of the message from the doctor on the radio. No, we parents are not trained professionals (though we wish we were trained as professional parents sometimes), but we are in charge of our family's well-being, and we are our children's teachers.

Moments like these are great learning opportunities.

During the hurricane:

Were hubby and I uncertain of the right decision of whether to stay or evacuate? Yes.

Was I a bit scared? Yes.

Did we take precautions? Most definitely.

Was a backup plan in place? Uh-huh!!! You'd better believe it!

However, instead of falling into the defeatist attitude of "we're doomed," and running around in a panic, not thinking clearly, we chose to follow through with my birthday wish for that week: Have some family photo booth fun!

We had to change it up a bit, since it wasn't a good idea to be outside in the crazy weather, which meant going to the mall's photo booth wouldn't be an option. So, we gathered all our hurricane emergency supplies, huddled together in our tiny downstairs bathroom, as our "fallout shelter," and enjoyed a photo booth experience.

Yes, the picture you see here is the actual result of our silliness. The kids loved it... and so did the parents. We did not forget what was happening all around us, and we did keep up-to-date on the storm, etc., but we also passed the time much more pleasantly than we could have.

Granted, there were some very serious conditions, in which people were terribly affected. Those are times of crisis, when plan becomes action. Wisdom is necessary.

Until it gets to that point, though, we can remain lighthearted.

In whatever situation, we can have hope and joy.

Can we teach that to our kidderz? Yes, we can!

Do you choose to go into panic mode, get your kidderz all riled up, and teach them that the way to handle a crisis is through confusion, chaos, and drama?

OR...

Do you choose to remain calm, formulate a plan, and teach your kidderz to be vigilant and alert, rather than timid?

"Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold."

2 Corinthians 3:12 (NIV)

Mick's up With Stretches

2013-04-16T04:50:00.000-04:00

Is your back stressed, during this Stress Awareness Month?

If you have a job, like I do, which involves sitting for most of the day... or even if your job includes standing for most of the day (like I used to)... then your back is probably screaming at you for help. Our back muscles can tighten up and let us know that we need to do something about it.

Did you know? As we take a good look at stress... that it is actually a cause of back pain, too! Yes, our stress can actually settle in our backs and cause us physical pain. So, one thing to do is: Try to decrease the stress in your life. I know: That's easier said than done.

Tangent alert!
Stress was originally created to be a good thing (you know, saving us from a life or death situation, by using the fight or flight instinct). However, we tend to hold on to stress for the long haul, which wears down bodies to cause pain and illness. What can you do today to start the process of relieving yourself of stress?

As I mention in my post on Muscles and Spine Health, chiropractic care can help you know if the pain is skeletal or muscular or both. In that article, I talk about stretches that might alleviate back pain. Since then, I have learned some more stretches that can also be helpful.

Remember, too, to work on your core muscles. That means, strengthen all those muscles in the middle of your body, such as your abs, obliques, latissimus dorsi, etc. You can find a variety of exercises to add to your workout routine to help build up that strength and balance.

Also, remember good posture! I have to admit that I recently realized I've been a bit lax in pulling in my tummy, whether I'm standing, walking, running, or sitting. Conscientiously tightening up those tummy muscles, during normal daily activities, surprisingly will improve your condition.

So, what are some of these stretches?

Well, as mentioned in the previously published post, which I have conveniently included for you below, hamstring stretches are a wonderful help for low back pain relief. You can lay on the floor and stretch as directed in that article, and you can include stretches shown in the video link at the end of this post. (With one leg straight up in the air, bend it at the knee, and then straighten again. Repeat several times.)

You can also stand on one leg, while resting the other leg straight out on a step or some sturdy object that is at a comfortable height for you. Gently bend forward at the waist, toward your raised leg's knee. Hold for several seconds, return your torso to an upright position, relax, and then repeat.

My favorite recent discovery is that the psoas also affects the low back.

Can I interject something here? Of course I can! It's my blog! Well, I just have to say that I am forever grateful for my former job with Curves. (Thank you, Dawn and Rosslyn!!) I learned so much wonderful information! Not only did I get to assist ladies with improving their lives through nutrition and exercise, but I also got to use science in it all (explaining to the members how they are using their muscles, like the psoas and obliques, etc.). Yes, I admit it. I love science!

OK. Thanks. Now, back to stretches.

There are a couple of ways to stretch the psoas. One way is to do a lunge. That means you step forward with one foot (a really big step forward), and drop your back leg down toward the floor. Be sure your front knee does not go past your toes (to avoid too much pressure on the knee, so as not to cause knee pain). Keep that back leg straight, rather than letting that back knee drop all the way to the floor. If your back knee stays off the floor, you'll get a better stretch. Hold for several seconds, and then repeat.

