All this hatred is just too much.
Nazi this, and Confederate that. "It's more complicated than you think.", and "Get involved because if you stand idly by, you are just as much to blame as them", are just a couple phrases I've had hurdled at me. I just can't get away from it no matter where I turn! Thanks to malevolent nature of Facebook, I have parted ways with it once again. Though this time is a bit different- I even went so far as to request that my business page be deleted, and took the time to download the photos I hold dear. So long Facebook, your hatred, direct injections of peoples' opinions, and dis-contempt are not going to be missed; I'm serious about not going back. It's time I get back to the personal touch, to bring one on one interaction back from the brink of extinction- I mean talking on the phone, sending cards, being human, not digital.
I am not a Nazi, I am not part of the Antifa. I want nothing to do with either; both of these groups are fueled by hate. I WILL sit on the fence and watch it unfold. Why? Because I am a bystander, I can see both sides perfectly fine from right here. I'm not a world changer and that is okay because it is not a crime, and I will not be led to believe otherwise. I am an American and I may have more privileges than others but it has nothing to do with the color of my skin. My privilege comes from my hard work, my ability to adapt, and my open mind. I am neither naive nor ignorant, I do read about what is going on, and I do realize that I will face opposition in my beliefs. That's okay! We are human, and in that we are individuals. I do not have to have the same view as you, or you as me! That's what makes it all so beautiful! Embrace your individuality.
Thursday, August 17, 2017
Sunday, September 11, 2016
15 years later
15 years later, I am still in question of what happened. I'm still angry with someone, but I don't know who. Who am I supposed to be angry with? The government tells me it was some terrorists from another country, but I don't know. I have watched and read so many different things, that is has all melted together in a dream/reality sludge of truth vs. lies.
15 years later my heart still aches, and my breath gets caught somewhere in the void between my head and my heart. Images still fresh in my mind as though it happened just this morning. The dust covered people scrambling with sheer terror upon their faces. The helplessness, the fear, the unknowing.
15 years later I still cry. I wasn't even there, but it affected me too. Our country, the one that was invincible became mortal that day. The people who lost their lives, the firemen, policemen, rescue workers who worked tirelessly and died for others. The ones who waited for loved one who would never return.
15 years later I still remember. I remember the feelings, the smell of the air, the clothes I was wearing, the look on my grandfather's face as he told me what was happening. I remember his words: "We weren't ever safe, we were only given a false sense of safety." I remember thinking that it was all over.
15 years later I still wonder. I still cry. I still hurt. I still remember.
Remember. Always.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Happy Birthday, Grandpa!!
Yesterday my grandfather turned 91. As I sit here and ponder his life, I can't even fathom what he's seen; he was born in 1923... I've always been fascinated with his stories of his life on the farm with 10 siblings. Life in during The Great Depression, before WWII, television, and when a man's word was his bond. I can't even imagine life without the complexities of technology.
Wonder how he's lived so long? I have too. Maybe it's because he didn't smoke or drink alcohol. I was curious about this earlier in my life, so I asked him about it. His response was simple and so easy to understand. He said he just never had the desire or need to. After he gave me that clear-cut answer he followed it with a short story. A story that I hold dear- one I would like to share in honor of his day.
As I stated before, my grandfather grew up on a farm in Nebraska. There were 11 children and not a lot of money, in fact, the entire area was depressed... this was during The Great Depression. My grandpa would watch one of his friends steal cigarette butts from the old men smoking out front of the general store and it piqued my grandfather's interest. He decided he would like to try a cigarette because that's what men did, but he was not about to steal. He found a dime one Saturday and snuck off to the general store to by tobacco and rolling papers (which only cost a nickel- amazing) He hid his treasures in his pants and went home. The next day he and that boy (that was stealing butts) snuck off on the way to church and hid on the back side of a hill. The boy rolled them both a cigarette (because my grandfather had no idea what he was doing) they lit their cigarettes and my grandpa said he took one drag and thought surely he was going to die, but he took one more drag just to be sure. He was immediately sick; he decided right then and there he would not ever smoke again... and he hasn't. He gave the remainder of the tobacco and the rolling papers to that boy (who I'm sure was very grateful that he would not have to be smoking butts for a while).
I think his secret to longevity all comes down to happiness. He has always been positive about life. No matter how hard things have gotten for him (and believe me, there were many rough spots) he has kept his head up and just kept going. Unfortunately he lost his wife (my grandmother) of 67 years, earlier this year and I honestly believe his happiness went with her, but he is still taking one day at time- trying to hold it together for us. He doesn't want to celebrate his birthday because he doesn't want to be a bother, and really just doesn't want to be here anymore. He's ready to move on and it breaks my heart, but I hope he gets his wish... it is after all his birthday.
Today we celebrate him and his life, his hardships, and his joys.
Happy Birthday, Grandpa!!
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Life After FaceBook!?!
I do believe so. At least right now I feel that way; the sense of accomplishment to quit something so addicting is still with me. It's a habit far worse than smoking in my world (and believe me, smoking was a tough habit to kick; I had to do it... 4 times). Addicted to the drama and the happenings that have nothing to do with me personally kept my emotions on a constant roller coaster. It deeply saddens me that I would often times wake in the night and wonder what was going on in the world of FB. Disgusting really. What is the pull to be a party to something that does not promote a positive atmosphere? human nature? The human condition of wanting to be a part of something? Life after Facebook is going to be an exciting adventure. I want to be part of something, but not in a virtual world. I want to connect with others on a personal level and not have to worry that a post or what I type is going to offend someone, I want more time to spend with my family to make REAL memories... not ones clouded by what others are doing, or may want to see on FB.
I've never been one to 'keep up with the Jones's' but FB creates a virtual world where we only see the things that people want us to see- a glamorous perception of sorts. I want to live a genuine life- one that include good and bad moments; I refuse to be confined to a half-truth life- I like dirt, and no make-up days; I am not afraid to show it.
Goodbye cruel FaceBook- life is about to get real.
I've never been one to 'keep up with the Jones's' but FB creates a virtual world where we only see the things that people want us to see- a glamorous perception of sorts. I want to live a genuine life- one that include good and bad moments; I refuse to be confined to a half-truth life- I like dirt, and no make-up days; I am not afraid to show it.
Goodbye cruel FaceBook- life is about to get real.
Friday, January 10, 2014
Therapeutic Ramblings
Why does it have to be dark when I get up in the morning!?! I don't remember a time when it was dark until 7am. Weird. Maybe it's part of getting older (forgotten that it's darker in the winter), or maybe the sun is getting older too, and may need to sleep in during the colder months? Either way, it pisses me off. When I wake in the morning, I want to be greeted by the light of the Sun. No wonder there are so many unhappy people during the winter. No one wants to start their day in the dark.
My dogs... ugh. I love all three of them, but come on!! You would think it was my puppy having potty issues, but it isn't- it's my 3 year old 80lb hound mix (Nala). She has been known to have bladder issues, and even uses Proin from time to time... I get it, but why must she only be leaky when she's in my bed!?! Nothing like waking up to a peed bed... if anyone is peeing my bed, it should be me!! (not that I pee the bed anymore- haven't had that issue in about... 30 years).
Then there is the puppy (Holly) She is a 4 month old Maltese. My house is made up of three flights of stairs, so to get to anything important, you must climb or descend at least one flight (but more accurately it's usually 2 flights). Holly can go up the stairs effortlessly, but she runs into a problem when she tries to come back down. It's almost as if she is being forced to jump out of an airplane without a 'chute. She cries and whines like she's being killed. I know that's a scary thing for a 6 pound little ball of fluff, but come on!!!
Lastly, there's Barney (our Yorkie) he is the most jealous, insecure dog I've ever encountered. If he feels that one of the other dogs is getting more attention than him, he will wiggle his way in-between whatever is taking his attention and myself. He's really a sweet guy, but has issues. He can't allow himself to be more than 10 feet from a human at any given time. Thank goodness he's a dog, and not a man... can you imagine!?!
They're like normal family members, and I wouldn't trade them for anything. We all have challenges in life... and apparently, I crave chaos.
My dogs... ugh. I love all three of them, but come on!! You would think it was my puppy having potty issues, but it isn't- it's my 3 year old 80lb hound mix (Nala). She has been known to have bladder issues, and even uses Proin from time to time... I get it, but why must she only be leaky when she's in my bed!?! Nothing like waking up to a peed bed... if anyone is peeing my bed, it should be me!! (not that I pee the bed anymore- haven't had that issue in about... 30 years).
