Our Banana Moments

First Duke of Florence, Italy

2013-05-13T19:55:00.002-07:00

Hello world! Meet the first Duke of Florence, Alessandro de' Medici.
Alessandro de' Medici was born to an African slave into a prominent family in Europe. Alessandro de' Medici is one of two sons born by the African slave. Alessandro de' Medici became the first Duke and the first Black Duke of Florence at 19 years old almost 500 years ago. A most interesting fact indeed.

For more info http://www.theroot.com/views/who-was-1st-black-duke

Shitz & Giggles Day

2012-03-23T16:38:00.000-07:00

Ladies Only

2012-03-22T17:33:00.001-07:00

The arrival of warmer weather is not just a time for moms to plan fun activities to keep children busy outdoors, it is also a good time to pamper ourselves. The warmer seasons are perfect times to follow up on heath care matters that you may have been neglecting. Postponing doctors’ visits, these can have a long-term impact on your health. You and your physician may miss early signs of cancer and other illnesses. Make a list of heath care related task (dental, OB-GYN, Family Doctor, Podiatrist, etc) that you have postponed during the winter months and check them off as each is completed. If stress is one of your concerns, call your favorite masseuse to schedule a needed massage.

It is well known that annual trips to the OB-GYN for well-woman examinations are no picnics in the park given the cold tables, stirrups, and paper gowns that open in the back. However, skipping your OB-GYN appointment could mean missing early signs of cervical or uterine cancers. If possible, discuss with your physician when you will need a mammogram and how to perform breast self-examinations to check for any lumps. If you think you may have found a lump in your breasts, you need to seek medical care as soon as possible.

If you have postponed seeing your family phycian for so long that you may not recognize him if he introduced himself, then you need to make an appointment for a routine check-up. Seeing your family physician may save you from debilitating effects of chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. For example, a woman suffering from headaches while reading may buy a pair of reading glasses and take some Ibuprofen to relieve the headache. The ibuprofen may relieve that headache; however, she should see her family physician to find out if other diagnosis such as hypertension and elevated triglycerides are not contributing to her headaches. Both diagnoses can lead to strokes or heart attacks.

This is a good time to work on your diet and exercise routines. Start by adding more fruits and vegetables to your daily diet and reduce the amount of caffeinated and sugary drinks from your daily intake. Avoid fries and other high fat processed foods. If you hibernated during the winter months, see your doctor before starting a workout plan. You may have to start slowly by walking a mile a day at the local park.

Talk with your health care provider about your health, diet, and exercise before you start your plan. You and your physician will be able to create a diet and exercise plan tailored to your needs.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. Please consult a health care provider for advice regarding any specific medical condition.

Fight the Bite

2012-03-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

This post is a featured CDC.**

There will always be bugs, but don't let them bite you! Learn about the steps you can take to avoid tick and mosquito bites that may cause serious illnesses such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Fifth and sixth graders can help promote bug bite prevention by participating in the Fight the Bite Poster Contest.

Spring is coming soon! As we get ready for another season of outdoor fun, it's important to remember to protect ourselves from mosquitoes and ticks that may spread the viruses or bacteria that cause serious illness such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Fortunately, we can all take steps such as using an effective insect repellent on skin and clothing, wearing long sleeves and long pants (when it's not too hot), taking care of our yards to get rid of standing water where mosquitoes lay their eggs, and reducing brush, tall grasses, leaf litter, and harborage where ticks may like to hang out.

Kids, there is an important role that you can play in spreading the message about protection from these bugs. CDC and the DEET Education Program are sponsoring the annual "Fight the Bite" Poster Contest, open to any child in grades 5 or 6. Create a poster showing people how to fight the bite of mosquitoes and ticks and enter it in the contest. Contest rules and an entry form are available online at Fight the Bite Contest.

Fight the Bite Contest. But don't wait; entries must be submitted by April 18, 2012.

More information on bugs can be found at:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: West Nile virus web site and Lyme disease web site

2. DEET Education Program: www.deetonline.org

3. University of Florida: http://mosquito.ifas.ufl.edu/Index.htm

4. American Lyme Disease Foundation: www.aldf.com

5. About Bugs: www.aboutbugsbugsbugs.com

**This post is a featured CDC post and can be viewed in it’s entirety at CDC

What is that odor?

