How Attractive Are You?

I'm being cagey here, but I hope you will take the time to read and give this a little thought. 
While I don't really think about my age unless someone has the nerve to ask me (wink) ...sometimes I will look in the mirror in certain light and wonder...."who is that?" Of course then I will go find a different mirror somewhere else and see if it's any better. lol. 

Recently after doing this I sat myself down in front of the computer and decided to start searching for various new and exciting facial creams and potions.  There are LOTS out there...after reading hundreds of reviews I was no closer to making a decision...so I of course whipped off an email to my best friend Heather in the UK.  As we are both the same age and have similar life outlooks, I can always count on her for her take on the subject.  And while she agreed with me about the whole aging issue and things we can do to 'improve' where we are, she did voice something I found particularly obvious.  Well not obvious until she pointed it out to me!

No matter what age we are... 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, etc...what kind of person are we drawn to?  Is it that stunningly perfect individual who defies all age brackets?  No...usually not...we may have friends who are physically appealing...but why do we stay friends with them - or anyone for that matter?  Drum roll..............Because we find them interesting!  We connect with them in some way and/or we find them so interesting we want to know more!!


Ah....how true!  So while I  find myself getting older, I do intend to age gracefully.  But MORE important than that - I am setting an intention to BE more interesting - for me and for those who choose to be around me! I will be trying something new, learning new things, travel somewhere different, eat or cook something different - get out of that self-imposed RUT.  Doing this gives me something to look forward to - a sort of challenge to myself.  I want to be someone people enjoy being around (I guess I always have) - not someone where folks go running as soon as they see me coming.  I hate to say I know people like that.  Certain folks who are in our lives, and probably happy in their life - yet nothing different or 'interesting' to comment on since our last conversation, no matter how long it's been.  


And of course since I decided on this a couple weeks ago, I 'happened' to find this short, inspiring video - I've already started 2 different 30-day changes for me - and it's funny how you can commit to something if you have a somewhat short range goal.  See if you agree - and hopefully you will join me in finding life and yourself more interesting. ☺

Let Them Eat Cake!  

After a weekend of eating I'm on a roll!  lol

Now granted I don't eat a lot of cake...but when I do, it better be good!  I'm like that with chocolate too!  And yes I realize many think sugar and flour are the enemy...but frankly for me the 'processing' that has gone into our 'foods' that I put at the top of the list to 'avoid'.  And it's not easy!  We pay for convenience and yet for something as basic as cake..how convenient is it really?  I mean we buy a box - add water, oil and eggs to most of them...and we 'make' a cake.  Did you know the basic ingredients needed for a made from scratch cake?

Butter
Sugar
Eggs
Vanilla
Flour
Baking powder, salt
Milk
 
So if you can handle a couple measuring cups/spoons..you're done in about the same time.  And you can pick your own ingredients...organic butter or milk/flour/eggs if you so choose to make it even healthier!  (save money too as you have most of these normally on hand)


Here's what you get for 'convenience' in a box:  (plus adding your own eggs/oil/water)


Sugar, Enriched Bleached Wheat Flour (Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron,Thiamine Mononitrate,Riboflavin,Folic Acid), Vegetable Oil Shortening (Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Propylene Glycol Mono- And Diesters Of Fats,Mono- And Diglycerides), Leavening (Sodium Bicarbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Sodium Aluminum Phosphate, Monocalcium Phosphate). Contains 2% Or Less Of: Wheat Starch, Salt, Dextrose, Polyglycerol Esters Of Fatty Acids, Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Cellulose Gum, Artificial Flavors,Xanthan Gum,Maltodextrin,Modified Cornstarch,Colored With (Yellow 5 Lake, Red 40 Lake). Contains: Wheat.

I hope you can see where I'm going here!  Now I'm not saying never use any convenient prepackaged item again - but what I am saying is we've gotten so far away from actual cooking it's affecting our health! We all get into a rut, but one thing I remember are family get-togethers of home cooked meals!  I LOVED these meals and what went into them...recipes exchanged and great conversation as well.   I'm on a bit of a rampage here as I sometimes get nosy and look in other peoples shopping carts when I'm in the store.  Some inspire me and I wonder what they are making! lol And others depress me as some are full of frozen meals and convenience foods I can't help but feel bad as even the kids in that house won't know how to cook!

My daughter Rachael inspires me with her experimenting with more ethnic and simple meals - healthier and end up costing less as well!  Or home made cookies made with the kids instead of store bought - again, something worth taking a little extra time for.

Another area I've been experimenting with as I pretty much despise bottled salad dressings, is making my own vinaigrette. Basic ratio is 1 part acid (vinegar or citrus) and 3 parts oil (I tweak this to my own tastes...but that's the beauty of it...YOU decide.  Basic ingredients to add:  minced fresh garlic, pinch of salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, honey etc.  All you need is a glass jar with a lid to shake it in and of course pick a healthy oil to use. Regular salad, pasta salad even as a marinade!  

Lordy now I'm really getting hungry! :o)
 

Natural Deodorant To Make At Home!

Just some fun info for those of us who like to try new things...as well as natural ones!  This is a well-known recipe for deodorant...so it will keep odor and bacteria away, but does not claim to keep you dry.  Have some fun with this and feel free to let me know how it works out!