Another way to do this stretch is in a standing position. While standing on one leg, place the other leg on a step or other sturdy object at a comfortable height, and as you bend that leg, lean in toward your knee. I like to pair this stretch with the standing hamstring stretch I just mentioned in above.

So, now the ball is in your court.

It's up to you to find out if your back pain is from your skeleton or from your muscles. Start by getting the bones checked out first. They are the foundation of your body. That foundation needs to be safe. Then, you can start working on getting those muscles to do what they're supposed to do... oh, and start working on not being stressed out.

Stretching is an amazing thing! Unfortunately, we don't do it enough. Now's the time to do something about that!

_________________________________________________________

Post from
October 18, 2011

Mick’s in with Muscles and Spine Health

_________________________________________________________

"Chiropractic just makes you feel so much better.
When I walk out of the clinic, I feel like I'm about three inches taller and everything's in place.
And as long as I see the chiropractor, I feel like I'm one step ahead of the game."
Tom Brady3 Super Bowl Championship Rings MVP award winner Quarterback - New England Patriots

After doing some sort of exercise, like climbing a mountain, there might be some pains and other consequences to deal with.  You know what I mean. We 40-something moms really know what I mean.

In reality, addressing certain things, like spinal health, before exercise is the best way to go. Be sure you know what’s going on with your spine, before you get too serious about your exercise regimen. “Depending on the extent of your [subluxations] and posture misalignment the doctor may have you abstain from certain high input activities that may adversely affect your spine.” (Nikitow Chiropractic Wellness Center )

Something I learned, and for which I am truly and forever grateful, is that not all back pain is due to subluxation. I tend to have lots of lower back pain. Yes, some of it is due to tailbone issues, and some is because of curvature in my spine, of which I am on a quest to correct. However, some of it... in fact, a lot of it is also due to tightness in my muscles.

So you deal with low back pain? If so, try stretching out your muscles. Not only is it good for flexibility and reducing overall tension in the body, but targeting certain areas can have an incredible affect on your back pain.  Hamstrings tend to be the biggest culprit, when muscles are to blame for low back tension.

Try this exercise:
Lay on your back, with one leg straight up in the air, the back of it against the wall. (You’ll need to do this in a doorway, so your other leg can be resting flat on the floor.)  Push with your leg against the wall, holding for 20 seconds or so, and then release. Move your body closer to the wall, causing more tension in your leg. Repeat the push and release.

If you have someone who can help you, it works much better. Your assistant will push your leg toward you, causing the resistance.

“Tight hamstrings can restrict movement of the pelvis, which can cause a compensatory increase in rounding of the low back. This increases the forces on the lumbar spine during forward bending, which can lead to injuries in the low back. However, there are many causes of low back pain, with tight hamstrings being only one of many potential contributors to the problem. Additional causative factors and potential treatments should be explored with a health care professional. ” (National Academy of Sports Medicine)

“The sensation of tightness in the hamstrings can be due to various reasons. Typically it can be from poor postures, altered movement and walking patterns, or compensation due to other muscles being weak such as the gluteal muscles. The hamstrings attach to the bottom of your pelvis. With tightness, it can pull on the pelvis causing it to put more stress on the pelvis and back. In these cases, education to mildly elongate or stretch the hamstrings may help. Regardless, it is more important to retrain the proper strength and movement patterns of the legs and trunk so proper mechanics of the back can be restored.

“Sometimes tightness in the hamstrings can also be a protective mechanism from underlying nerve pathology in the sciatic nerve. We have seen patients trying to stretch their hamstrings and instead develop sciatica as stretching irritated the nerve rather than stretch the muscle.  Further differential diagnosis of the hamstrings and their relationship to low back pain should be determined by a qualified health care practitioner.” (Brian Yee)

As the experts say, low back pain can be caused by a multitude of things.  The only way to know for sure the status of your spine health is by having a chiropractor view an x-ray of it. What better time to go to your nearest corrective-care, principled chiropractor’s office to get an x-ray of your spine than during October: Chiropractic Awareness Month?!

Jabez cried out to the God of Israel,

“Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory!

Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm

so that I will be free from pain.”

And God granted his request.

1 Chronicles 4:10 (NIV)

~

A recent video (early 2013) shows more ways to stretch hamstrings, as well as strengthen your core:
Dr. Lombardozzi at Kempsville Chiropractic

~

Mick's up With Your Day

2013-03-23T16:46:00.003-04:00

You've noticed the spiral.