2012-03-12T18:36:00.000-07:00

Pets, kids, cooking, dirty laundry, and trash all contribute to give our homes a not so fresh odor. Try as we may to keep the laundry done and the kids’ clean, lagging odors persist. Glade may not be able to bathe your pets or take out the trash, but it certainly can help remove their annoying odors. Below are the top Glade coupons. Get a coupon and have a fresh smelling home.

1. $1.00 off 2 Glade Sense & Spray refills

2. $3.00 off Glade Sense & Spray starter kit

3. $0.55 off Glade Carpet & Room Odor Eliminator

4. $1.00 off two Glade Scented Oil Candle products

5. $1.00 off two Glade 4-oz. Jar Candles

6. $3.00 off Glade PlugIns Lasting impressions

7. $1.00 off Glade PlugIns Scented Oil warmer

8. $1.00 off Glade PlugIns Scented Oil refills

9. $0.55 off Glade Premium Room Spray

What a Glorious Day!

2012-03-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

Right - Adele Pan Gardner

It could not have been a more glorious day for the Followers of Christ feeding mission. The sun was shining on Aala Skate Park, Hawaii, a beautiful backdrop for a day full of hope, blessings, and friends. People gathered from far and near to partake in yesterday’s homeless feeding mission by Followers of Christ that resulted in an afternoon of fellowship, bringing those who have so little closer to Christ, filling empty bellies, and making new friends. The feeding mission was a result of a calling received by Adele Pan Gardner, who also has the blessing of plenty of family and friends eager to support her vision. Adele and her excited supporters (including me) successfully executed the mission without financial support from any organized establishment, which makes the event a testament to feats large and small that can be accomplished in the name of the Lord.


Hungry folks lined up to eat.

Keola

Many lined up from far and near to participate.

Acoustic guitar music provided by Adele's son added just the right touch!

A talented new friend joined in to add a musical touch.

Salad

A mighty salad that balanced the menu which also included fruit salad, juice, and one of Adele's hardy beef and potato casseroles.

Malia & Kike

Family having some fun!


Aunty Jean (foreground) & Steph

Aunty Jean, ready to serve...

2 new friends and me on the right

Awesome time of wonderful fellowship and meeting new folks. It was a very humbling experience.

Chow down time!

First friend in line.

Aunty Bev (far left)

Fellowship time is so important.

There was even time for fun while holding down the tent during a wind gust.

Followers of Christ....say Amen!

Pantry Nightmare

2012-03-10T14:28:00.000-08:00

Pantry Nightmare

Surprise, surprise, you may have expired foods sitting in your pantry. If you stock up on dry goods like breadcrumbs, cake mixes, noodles, and canned goods, it is possible that many will expire within one to three years (if not already). If your pantry is overflowing and disorganized (like mine), it is easy to overlook products that have been sitting on your shelves long past their prime.

With Spring-cleaning looming, it may be time to tackle your pantry. Yes, some guilt about getting rid of unused expired products may be lurking around, but expired food can cause health problems such as gastric distress, gas, bloating, or diarrhea.

Many materials found in dry food packaging are perfect for recycling. Make a green choice by recycling expired foods packaging materials. Keep in mind that some packaging materials may look like foil or another material but is plastic. Try these tips for responsible recycling as you clean out the pantry:

1. Remove plastic packages such as cake mixes and noodles from the cardboard packaging. This is easy to throw away in the green recycle bin.

2. Remove dry foods from their plastic wrappers. You can make plastic wraps more suited for the recycling bin by rinsing them off quickly under the tap.

3. Dump out the contents of expired canned goods, rinse them out, and throw them in the recycling bin.

After following these steps, you will reach the best part, a pantry with room to clean, reorganize, spray for bugs (if needed), and stock up on healthy foods for this summer!