All you need:

5 T         Cold Pressed Coconut Oil
1/4 cup  Baking Soda
1/4 cup  Corn Starch

Ok, so 3 easy ingredients and now you just have to measure, mix and your done! I do this in a  bowl first and then transfer entire mixture in a small glass jar with lid.  Depending on how hot/cold your home is...(colder here now) your oil may be a solid.  What I will do is heat some hot water in a pan, when hot (not boiling) I turn it off and place the jar of coconut oil in, to warm it and make it softer.  It will turn into a liquid if warm enough but as soon as it cools, goes to a solid again!  So use whatever consistency works for you to mix well.

I mix both dry ingredients well first and then add the oil.  Again, mix well and then I transfer into my jar with lid.  I keep in fridge, and will use a spoon to scrape some off some of the mixture and apply with my hands...rub in well and let dry/absorb before getting dressed. 

I have added 1 drop of an essential oil to this mixture as well...but actually like it just the way it is.  You can experiment!  Enjoy!

I was enjoying Tess's blog post and I asked if I could run it here!  Even if only a couple of these resonate with you, it's worth it!!  Enjoy!  

150 Bold Tips about Life, People & Wisdom
by Tess Marshall - at The Bold Life

1. Offer others your wisdom
2. Don't give unasked for advice.
3. Accept that everyone isn't on your path.
4. Pay for your dates dinner.
5. Plant a tree.
6. Learn to love yourself.
7. Stop whining. Change what you complain about. Let the rest go.
8. Get involved in something you believe in.
9. Believe in yourself.
10. Enjoy your journey.
11. Learn how to deal with anger, yours, and others.
12. Use music to change your mood.
13. Compliment others often. Never leave kind words unsaid.
14. Don't save your good stuff for later.
15. Affection isn't earned, it's freely given.
16. Live with less of everything…except love.
17. Visit Alaska.
18. Have a “Yes” so big it allows you to say “No.”
19. Learn how to say, “No, that’s not going to work for me.” Don’t offer an excuse.
20. Stop buying expensive coffee.
21. Use the money saved for a trip at the end of the year.
22. Buy a good pair of New Balance athletic shoes and walk or run consistently.
23. Learn how to receive. Just say, “Thank you!”
24. Learn to enjoy reading.
25. Admit when you’re wrong.
26. Let others have the last word.
27. Let go of quilt. It's wasted energy.
28. Touch the people you love.
29. Paint something.
30. Respect yourself. Don't tolerate abuse.
31. Learn to apologize.
32. Learn to dislike fast food.
33. Eat mindfully.
34. Change the oil in your car regularly.
35. Never visit someone empty handed.
36. Be who you are.
37. Understand and accept your weaknesses and shortcomings. Everyone has them.
38. Always hold the door open for the person behind you.
39. Call your mother today. Better yet, send her chocolates.
40. Spend time listening to a child’s laugh.
41. Find out what brings you joy. Then do it.
42. Learn about fine art and classical music.
43. Create your own health program.
44. Take responsibility for your own happiness.
45. Listen to your gut. It's never wrong. Never.
46. Keep your surroundings neat and clean.
47. Practice compassion and loving kindness.
48. Learn about a different culture.
49. Celebrate your strengths and successes.
50. Allow yourself pleasure.
51. Keep a gratitude journal.
52. Make the first move. Don't keep score of who did what last.
53. Learn how to fix things. Over time it will save you a fortune.
54. Tap into your own genius.
55. Decide fear won't stop you.
56. Learn to deal with rejection. Everyone won't give you what you want.
57. Create a vision for your future.
58. Refuse to participate in uncomfortable situations.
59. Create romance in your relationship.
60. Smile more.
61. Laugh frequently. It's a good thing.
62. Listen to someone you disagree with. Remain neutral.
63. Change a habit. Then change another.
64. Get outside and smell the day.
65. Always leave a big tip. Teach that the world is a generous place.
66. Stop blaming others for your misery.
67. Focus on one task at a time.
68. Spend one day working in the fields with migrant workers. Then ask yourself if they are taking our jobs.
69. Send thank you cards the old fashioned way.
70. Wear sunscreen.
71. Volunteer in a children’s hospital ward.
72. Go the extra mile.
73. Walk your date to the door.
74. Be courageous. Break up with someone face to face.
75. Learn what projection and how to accept it.
76. Don’t take things personally.
77. What people do is about them. How you respond is about you.
78. Bring flowers to someone. Buy a single stem for yourself.
79. Write poetry. It soothes your soul.
80. Count your blessings. When is the last time you were grateful for your refrigerator?
81. Be inspired by slam poetry. What a skill.
82. Be impeccably groomed. Dress up on low energy days.
83. Enjoy chocolate.
84. Learn to change your emotional state.
85. Forgive your parents.
86. Write down what you promise others.
87. Do the work.
88. Practice gratitude.
89. Agree to disagree.
90. Be willing to compromise.
91. Love toxic people from a distance.
92. Remain true to your dreams and visions.
93. Eliminate all forms of negative media from you life.
94. Live the life you’ve imagined.
95. Be true to yourself.
96. Embrace the present.
97. Just begin.
98. Give thanks in advance.
99. Use your imagination.
100. Collaborate with others.
101. Learn to admit, “I don’t know.”
102. Find something to believe in.
103. Get the help you need.
104. Learn how to cook.
105. Dare to be your best.
106. Take risks. Do what scares you.
107. See beauty in world.
108. Celebrate what’s right with the world.
109. Do something brilliant every day.
110. Encourage others.
111. Make a difference.
112. Continue to learn something new.
113. Mentor someone.
114. Learn to be frugal.
115. Spend time with children and the elderly.
116. Be honest about your taxes.
117. Wake up and go to sleep at the same time every day.
118. Don’t bet against yourself. Believe in yourself.
119. Don’t clutter your mind or environment.
120. Give anonymously.
121. Don’t believe your own thoughts.
122. Drop your story.
123. Jump for joy.
124. Take naps.
125. Expect the best.
126. End your relationship before you sleep with someone else.
127. Learn how to meditate.
128. Don’t text and drive.
129. Be happy for the success of others.
130. Don’t drink and drive.
131. Don’t drink, text, and drive.
132. Be inspired. Read and listen to good stuff.
133. Remember this too shall pass, it always has and always will.
134. Learn how to express yourself intelligently.
135. Be a mindful driver.
136. Thank a teacher.
137. Become a mentor.
138. Appreciate nature.
139. Be the love you want to find.
140. Notice small things; a blade of grass, a snowflake, tree bark.
141. Surround yourself with happy people.
142. Don't think about your problems. Solve them.
143. Give up control and manipulation.
144. Positively anticipate the future.
145. Learn how to grow things.
146. Where you find love lacking, offer love.
147. Spend less time at work and more time at play.
148. Learn self-restraint.
149. Learn how to relax.
150. Be bold!