Little by little, time for exercise is squeezed out of your day, until it's non-existent. Next, your quiet time, set aside for prayer and Scripture, dwindles, too. You start feeling like there is no time to fully accomplish anything. Your nutrition suffers, because your meal planning is rushed, and you might even be grabbing drive-through items, just to get by. Then, you're feeling tired, worn out, and discouraged.

We've all been there.

Really. We have.

If you have enough time to read to this point, take a deep breath, and stop. Just rest... for a few minutes.

You know what you need to do.

If you truly want to be the most helpful and loving to your family and to yourself, you will do what you know you need to do.

Make a resolution right now.

It might not be January 1st, or the start of any particularly special month or day, but make a resolution.

Decide now that you will figure in a few minutes for prayer and a few minutes for exercise tomorrow.

That might mean setting your alarm clock 15 minutes earlier than normal. That won't kill you. I promise.

It might also mean switching a couple things around in your morning (or afternoon or evening) routine, but you'll survive that, too. Trust me. It didn't hurt me to do it (a time-sensitive person of consistency and schedule), so I'm sure it won't hurt you, even if you're as stubborn as I am.

Here are some ideas for you.

Follow a HIIT, burst, or surge technique, which entails a couple of minutes of intense exercise, several times in a row. This will only take a very short bit of time out of your day, and will have many added benefits, which you can read about in other Mick's up articles. Incorporate these sets into your morning routine.

For example, during a 100-Days of Burpees challenge I took on, with a suggestion from a wonderful trainer's Facebook post, I accomplished my goal by breaking down the large number into more do-able spurts, while fixing breakfast for the family each morning. 15 - 25 burpees (depending on the day's number)... then check on breakfast... 15-25 more burpees ... then check breakfast again... 15-25 more burpees... another peek at breakfast... final set of burpees... and breakfast is served!

As the weather gets more pleasant, getting outside is easier. If you don't think you have time, consider your need to clear your head in the middle of your work day.

If you don't think it's necessary, ask your boss for an opinion. A good boss, like mine, will tell you to take a break in the middle of your day, in order to keep up your productivity. It decreases your stress level, and it allows you to take on a new perspective, when you return to your project. Now, granted, this might mean giving up a few minutes of your lunch hour, but it sure is worth it!

A recent article by Dr. Ben Lerner talks about balance between work and life.

I am so excited to hear friends around me talk about how they are fitting exercise into their days: lunch time walks around the block; measuring how many times around the building equals one mile; at home after work, walking off the stress of the day; getting involved in a "biggest loser" contest at the gym; working extra time one day of the week, in order to take off early on another day that offers a special fitness class; and on and on it goes.

Even my high-school age son knows this. He has been known to take a quick jog around the neighborhood to wake himself up before delving into his homework... or to relieve stress of the week, when he gets home on a Friday. (That makes a mom proud!)

Just the other day, my son and I had a fun, impromptu "date" that included a sort of exercise: We were talking about silly dances, and in his curiosity, while I was mentioning line dances, he pulled up the Cha Cha Slide (after we realized how OLD the Electric Slide is... ha ha! That one is from MY day!).

Think about it.

We can make it work, if we really want to.

"Do not be anxious about anything,

but in every situation, by prayer and petition,

with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Mick's up With Some Questions

2013-03-06T20:17:00.004-05:00

Here's a change for you...
You will not gain any useful information from this blog post. It consists solely of questions for you. I would like to know what you have to say.

This is a great week for this, because it is Listening Week. So, I am listening to you.

I need your help!

Any advice here will be in the comments you leave for me.

So, here it goes.

My question is about shin splints. Do you have any words of wisdom for me?

I have dealt with shin splints for as long as I can remember, but I thought it was only from over-exertion and lack of stretching. So, I didn't let it bother me. However, when I started getting into jogging a few years back, the pain got so bad that I could not even touch my shins without nearly screaming. My chiropractor's advice was to rub ice on them. Ugh! I cringe to this day, thinking about it. Yet, here I sit, icing my shins, while I write. Granted they aren't as sensitive now as they were then, so I can lay an ice pack on them, but it does still hurt to touch them.

When they were that tender back then, I researched what could be the cause, knowing this had to be more than a tendon or muscle issue. What I found out is that there can actually be a fracture in the bone.

With the research, I realized I had probably advanced in speed and distance too quickly over time. So, I took it easy for a while. Unfortunately, I also developed a heel spur, and so my jogging eventually went out the window. It was temporary, but it still meant I lost all that momentum, and had to start slowly again, working to get back in shape. (During a stress-laden time, that is and was difficult... but no excuses now!)