Top 10 Deals on Child & Baby Products

2012-03-09T16:32:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Deals on Child & Baby Products

1. Save $1.50 on Pampers Cruisers/Baby Dry Diapers

2. Save $1.50 on Pampers Swaddlers Diapers

3. Save $.75 on Pampers Wipes

4. Save $1.00 on Minute Maid

5. Save $1.50 on Johnson's Natural

6. Save $1.00 on Flinstones Multivitamin

7. Save $1.00 of Embelle bibs

8. Save $2.00 on Goodnites

9. Save $.75 on Danimals

10. Save $1.00 on Daily Renewal

Poison Fish

2012-03-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

Eating tropical reef fish that have fed on toxic algae triggers Ciguetera poisoning. These toxins reach particularly high concentrations in large predatory tropical reef fish. Barracuda are commonly associated with ciguatoxin poisoning. Eating fish caught between latitude 35° N and 35° S can cause ciguatera poisoning. Other potential dangerous fish include (note that this list is not all inclusive):

✓ Grouper

✓ Red Snapper

✓ Sea Bass

✓ Eels

✓ Mullet

✓ Kingfish

Kingfish

These fish are typically caught by sport fishermen on reefs in Hawaii, Guam and other South Pacific islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Because the toxin is heat-stable, it is unaffected by cooking.

SYMPTOMS

Ciguatoxin usually causes symptoms within a few minutes to 30 hours after eating infected or tainted(contaminated) fish. Occasionally it may take up to 6 hours.

· Common nonspecific symptoms include feeling:

o Nausea

o Diarrhea

o Cramps

o Excessive Sweating

o Headache

o Muscle Aches

o Vomiting

· Other Symptoms

o Burning or Pins & Needles Sensation

o Weakness

o Itching

o Dizziness

o Nightmares

o Hallucinations

o Tingling of lips, tongue, and, throat.

· Other Serious Symptoms

o Numbness

o Confusion

o Collapse

o Coma

Ciguatera poisoning is rarely fatal. Symptoms usually clear in 1 to 4 weeks. Most people recover within a few days or weeks with supportive treatment. Ongoing disability has occasionally occurred.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is generally based on symptoms and a history of recently eating seafood. Laboratory testing for the specific toxin is generally not necessary. Leftover fish or shellfish can be tested for the presence of the toxin more easily. Identification of the specific toxin is not usually necessary for treating patients because there is no specific treatment.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SAFE SEAFOOD CONSUMPTION:

Persons with weakened immune systems or liver problems should not eat raw seafood. They are at higher risk of Vibrio infection.

Keep seafood on ice or refrigerated at less than 38° F (3.3° C) to prevent spoilage.

Keep fresh tuna, mackerel, grouper, and mahi mahi refrigerated to prevent development of histamine.

Cooking spoiled or toxic seafood will not keep you safe. These toxins are not destroyed by cooking.

Barracuda

Do not eat barracuda.

Red Algal Bloom

Check with local health officials before collecting shellfish. Look for Health Department advisories

about algal blooms, dinoflagellate growth or "red tide" conditions that may be posted at fishing supply stores.

Do not eat finfish or shellfish sold as bait. Bait products do not meet the same food safety regulations as seafood for human consumption.

SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION IF:

If you have eaten seafood and develop problems or symptoms that seem unusual for you.

Shitz & Giggles Wednesday

2012-03-07T18:54:00.000-08:00

Maxine Flips Out - Hallmark Books
Stuck on You Laugh Notes - Hallmark Gift Books

Outdoor Family Activities - Time to plan.

2012-03-02T14:21:00.000-08:00

As winter winds down, it is time to consider how to get the children ready for spring! You want to work on the family’s activity level by planning outdoor activities. The next time that you are at the thrift store, you can pick up an old-fashioned picnic basket or just get the big cooler out of the garage and dust it off.

Your community and the communities within a drive of one to two hours have parks--local, county, or state, perfect for affordable family fun. A picnic is just the start of your planning. It is easy to pick up a lighter, lighter fluid, charcoal, hot dogs, buns, chips, ice, and soda pop to throw into the car for a quick barbecue. In addition, do not forget the blanket and the bug spray. Load up bicycles, roller skates or roller blades, a football or soccer ball, baseball bats, gloves, and balls, and other sports gear. Keep in mind that you want everyone to enjoy the outdoors and the nice spring weather.