Then there is the puppy (Holly) She is a 4 month old Maltese. My house is made up of three flights of stairs, so to get to anything important, you must climb or descend at least one flight (but more accurately it's usually 2 flights). Holly can go up the stairs effortlessly, but she runs into a problem when she tries to come back down. It's almost as if she is being forced to jump out of an airplane without a 'chute. She cries and whines like she's being killed. I know that's a scary thing for a 6 pound little ball of fluff, but come on!!!
Lastly, there's Barney (our Yorkie) he is the most jealous, insecure dog I've ever encountered. If he feels that one of the other dogs is getting more attention than him, he will wiggle his way in-between whatever is taking his attention and myself. He's really a sweet guy, but has issues. He can't allow himself to be more than 10 feet from a human at any given time. Thank goodness he's a dog, and not a man... can you imagine!?!
They're like normal family members, and I wouldn't trade them for anything. We all have challenges in life... and apparently, I crave chaos.
Friday, January 3, 2014
Take a Closer Look
I wrote this for a school assignment about 3 years ago. I went back and reread it only to find that everything in this paper is still an issue. How can we resolve the tyranny of Walmart? By simply not shopping there- that's how.
Take a Closer Look
From the outside, Wal-Mart seems like a wonderful place, there are letters on the walls from teachers, thanking that particular Wal-Mart for donating a certain item to the teacher’s classroom, there are aisles of advertised savings, and friendly associates greeting people as they enter the front door. Unfortunately, when a closer look is taken at the dark side Wal-Mart has swept under the rug, what can be revealed is that this big-box store is not a gentle giant, but truly a malicious monster. That yellow smiley face, meant to represent great times shopping and saving money, becomes a constant reminder that not everything about Wal-Mart contains happiness. Wal-Mart is detrimental to America because of the unfair treatment towards workers, the negligence of the environment, and the blatant disrespect for America’s economy.
Employees are entitled to a certain amount of rights. These rights include: breaks, being paid for all time worked, and a chance to climb the ladder of growth within the company. Unfortunately, Wal-Mart has been unfair and has frequently denied these rights to their employees. According to the documentary, “WAL-MART: The High Cost of Low Prices” There have been many instances where employees were forced to work through their breaks and lunches; employees have even been forced to work past their scheduled shift without pay for the overtime. These instances have sparked many lawsuits through the past decade, resulting in Wal-Mart having to pay at least 50 million dollars, per suit. Though spokes-people for Wal-Mart claimed they did nothing wrong in these cases. Another example of the unfair treatment was spoken of in the same documentary, when female employees explained how obtaining promotion to a manager level and beyond was not possible if the employee was of female gender (Greenwald 1). Employees deserve to be given these simple rights, and be paid according to the time they work.
Another unfair business practice Wal-Mart has been guilty of pertains to the lack of eligibility for health care benefits. According to the Burt Flickinger, who happens to be employed by Strategic Marketing, a consulting firm; it has been estimated that Wal-Mart spends seventy percent less on all benefits, which includes health care, per employee (D’Innocenzio, Kabel 1). For example, Wal-Mart employees are often hired on a part time status to keep the company from having to offer any benefits. With a part time position, an employee would be considered well beneath the poverty level, and would indeed qualify for medical and other government assistance. For instance Stephen Dalton said, “…US employees on minimum wages are denied healthcare benefits and forced to apply for welfare handouts.” (Dalton 1). This business practice alone keeps Wal-Mart’s already fat pocketbook even fatter. The taxpayer is the one who ends up footing the bill for the employee medical benefits; taxpayer dollars fund the welfare system. Wal-Mart is the biggest chain store in America, with the amount of profit they bring in, they should at least take care of the people who keep the business running smoothly for them.
Wal-Mart has also been found guilty of negligence towards the environment. Wal-Mart has polluted parts of America with their improper placement of fertilizer bags outside their stores. These bags are being placed too close to drainage systems that run into storm drains that connect with streams and rivers which are used for drinking water (Greenwald 1). Another example of the destruction to the environment that Wal-Mart has produced was in 2004, when according to the Justice Department officials, Wal-Mart paid 3.1 million “…to settle Environmental Protection Agency and Justice Department charges that it had violated the Clean Water Act by allowing excessive storm-water runoff from 24 of its construction sites.” (“Environment” 1). With the amount of Wal-Mart stores being built around the United States, they are certainly are capable of causing large amounts of damage to the environment surrounding them.
There are approximately four thousand Wal-Mart stores in the United States. Each one of these stores consumes mass amounts of electricity water and natural gas. These resources cause greenhouse emissions that are breaking down the atmosphere. Evidently claims have been made that Wal-Mart is planning to cut their greenhouse emissions by 20 million metric tons by the year 2015, according to the New World Digest (“Global Environment” 1). However, Wal-Mart’s track record proves that even though a statement has been made the promise may never be fulfilled.
Not only is Wal-Mart ruining the environment, but they are also breaking down America’s economy. Sam Walton opened the first Wal-Mart store in 1962, to bring savings and American products to the American people all under one roof. After his death, the company slowly started bringing more and more products made over-seas into the stores. In fact now, most of the products sold at Wal-Mart are from China, Honduras and India. Outsourcing is one of the leading causes of America’s ailing economy. According to the Los Angeles times, Wal-Mart is planning to increase their workforce up to 3 million workers over the next five years. Susan Chambers who is the executive vice president for human resources with Wal-Mart implied that, “New employees will be hired mostly outside the U.S.” (“Business Briefing” 1). This statement shows that Wal-Mart only cares about the money they can save, and not what they are doing to America.
Wal-Mart is a business; therefore they should have to pay taxes. With a net worth such as this company has, one would think that in any city that has a Wal-Mart, there would be new streets, lush green parks, and that music and art would still be a large part of the school curriculum, from their tax contribution alone. What a misconception. According to the Wall Street Journal, Jesse Drucker states that Wal-Mart has found a way to side step having to pay their taxes. Wal-Mart does this by setting up real estate investment trusts, which own the land that the actual Wal-Mart building is built on. The Wal-Mart building then pays the rent to the investment trust and the rent becomes a tax right off. Therefore, the money that is being paid becomes tax free, thanks to an old tax loophole (1). This data proves that not only does Wal-Mart avoid paying into the economy, but by not paying taxes, they are taking away from the communities in which they reside.
The time is now for all of America to take a closer look. Wal-Mart is taking away from America in every possible way. They are taking advantage of, and mistreating their employees. They are poisoning the environment with their careless practices. Lastly, they do not care what they are doing to the country’s economy. The effect Wal-Mart is having on America is more of a hurt than a help. Sure, money may be saved, but at what cost?
Works Cited
"BUSINESS BRIEFING / RETAIL; Wal-Mart to hire, mostly overseas.” Los Angeles Times.
1 Oct. 2010, Los Angeles Times, ProQuest. Web. 23 Oct. 2010.
D'Innocenzio, Anne and Kabel, Marcus. "Critics question Wal-Mart's initiatives. " Deseret
News. 29 Oct. 2005, ProQuest Newsstand, ProQuest. Web. 21 Oct. 2010.
Dalton, Stephen. "Unhappy shopper: [Final 1 Edition].” The Times 4 May 2006, ProQuest
Newsstand, ProQuest. Web. 21 Oct. 2010.
Drucker, Jesse. “Wal-Mart Cuts Taxes by paying rent to itself.” Wall Street Journal. 1 Feb.
2007. Web.25 Oct. 2010.
"Environment: Wal-Mart Settles Water Issue." Facts On File World News Digest: n. pag.World
News Digest. Facts On File News Services, 1 July 2004. Web. 23 Oct. 2010.
"Global Environment: U.N. Climate Treaty Talks Resume; Other Developments." Facts On File
World News Digest: n. pag. World News Digest. Facts On File News Services, 22 July 2010. Web.23 Oct. 2010.
Walmart: The High Cost of Low Prices. By Robert Greenwald. Dir. Robert Greenwald. Brave
New Films, 2005. DVD.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Moving Forward
It's been an age since I have written and so many things have come and gone. Birthdays, foster dogs, the end of one and beginning of a new year that slipped through without much more than a turning of a page.
We're moving to Colorado in a little less than a week- four days to be exact. After 4 years of living in the warmth of California and Florida, we finally get to go home to four seasons! That in itself is a big exciting adventure, but add in my little stint of sleeplessness (well, not really, but I've been getting about 4-5 hours a night) due to a vitamin deficiency. (who knew vitamin B6 could have such an effect on a body- Yikes! Thanks to my dear friend Dori, I do now)- whew, it's a lot to deal with. We also sent my son out ahead of us to stay with his dad, so he could get settled into school before summer to make friends. My husband travels for work and is on a monthly rotation that brought him home 2 days before my son left, so I gained one, and lost one. I feel like my whole world has been turned upside down and plopped right on top of my head.