The chiropractor I spoke with early on about the shin splints got discouraged, also, and finally concluded there must be something that is causing me to always have them, and basically there is no hope for me to be able to exercise without experiencing this pain.

That was a disappointing day.

I more recently asked another chiropractor about shin splints, explaining that I've dealt with them for as long as I can remember. He went through the typical list of stretches, which I do multiple times daily, and then shared some information about ankles. He analyzed mine, and then adjusted them, with hopes that the shin splints might be lessened. Unfortunately, I have not seen any difference.

In fact, apparently one day last week I ran too fast too soon (and without enough stretching), and now I have throbbing shins. What fun.

The crazy part is that I have been doing the same half-mile jog at the same basic pace for nearly two months consistently (during my lunch break). How can speeding up my take-off one day cause more damage and thus more pain than normal?

During her recent visit, I was enjoying some time of catching up with my mom, and I got on this topic. All of a sudden, it occurred to me that my cousin was not accepted full-time into the Army, because of shin splints! When I had originally heard that, I thought it an odd reason, because I still thought of them as a minor, temporary, and sporadic condition. However, I'm beginning to realize that there is something more to it.

So, what do you know about shin splints and their duration?

I posted this question on the Mick's up Life Facebook page, and some very helpful information was posted in a comment by a friend. Check it out.

Don't let that stop you, though. If you have more you'd like to share about the topic, please leave a comment here.

Thanks!!

"Don’t be wise in your own eyes.
Have respect for the Lord and avoid evil.

That will bring health to your body.
It will make your bones strong."

Proverbs 3:7-8 (NIV)

~

Let's Mick's up Some Bananas!

2013-02-17T20:47:00.003-05:00

Are you bananas about bananas?!

Even though they are higher in the glycemic index (you know, the natural sugar they contain), they do have many good nutrients in them. Plus, they are filling and are a healthy, quick snack. That sugar content thing I mentioned first... well... that's one reason some personal trainers recommend them for a pre-workout boost.

I received an email once that listed out numerous benefits of and uses for bananas. (Thanks, Mom!) For example, the email says: When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. Some other vitamins it contains are the B6, B12.

It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around.

When our church had a lot of bananas in their pantry from generous merchants who donate food, some of us had fun talking about different uses for the bananas, like in smoothies, breads, etc. I was excited to share my pancake recipe! I found it from one of the Paleo-food groups I am connected with on Facebook.

This is such a simple and yummy menu item. I finally found something my kidderz and hubby will eat every day for breakfast, if I let them. (Not that I prepare it every day, because I don't want them to end up getting tired of the monotony... but even if I don't prepare it, one of them will!) My teenage son even said, "Really?! That's it? That's all there is to it?! Well, I definitely found the breakfast I'm going to live on as a bachelor."

I promised a friend I'd send her this recipe, so I'm getting it out to all of you now. Besides, I was already planning to type this up, in honor of National Pancake Day and/or Pancake Day, both of which I missed (February 5th and 12th, respectively).

Ready? Grab your pencils!

Here's the banana pancake recipe:

Blend together (in a blender) 2 eggs and 1 very ripe banana.

That's it!!

REALLY!!!

That is all there is to it!

Well, of course, you'll want to cook it.

That info is right here:

Fry up the pancake batter in a pan on the stove (greased with coconut oil or butter), just like you would any pancake. Top with your favorite pancake toppings. (We like no-sugar berry sauce or natural Maple Syrup.) You may also add vanilla to the pancake batter, if you'd like to, and/or berries, etc.

Granted, they might not be the prettiest, nor the fluffiest pancakes you've ever made, but I can almost guarantee they are the easiest.

Is that too easy for you?

Are you feeling like you're cheating by using such a simple recipe?

Have no fear. You're not!

However, if you want to get a little fancier, here's another Paleo-food recipe I read and tried. Instead of bananas, it uses plantains (another favorite in our house). Simply blend together these ingredients and fry up in a pan like any pancakes: 2 large green plantains (approximately 2 cups pureed), 4 eggs, 2tsp vanilla, 3 tbsp coconut oil, 1/8 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking soda.

There you have it.

Happy Pancake Day a little late. With these recipes, it's most certainly better late than never! Mmmmmmmm....

^"Then he lay down under the tree. And he fell asleep.

Suddenly an angel touched him.

The angel said, “Get up and eat.”

Elijah looked around.

Near his head he saw a flat cake of bread.