After everything is packed, you and your children are ready for a fun day in the sunshine! However, what you do when you arrive at the outdoor park also matters. Eating is the beginning followed by some healthy activities.

Moms and dads do not think for a minute that you will be sitting down on the picnic blanket supervising. You need to get up and play with the children because you need to be active too! Fresh air is healthy for your family, and it is fun to enjoy it with the first outdoor picnic of the year!

Let’s go outside and play!

My All Time Top 5 Blog Posts – March 1, 2012

2012-03-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

My All Time Top 5 Blog Posts

(as of) March 2, 2012

✓ Earwax? Aug 16, 2011 *8,421 Pageviews

✓ Jock Itch Jun 6, 2011 *3,774 Pageviews

✓ Hives - Children May 17, 2011 *1,640 Pageviews

✓ Beyonce - Top Ten Blonde, Really? May 28,2011 *561 Pageviews

✓ Do Something: Child Abuse and Neglect

Apr 19,2011 *349 Pageviews

Turning Blogging into Freelance Writing Work

2012-03-01T21:31:00.000-08:00

To make money as a blogger or freelance writer, you need a diversified strategy. This means writing for a variety of clients and finding them by writing for writer websites. Alternatively, you can use the blog to gain recognition in the writing world.

As a blogger, you are a niche writer, which means you have chosen a specific kind of writing. You may become an expert in writing SEO articles, informational articles, press releases, or product description pages. Writing SEO articles means writing natural-sounding articles with repeated keywords or phrase searchers use to find information online. Find SEO work on Content Marketplaces or Contract Work venues.

Whichever type of writing that you prefer, it will become your bread and butter. You will need to challenge yourself continually to improve your craft, writing those types of writing more efficiently while still following the specs of your clients and ensuring quality.

Content Marketplaces is another way to market yourself is to market on websites that find customers for writers. You can post links to content pieces you have put on content marketplaces on your website. Examples of content marketplaces are Constant Content and

Textbroker.

You can get regular work from big content producers like Demand Media Studios or write articles for ad revenue on sites like Yahoo’s Associated Content and Helium. Some may consider these content farms, but income is steady. Content producers have taken a hit according to the Google Panda update, especially Demand Media Studios, owner of eHow, as of April 2011.

Last, do not be afraid to follow brave writers like novelist Amanda Hocking, who made Forbes, December 2011, list of 30 under 30, the first such list. Hocking published her own books online and has a book deal with St. Martin's Press. With diligence and commitment, blogging can lead you to many unexpected writing gigs!

Make money on your blog….click below to find out how!

Changing Your Bad Dieting Habits

2012-02-23T16:14:00.001-08:00

For the working adult, it only takes a single trip to the family practice doctor to find out you have a problem with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, diabetes, or another manageable health condition. You know it is time to eat better.

It is important to eat better. You need to follow the exact diet specifications that your doctor recommends for making meals healthier. You also need to keep up with the prescription for regular exercise. Just as important, follow the specifications for prescribed medications and maintaining follow up appointments.

What are some general things that people can do to make a diet better? Let us say you have just been diagnosed with high blood pressure. General advice is to eat less sodium in your diet. Salt is everywhere! You must limit intake of canned foods and most frozen foods because they contain lots of sodium for prolonging their shelf life. Stop eating French fries and popcorn when you go out. Stop adding salt to food during cooking or eating or both.

Plan weekly menus to avoid foods with added salt. A good example is your trip to the deli. You can buy fresh versions of many meats and cheeses with low sodium content. These will be products without salts or other preservatives. These foods, such as, fresh vegetables, are generally meant to be consumed in a few days.

Although your doctor requires you to change your diet, think of these diet changes in a positive way. These changes are better for you, and you probably should have done them a long time ago!

Top 5 Most Wanted Coupons

2012-02-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Top 5 Most Wanted Coupons

1. $1.00 off when you buy any TWO BOXES select General Mills cereals

2. 50¢ off when you buy ONE BOX Honey Nut Cheerios® cereal

3. $1.00 off when you buy any ONE POST Honey Bunches of Oats NEW Fruit Blends

4. 50¢ off when you buy EIGHT CUPS any variety Yoplait® Yogurt

5. 75¢ off when you buy ONE package of Yoplait® Light yogurt with Granola

Mad Bananas - January 2012

2012-01-31T21:11:00.000-08:00

In the world of affiliate marketing, Our Banana Moments, increased earnings by 54% from December to January. The earnings increase is fantastic. Of course, these numbers do not warrant leaving the day job, but they do promise a bright outlook of future increasing revenue.