So, this move. It was pretty sudden- we finalized all of this on the 6th of this month. We had a contract on a house here in Florida, but for some reason were unable to secure the funding, yet they strung us along telling us that they were going to see if they could go ahead and get the financing another way. Finally my husband and I had had enough, and told them that we couldn't wait any longer due to our lease ending within six weeks. We had to find a place quick! (we hate this house- the property management company is terrible and never fixes anything, so we didn't want to be stuck here another year). We had talked about moving to Colorado a few months prior, but nothing really came out of that. This time we got a little more serious and decided that it would be best for the boys and us as a family unit. As I stated before, my husband travels for work, so I am left alone for a month at a time- in Florida I don't have any friends- the ones I did have moved away. You see, we live in a tourist area where people come to play, not to live, and the ones that do live here have a million dollars in their pockets... they don't want friends like me (an American girl who likes to garden- not prance around in LouBoutin's). Colorado will give me a good circle of friends and family to spend time with. It will also allow my boys to have both parents close. The move will also be good for my husband as his family is there as well- and he likes the changing seasons. My oldest is 16 and I've missed out on most of his sophomore year- I don't want to miss any more. My youngest is 11 and needs the firm hand of his father, so it all just made sense to do this. We kept shying away from the idea because it's an expensive move, we truly love the beach, and we have a few family members that suck (for lack of a better term). But in this situation all the good things outweigh the bad. We've found ways around the obstacles we were facing and are truly happy about the decision.
Now onto this vitamin B6 issue. Ugh, I am ashamed to admit that I suffer from occasional sleep disturbances. Mostly when I have something stressful happening in my life (like most other people). This time it has been strange. I feel tired and go to bed only to toss and turn, and when I finally fall asleep, I only sleep for about 5 hours total- and I am waking up during this time. I tried taking passionflower thinking I was just stressed out, and I also tried The Power to Sleep PM, without any luck- I would still toss and turn the same as without them and not sleep any longer or deeper when I did drift off- I actually think it would take me longer to fall asleep when I took those vs. nothing at all. Another thing about me- I suffer from GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) so when I have a few nights of not so good sleep, I start worrying that there is something wrong with me, and I make the actual situation worse. I start being afraid of going to bed at night, for fear that I might not sleep... then during the day I dwell on how much sleep I got- constantly adding up the numbers in my head- what time did I go to bed, when did I fall asleep? What times did I wake up and how long was I awake each time... yeah, it's really ridiculous. These actions then make me feel depressed, like there is something REALLY TRULY wrong with me. I finally reached out to a trusted friend who does holistic health type stuff. I told her what was going on with me and she asked me a series of questions... she came up with a viatmin B6 deficiency. Strange? Yes, but it makes complete sense. Here, I'll lay it all out for you. Vitamin B6 plays a huge roll in sleep-
'Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin. A profound malfunctioning of the central nervous system, neurologic disorders, muscle weakness and insomnia can result from a deficiency of this crucial nutrient. The effect of Vitamin B6 deficiency on sleep is similar to the effect of serotonin depletion, in terms of decreased deep body temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening of the periods of deep sleep." (Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2083921)
When she told me this I read about it and looked more into the actual vitamin and found some other interesting information. I had been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis about a week earlier, and that is also a symptom of deficiency I was excited to hear that I could easily fix (hopefully) this issue and was looking forward to trying it out. Well, that night (night before last) I popped my vitamins and went to bed (along with 1/4 of a unisom natural) and I was up for SO long... don't ever take vitamins before bed. LoL! I wanted to run a marathon at midnight. Needless to say I didn't sleep very well. I got over to the Vitamin Shoppe yesterday and got some B6- took 25mg in the afternoon. I felt great and it didn't cause me any strange feelings. Around 9pm, I went to bed and feel asleep shortly thereafter. I woke a few times and again around 2 when my husband crawled into bed (which I had a hard time falling asleep again) but I finally did and I slept until 6:40 am (with some wake ups in there). I feel tired this morning, but I slept longer than I have been, so it's a start!
Crossing my fingers and praying that our move goes smoothly and that everything settles down soon. I guess I will try to get on here and do this more now, since I will (hopefully) have more interesting things to type about. :)
Philippians 4:12-13 ‘I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.’
We're moving to Colorado in a little less than a week- four days to be exact. After 4 years of living in the warmth of California and Florida, we finally get to go home to four seasons! That in itself is a big exciting adventure, but add in my little stint of sleeplessness (well, not really, but I've been getting about 4-5 hours a night) due to a vitamin deficiency. (who knew vitamin B6 could have such an effect on a body- Yikes! Thanks to my dear friend Dori, I do now)- whew, it's a lot to deal with. We also sent my son out ahead of us to stay with his dad, so he could get settled into school before summer to make friends. My husband travels for work and is on a monthly rotation that brought him home 2 days before my son left, so I gained one, and lost one. I feel like my whole world has been turned upside down and plopped right on top of my head.
So, this move. It was pretty sudden- we finalized all of this on the 6th of this month. We had a contract on a house here in Florida, but for some reason were unable to secure the funding, yet they strung us along telling us that they were going to see if they could go ahead and get the financing another way. Finally my husband and I had had enough, and told them that we couldn't wait any longer due to our lease ending within six weeks. We had to find a place quick! (we hate this house- the property management company is terrible and never fixes anything, so we didn't want to be stuck here another year). We had talked about moving to Colorado a few months prior, but nothing really came out of that. This time we got a little more serious and decided that it would be best for the boys and us as a family unit. As I stated before, my husband travels for work, so I am left alone for a month at a time- in Florida I don't have any friends- the ones I did have moved away. You see, we live in a tourist area where people come to play, not to live, and the ones that do live here have a million dollars in their pockets... they don't want friends like me (an American girl who likes to garden- not prance around in LouBoutin's). Colorado will give me a good circle of friends and family to spend time with. It will also allow my boys to have both parents close. The move will also be good for my husband as his family is there as well- and he likes the changing seasons. My oldest is 16 and I've missed out on most of his sophomore year- I don't want to miss any more. My youngest is 11 and needs the firm hand of his father, so it all just made sense to do this. We kept shying away from the idea because it's an expensive move, we truly love the beach, and we have a few family members that suck (for lack of a better term). But in this situation all the good things outweigh the bad. We've found ways around the obstacles we were facing and are truly happy about the decision.
Now onto this vitamin B6 issue. Ugh, I am ashamed to admit that I suffer from occasional sleep disturbances. Mostly when I have something stressful happening in my life (like most other people). This time it has been strange. I feel tired and go to bed only to toss and turn, and when I finally fall asleep, I only sleep for about 5 hours total- and I am waking up during this time. I tried taking passionflower thinking I was just stressed out, and I also tried The Power to Sleep PM, without any luck- I would still toss and turn the same as without them and not sleep any longer or deeper when I did drift off- I actually think it would take me longer to fall asleep when I took those vs. nothing at all. Another thing about me- I suffer from GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) so when I have a few nights of not so good sleep, I start worrying that there is something wrong with me, and I make the actual situation worse. I start being afraid of going to bed at night, for fear that I might not sleep... then during the day I dwell on how much sleep I got- constantly adding up the numbers in my head- what time did I go to bed, when did I fall asleep? What times did I wake up and how long was I awake each time... yeah, it's really ridiculous. These actions then make me feel depressed, like there is something REALLY TRULY wrong with me. I finally reached out to a trusted friend who does holistic health type stuff. I told her what was going on with me and she asked me a series of questions... she came up with a viatmin B6 deficiency. Strange? Yes, but it makes complete sense. Here, I'll lay it all out for you. Vitamin B6 plays a huge roll in sleep-
'Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin. A profound malfunctioning of the central nervous system, neurologic disorders, muscle weakness and insomnia can result from a deficiency of this crucial nutrient. The effect of Vitamin B6 deficiency on sleep is similar to the effect of serotonin depletion, in terms of decreased deep body temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening of the periods of deep sleep." (Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2083921)
When she told me this I read about it and looked more into the actual vitamin and found some other interesting information. I had been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis about a week earlier, and that is also a symptom of deficiency I was excited to hear that I could easily fix (hopefully) this issue and was looking forward to trying it out. Well, that night (night before last) I popped my vitamins and went to bed (along with 1/4 of a unisom natural) and I was up for SO long... don't ever take vitamins before bed. LoL! I wanted to run a marathon at midnight. Needless to say I didn't sleep very well. I got over to the Vitamin Shoppe yesterday and got some B6- took 25mg in the afternoon. I felt great and it didn't cause me any strange feelings. Around 9pm, I went to bed and feel asleep shortly thereafter. I woke a few times and again around 2 when my husband crawled into bed (which I had a hard time falling asleep again) but I finally did and I slept until 6:40 am (with some wake ups in there). I feel tired this morning, but I slept longer than I have been, so it's a start!