It had been baked over hot coals.

A jar of water was also there.

So Elijah ate and drank.

Then he lay down again.

The angel of the Lord came to him a second time.

He touched him and said, “Get up and eat.

Your journey will be long and hard.”

1 Kings 19:5-7 (NIV)

Why is a Ninja Turtle in the Mick’s up?

2013-02-14T20:13:00.000-05:00

I know two little girls, who rescued a little Red Eared Slider, and took care of it like a pet. They researched online how to give “Freddie” the best chance at survival.

These little girls nurtured the turtle, by providing shelter, food, water… you know, the necessities… plus what his little heart might desire, like walks, swim time and lots of love and attention.

Even with all this care, the turtle was still skeptical, non-trusting, even scared.

In a way, that sounds like us.

God is a loving Father, and He adores us.

He blesses us with all our necessities, plus the desires of our hearts.

Even with all this care, we are still skeptical, non-trusting, even scared.

We try to do things on our own, trusting in our own abilities, instead of trusting the One who knows what we truly need for ultimate survival.

Is that where you are today?

Are you terrified, confused, trying to make sense of it all?

Stop.

There is a Rescuer.
("Like a hero in a dream, Christ came, and He rescued me ." from "Tell the World" by Lecrae)

There is a Comforter.

Look for His hand. In it, you'll find peace, blessings, guidance.

Trust Him. He knows what you need.

Tell Him you will trust Him. Tell Him you will let Him take care of you.

Once you do, you can rest. You can enjoy being His child.

"Shout for joy, you heavens;
    rejoice, you earth;
    burst into song, you mountains!
For the Lord comforts his people
    and will have compassion on his afflicted ones."

Isaiah 49:13 (NIV)

Mick’s up With Apples

2013-02-02T10:38:00.001-05:00

A favorite and easy breakfast (or anytime) dish at our house is what we call “Bakes Apples.” They aren’t as yummy as the baked apples my Grammy made for us, all those years (and still does), but that’s what I call this dish anyway.

Since it’s so simple, I want to share it. Maybe you'll find it helpful to add to your healthy lifestyle menu.

I recently heard variations on this type of baked apple dish, some healthy, others really not healthy at all (cringe!). This one is healthy and offers a little protein sustenance, which is why I like to serve it in the mornings.

This is all there is to it:
Ideally, use organic apples (to avoid the pesticides, etc.) and of the Granny Smith variety (to keep the glycemic level low). However, if you have the capability of none or only one of these suggestions, do what you can, and enjoy what apples you have.

Once you core and slice the apples, place them in a casserole/baking dish, and get ready to mix up some fun crunchies for the topping. Do you have shredded coconut (unsweetened), flax seed, sliced almonds, protein powder, butter or coconut oil, almond or coconut flour, cinnamon, stevia, and/or coconut crystals? Put any or all of those items (and whatever else you can throw in) in a bowl, and mix together to make a delicious crumble on the apples.

Place the entire mixture in a 350-degree oven for 45 minutes or long enough to soften the apples.

It’s as easy as that! If you have a yummy, healthy whipped topping, go ahead and put some on top. Maybe you have found some of the healthier ice cream available, too, like So Delicious coconut ice cream or Clemmy’s. Any of those will turn this breakfast dish into a heavenly dessert, and with the protein added, it’s a dessert with a boost! It can’t get much better than that.

Enjoy!!

“Keep me as the apple of your eye;

hide me in the shadow of your wings”

(Psalm 17:8 NIV)

What's the Mick's up?

2013-01-13T19:23:00.001-05:00

After having written 100 posts, it seems time to revisit the mission of this Mick's up Life, lest we lose focus. (It's also a great opportunity to introduce new readers to the info that can be found in a Mick's up Life.)

So, I welcome you to join us on the path to a Mick's up Life! (Click on the links throughout, for fun adventures into the variety of Mick's up topics.)

Why did I bring my family on this ride?

Because the results of our new lifestyle got my hubby pain-free and all of us medicine-free, we feel we have to share what knowledge we have on the subject. Too many people suffer! Since Jay-hubby has first-hand experience with FMS, we both know it is a disease people are in desperate need of getting out from under. We see Fibromyalgia so commonly diagnosed these days, but that doesn't mean doctors know what to do about it. There really are no answers for it, and those victims in the midst of it are at the end of their rope, feeling like nobody understands, nobody cares, and like there's no end. We want them to know that's not the way it has to be!