Detoxing = More Energy!

A big part of our daily energy quota has to do with how well toxins exit the body.  Just like getting an oil change for your car "keeps your engine clean and running at maximum performance" - gently detoxifying your liver and urinary system to get rid of 'sludge' in the body makes sense too!  Because our environment is full of stressful chemicals, such as food additives, preservatives, pesticides, herbicides, etc., it is important to have a lifestyle full of healthier food choices and periodic cleansing.

The liver is responsible for handling most of our energy needs. It takes raw building blocks from food and breaks it down into basic nutritional components. The liver creates and stores sugars for both immediate and long-term energy use. If the liver is congested or diseased it will not receive or send out enough blood sugar and your energy will drop. Chronic lack of energy, especially after meals, could be the result of a sluggish liver

I am running a special till Valentines Day!  $39 for my Liver Gallbladder Formula and Detox Tea.  Save $6 off regular pricing! I will email instructions on how to use it when you make your purchase. 



 

1 Idea That Can Change Your Life

 

I've been reading books and following various blogs of late on the subject of kindness, being grateful for people and things and appreciative for where we are in our life, right now.  I think because I really never got into the Christmas spirit this year...it sort of passed me by and I felt myself rather down and feeling all 'bah humbug' in the weeks following.  Luckily I am realizing it's up to me to change that...and as soon as I started looking for things to feel better about, I found LOTS of inspiring things to help me.

Yes...1 thing that really can change everything.

What helped spur me on was a book I read called 365 Thank Yous, by John Kralik...a story about an attorney who was having a very rough time emotionally and financially..his worst ever. (many of his clients weren't paying him and he worried weekly if he'd be able to pay his staff)  He gets to remembering his grandfather and how he encouraged writing Thank You cards for gifts no  matter how small the gift was-and how he did as a boy but only when made to do it!  (Don't we all remember those days?? I do!)  So he decided he needed to find something to feel good about as he was feeling very desperate and ended up challenging himself to send 365 hand written Thank Yous within a year.  Took him a little longer but he did.  And it changed his life as well as those around him-all for the better.

After reading this book I was on a search to find other people who had done similar and found so many stories, books and websites that it seems it has caught on. (wink)  I wink here because it's not like being kind or grateful ever went away..it just doesn't always get the same kind of press as other dramatic, often unhappy stories do these days. The bottom line with all of this is I decided to start something similar.  I went to the Dollar Tree the other day(everything really is a dollar! lol) and bought a few packs of blank note cards and I've started writing Thank Yous.  I will keep track of who I send or hand them too (ie store clerk who always remembers my name) so I can see progress...and I will also keep track of any responses as well as how it felt for ME to do this.  I will also keep up my intentions for little random acts of kindness-an all year endeavor, not just around the holidays.

So exactly HOW will this change your life?  Like the man in the book,  a shift will occur.  You will start to be the person who looks for things going right, instead of things going wrong - less 'poor me' and instead, more to be thankful for in all areas of your personal and professional life. You will welcome into your life more ease, more joy, more stress-free moments, a healthier body, healthier choices, more fun, new experiences and opportunities - you name it.  Like attracts like - and now you are taking an active role in 'deliberately' attracting what you want, instead of just waiting or wishing to see what happens in your life.  The other people I read about all had positive changes in their lives and they are NOT the exception, as any of us can see and feel the benefits.

I am so ready for this - and have already started- I'd love to hear if this is something you can find time to do too!  