Crossing my fingers and praying that our move goes smoothly and that everything settles down soon. I guess I will try to get on here and do this more now, since I will (hopefully) have more interesting things to type about. :)
Philippians 4:12-13 ‘I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.’
Thursday, November 29, 2012
The Calm Before the Storm Called December
There are 2 days left in November, which means there are 2 days left of relaxing and being lazy; all hell is about to break loose when that calender flips to that next page. I just took a peak at what I have in store for just the first week of December... oh my goodness. Meetings and hair appointments- all the preparations for preparations. ACK!
Most people have a bunch of birthdays in one month somewhere during the year. Well, ours happens to be December. Both my sons, my stepson, my sister in law, cousins, friends... yikes... then you have to add in our anniversary (yeah, who does something as silly as get married a week before Christmas? My husband and I, of course!) Throw that all together with Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years, and you have yourself a month long party! It is a lot of fun, but expensive and a bit overwhelming... it takes the rest of the year to recover!
I'm prepared this year. I have already finished my Christmas shopping, have all the presents wrapped and placed lovingly under the tree that is already decorated. All we have left to do is bake cookies, do birthday shopping, and travel across the country to get to Grandma's house. Over the river and through the woods would be a much quicker trip, but unfortunately Colorado is a lifetime away from home.
Once we get to good ole Colorado the appointment book will fill up quickly. We have a couple weeks to cram a lifetime of people into. Dinner here, breakfast there, arcade time, and hockey games, Christmas light scavenger hunts, church, family, family, family.
Oh the adventure! So much for shorts and flip-flops on Christmas... more like running shoes and parkas. Ready... set.... GO!
Most people have a bunch of birthdays in one month somewhere during the year. Well, ours happens to be December. Both my sons, my stepson, my sister in law, cousins, friends... yikes... then you have to add in our anniversary (yeah, who does something as silly as get married a week before Christmas? My husband and I, of course!) Throw that all together with Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years, and you have yourself a month long party! It is a lot of fun, but expensive and a bit overwhelming... it takes the rest of the year to recover!
I'm prepared this year. I have already finished my Christmas shopping, have all the presents wrapped and placed lovingly under the tree that is already decorated. All we have left to do is bake cookies, do birthday shopping, and travel across the country to get to Grandma's house. Over the river and through the woods would be a much quicker trip, but unfortunately Colorado is a lifetime away from home.
Once we get to good ole Colorado the appointment book will fill up quickly. We have a couple weeks to cram a lifetime of people into. Dinner here, breakfast there, arcade time, and hockey games, Christmas light scavenger hunts, church, family, family, family.
Oh the adventure! So much for shorts and flip-flops on Christmas... more like running shoes and parkas. Ready... set.... GO!
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Eating Healthy on a Budget
I know it sounds insane, right!?! I have so many people telling me that it is near impossible to eat healthy on a shoestring budget. That's true, but it's hard to eat at all on a shoestring budget, so why not save yourself some medical costs and use that money wisely!?! We've lived on a tight budget and have still eaten healthy. I am in no way a doctor, or a health adviser... this works for me and my family, and I hope that it will give you ideas on how to eat in a more healthful way and still stay within your budget.
FIRST OF ALL!! Make a weekly menu. I do this by looking over the internet, and yes, Pinterest. There are a lot of fabulous recipes, in fact my new favorite noodle/salad/veggie sauce is a Pinterest jackpot find. (I will be sure to add a link to the walnut-sage pesto at the bottom of the page) Now, back to what I was talking about... a menu. It is your most valuable tool in living on a budget. By using this, you set yourself up for success at the grocery store and at home! (then you aren't running around at 5:30 trying to figure out how to thaw chicken breast to make fajitas- only to remember that you forgot to pick up green peppers) You can be a kitchen superstar.
To make the menu I write out all the days of the week that I need to be shopping for- then I go to the cookbooks and the internet. I start filling in the dinners, and simultaneously write down the ingredients that I know I do not have on hand on a grocery list (then I don't forget anything). After I complete the dinner portion of the list, I add in other needs for breakfasts and lunch. Those are real easy around here; we mostly have oatmeal with fruit for breakfast, and leftovers or a salad for lunch.
The next step is going to the grocery store... this is the tricky part; you have to make sure to stay on task and not stray from your list. The grocery store is full of temptation but you can do it! Stick to your list! My best piece of advice is, if you can cut costs by buying in raw form do it. (like beans- you can buy and entire bag of black beans for about 2.00, where you can get a can of black beans for 1.50, but it's only about 1/8 of what that bag is going to yield. (I cook an entire bag at a time and put it in the freezer to use as needed)
Here is a list of cost cutting foods:
Lentils- they cook up fast and can be used in all kinds of dishes. (our favorite is tacos)
Black beans- great in burritos, and salads
Brown rice- Bleh. Not a fan, but we don't use white rice so it's used in place of white rice.
Tofu- It's half the price of meat and can be just as fun. It's taken me sometime, but I am actually starting to like it.
Garbanzo beans- The main ingredient in hummus. Once you make your own hummus, you won't ever want to buy it.
Frozen fruits and veggies- Sometimes the best option. The products are flash frozen, so they retain more of the nutritional value than many fresh options.
Meat in bulk- Often there is a price break for buying the bigger packages. Sure, you have to break it down into smaller packaging, but it is definitely a money saver.
In-season produce- You will know which these are by the cost; the store usually has them on sale. I try to only buy "in season" fruits and veggies; they are usually more local than let's say a banana. (unless you live where there are banana trees).
One other bit of advice is to stay to the outside perimeter (and the bean isle) of the store to keep yourself away from temptation.
After your shopping adventure (that probably left you feeling confident and proud of yourself for not going crazy in the ice cream or cereal isle- those used to be my two main downfalls) it is time to prep this bounty of food. If you purchased meat in bulk, take care of that first. You can quick soak the beans at the same time. You can even go so far as to cut up all your veggies and fruits for quick access. Now at this stage you are well on your way to eating healthy on a budget!!
Sometimes you will falter, don't give up! It takes dedication and persistence (just like anything else that is worthwhile) in the end it will pay off... monetarily, physically and mentally! Enjoy!
(and as promised, here is the link to the recipe for the fabulous pesto)
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipe/pasta/linguine-with-walnut-sage-pesto/
FIRST OF ALL!! Make a weekly menu. I do this by looking over the internet, and yes, Pinterest. There are a lot of fabulous recipes, in fact my new favorite noodle/salad/veggie sauce is a Pinterest jackpot find. (I will be sure to add a link to the walnut-sage pesto at the bottom of the page) Now, back to what I was talking about... a menu. It is your most valuable tool in living on a budget. By using this, you set yourself up for success at the grocery store and at home! (then you aren't running around at 5:30 trying to figure out how to thaw chicken breast to make fajitas- only to remember that you forgot to pick up green peppers) You can be a kitchen superstar.
To make the menu I write out all the days of the week that I need to be shopping for- then I go to the cookbooks and the internet. I start filling in the dinners, and simultaneously write down the ingredients that I know I do not have on hand on a grocery list (then I don't forget anything). After I complete the dinner portion of the list, I add in other needs for breakfasts and lunch. Those are real easy around here; we mostly have oatmeal with fruit for breakfast, and leftovers or a salad for lunch.
The next step is going to the grocery store... this is the tricky part; you have to make sure to stay on task and not stray from your list. The grocery store is full of temptation but you can do it! Stick to your list! My best piece of advice is, if you can cut costs by buying in raw form do it. (like beans- you can buy and entire bag of black beans for about 2.00, where you can get a can of black beans for 1.50, but it's only about 1/8 of what that bag is going to yield. (I cook an entire bag at a time and put it in the freezer to use as needed)
Here is a list of cost cutting foods:
Lentils- they cook up fast and can be used in all kinds of dishes. (our favorite is tacos)
Black beans- great in burritos, and salads
Brown rice- Bleh. Not a fan, but we don't use white rice so it's used in place of white rice.
Tofu- It's half the price of meat and can be just as fun. It's taken me sometime, but I am actually starting to like it.
Garbanzo beans- The main ingredient in hummus. Once you make your own hummus, you won't ever want to buy it.