Just saying you need to eat healthy and exercise isn't getting us anywhere. There are many versions of healthy living, but from what I have seen, they all fall short... except one... the one we were blessed to find 2+ years ago... the lifestyle we chose. The one that saved us is the one which follows what are called the 5 Essentials of Maximized Living. The info I gleaned while working in a Max Liv office covers all the bases, and bringing that information into every day life for readers is my mission, in order to encourage individuals and families to make healthy decisions for the long term.

So many people have said to us, in their own way, "Yes, we're so happy it helped you... but that's you... and I'm me. I don't have the same reasons you do for changing the way I live, so I'll just keep doing what I've been doing, since I'm healthy enough, and I'll stay in my little comfort zone."

I'm sorry to hear that. I really am! Do I spread this information for my own benefit? No! Why would I? Why would I do this, other than to open people's eyes to improve their own lives? Every person is precious, created by the One True God, and deserves to live life to the fullest. Isn't that reason enough?

OK. Fine. For those of you who think I must have some selfish reason for writing, I'll go ahead and admit it. I want everyone around me to be healthy... so they can be productive... and happy. It will make my world... and the future world of my kidderz... much nicer and safer. There. I said it. Selfish of me, isn't it?

Well, I'm not sorry... and sharing this Mick's up Life of ours is one way for us to get the word out and try to get the world a little bit healthier.

Where do we start? Inflammation and toxicity are two of the biggest enemies we all have, causing sicknesses (even minor ones), pain, and chronic disease. Just a few simple tweeks in our daily living, and we can keep them at bay. With this guide to a Mick's up Life, find some of the "whys" for handling stress, improving the nervous system, saying "yes" to some surprising foods and "no" to others, increasing exercise, and decreasing toxins.

I'm no expert. I'm simply a mom, who found what works and what doesn't... and instead of making you do the research and trial-and-error, I want to give you a head start. As they say, "Why reinvent the wheel?"

This is good for me and my family, too! We constantly need it in front of us, so we don't forget why we do what we do. Of course, the painful joints, stuffy sinuses, and grumpy attitudes we encounter in the days following a splurge with sugar and/or wheat are cruel reminders... but it would be nice to save ourselves the suffering. So, we are reading right along with you, in order to keep us on the right path.

Thanks for taking this journey with us! I hope you find it's well worth the trip.

"I instruct you in the way of wisdom

and lead you along straight paths."

Proverbs 4:11 (NIV)

Happy Mick's up New Year

2013-01-01T00:54:00.001-05:00

3... 2... 1... Happy New Year!!

How did you bring in the New Year?

It was fun to think of where around the globe it was turning 2013 at different hours throughout the day. Even while I write this, it's still not 2013 where I am, and when it's completed and the first readers see it, the count-down will still be going in other parts of the world.

We look ahead, and the usual thing to do, of course, is to set goals for success and self-improvement. I don't like to make New Year's Resolutions, because of a fear of failure, I think. However, I do admit that I consider what habits I plan to change. We all know, though, (don't we?) that a person is more likely to accomplish the goals, when they are written down. Maybe that should be my New Year's Resolution for 2013: write down the goals!

However, not only is it good to look ahead. It is also good to look back and see how we've grown.

This week, I have seen and heard several wonderful bits of advice for how to ring in the New Year. As my 100th post in this Mick's up Life, what better way to celebrate than to be an encouragement for anyone wishing to make the most of the upcoming 365 days?!

Here are the tidbits I collected from some very wise sources:

List out what God has done for you over the past year. Thank those who have been influential in your life. Forgive. ("How to End the Year" by Doug Phillips of Vision Forum Ministries)
Put on the right "clothing," as listed in Colossians 3:12-14: "... clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience... forgive... And over all these virtues put on love...." ("My New Wardrobe For 2013" by Rev. William Dillon II)
Praise God for the history of His marvelous deeds. ("He Has Done Great Things" by Michaele Lavigne in Reflecting God: Devotions for Holy Living)
Keep focused on the big picture! Don't let little stresses take your eyes off the real goal and what is truly important overall. As Romans 15:13 says: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” ("The Big Picture" by Joni Eareckson Tada)

"Reflect upon your present blessings,

of which every man has many -

not on your past misfortunes,

of which all men have some."

(Charles Dickens)

Take some time right now to reflect, praise, and move forward!

Happy New Year!

Enjoy this song I was just introduced to today:
Happy New Year by Steven Curtis Chapman.

"The God who made everything is making everything new."

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ,

the new creation has come:

The old has gone,

the new is here!"

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

How to Mick’s up Fries

2012-12-30T16:19:00.003-05:00

Mmmmmmm…. French fries! Yum!