And in order to light a fire encourage some of you ;o) - I am Giving away a free 5.5oz of my Organic Liver/Detox Tea- a gentle cleanse to the liver, the skin, urinary system as well as the entire body- tastes pretty good too!   All you have to do is comment under this post- letting me know why you liked this idea or something you think would be fun to do for someone else.  I will pick one person randomly- and announce in my next newsletter within next 2 weeks...and then you can email me with your contact info/address etc. 

So the change has already started...I'm feeling better already!  ☺Thanks for reading.

Starting Fresh-Healthy Smoothies!

A very Happy 2012 to all and I hope you enjoyed some time to relax over the holidays.

Since many of us tend to indulge a bit more this time of year with sweets and heavier foods, there's no time like the next few weeks to introduce a new healthy habit.  Many you are familiar with smoothies, but it may not be something you do on a regular basis. 

I know I struggle sometimes with healthy breakfasts that aren't loaded with calories.  It's like I want 'something' but can only come up with the typical breakfast foods.  Cereal, toast, eggs - I have done fruit/yogurt but I get bored with eating the same thing everyday, and will then fall into temptation at work and grab a muffin or bagel. 

I'm wanting to change that so enjoy some of these easy recipes that can use anytime of day - guilt free! (I will make in the morning and take to work too as we have a fridge, just shake before you drink) ☺

Banana/Kiwi Smoothie

1 Ripe Kiwi peeled

1 half banana (fresh or frozen)

1/2 cup non-fat plain or vanilla yogurt (greek or regular)

water, juice or milk (I use rice or almond milk- original or vanilla)

I will also use some ice cubes in place of the liquid...depends on what I have on hand

Blend well.  

Mango/Raspberry Smoothie

1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

1/2 cup fresh mango chopped

1/2 cup non-fat yogurt (greek or regular)

Splash of juice, milk, water or ice cubes

Blend well

Strawberry/Banana Protein Smoothie

1/2 cup fresh/frozen strawberries

1/2 banana

1/2 cup non fat yogurt (greek or regular)

2 tablespoons 'Green' protein drink

water, juice, milk or ice cubes

I use my Earth's Nutrition in most of my smoothies as this is my 'multi' vitamin as well.  Love all the B vitamins and nutrients it provides -and keeps my energy level up all day.(great for hair/skin/nails & thyroid support)  Any protein powder that you like can be substituted, but try to lean towards a 'green' supplement to add 'food' nutrients.  I will also add a tablespoon of fresh RAW honey sometimes for added nutrients.  Raw is best...regular honey on store shelf is just 'sugar' without the health benefits. Also greek yogurt tends to be higher in protein and less sugar, always a plus!

The thing to remember with these smoothies is that you are increasing your fresh food intake, thus making it very easy on your body to digest and absorb.  Great for weight conscious or meal replacement and gives you healthy energy boost all at the same time.  

Enjoy!

5 Health Tips You Can Ignore

I've always wanted to comment on some of these subjects when I hear folks discussing - Most times I hold my tongue as it's not that important.  But it irks me just the same!

1)  Cold Weather Increases Your Chances of Catching a Cold.   NOPE - You may get a chill if not properly dressed, but a cold, no.  The cold/flu virus comes by way of a 'germ' air born or by touching something.  So a good practice is to wash your hands when you come in from being out or occasionally while at work etc.

2) If You Exercise You Can Eat Whatever You Want - I wish!  Of course I wished I exercised more too! lol  But really...the bottom line is calories add up due to the foods we choose...and while exercise is a great idea to tone up and burn some calories..don't think you can 'chow down' just because you took that extra flight of stairs or did 30 min of cardio.  Cutting back on unhealthy foods and increasing exercise will help to do the job.

3) Low Salt Diets Are Good For You - Lots of new findings coming out saying the low salt diet may be doing more harm than good!  I always felt that was incomplete.  With salt I always felt whenever you start messing with a natural substance to make it more 'presentable' and nice looking (white) then how much of it is really what is should be?  I've used Celtic Sea Salt for over 15 yrs...and I LOVE it.  Enhances the taste of food...and you actually use less.  Full of the minerals from the ocean it's taken from..our bodies benefit.  Our body fluids are mostly a saline solution - makes sense to replace it in a healthy way.  Consider it this way, iodized table salt, and sea salt is like comparing hydrogenated vegetable oil to pure virgin olive oil.  Buffalo News Article

4) Attitude Has No Bearing on Our Health -  Again...I beg to differ!  Most of us are 'reactors' to our daily life.  Meaning we base our moods on how things do or don't go for us.  I know better and I still do it sometimes!  Read this from the Independent News UK:

"Robert Sapolsky, professor of biological sciences at Stanford University and an authority on stress, puts it like this: "In fight-or-flight, your body turns off all the long-term building and repair projects," he says. "Constant high levels of cortisol take your body's eye off the ball. Memory and accuracy are both impaired. Patrols for invaders aren't sent out, you tire more easily, you can become depressed and reproduction gets downgraded." Exposed to chronic stress for years, high blood levels of glucose and fatty acids increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes."

5)  I Don't Believe in Vitamins - Ok...maybe this isn't a 'myth' - ha...but I had to bring it up because I hear it soooo often!  When someone says this I almost want to respond with...then I suppose gravity is something you have a problem with too?  I know...sarcasm for sure!