	Dec-2011	Jan-2012
Escalate Network	$164.31	$232.91
Google Adsense	$14.74	$88.59
Sponsored Tweets	$4.55	$0.00
My Savings Media	$0.00	$0.50
Sponsored Reviews	$0.00	$15.00
LinkShare	$0.00	$0.00
Commission Junction	$0.00	$0.00
Brandcaster	$0.00	$0.00
Swagbucks	$0.00	$0.00
Amazon	$0.00	$0.00
Totals	$183.60	$337.00

Ugly Stretch Marks, Help!

2012-01-26T18:03:00.000-08:00

Is there anything more unflattering than stretch marks? Worse, just about every one has a stretch mark or a few somewhere on the body, and goes to considerable lengths to cover the unsightly marks. This post will confront squarely the issue of stretch marks, what they are, and how to get rid of them.

Stretch marks (striae) are scars that develop when skin undergoes continual or rapid changes usually related to hormonal flux. For instance, puberty is typically a time when hormones are in flux and bodies are experiencing growth spurts. During the time of puberty, it is common to discover a stretch mark or two on the thighs, hips, breast, and buttocks. Another time many women develop abdominal stretch marks is during pregnancy when the skin is stretching to accommodate the little one growing inside. In addition to growth spurts and pregnancy-related changes, stretch marks can appear because of a medical condition such as Cushing’s disease. No one is immune to stretch marks, and the ugly scars occur regardless of race, age, and sex; however, they do tend to occur more frequently in women.

Since, it is known why stretch marks appear, are they reversible? Fortunately, there is treatment options with most focused on topical creams. Before starting any treatment, it is important to consult your health care provider because although stretch marks are common, there exist the possibility of stretch marks occurring because of a medical diagnosis such as Cushing’s disease. Best stretch mark creams can range from products with natural ingredients to those, which contain more powerful retinoid products. In addition to topical creams, dermatologists have seen improvement of stretch marks with laser treatments.

When considering to seek treatments for your stretch marks, it is important to do research to discover what methods are available and as always, before starting any treatment regimen contact your health care provider to determine if your chosen method of treatment is right for your.

We know one good thing about stretch marks, they appear to fade and become less visible with time.

Smart and Healthy Grocery Shopping

2012-01-20T10:32:00.000-08:00

At the grocery store, it is tempting to focus on special deals such as buy one get one free cereal deals. These deals can distract you from buying products based on their nutritional benefits for yourself and your family. It is important to save money on weekly shopping trips without sacrificing the health of your family. Make smarter grocery shopping choices by following these tips.

Try to spend more time shopping for fresh products and buy only minimal purchases from the dry food aisles and frozen food sections of the store. Buy fresh by focusing on shopping in the produce department and the meat department. If it would help, create a grocery list that starts with visiting the produce aisle. In general, you will also want to skip the deli department because many of the foods that you could buy in this area are processed just like dry foods and frozen foods.

Plan your meals. For example, buy enough fresh meat, not frozen, by counting the number of dinners that you need to cook for the week, and then buy meat accordingly. In addition, if you need to, buy larger packages and cuts of meat and then split them up into smaller portions and freeze for later in the week.

Also, try to buy organic as much as your budget will allow. Organic fresh fruits and vegetables are not just empty calorie products like lettuce and cabbage; they are also potatoes, carrots, apples, oranges, bananas, beets, onions, peppers, and so forth.

My Top Ten Freebies - Tuesday 1/17/12

2012-01-17T02:34:00.000-08:00

Today is Top Ten Tuesday Freebies. Just as last week, I searched online yesterday and today to find a crap load of freebies. There are literally hundreds of freebies and samples just for the taking everyday. Because it would be near impossible to list each one, I am listing the top ten of my haul here, for you. Please browse below and click on the items that interest you. Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly event, so check in again next week for more.