Is that your opinion?

I can’t lie. I’ve always loved fries. I even remember a time when I was pregnant (before healthy living), going through the drive-thru of a fast-food restaurant, and being handed a note passed on from the car ahead of me (via the cashier at the window), reading, “Baby is hungry for fries?” I hadn’t realized a family friend was in that car. What a fun surprise!

Even though I've lost my craving for French fries and other greasy foods, now that my body isn't addicted, it’s still nice to have a treat reminiscent of the “old days.” So, once in a great while, I get some sweet potatoes in the house. I make sure I have a good amount of coconut oil, and an extra half hour or so.

Give it a try! It’s simple.

Cut up some sweet potatoes in the style and thickness you like. (Beware of the cooking time difference for thinner vs. thicker cuts.)

On medium heat, have enough coconut oil in a medium-sized sauce pan to fill it approximately half way. The key is to be sure the pan is large enough in diameter to fit the size (length) of your fries, and to be sure the coconut oil covers the fries to cook them evenly.

After a few minutes, the oil should be ready for the potato slices. Add salt to taste. Allow the fries to cook for several minutes, turning them once.

When the fries are done to your desired consistency, it’s a good idea to place them on a paper towel, when you take them out of the oil, and allow the oil to drain off.

I must admit: One night, after over-cooking sweet potato fries for the family’s dinner, I went to an event, where a lady asked who had fries. She could smell them! The “aroma” was lingering around me. I guess that proves the coconut oil can cook just like the nasty, unhealthy greases, without the deadly side effects.

Coconut oil does have many health benefits, but there are better ways to ingest it, and since there are healthier and more nutrient-rich food choices than potatoes (sweet potatoes are one of the better potato choices, though), I do not recommend these be a staple at your dinner table. However, it’s fun once in a while!

Nowadays, if there are sweet potatoes in the house, the big question I hear is, “Are we having fries?!”

You might also like to try roasting the sweet potatoes in your oven, especially if you do not want to mess with frying. Another of our favorite special occasion recipes with sweet potatoes is mashed and/or casserole. Just have some fun experimenting! If you have more ideas and/or questions, please post them here in the comment section. I'd love to hear from you!

"Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive."

(Proverbs 23:3) NIV

Mick’s up With Germs

2012-12-05T20:18:00.003-05:00

Have you noticed lots of people out sick at work and school, during this past couple of months? I have. In fact, at our office, we've all noticed. I overheard one of my coworkers ask, “Why is everyone sick right now?” So, I decided this would be a good topic for a Mick’s up Life.

Let’s think about it for a minute.

With all the many different celebrations going on over a 2 month period, candy and desserts are everywhere! Not many of us can say we didn't sneak a candy or two from the Halloween bowl. At Thanksgiving time, so many wonderful homemade desserts surround us (not to mention the carbs ingested before we even reach dessert), and then during Christmastime, we are bombarded from both sides, with candy in the stockings and punch and pastries on the table.

My neighbor friend and I were just talking about this. Sugar is the main ingredient of those beloved confections, and as we know, sugar is an inflammatory, dragging down our immune systems.

Next, let’s step outside to take a look at the temperature. With the chill in the air, some of us get scared inside to snuggle up (with a sugar-laden hot chocolate and/or latte, perhaps?), cozily soaking in the glow of the lights of the season… when we’re not scrambling for time to run the kidderz to their new school-year events, shopping for all those aforementioned celebrations, and running to parties, plays, and just plain busy-ness of the holiday season. With all that happening, how many of us are keeping up with our exercise routines? Plus, we are trying to cram so many activities into a day, we might not even be getting the amount of sleep (or at least not good sleep!) that we need. Again, our immune systems are jeopardized.

Oh, can you step outside with me one more time? When you feel that chill, what do you notice yourself doing? Do your shoulders tense up? Are you rubbing your arms to keep warm? I am! (In fact, I was doing that at my desk at work for a while, until the temperature got regulated.) You know what else? The season, along with my job, keep me at the computer longer. Do I have perfect posture at the computer? No! Do you? Maybe for a short period of time, but if you’re there, or in any position, for an extended length of time, you just might find your upper back and neck getting tight, stiff, and uncomfortable.

When we are tense in our upper backs and necks, do you know what might be going on inside? There is more opportunity for our vertebrae to shift out of place. Do you know where the nerves serving your sinuses and face and throat are directed from? That’s right! Those vertebrae that are being affected by the tight muscles have a very close relationship to those nerves. Hmmmm… yes, you probably guessed it. If there is pressure on the nerves in that region, you could be finding yourself having sinus issues, headaches, throat problems, etc. For that reason alone, a visit to your chiropractor would be a wonderful gift to yourself, not to mention a boost to your immune system.