But I do try to come back with a more intelligent answer than the statement, by pointing out that you don't have to 'believe' in vitamins...vitamins don't really care.  Vitamins are just 'there' - in our foods, in nature - they've been there since the beginning of time.  Nonchalantly supplying our bodies with nutrients (we decided to call them vitamins) that we use up as needed to keep healthy and strong. And since our food sources have changed so much...we are finding the good old vitamins that are supposed to be there have been stripped away by pesticides, genetically engineered foods, processing, etc.  So yes...most of us need to consider adding some nutrients to our daily diets.  I choose herbs or other concentrated supplements and I feel better for it.  Hopefully you are doing it too!

Just shedding some light on some practices you may want to re-think - hopefully to incorporate new thoughts and practices into your life and your family's.  ☺

Boy oh boy...Am I getting high tech or what??   Ok..well, maybe low tech if there was such a word, meaning I realize I'm behind the times, but GETTING there.  That should count for something!  

Watch my swell video to learn about something that is happening in the new year!! Ladies forward to any of your friends who may be interested!  A full-packed day with so much you can use to improve your life in EVERY area! ☺

The Good Witch and the Bad Witch  

Ah yes, those reading that title should have the movie the Wizard of Oz come to mind!  A good example of the wanted and unwanted!

Working with clients as well as in a natural store setting, I can't help but notice the huge increase in stomach and intestinal complaints.  So many of them are related to a similar issue but rarely treated appropriately, medically.  At least not with any lasting effects.  Today there is something I want to encourage even if you DON'T have any obvious issues, would be The Good Witch i.e. Probiotics. ☺

So what are Probiotics? Our bodies come prepared with our own!  Probiotics are live microorganisms residing in the intestinal tract helping to keep it functioning in a state of health.  They are considered the 'good' bacteria.  However when the unwanted bacteria becomes overpowering, symptoms start to show themselves.  Thus enters the Bad Witch.  Supplementing with additional Probiotics helps get this ongoing balance back on track. 


Sometimes you have to drop a house on the bad witch..what can I say?  lol  But seriously you have to go at this type of imbalance with diligence!  Stay with it for lasting results.  I know many have heard the concept of taking a 'probiotic' after using an Antibiotic (causes diarrhea for many) but this is not the only time to use a probiotic.  


Stress, numerous prescription meds, sugar/yeasty foods are the main offenders that bring about the lack of balance.  Some symptoms you may be experiencing that you may not attribute to Yeast overgrowth:  constipation, diarrhea, colitis, IBS, canker sores, muscle/joint pain, congestion, nagging cough, , numbness/tingling in the extremities, acne, night sweats, itching, fibromyalgia, vaginitis/vaginal yeast, eczema, depression................  So you see - many of these issues are treated as they are...not always realizing there can be an underlying cause!!  Which is why many things keep coming back. 

I like to mix things up a bit when it comes to tackling this problem.  You might see one or more of these my counter:  a good over the counter probiotic (Lactobacillus acidophilus), my Olive Leaf, my Liver Detox Tea, eating more fresh garlic or various products I have with garlic in them, and pure coconut oil are all very helpful to get things back in balance.

Stick with this as you would a multi vitamin...and just realize it does help to change things up every now and then so your body doesn't get used to one thing.  


For more information, you can comment here, or get in touch below.   :o)  

rt2health@yahoo.com or 716-400-0532

Being A Little Squirelly...

I find this time of year it pays to be a 'little squirrelly'.  And by that I mean doing a bit of gathering to be ready for the upcoming months.  It's kind of like having the basic staples in your pantry for when you want to make something - stuff you always try to have on hand as it can be such a nuisance when you are in the middle of a recipe to find you are out of one or two ingredients.  Bummer!!

There is nothing worse than needing something right at that moment and having to put on the brakes and grumble to yourself that you should have checked first, *@#! it all!!   Yes...'bummer' is probably not the word that comes out of my mouth in that instance - lol.  But you get my drift.

The winter months are no different.  I'd rather have what I need and never use it, instead of kicking myself for being without.  Peace of mind counts for alot...I mean why add more stress to this time of year, knowing you 'should' have had this or should have done that...in order to be ready.  

There is no reason you and your family can't breeze through the fall/winter months and the typical cold and flu season, feeling great!  I'm taking orders for my infamous "Immune Boost' as well as my powerful 'Anti-Plague' formula...Both come in capsules and liquid tincture. I keep something at work or in my purse at all times...as I hate when I'm exposed to folks coughing and sneezing around me and I have nothing to take till I get home.  I find I can avoid 90% of germs by taking something as soon as possible  And I'm not a fanatic but I'm good at washing my hands at work, or as soon as I get home from being out in public - and especially before you eat.


My basic checklist to have on hand for winters in Western NY:

Immune Boost 
Anti-Plague
Herbal Throat Spray
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Throat Coat Tea
Ginger Tea (fun flavors out there..but helps with fevers)
Honey
Gatorade
Candles and Batteries for flashlights
More canned products on hand in case of electricity issues. 
Splurge on the soft tissues!


Hopefully you will join me in being a little 'squirrely' this season.  This is one area you can control more than you think.  And don't hesitate to take advantage of my online consultation special running - 50% discount - Online Consult Special

New Beginnings

Wow...Middle of September already....!!  August flew by for me...I moved and am still getting settled - I have to admit it took a lot out of me - change...which in this case is good, but it still doesn't mean there isn't a 'getting used to it' period.  I'm finding that out!  But as the dust settles I'm finding lots to appreciate about where we used to be and where I am now.  All in attitude!!