Grab Your Choice of Free Splenda Essentials Sweetener Samples

Curves - Get your FREE one-week guest pass today!

Join the IKEA Family Program for Free Items In-Stores

Free Kindle Download -Naturally Skinny: 100 Organic Recipes

Grab Free Neo-Energy and Neo-Carb Bloc Sample Packs

Panda Express -Free Firecracker Chicken with Coupon on 1/23 Only

Get a Free 7-Day Sample of Lancome Genefique & Visionnaire

Send an Email for a Free Align Probiotic Supplement Sample

Nescafe Taster’s Choice - 6 Free Flavor Samples

Join & Get a Free Medium Beverage from Dunkin Donuts

Thank you for visiting and don't forget to take a peek at what coupons will be in the Sunday newspaper coupon inserts. Sunday Coupons Preview

Mad Bananas December 2011

2012-01-15T20:13:00.000-08:00

Mad Bananas December 2011

If you happened to catch the “Mad Money” post last month, then you know that Our Banana Moments decided to monetize. Below is how much cash Our Banana Moments raked in last month after trying out a variety of monetizing methods.

Mad Bananas: December 2011

	Escalate Network	$164.31
	Google Adsense	$14.74
	Sponsored Tweets	$4.55
	My Savings Media	$0.00
	Sponsored Reviews	$0.00
	LinkShare	$0.00
	Commission Junction	$0.00
	Brandcaster	$0.00
	Swagbucks	$0.00
	Amazon	$0.00
	Total Bananas in the basket	$183.60

As you have probably noticed, there will be no first class round the world tour in the foreseeable future; however, it was fun and challenging, but, make no mistake, it is not as easy as it may seem. Additionally, I noticed that figuring out how various methods work, I started neglecting my writing. I hope that January will find that Our Banana Moments makes a few more pennies while having a whole lot of fun.

I look forward to how many bananas will be collected this month. Please, if you have any tips, I am open, just respond to this post or email me at followthebanana@ourbananamoments.com

Raisin Bran Muffins

2012-01-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

Raisin Bran Muffins Recipe

This is the easiest muffin mix ever! If you are thinking that the recipe is so easy that the muffins taste like cardboard, you are wrong. With or without a little butter, these muffins are moist and are a delight to eat while sipping a nice cup of hazelnut coffee.

4-cups of Raisin Bran Mix

1-Egg

1-Cup of water

Pre-heat your oven to 400^o. Grease (or use cooking spray) muffin cups.

Place the muffin mix in a bowl. Beat the egg and water; stir into mix just until moistened.

Fill greased muffin cups 2/3 (two-thirds) full.

Bake at 400^ofor 15 to 17 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack.

This fast and easy treat makes one batch of 12 muffins that can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Don't forget to preview the upcoming Sunday paper coupon inserts.

My Top Ten Freebies: Tuesday 1/10/2012

2012-01-10T22:14:00.000-08:00

Today I was struck with the urge to scour the net looking to see what I could find free. I was shocked at the sheer numbers of manufacturers offering full or sample sized products. Rather than sitting on my newly found goldmine of free goodies, below is what I considered the top 10 of the day. I hope that you are able to find a few, if not all, worthy of a click.

Free Short Stack at IHOP – National Pancake Day is 2/28/12

Send for a free sample of Swerve ALL-Natural Sweetener

Free Sample of Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Hair care

Free 12-ct Box of Green Mountain Cafe Express Hot Cocoa K-Cups

Eucerin Calming Itch Relief Lotion - Free Sample

Secure a Free Shout Color Catcher Sample

L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream – Free with coupon

$250 in Free Gifts from Enfamil

Waffle House - Free Coffee with Coupon

Request a Free Beech-Nut Stage 4 Toddler Kit

Meal Planning: Healthy & Friendly

2012-01-08T18:31:00.000-08:00

You may not realize how many food allergies can affect the health of you and your kids. For example, you may have dairy in your diet and it might be causing your body to produce extra mucous, which can then aggravate your sinuses and/or respiratory allergy complaints. Avoid these with proper meal planning.