Frozen fruits and veggies- Sometimes the best option. The products are flash frozen, so they retain more of the nutritional value than many fresh options.
Meat in bulk- Often there is a price break for buying the bigger packages. Sure, you have to break it down into smaller packaging, but it is definitely a money saver.
In-season produce- You will know which these are by the cost; the store usually has them on sale. I try to only buy "in season" fruits and veggies; they are usually more local than let's say a banana. (unless you live where there are banana trees).
One other bit of advice is to stay to the outside perimeter (and the bean isle) of the store to keep yourself away from temptation.
After your shopping adventure (that probably left you feeling confident and proud of yourself for not going crazy in the ice cream or cereal isle- those used to be my two main downfalls) it is time to prep this bounty of food. If you purchased meat in bulk, take care of that first. You can quick soak the beans at the same time. You can even go so far as to cut up all your veggies and fruits for quick access. Now at this stage you are well on your way to eating healthy on a budget!!
Sometimes you will falter, don't give up! It takes dedication and persistence (just like anything else that is worthwhile) in the end it will pay off... monetarily, physically and mentally! Enjoy!
(and as promised, here is the link to the recipe for the fabulous pesto)
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipe/pasta/linguine-with-walnut-sage-pesto/
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
My Take on Diets and Excercise
I started weightlifting about 3.5 months ago now. Jamie Eason became my inspiration, and mentor (via her program on the bodybuilding.com site). I've been at the gym almost every morning trying to achieve the body, as Jamie puts it: "I have always dreamed of". I have made a lot of progress, but I'm not where I want to be. Time is the ultimate answer, along with diet and exercise. 80% of a person's health regimen is dependent on their diet. That old saying: "You can't out train a bad diet" is always running through my head. The diet part is the hardest aspect for me.
I followed the eating plan that Jamie uses in her LiveFit program, but I couldn't see how approximately 200 grams of protein was going to benefit me. I did it for about 6 weeks, but according to my doctor, my kidneys would be overworked, and my body more than likely end up flushing more than half of it anyway, so I stopped... not to mention it made me bloated and gave me the worst gas EVER! (yeah, I know I am a female, and shouldn't disclose this sort of info- pfft, someone needs to be honest). Also I must disclose that I have a serious distaste for meat and eggs to begin with (Every now and then I like a burger or a chicken breast, but only like once or twice a month), so you can only imagine how happy I was to ditch the massive amounts of flesh.
I have researched and read so many things about different eating plans (or diets, as it were). I can't believe how many are out there right now! Paleo, dairy free, gluten free, fruitarian, 80/10/10, clean eating, vegan, high fat raw vegan, lacto-ovo, and finally, there's the normal everyday American diet of over-processed sugar laden, fast food.
I have a dear friend that is doing the 80/10/10 and she is thriving on it. She is so happy that she is the lightest she's been in 10 years and says she feels great. I have seriously thought about doing it, but from the scientific side of it, it's not going to be a good thing for me in the long run. Keeping sugar levels that high all the time while not having any real fats... sounds like a recipe for disaster. Talk about insulin resistance and premature aging I'm almost 35, I need to be careful of what I'm doing to my "starting to get smile lines" skin.
I went vegan for awhile, but felt tired and out of touch with myself. The longer I did it, the more I realized that the mentality of vegan is good for the most part, but it seems that it's almost a cult following. Like people are so longing to be a part of something that they let this "lifestyle" take over. They become obsessed with animal rights and "being vegan" heck, some of them even go so far as to get "vegan" tattooed on them. (In my eyes that's just a little strange). More power to them though, but it wasn't the answer for me.
Those other diets are all great, but I can't see myself sticking to anything. I just eat what I want, but in moderation. I want a burger? I eat a burger. A salad? I eat one of those! I don't think that a person should cut anything out of their life completely... it's all about learning self control. I don't drink soda, and I rarely eat candy, but I don't tell myself that I can't have it. It's just something I save for special occasions (or that time of the month- which usually is a "special" occasion). Sure, my goals may take a little longer to reach than if I were to follow "the perfect" bodybuilding diet, but I am happy excited to go to the gym everyday... and that's all that matters.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
More Random Thoughts
How can I teach my children to be productive humans if I'm not one myself? (OH!?! You thought that I was? Well, that's what you get for looking in through the foggy window; you see my life in pictures- like us normal people see a movie star- you only see what I want you to see.) What am I showing them? That it's okay to live in self loathing, and that constantly pushing yourself to be perfect is the norm? I don't want them to be shallow and boring, or afraid to stand up for what they believe in. I want to raise boys who turn into men that women are proud to have as husbands. Men that pray, men aware of who they are, and truly love themselves. But in order to do that- I have to start with me. I do pray, but those other 2 things, HA HA they are my works in progress.
Who am I? A wife who is irrevocably in love with my husband, a mother that will stop at nothing to protect my children, a child of God (that is almost too big for me to wrap my mind around at times), a woman that lives passionately and yet lives in fear of judgement, who puts every ounce of effort I have into all I do, who subconsciously competes with myself in everything I do. When I start something I finish it, when I want something I get it, I strive to reach my goals. I walk around with my head in the clouds, and that's where my problem resides; I lost all my dreams... I've been too wrapped up in making everyone else happy, and putting them first made it hard to keep track of my own desires. Until now, I've lived my life standing on this tiny shelf- afraid that if I step too far one way, I may fall off and lose my spot. I now understand that I do not need a certain spot; I can fit anywhere. I can be who I am, who I want to be... I can embrace my individuality; I am a rare bird, an oddly shaped puzzle piece.
Who gives a rat's ass what others think of me (yeah, that's right, I swear- like a sailor most of the time).
I am walking away from the mis-information and bullshit that I was force fed as a child. (The constant drilling of pleasing others for affirmation of being a good person, and the restrictions on what I could say just to keep from hurting other's feelings is wrong when it impedes my own.) Fuck feminism and being politically correct. The church can take organized religion with their rabid dogma and shove it where the sun don't shine- I'm tired of being afraid and living in fear of being judged. I'm ready to live, and to live life to the fullest while being true to who I am, so I can show my kids how it's done.
Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.
Lao Tzu
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Take a Moment
Many of us may try to get through the day without remembering the pain we all felt 18 years ago. Instead of trying to forget, try to remember how life was before that fateful day. Remember the invincibility we felt as a country, the blind eye we turned to other countries... until that day. Visualize where you were when it all went that second plane hit. I'm sure you can be exact. I can remember the way the air smelled, the clothes I was wearing, even the thoughts that were racing through my mind. Now try to remember where you were the day before... I can't, can you? I've read that traumatic events can have that effect.
No matter what your thoughts on the situation; the hows and the whys, it was a day that changed the United States- a day that marked the demise of our carefree spirit.
Take a moment to remember the people who lost their lives on this day. Including the 100's of people who leaped to their deaths. They knew there was no help for them. I have so much respect for those people- way to take control of destiny. I myself can't say what I would have done, probably cried like a little baby and prayed like a saint.
Pray for the families that are still dealing with the loss of loved ones, and pray for all Americans who lost a piece of themselves that day.
If you have time thank a public servant today; without them, there are certain situations that we could not handle alone. They risk their lives and give all for those they don't even know. They stand in harm's way to get you out of it.
And finally, take a moment today to cry if you need to; this tragedy affected us all.
(*All photos were taken at the traveling 9/11 exhibit at the WWII Museum in New Orleans, LA. )
No matter what your thoughts on the situation; the hows and the whys, it was a day that changed the United States- a day that marked the demise of our carefree spirit.
Pray for the families that are still dealing with the loss of loved ones, and pray for all Americans who lost a piece of themselves that day.
If you have time thank a public servant today; without them, there are certain situations that we could not handle alone. They risk their lives and give all for those they don't even know. They stand in harm's way to get you out of it.
(*All photos were taken at the traveling 9/11 exhibit at the WWII Museum in New Orleans, LA. )
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Updates of Craziness
Whew! Another month is almost ready to come to an end- thank goodness; it's been a tough one. I feel that this was a month of holding on while letting go- finding out what I am really made of. As I stated in my previous posts, I started an Etsy venture making pillows and hemp jewelry, as of my last update I hadn't sold anything and couldn't really care less about it. Well, all that has changed. I have an order! It's not just an order, but an order that is of massive proportions! 23 custom pillows! It all started about 2 weeks ago with a simple email which blossomed into something bigger than I had imagined. It felt like I was living in a dream! Heh- I still feel like I'm in a dream- and sure I will feel that way until the order is completed... waiting for my fabric order to come in the mail is driving me mad! I had prayed for a miracle, and boy did I ever receive one!