Now the weather is also changing.  Big surprise - lol  But I absolutely LOVE Fall.  I love the colors, the smells, wood burning fireplaces, gorgeous trees, long walks, cool nights-the change over to different clothes again...more blankets on the bed, you get the idea.  Change can be good!  Again it's all attitude.  Granted summer is winding down...but what a beautiful summer we had here, in Western NY.  NO complaints at all...we really enjoyed some amazing weather.  So it's time to move forward.

So with a new season approaching...it's a perfect time to make some changes in our own worlds.  What have you been thinking about or curious about lately that you haven't acted on?  A possible job or career change?  A new exercise or eating program?  A cool vacation trip you've always been curious about?  A class you've been itching to take?  Why not do it?  Or at least make some calls to see what may be possible for you to at least make some plans.  Involve the family or your kids with any of these...make them a part of the process.  Moving forward is what it's all about, and if you are like me, having something to look forward to, gives that process a whole new meaning.

What does this all have to do with our health?  Getting healthy or staying healthy?  Well - as the winter months approach, finding ways to enjoy the days ahead, instead of focusing on the cold and snow, blah days, or possibility of cold and flu season - now you can focus on all the good that you have in front of you.  You see, as I've been saying for years...how you think and how you approach ANYTHING has a direct effect on outcome.  So if you are focused on what's good, positive, etc, you attract more of the same into your daily experience.  It stands to reason that feeling good physically will also be a part of that outcome.

So start making a list of what you enjoy, or would like to enjoy over the next few months.... and you will see all kinds of opportunities present themselves to you - you will see how much Divine Energy wants to be like a fairy-godmother to each of us..and will scramble to help you to 'have it all' and have fun in the process.

PS...Happy Birthday to my sister Joan! :o)

What Age Do You Want To Be?

For many reading this...if you honestly ask yourself how you feel in your body, the way it is right now...you tend to feel your age.  And it doesn't matter how old you are.  Day to day, week to week an ongoing theme plays out where we will find an area to be unhappy with - weight, muscle tone, endurance, skin or hair issues, not to mention health issues we'd like to wave 'bye-bye' to. Maybe a job we detest, relationship that's blah or bank account balance that could be higher.   Put one or more of these 'undesirables' all together and suddenly we feel a certain age.  And as we focus and feel, so we become.

Yikes...put on the brakes!   It's high time to reinvent ourselves!!

Now what does THAT mean?  Well...in a nutshell - reinventing yourself means you have to change your approach constantly to keep making room for improvement!  For me it can mean being hopeful, or learning something new - whether a new health remedy, new recipe, trying a new author or attempting to find new talent I never thought was inside of me!  How many of us have a mental list of things we always wondered about or wanted to try...either we were interested or wondered if we'd be any good at it!  But we talk ourselves out of it!  Reinvention keeps life fresh and gives you a chance to think critically about what parts of your life are working and what parts can be improved.  There's always room for improvement...for isn't that the progression of life?  Or shouldn't it be?  Seeking better for ourselves and those we care about.  Expanding who we are has changed the world we live in. Where would we be without re-invention and expansion??   Electricity, airplanes, health advances, the internet, computers, new business's, The Genie Bra  ....HA...had to throw that last one in to see if you were paying attention.  But you get my point.

I learn from those around me what kind of a difference it really does make.  You do too.  People that show you every day how they either, are or aren't reinventing themselves.  Some stay stuck and focused on the unwanted..and it shows.  Their demeanor, their health issues, their finances, relationships etc.  Then there are those who are looking at what is...and deciding...."hmm...there's got to be something I can focus on better than this!!

To tie this all in from my original title...How old do you want to feel?  I want to feel good, energetic, flexible, eager...not having to think twice about whether or not I can actually do or try something because of my 'age' and how well I''m aging, but to make that decision solely on whether I want to do it or not.  I've felt like that pretty much my entire life - recently I've gotten bogged down with a couple areas that I am not 'wanting' and I am working on my refocusing as every once in a while I start thinking about my age...and frankly I rarely do that when my focus is on what I want.  So this summer is a jump start for me.

You may have to practice this  'Reinventing' of yourself.  How?  Change your approach on a certain subject, tweak you goal, ask someone for help, give in to that idea you've always wanted to try but haven't, and always one that works for me....do something nice for yourself first...THEN do something nice for someone else.  This always clears my mind, opens doors, gives me ideas, lightens my mood and helps me to rethink something or feel better about me.  When this happens, suddenly we walk taller, smile or laugh more, feel more optimistic, and choose differently. 

By doing this consistently, you will always go about your day and life NOT thinking about your age, what you can't do,INSTEAD feeling like life has just begun and what can I do next...Then it doesn't matter what your age is, cause it just keeps propelling us forward and FEELING good in the process.

Appreciating Nature

I can never get enough of nature...of course when it's not freezing out...lol.  But Spring, Summer, Autumn...I almost feel like I could pitch a tent at different scenic spots and be happy.  I did love camping when younger, used to do tent camping - THAT takes a true adventurous spirit.  But it can still be fun.  And I've always loved any type of story or movie where someone can live off of the land and thrive.  I think that's why gardening appeals so much...even my little 'porch' garden this year. 