When planning a special family meal with invited guests or just menu planning for the kids, it is suggested to make it as healthy as possible. You can plan meals in such a way as to minimize the impact of the meal on the guests’ health, including your own kids, with these tips.

1. Avoid putting dairy products in the meal. For example, dairy aggravates some people’s food allergies and/or stomach and intestinal complaints. It can also be hard to digest some meals if you use a lot of cheeses or steak.

2. If you know about people’s seafood tastes, you can serve up a healthy meal using shrimp, white fish, or even tuna. For example, you might serve up tilapia, which is budget-friendly too, and cook it in an olive oil sauce with garlic.

3. Use fruit in your dessert plan. Some guests may have diabetes or other diet considerations. If you use fresh fruit, not frozen, canned, or processed, you can whip up something light such as a fruit salad or a fruit topping for a sugar-free cake, and everyone can enjoy it. Hint: A dessert pastry mix should not have dairy products if you are using tip #1.

Budgeting Your Monthly Expenses

2012-01-07T20:42:00.000-08:00

Budgeting your monthly expenses by categories is a surefire way to ensure that you will save money in the long run. Let’s talk about exactly what this means. In your household budget, you should have a list of categories. They might be set up on a spreadsheet or on a piece of lined paper.

At the top of the list of categories are the most essential payments that must be made every month. For example, you can place your mortgage payment, rent, groceries, insurance, daycare, and utilities at the top of the list. Underneath these major recurring expenses, you will have spots for other expenses that recur every month. These are secondary expenses that could be cut if you had a sudden change in income, such as a job loss or a reduction in work hours at your job. Examples of secondary expenses are a gym membership, a cell phone plan, a cable bill, and extracurricular activities for the kids.

At the bottom of all of these expenses are discretionary spending categories where you have some flexibility. You don’t have to take the kids to the Chuck E. Cheese every week and spend $30, and you don’t have to send the kids on every field trip with the Cub Scouts or the dance team. Also, sometimes the kids can take their lunch instead of buying school lunch. What you have to do is prioritize so that you have discretionary cash available when needed.

Diabetics have you checked your hemoglobin A1c lately?

2011-12-15T21:39:00.000-08:00

A1c, HEMOGLOBIN A1c

The A1c test is used primarily to monitor the glucose control of diabetics over time. The goal of those with diabetes is to keep their blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible. This helps to minimize the complications caused by chronically elevated glucose levels, such as progressive damage to body organs like the kidneys, eyes, cardiovascular system, and nerves. The A1c test gives a picture of the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last few months. It can help a patient and his doctor know if the measures they are taking to control the patient's diabetes are successful or need to be adjusted.

Depending on the type of diabetes that you have, how well your diabetes is controlled, and your doctor, your A1c may be measured 2 to 4 times each year. The American DiabetesAssociation (ADA) recommends testing your A1c 4 times each year if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and use insulin; or 2 times each year if you have type 2 diabetes and do not use insulin. When someone is first diagnosed with diabetes or if control is not good, A1c may be ordered more frequently.

How it works

The A1c blood test checks the average amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycosylated hemoglobin. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it binds to hemoglobin A. This is the main form of hemoglobin in adults. Hemoglobin is a red protein that carries oxygen in the red blood cells (RBC's). Once the glucose is bound to the hemoglobin A, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell (about 120 days). This combination of glucose and hemoglobin A is called A1c (or hemoglobin A1c or glycohemoglobin). Increased glucose in the blood, increases the hemoglobin A1c. A1c levels do not change quickly but will shift as older RBC's die and younger ones take their place.

NORMAL HEMOGLOBIN A1C VALUES

Non diabetic adults: 2.2%-4.8%

Non diabetic child: 1.8%-4.0%

Good diabetic control: 2.5%-5.9%

Fair diabetic control: 6%-8%

Poor diabetic control: greater than 8%

**"Normal" ranges for lab values and other tests may vary among different laboratories and/or hospitals.

Your caregiver will go over the test results with you and discuss the importance and meaning of your results, as well as treatment options and the need for additional tests if necessary.

This post is for informational purposes only. If you feel that you may have diabetes or need your hemoglobin A1C check, contact your credentialed health care provider.