FLVS is working out fabulously for my son's schooling. It only takes us about 5 hours to complete an entire day's worth the schoolwork, and he doesn't have to sit on a bus wasting most of his afternoon. We are spending a lot of time together and I am really enjoying working with him- I am honored to be the one who teaches him the skills he needs to succeed. No, it's not an ego trip- it's such an inspiration to see the look on a child's face when they learn something new for the first time. The way the eyes light up- you can almost see the light bulb turn on above their head. He is still gets frustrated with the work, but it is easier to avoid a meltdown now. I know his learning style and can change things around to make it easier for him. We still have our issues and are trying to settle into a nice groove, but just like everything else, it will take time. I'm sure that we will become a well-oiled machine in not time at all.
My husband and I spent the last two weeks apart. No, not due to a disagreement (I don't think we even have anything that we could be so mad about that it would take that long to get over). He had a class up in TN for a special license that the FAA requires a GIANT test for. It's comprised of a written, oral, and practical exam... this really takes a full two weeks to complete. Well, I am happy to announce that he passed and is now A&P certified. How awesome is that!?! Yeah, I thought so too. I'm so proud of him!!
Hurricane Isaac was slated to hit Walton County earlier this week (which is where we live), we were evacuated on Monday. Well thankfully, it shifted to the west and we were completely missed. We are now today experiencing rain, and have had 9 tornado warnings in the past 12 hours, but at least we aren't flooded and our house is still standing. When the evacuation was put into place we drove all the way up to Birmingham, Alabama to a hotel that I won't mention; it was the worst place ever! It smelled of mildew, was dirty (our little dog found a prescription pill on the floor) and they charged 35.00 a night per dog for pet fees! It would have been cheaper to leave our dogs at a kennel! They screwed up our bill and overcharged us. At least it was a safe place that we could stay while our home was in danger. It was a fun adventure... I guess. The 5 hours each way provided lots of fabulous scenery and even a wonderful sunrise on our way up. The amount of old run-down buildings on 331 is unbelievable. I would love to take a week to explore them. Yeah, just camping along the side in the woods. WHAT!?! you say there's wild pigs in those woods? Heh- never-mind I'll take an afternoon to shop antique stores instead.
Well, there you have it. The craziness that is my life. It's mine though and I wouldn't change it for anything.
FLVS is working out fabulously for my son's schooling. It only takes us about 5 hours to complete an entire day's worth the schoolwork, and he doesn't have to sit on a bus wasting most of his afternoon. We are spending a lot of time together and I am really enjoying working with him- I am honored to be the one who teaches him the skills he needs to succeed. No, it's not an ego trip- it's such an inspiration to see the look on a child's face when they learn something new for the first time. The way the eyes light up- you can almost see the light bulb turn on above their head. He is still gets frustrated with the work, but it is easier to avoid a meltdown now. I know his learning style and can change things around to make it easier for him. We still have our issues and are trying to settle into a nice groove, but just like everything else, it will take time. I'm sure that we will become a well-oiled machine in not time at all.
My husband and I spent the last two weeks apart. No, not due to a disagreement (I don't think we even have anything that we could be so mad about that it would take that long to get over). He had a class up in TN for a special license that the FAA requires a GIANT test for. It's comprised of a written, oral, and practical exam... this really takes a full two weeks to complete. Well, I am happy to announce that he passed and is now A&P certified. How awesome is that!?! Yeah, I thought so too. I'm so proud of him!!
Hurricane Isaac was slated to hit Walton County earlier this week (which is where we live), we were evacuated on Monday. Well thankfully, it shifted to the west and we were completely missed. We are now today experiencing rain, and have had 9 tornado warnings in the past 12 hours, but at least we aren't flooded and our house is still standing. When the evacuation was put into place we drove all the way up to Birmingham, Alabama to a hotel that I won't mention; it was the worst place ever! It smelled of mildew, was dirty (our little dog found a prescription pill on the floor) and they charged 35.00 a night per dog for pet fees! It would have been cheaper to leave our dogs at a kennel! They screwed up our bill and overcharged us. At least it was a safe place that we could stay while our home was in danger. It was a fun adventure... I guess. The 5 hours each way provided lots of fabulous scenery and even a wonderful sunrise on our way up. The amount of old run-down buildings on 331 is unbelievable. I would love to take a week to explore them. Yeah, just camping along the side in the woods. WHAT!?! you say there's wild pigs in those woods? Heh- never-mind I'll take an afternoon to shop antique stores instead.
Well, there you have it. The craziness that is my life. It's mine though and I wouldn't change it for anything.
Psalm 125:1 Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
Friday, August 10, 2012
One Thing Leads To Another
I always try to think of a title for my post before I write it, but I find that limits what I can write about. I am feeling pulled apart at the moment and have so many things on my mind. Where to start?
STARTING adventures-
Is something my son is really good at. Though this is one is will be like no other he has experienced. Well, I should say we are going to be following our own yellow brick road. We are blazing the virtual school trail. (http://www.connectionsacademy.com/)We received our materials from the UPS guy last night, and got everything organized and put away today. (thanks to the Haven House Thrift store for having a beautiful cabinet- in our price range- to house all the books and supplies in an organized fashion). I read through the lessons for the first day, and I think I am more nervous than my son is. I am afraid that I am going to fail him, or not teach him the things that he needs to succeed. Thank goodness for that virtual teacher that will be sure that we stay on track. And thank goodness for a friend and her daughter that are also blazing their own virtual school trail- we can be there for each-other and that makes me feel so much better. Here's to a smooth school year bereft of bullies, teachers that don't have time, and nasty school lunches...
NASTINESS makes me think-
The world of medicine is sick in need of a check up and some bed rest. Big pharma has doctors so wrapped around their fingers that they are poisoning people, and they try to justify it with the benefits outweighing the harm. For instance, let's look at Coumadin. It's a blood thinner that millions of people are on to treat anything from: "Myocardial Reinfarction Prevention, Blood Clot in Lung, Treatment to Prevent a Blood Clot in the Lung, Prevention for a Blood Clot going to the Brain, Obstruction of a Blood Vessel by a Blood Clot, Prevent Blood Clot with Fast Irregular Heart Rate, Blood Clot, Blood Clot in a Deep Vein, Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention, Blood Clots in Deep Veins and in Blood Vessel of the Lung, Blood Clot caused by Artificial Heart Valve." (http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-4069-Coumadin+Oral.aspx?drugid=4069&drugname=Coumadin+Oral&pagenumber=4) But did you know that it it is also rat poison? (http://www.setma.com/pdfFiles/The%20Story%20of%20Coumadin.pdf)
The side effect list is longer than the list of ailments that it treats!! "Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); back, side, muscle, joint, or stomach pain; black, tarry, or bloody stools; blood in the urine (pink or brown urine); bloody or coffee ground-like vomit; chest pain; decreased urination; dizziness; fainting; fever; numbness or tingling; pain, unusual color, or temperature change in any area of the body; pale skin; purple, dark, or painful toes; shortness of breath; skin sores or ulcers; stroke symptoms (eg, confusion, slurred speech, vision problems, one-sided weakness); sudden, severe pain in your legs, feet, or toes; trouble swallowing; unexplained swelling; unusual bruising or bleeding (eg, nosebleed, unusual bleeding from gums, increased bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual or vaginal bleeding, coughing up blood, bleeding at the injection site); unusual headache or weakness; unusual pain, swelling, or discomfort; wounds or sores that do not heal properly; yellowing of the skin or eyes." (http://www.drugs.com/sfx/coumadin-side-effects.html)
What these doctors don't tell you is that you can take Ginkgo to receive the same benefit... or you can take garlic pills, ginger, turmeric, and omega 3's. Why is it that they don't give people this option? When did natural remedies become shunned? Where would modern medicine be if there weren't natural cures? It wouldn't be... all medicines originated as natural substances; even good ole Coumadin was a sweet clover to begin with. ARGH! It's enough to make a person go crazy.
CRAZINESS is the realization that-
I actually opened an Etsy store. http://www.etsy.com/shop/Muttnagerie I haven't sold one thing yet, although I made a set of the letter pillows for a friend of mine (as a birthday gift) and her gratitude was more valuable than any payment I could ever receive (unless someone offered me a million dollars). I enjoy crafting, but I also realize that many people would rather buy mass produced pieces of junk since we live in a world that has learned to use, abuse, and throw away- therefore most people are wanting to spend as little money as possible to acquire their next possession. So my wares are not something that fit into that slot. I put time into my crafts and want to make people aware that I am not going to be taken advantage of- that my things are worth more than something a machine pieces together. I sometimes go to bed with band-aids from the needle wounds that are inflicted due to me sewing by hand. (HA- makes me sound like I can't sew).