Today I just got back from a nice brisk stroll at Delaware Lake...across from a nearby park and Zoo.  A lovely spot...that almost feels like you are miles away from city or suburbia - with the lake, geese, Weeping Willow trees and outdoorsy scents.  I had to dodge a little mud and muck in a few areas...but a small price to pay for the beautiful surroundings and peace that one gets when out in Nature.  I hope you will take yourself or friend/family member or favorite pooch out for some quality Nature-time this summer.  Keep an old blanket or folding chair in the car for such moments when the mood strikes and an old book.  Sometimes I just sit and 'be' - a mini meditation of sorts.  But either way, it's very cleansing to the emotional/spiritual side of you, decreases stress and heals on a cellular level.  I hope you take me up on it. 

Interview With Coach/Mentor Catherine Martin

I've been itching to share with my readers how other professionals work with their own issues, whether it be health, relationships, money etc.  You've heard plenty from me over the years, so I thought it would be helpful to share other's perspectives.  Please enjoy the interview below and I hope you can find something that resonates with you. 

About Catherine

I am age 61 and am thoroughly loving this decade! The joy and freedom I feel at this time in life is so glorious and I look forward to each day with an open mind and heart. There is so much to look forward too and I realize am responsible for all of what happens to me in life. I have been consciously aware of the concept of  Law of Attraction principles for 17 years. I have always considered myself to be a positive thinker. I continually challenge old, outdated beliefs and thought processes that were passed on from well meaning parents, teachers, ministers, family, employers etc. I believe I create my own reality and I choose to decide what is right for me and live my life accordingly. I do not allow other people's opinions to have any influence on me and how I choose to live my life. I am very intuitive and I always trust that inner guidance to lead me in the direction that I am meant to go each moment in life. I am now a Law of Attraction Coach and Mentor and it brings me great joy when I can help others tweak and adjust their thinking a bit that then allows for their good to flow more freely and often in their direction.

Katy:  Catherine, how long have you felt that our thoughts and feelings contribute to our physical and emotional health?   In my early 20's I began reading self help books and it started to become very clear then. I also had many family examples that showed that our thoughts and feelings contribute to our physical and emotional help. Those that had the most stress and a more difficult time living their lives for themselves rather than for what they thought others expected always seemed to have the ongoing health issues. Their body and health was always a reflection of what they were thinking and focusing on. The people that talked about and focused on illness were the ones that were sick and experienced poor health. (It also seemed those that read about the side affects of medications in advance usually developed such side affects....!)

Katy:  Can you give any real examples of someone applying these techniques to improve their health? My own example: I created a serious foot injury that was preventing me from walking because I did not want to walk with a particular person anymore. The universe responded and I got two injured toes and a severe foot pain every time I tried to walk. Once I realized that this pain was a result of me not wanting to walk with that particular person I had to laugh at myself and then I immediately started with an affirmation and changed my focus. My affirmation was "My feet are healthy and functioning well. I love walking. It is my favorite form of exercise."  In a very short time all was back to normal!

Katy: What other areas of your life do you find work 'better' with this type of mindset?  Every area of life. Financial, relationships, attitude, mental health, spiritual health and physical health. Aging. There is no one area of life that works better with this type of mindset. I will say that the easiest area to test these principles early on is with money. Money, believe it or not, is one of the easiest things to manifest and that always astounds people.

Katy:   What types of daily practices would you suggest to someone who is dealing with an unwanted condition?   Affirmations first and foremost. For example lets say someone is feeling some back pain. Of course their focus is on the pain and that focus of course creates and attracts more unwanted pain. So personally I would silently repeat an affirmation like : All of the muscles and nerve endings in my back and body are healthy and functioning well. Every cell and part of my body is healthy and functioning well. I move freely and trust my body to serve me well." What we focus on expands in life. The change of focus will create a positive change every time. I also don't buy into the aging stuff that people assume will happen just because you are a certain age. It is the beliefs around the concept of aging that causes the aging issues in the first place. It is all a mindset and I for one only believe you are as young as you think yourself to be.

Wow...this is so wonderful to hear!  I know working with Catherine has renewed my enthusiasm for how I've been applying these same concepts in my life.  This is not rocket science and yes it has been known and around for 1000s of years.  Numerous teachers and healers have been pronouncing it since the beginning of time, From Jesus, Buddha and Gandhi to Wallace Wattles, Napoleon Hill, Andrew Carnegie, Annie Besant, Norman Vincent Peale, Louise Hay and Maherishi Mahesh Yogi to name a few. 

Do not hesitate to contact myself or Catherine with any questions!   Catherine Martin's Site

Fast, Healthy and Figure Friendly 

Ok....just a couple fun and easy recipes to share...easy peasy, which is right up my alley!  I realize I am not the first one to make either of these...but since I 'rediscovered' these recently, I wanted to share some old favorites. 

These are low calorie and ready within 15-20 min or less.  Wow...what could be better?