Yes, those things did happened to me this season, too. I fought off a nasty cold and fever, but it was a quick, easy fight. I got myself back on track (and drank lots of extra water!), keeping the immune system enemies at bay, especially sugar. It’s really amazing how much quicker the healing process is, when sugar is taken out of the equation.

So, let’s try to be sure this is a jolly season.

Let's reduce stress during these months, no matter how crazy things get, and that includes minimizing physical stress (you know, the posture thing we were just looking at)… and remember to sleep… sleep well.
Say “Merry Christmas” to you our chiropractors more often at this time of year. (In other words, schedule more visits. This can help with the sleeping, too!)
Make better choices of what snacks we enjoy, foods we prepare, and drinks we consume, in order to eliminate (or at least minimize) sugar (look for alternatives, and be sure to read all ingredients!).
Enjoy our coffees (again, look for alternatives for flavorings) healthier hot chocolate (make your own mix), but in moderation, because as we know, nasty things thrive in an acidic environment, which these yummy concoctions do, unfortunately, promote.
Finally, let’s remember to take time to do some quick interval exercising (only 15 or fewer minutes of your day!), and be sure to fit in stretches. (The stretches can help with that upper back/neck tension thing we previously touched on.)

As it is said, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

"When it snows,

she has no fear for her household."

Proverbs 31:21 (NIV)

We Mick's up Thanks Again

2012-11-23T11:37:00.000-05:00

"All ye Pilgrims with your wives and little ones, do gather at the Meeting House, on the hill…

there to listen to the pastor, and render Thanksgiving to the Almighty God for all His blessings."

November 1623, Governor William Bradford of the 1620 Pilgrim Colony

“Plymouth Plantation” in Plymouth, Massachusetts

Remembering the 1st Thanksgiving

(Original Post Date 2011)

For those of us from the United States, this week is a celebration of Thanksgiving. It’s wonderful to think back to the origin, back to the Pilgrim times, when they endured so much hardship, but still found energy and reason to be thankful.

I am thankful for leaders with wisdom enough to remind us to be thankful: Henry Laurens, President of Continental Congress 1777; President George Washington, National Thanksgiving Proclamation 1795; President Abraham Lincoln, first annual National Day of Thanksgiving 1863, “It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people…” (Catherine Millard "Why do Americans celebrate Thanksgiving Day")

I am thankful, also, for a God we can trust to place us right where we need to be, even when we don’t see it. Squanto found that out, over his life, and we are thankful God placed him where he could help the Pilgrims. (Squanto--God's Special Indian a Thanksgiving Story)

Finally, I am thankful for creative artists who are able to get the point of the holiday across to us in a way we understand and remember:
“In the year 1621, the Pilgrims held their first Thanksgiving feast. They invited the great Indian chief Massasoit, who brought ninety of his brave Indians and a great abundance of food. Governor William Bradford and Captain Miles Standish were honored guests. Elder William Brewster, who was a minister, said a prayer that went something like this: ‘We thank God for our homes and our food and our safety in a new land. We thank God for the opportunity to create a new world for freedom and justice.’” (Linus Van Pelt – From a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving)

Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things.

In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.

Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.

But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this?

Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.

1 Chronicles 29:12-14 (NIV)

A Re-Mick's with Turkey

2012-11-21T05:22:00.000-05:00

Here's a Re-Mick's of Thanksgiving Day 2011:

I've been enjoying talking with family and eating lots of food I did not have to prepare. What a wonderful day!

Because of this, today the nutrition and exercise posts are combined into one.

To all of my American friends, "Happy Thanksgiving!" Be honest. How many of you did like I did this morning? We exercised, in order to feel better about eating the feast later in the day. Actually, I know lots of you really have been outside enjoying the beautiful weather, and working off that full feeling. What a great way to make the most of this family time!

It's also a wonderful way to keep from falling asleep. You know the feeling. After the big family dinner, we all feel like taking a nap. We always blame it on the turkey... poor bird. We say it's the tryptophan.

Did you know, though, that research shows it's not the turkey's fault?!

If you think about it, the usual list of items on the Thanksgiving menu are primarily carbohydrates and high on the glycemic index. What does this mean for our bodies? It means we eventually experience a sugar crash.

So, let's not go pointing fingers and falsely accusing the holiday favorite. Instead, go for a walk with the family.

...when deep sleep falls on people...