SEWING won't fix-
The Ron Paul book the dogs massacred today. They decimated it, yet left the Star Wars book completely intact- including the dust jacket... what does that say? They don't like politics? Ha! It's probably because the book was more bite sized. Dang dogs anyway. Speaking of dogs- Our backyard is so flooded that there are islands of grass. It's funny to watch the dogs leap from one dry spot to the next. I guess we will have to endure another wet day, as the weather guys say that the sun won't return until Sunday.I wish it would stop already. Grrr... Bleh- guess I better get up and go wash laundry so I have some comfy pants to lounge in tomorrow.
STARTING adventures-
Is something my son is really good at. Though this is one is will be like no other he has experienced. Well, I should say we are going to be following our own yellow brick road. We are blazing the virtual school trail. (http://www.connectionsacademy.com/)We received our materials from the UPS guy last night, and got everything organized and put away today. (thanks to the Haven House Thrift store for having a beautiful cabinet- in our price range- to house all the books and supplies in an organized fashion). I read through the lessons for the first day, and I think I am more nervous than my son is. I am afraid that I am going to fail him, or not teach him the things that he needs to succeed. Thank goodness for that virtual teacher that will be sure that we stay on track. And thank goodness for a friend and her daughter that are also blazing their own virtual school trail- we can be there for each-other and that makes me feel so much better. Here's to a smooth school year bereft of bullies, teachers that don't have time, and nasty school lunches...
NASTINESS makes me think-
The world of medicine is sick in need of a check up and some bed rest. Big pharma has doctors so wrapped around their fingers that they are poisoning people, and they try to justify it with the benefits outweighing the harm. For instance, let's look at Coumadin. It's a blood thinner that millions of people are on to treat anything from: "Myocardial Reinfarction Prevention, Blood Clot in Lung, Treatment to Prevent a Blood Clot in the Lung, Prevention for a Blood Clot going to the Brain, Obstruction of a Blood Vessel by a Blood Clot, Prevent Blood Clot with Fast Irregular Heart Rate, Blood Clot, Blood Clot in a Deep Vein, Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention, Blood Clots in Deep Veins and in Blood Vessel of the Lung, Blood Clot caused by Artificial Heart Valve." (http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-4069-Coumadin+Oral.aspx?drugid=4069&drugname=Coumadin+Oral&pagenumber=4) But did you know that it it is also rat poison? (http://www.setma.com/pdfFiles/The%20Story%20of%20Coumadin.pdf)
The side effect list is longer than the list of ailments that it treats!! "Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); back, side, muscle, joint, or stomach pain; black, tarry, or bloody stools; blood in the urine (pink or brown urine); bloody or coffee ground-like vomit; chest pain; decreased urination; dizziness; fainting; fever; numbness or tingling; pain, unusual color, or temperature change in any area of the body; pale skin; purple, dark, or painful toes; shortness of breath; skin sores or ulcers; stroke symptoms (eg, confusion, slurred speech, vision problems, one-sided weakness); sudden, severe pain in your legs, feet, or toes; trouble swallowing; unexplained swelling; unusual bruising or bleeding (eg, nosebleed, unusual bleeding from gums, increased bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual or vaginal bleeding, coughing up blood, bleeding at the injection site); unusual headache or weakness; unusual pain, swelling, or discomfort; wounds or sores that do not heal properly; yellowing of the skin or eyes." (http://www.drugs.com/sfx/coumadin-side-effects.html)
What these doctors don't tell you is that you can take Ginkgo to receive the same benefit... or you can take garlic pills, ginger, turmeric, and omega 3's. Why is it that they don't give people this option? When did natural remedies become shunned? Where would modern medicine be if there weren't natural cures? It wouldn't be... all medicines originated as natural substances; even good ole Coumadin was a sweet clover to begin with. ARGH! It's enough to make a person go crazy.
CRAZINESS is the realization that-
I actually opened an Etsy store. http://www.etsy.com/shop/Muttnagerie I haven't sold one thing yet, although I made a set of the letter pillows for a friend of mine (as a birthday gift) and her gratitude was more valuable than any payment I could ever receive (unless someone offered me a million dollars). I enjoy crafting, but I also realize that many people would rather buy mass produced pieces of junk since we live in a world that has learned to use, abuse, and throw away- therefore most people are wanting to spend as little money as possible to acquire their next possession. So my wares are not something that fit into that slot. I put time into my crafts and want to make people aware that I am not going to be taken advantage of- that my things are worth more than something a machine pieces together. I sometimes go to bed with band-aids from the needle wounds that are inflicted due to me sewing by hand. (HA- makes me sound like I can't sew).
SEWING won't fix-
The Ron Paul book the dogs massacred today. They decimated it, yet left the Star Wars book completely intact- including the dust jacket... what does that say? They don't like politics? Ha! It's probably because the book was more bite sized. Dang dogs anyway. Speaking of dogs- Our backyard is so flooded that there are islands of grass. It's funny to watch the dogs leap from one dry spot to the next. I guess we will have to endure another wet day, as the weather guys say that the sun won't return until Sunday.I wish it would stop already. Grrr... Bleh- guess I better get up and go wash laundry so I have some comfy pants to lounge in tomorrow.
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Don't be Sorry- Learn to Breathe
The word Sorry is offensive to me. The definition of the word is this, "Feeling regret, compunction, sympathy, pity, etc.: to be sorry to leave one's friends; to be sorry for a remark; to be sorry forsomeone in trouble." My mother put so much emphasis on the word that it became worse than any swear word in my world. No matter what happened, I was expected to say sorry (and mean it). How can a child mean something that they don't even know the meaning of!? The word was over used and many times as a bandaid- instead of assessing the situation and trying to confront it, sorry would be spoken and it would be as if nothing ever happened.
As I've gotten older I've all but banished sorry from my vocabulary- it is reserved for one instance only- death. Instead of saying that blasted word, I offer the advice of, remember to breathe. Those three words of advice are the basis to surviving any catastrophe without discounting the severity of a problem. You may ask how it is possible that those words hold so much power... well- it is just saying to stay alive. As long as you are breathing, the situation can be taken care of.
I have grown tired of offering apologies for something that I have no control over. Apologies feed the severity and most of the time you get sucked into the drama allowing one to become a victim of that person's distress (I am not speaking of drama in a derogatory fashion). Here's a great example of how it really works. The other day my sister called me to tell me that her boyfriend's mother had a medical emergency; she was quite upset about not being able to get up to see her. My first instinct was to say how sorry I was, but I didn't cause the issue- I am not the one that made it impossible for my sister to travel. So, I instead suggested that she should just stop for a moment and breathe. By doing so, I was able to avoid being sucked into the problem and was able to help her climb out of a mental meltdown. When she stopped to think about the entire situation she was able to see that it wasn't an end of the world scenario and that things would indeed be okay.
I am learning to breathe instead of feeling regret; I am learning to live in love and to just let things be.
As I've gotten older I've all but banished sorry from my vocabulary- it is reserved for one instance only- death. Instead of saying that blasted word, I offer the advice of, remember to breathe. Those three words of advice are the basis to surviving any catastrophe without discounting the severity of a problem. You may ask how it is possible that those words hold so much power... well- it is just saying to stay alive. As long as you are breathing, the situation can be taken care of.
I have grown tired of offering apologies for something that I have no control over. Apologies feed the severity and most of the time you get sucked into the drama allowing one to become a victim of that person's distress (I am not speaking of drama in a derogatory fashion). Here's a great example of how it really works. The other day my sister called me to tell me that her boyfriend's mother had a medical emergency; she was quite upset about not being able to get up to see her. My first instinct was to say how sorry I was, but I didn't cause the issue- I am not the one that made it impossible for my sister to travel. So, I instead suggested that she should just stop for a moment and breathe. By doing so, I was able to avoid being sucked into the problem and was able to help her climb out of a mental meltdown. When she stopped to think about the entire situation she was able to see that it wasn't an end of the world scenario and that things would indeed be okay.
I am learning to breathe instead of feeling regret; I am learning to live in love and to just let things be.
Friday, August 3, 2012
A Complete Train Wreck of Random Ramblings
We have both recently become unemployed and it is starting to sink in that there isn't going to be a paycheck anymore... unemployment is not an option seeing as we weren't fired. We did this on our own and now I guess we shall have to lay in this figurative bed.
We are like 2 kids who come up with some outlandish idea to go walking along the edge of a cliff on a windy day. We have our feet on solid ground but can see that one wrong move, or a large gust of wind will bring certain disaster, do we care? All the while we are laughing and playing; it's all fun and games until we step too far out of line.