Ok...my first one is simple and nothing new - just something I've 're-discovered out of necessity - lol, meaning I had not gone shopping and was starved but wanted something relatively healthy and quick.  Peeking inside my freezer I saw a loaf of 'lite' bread...ok...toast is ok but boring for dinner.   As I knew the fridge was pretty bare I spotted the typical staples we tend to have...eggs and in the drawer some 'not too old' sliced Colby cheese.  Fried Egg & Cheese Sandwich!  I also salvaged a still edible Roma tomato as well.  Things were looking up! 

All I did was get out the pan...spray with butter flavored PAM - turn it on medium/low - then I got out my trusty toaster and put the bread in.  While that was toasting I cracked one egg...stirred gently so it was 'scrambled' looking   and that was it.  Kept eye on egg...as it started to set, my toast was ready.  OK I did put butter on one half!!  Sorry but I love butter.  I then put the slice of cheese on the bread and brought it over to the pan on small plate. Sliced tomato thin and added that to sandwich.   By now the egg is pretty much done all the way through, but I flipped it anyway...and turned off burner.  I slid the egg out of the pan right on to the sandwich..and YES they are smaller slices of bread...but hey...it still works for me!  All I can say was YUM.  The cheese makes it...and I have also done it with Lorraine Swiss..but like the Colby better.  I've also paired this meal with a cup of soup, or small salad..but it really hits the spot and no guilt! 

Made this one over weekend!

My other 'go to' quick and healthy meal is tortilla pizzas.  I buy the smallest size...they are 80 calories each. Now depending on what I have...I will use a teaspoon of basil pesto from a jar and spread evenly on a tortilla.  I make 2 of these if I don't have a salad to pair with it.  I then spread a light layer of shredded mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and if I have fresh tomato I slice thin and top with this.  If no fresh tomato I always have 'roasted' diced tomato in my cupboard.  I will open a can...drain well and place the diced tomato on top.  I usually have mushrooms on hand so I add these also.   I bake in preheated oven at 400 for about 12-14 min...watch these as I dont' like 'burnt' cheese.  I slice with pizza cutter and enjoy.  

Again this is soooo tasty and hits the spot.  If I do NOT have the jar of basil pesto, I will take a teaspoon of light olive oil and crush a clove of garlic and spread this over the tortilla...I also usually have fresh basil growing in my kitchen...so will pick off a few leaves and chop to add to this.  Then proceed as above.

Both are yummy and again, hit the spot and are QUICK and HEALTHY.    Give one or both a go!!

What's Shaking?     



When asked this a few weeks ago,  I pretty much sat there for a bit running through my thoughts to see what I could come up with! Turns out I couldn't really come up with anything new, interesting or worth mentioning.  I realize it was probably meant as one of those bland statements like " have a nice day" that we say it to someone in passing, but me being me...I started thinking about that later and realized I have been in a bit of a rut.

Living in Buffalo I use the excuse of our never-ending winter to have allowed me to feel stale in my day to day existence.  But even I know it's an excuse..and allows us to become stale if we start believing it.  I am very good at coming up with great ideas and encouragement for someone else...but I realize no one is really prodding me to do the same.(until recently) :o) But I also know it should start with me!

Sooo...prodded by a recent email for a 'deal' from Living Social - I signed up for a once a week yoga class for 5 weeks - perfect for me as it's close by and only an hour.  Since I'm still in beginner-mode I know I could use a bit of formal education so I can feel good about my practice at home.  I must say it feels good to have something positive to focus on.  Nothing extraordinary, but something.  So now I have an answer when someone asks me 'What's new?'   I'd like to make it a more regular occurrence - my trying something new.  Spring isn't the only time to consider it...actually each week is a great 'starting' point to consider, plan and investigate something you've always been interested in or have wondered about.

And as luck may have it, when I was writing this post, I had also whined to my best bud Heather across the ocean about my blahs - and before I even mentioned this post I was working on, she came up with the same or better idea!  Her idea was to write down the areas in my life that were feeling blah, stale or simply unacceptable to me at this stage in my life.  I was thinking...good lord, where do I start? ha!  But seriously, whether it's a bit of mid-life issues or just feeling out of sorts due to a long stale winter, I knew she was right.


I know the areas that have felt under my skin.  And again as she pointed out...we DO have control and it's up to us to take a stand!!  The Yoga is a beginning for me, for I have felt very hum drum about my lack of exercise.  I have been fairly good at riding my new exercise bike, but I know you have to jazz it up to stay motivated. I'm feeling some positive momentum and yes...SOMETHING to look forward to!  About time too.  Even my daughter is working with a trainer to get in shape and my sister is still a dedicated runner.  Heather is moving along with her yoga. Time to get this butt in gear. 


I hope you will join me in shaking things up a bit...baby steps, but take some steps - I would love to hear some ways you've been SHAKING things up lately to feel better about you and any ups and downs you've moved past.  Another area I've always enjoyed but have been slacking on is making something with my own 2 hands. Cooking a recipe from scratch, planting flowers or veggies/herbs, painting, drawing, making jewelry or something crafty, changing a room around,  crocheting/knitting - you get the idea. Such satisfaction and fulfillment when we give ourselves permission to explore.  

As I said above, can't wait to hear anything you've tackled recently or in the past with positive outcome.  Something maybe you've hesitated on but finally decided "Why not?"  We can all learn from each other.  Will post on my positive morphing over the next month or so as I have already added something since I started writing this a few days ago!! Look out!   Life IS supposed to be fun.

Katy