I believe in faith and that the Lord will provide for our needs, but what exactly does that mean? Food, shelter and clothing? I have some pretty decent skills in the kitchen and have survived on gourmet ramen recipes in the past. Housing is covered, and we all have enough clothing to keep us clothed until this all blows over. What about the other things that don't fall into those categories? Is God going to just hae that money fall into our laps? I've heard stories of amazing things that have happened to my friends, but I just don't believe that anything like those things would ever happen to me. I feel that God is probably laughing at me right now- I am stressing out over such pettiness. He has pulled us through some pretty hairy times before and I'm sure we will make it out of this unscathed as well, but instead of thanking Him for what we do have, I doubt. I get angry and I want to crawl in a hole- there's human nature for ya. We are selfish weak pathetic creatures, but yet God still loves us, and I don't mean love like how a person can love ice cream or french fries. I mean a real deep love. For example, how a dog loves their human. Am I saying that God is a dog? No- I'm saying that many dogs have a deeper understanding of love than we do as humans. They also know how to rely completely on someone without doubting them. Take my dogs for instance. They know that I am going to feed them and provide all their needs. Do they ask? No- it's just something that IS. End of story. I may have just stumbled on my answer here... To be still and know that He is God. Not to ask, not to worry, but to just know.
We are like 2 kids who come up with some outlandish idea to go walking along the edge of a cliff on a windy day. We have our feet on solid ground but can see that one wrong move, or a large gust of wind will bring certain disaster, do we care? All the while we are laughing and playing; it's all fun and games until we step too far out of line.
I believe in faith and that the Lord will provide for our needs, but what exactly does that mean? Food, shelter and clothing? I have some pretty decent skills in the kitchen and have survived on gourmet ramen recipes in the past. Housing is covered, and we all have enough clothing to keep us clothed until this all blows over. What about the other things that don't fall into those categories? Is God going to just hae that money fall into our laps? I've heard stories of amazing things that have happened to my friends, but I just don't believe that anything like those things would ever happen to me. I feel that God is probably laughing at me right now- I am stressing out over such pettiness. He has pulled us through some pretty hairy times before and I'm sure we will make it out of this unscathed as well, but instead of thanking Him for what we do have, I doubt. I get angry and I want to crawl in a hole- there's human nature for ya. We are selfish weak pathetic creatures, but yet God still loves us, and I don't mean love like how a person can love ice cream or french fries. I mean a real deep love. For example, how a dog loves their human. Am I saying that God is a dog? No- I'm saying that many dogs have a deeper understanding of love than we do as humans. They also know how to rely completely on someone without doubting them. Take my dogs for instance. They know that I am going to feed them and provide all their needs. Do they ask? No- it's just something that IS. End of story. I may have just stumbled on my answer here... To be still and know that He is God. Not to ask, not to worry, but to just know.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Seeing the Beauty
Here is a photo that I captured during an adventure walk (as I like to call it) in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. I'm sure there are people that think this is tacky and would question why someone would waste the time, but a person such as myself can find the beauty and depth of it.
The same can be said about people. For instance, the man or woman on the street holding the sign asking for help. To the majority, these people are just homeless beings that amount to nothing. To God they are just as important as you or me; he finds the beauty in them.
Romans 12:17-18 " Do not repay evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
Romans 12:17-18 " Do not repay evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Here and Now
I dreamed of fire last night. Not quite sure what it means, but it was beautiful. I could even feel the heat and smell the smoke. There was a woman crying out; no one would help her, I willed myself to where she was, hoisted her gently over my shoulder and carried her to safety. Dreams are so strange; how can I have a completely different life during one part of my day and then close my eyes only to become part of a magical world where anything is possible? That is why I love to sleep. Not because I am depressed, or because I hate my life; I love who I can be and what I can do in my dreams. I can leave my hang ups and hindrances at the pillow. I save loved ones from peril and send demons back to where they belong. All in all, I feel like a super hero.
Now, I need to start learning how to do this in my waking hours.
I'm going to hang my hurts and fears with God- he is more than able and will to do so for me and anyone else that chooses to give up their baggage. These issues are not meant to be part of a person... they are the products of not focusing on the Lord. When a person (myself included) take their eyes off of Him- a void forms. We as humans fill that void with earthly desires that are often failed attempts which create the fear and failure.
I John 4:17-18 "In this way love is perfected among us, so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like Him. There is no fear in love, for perfect love casts out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love".
In the words of Barney Stinson, "Suit up."
Ephesians 6:10-18 "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people."
It is time. Here and now.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Close Calls
I must have been in a daze because all of the sudden the car in front of me on the highway is at a dead stop but I am still cruising at a steady 55 mph. THINK QUICK! I swerve into the other lane and barely avoid messed up front end and a guaranteed traffic violation. If you can believe it- I still had the sense to use my blinker and strangely enough there wasn't any traffic in the other lane... coincidence? My life is a bunch of close calls all strung together. For example, while in California a couple weeks ago I had a similar situation. While merging onto hwy 78 from Oceanside to Vista I was almost run off the road by a truck pulling a 5th wheel. The only thing that saved me was my quick reflexes- or was it me at all? When these situations happen- time slows- I can't explain it but I have time to actually think about what I need to do. Is it like this for anyone else? Apparently not for everyone, or there wouldn't be traffic accidents, or accidents at all for that matter.
What I know for sure is that I pray at stop lights. It's been a strange habit I have had since I started driving. It started out as a way to get over my fear of driving alone. I knew that I could just 'talk' to God and he was with me always. Over time I started driving more and more on highways without stop lights, so praying became more sporadic. My fears went away and I kind of set God in the trunk so to speak. Just about the time I get comfortable with that arrangement I have a close call. What happens then? Yup, I pray.
I believe that God uses all resources to give us the chance to come to him- he doesn't necessarily make the situations happen, but he allows them. Close calls are a great way to remind us that he is there always- through the good and the bad... makes me think of Carrie Underwood's song, Jesus Take the Wheel. I know he won't physically drive my car, but most certainly I want him to be in the front seat of my life to hold my hand when the road gets rough.
Friday, July 27, 2012
What Do I Know?
As I stated yesterday I know that God is at work in my life. I feel as though I am the city that is falling apart in the movie Inception, but I know that somethings must be destroyed in order to create new. A dear friend of mine set a challenge yesterday based on Brennan Manning's book, A Furious Longing of God. I feel the challenge couldn't have come at a better time. One doesn't usually sit and think about these sorts of things and it is harder than one would think; I haven't ever thought of this view before. It is truly amazing the differences that are in the two lists. Who I am and who people see me as are two completely different people.
What I know about me-
What People See:
1. Is friendly to everyone (sometimes can be misconstrued as flirting).
2. Gets uncomfortable when serious discussions arise.
3. I talk way too much.
4. I stumble over my words or often can't think of a word when talking.
5. I open the doors for people.
6. I love thrift stores and do most of my shopping there.
7. A very happy person.
8. Act as though I don't have a care in the world.
9. Constantly experimenting with hair color and fingernail polish techniques.
10. I feel very strongly about animal rights and renewable resources.
What People Don't See
1. I struggle with accepting myself.
2. I spend too much time dwelling on things- past and present.
3. The creativity that I am afraid to share.
4. I struggle with anxiety.
5. I cry at the silliest things- and can't cry when I really should.
6. Change scares me.
7. I sing at the top of my lungs when I'm home alone.
8. I dance to my heart's content when no one can see me.
9. I am truly afraid of judgement
10. I am always seeking approval from others.
2 Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but all shall reach repentance."
What I know about me-
What People See:
1. Is friendly to everyone (sometimes can be misconstrued as flirting).
2. Gets uncomfortable when serious discussions arise.
3. I talk way too much.
4. I stumble over my words or often can't think of a word when talking.
5. I open the doors for people.
6. I love thrift stores and do most of my shopping there.
7. A very happy person.
8. Act as though I don't have a care in the world.
9. Constantly experimenting with hair color and fingernail polish techniques.
10. I feel very strongly about animal rights and renewable resources.
What People Don't See
1. I struggle with accepting myself.
2. I spend too much time dwelling on things- past and present.
3. The creativity that I am afraid to share.
4. I struggle with anxiety.
5. I cry at the silliest things- and can't cry when I really should.
6. Change scares me.
7. I sing at the top of my lungs when I'm home alone.
8. I dance to my heart's content when no one can see me.
9. I am truly afraid of judgement
10. I am always seeking approval from others.
2 Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but all shall reach repentance."
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