A Day of Change

Within the past year I have had several opportunities to come my way due to my blogging and blogging networks. All of which I have appreciated immensely, however out of them all there is one in particular that is dear to my heart. That would be The Ronald McDonald House Charity.

My first experience with this charity was the Give A Hand campaign. Several blogger's and myself were invited to McDonald's to work side by side with the employees in servicing the customers and asking for a donation to support the charity. Afterward, we were then taken to the actual House and it was amazing. I truly received an education, my eyes were opened.

Fast forward to spring 2010, I was given the privilege of participating in the National Moms Night Out event which provided a dinner, entertainment and pampering services for the mothers of the House. Those women were so deserving, due to their tenacity and love for which they have for their children. The children of whom are dealing daily with very serious illness.

Now , here we are in the current day and I have been given the privilege once again to show support for this wonderful charity. In my short time of dealing with this charity I witnessed with my own eyes how far a small contribution can go. Therefore I make a conscious effort to regularly contribute. A contribution to this charity goes to support the families of children who are fighting for their lives. People who travel many miles just to have the life saving treatment that their children need. The recipients not only receive beautiful and comfortable housing, but they get help in so many other areas.

Last year through the contributions of many people across the nation, RMHC was able to raise 20 million dollars! Wow! That shows that there is power in numbers, when everyone just gives a little it will grow a lot. That is why I am encouraging everyone that I know to remember September 9, 2010 , The National Day of Change. Walk into your local McDonald's search for the donation box and please drop in your pocket change. Use this as an opportunity to teach your child about charity and giving back to help those less fortunate. It's best to teach them now, leading by example.

Your donation will not go to waste. You won't have to worry that your funds are being used appropriately...I've seen it for myself. So , help make a difference in a families life. Give up your pocket change on September 9Th. To learn even more, including viewing video and pictures click here. RSVP for this event on Facebook and share with your friends, get them involved too! There is so much satisfaction in giving.



*this is not a paid post, however I was contacted to share the information with my readers and it is written from the heart*

Always the little things that mean so much

Recently after a very busy and strenuous week I decided to do something that I love to do but never have the time, * okay, uh, Make Time* for.... a bath.
You know, actually using one of those things that is in the bathroom. It's rather large and hold like 15 gallons of water. Yeah most of the time mine just sits there unused, gathering dust and holding little Nick-knacks on its edge. I have every intention of spending time with it, often dreaming of how high I could fill it up with bubbles. Imagining myself soaking away all my troubles as I inhale the aromatic oils of jasmine and rose. But then, life takes over and I have to opt for the often quick shower.

Finally, I pushed my "schedule" aside and made time for ME. I filled the tub with hot water and began to add my favorite ingredients; Honey, baking soda, avocado oil and Jasmine essential oil. Deep breath in through the nostrils.....ssslllowwwwly exhaling through the mouth. *SIGH*

As I eased my tired body into the therapeutic waters, I felt each muscle relax and all the stiffness went away to a place far, far, away. I set my Pandora stations to my favorite tunes and very soon realized why this was one of my favorite past times. I was able to take real time just for me. I was able to give my body and mind the TLC that it deserved. I realized that I was taking my own self for granted and vowed to remember how I felt at that moment. Making a mental note for an encore...

A Hiking I will go!!

Can I just say that this girl is wo' out and fit to be ti'ed?! I have been getting my exercise on these last few weeks. Nothing too fancy (figures right?), but just staying very mobile. I have been walking on the Silver Comet Trail and hiking up and down Kennesaw mountain. Six miles on the trail and two miles on the mountain, twice a week. WHEW!! You should'a seen me walking around when I was done with my walks and hikes...wobbly, limping and a really, really sore butt! (I know, TMI but it's was sore!). I actually really enjoy the walking and hiking because I am out in nature and I LOVE nature. It gives me the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of creation and give praise to the Creator. So I feel like right now this is the best form of workout for me. I will be including some other movement, such as Zumba which I have mentioned in a previous post. I may not necessarily lose weight but I will definitely be toning up and losing some inches, while increasing my stamina.

FINE BY ME

I've posted several times about my struggle with maintaining my weight and healthy eating habits. I think that I have just concluded to just do the best that I can do right now, and enjoy myself as I go along. I can do that, 'cause I'm cool like that....*smile*wink*

1 and 2 and 3 and 4, get my work out on ya'll!

I am still feeling high from the endorphins that were released while I worked it out at World Fitness Day at the Georgia Dome. Along with hundreds of men, women, children and I worked up a sweat with Billy Blanks. Mr. Taebo himself ! I was actually able to keep up even though I have not worked out on that pace and level in a long time.

I must admit that when Mrs. Debbie Allen came out I was in awe. She lead us in a Salsa exercise routine that was so much fun yet very effective. I did not even feel like I was working out, I felt free and light. I think I could have cha-cha-cha'ed and spinned and twirled all day!

Now what can I say about Mr. Richard Simmons? He is SUCH a DIVA and that's all I need to say. Moving on! ;)

Every one that lead us into a routine was awesome, the energy that filled the dome was so high I wish I could have bottled it up and took it home. We were all there for one cause, one purpose and that is to get fit and be healthy! We all were on different levels of fitness but it did not matter. There was no intimidation, just love. It was great. I am so looking forward to going again next year. This gave me the nudge that I needed to really go the next step with my work out, *AHEM!* lack of work out.

Here are some pics of me and a few fellow bloggers working it out. Awesome!

We were gettin' low with Luda on the field! *I still got my eye open for those bribe photos of Akilah, Denene, Lauren, Jennifer and I trying show how low we could go! *

After the show we posed together for a blogger photo op.

The Pointer Sisters reminded us why we were so excited when they came on the stage. They can work the crowd! Did you know that they had the most used songs for work out videos in the eighties? Hmph! an interesting fact.

To be 72 years old, Miss Jane Fonda looks amazing. What a trailblazer in the world of health and fitness!

Herrrrrrrrrrrrrre's Richard! Lol, such a Diva!

Here is Chante' working it out with Billy Blanks, She was so pumped!

Jennifer, Krystal and Denene were focused!

ARE YOU MOTIVATED NOW?

Fit and Healthy Friday's - week# 3 of Blogger challenge

Well, I missed my post for the 2ND week and so this week will be for week two and three combined.

I don't have too much to post....I know, I know. Well I can honestly say that I have been keeping up with my healthy eating 95% of the time. This entire week I have only had variations of salmon & shrimp. I have fallen off the wagon with the fruit eating though. I know that I should really cut out the coffee and wine drinking BUT...

So! I am continuing my journey in being mobile but I still continue to just walk. I have not gotten to the water aerobics class or the Zumba class yet, but it is on my "to do list". I'm a little bit of a slow starter sometime, but the best thing is that I am doing something. I am not discouraged or disappointed in myself, because it is what it is. I think taking SMALL STEPS to a healthy life is better than taking NO STEPS. I do what I can do within my own abilities. One area of concern for myself, though is my water intake. I know that I am not drinking it enough. I don't know why this is such a challenge for me! I think this week I will try to spruce up my water a little bit, by adding mint leaves, orange slices or cucumber slices.

My partners in this healthy eating challenge are doing great! If you get a chance stop by their blogs to see what they are doing. I know you will find some very good tips there , such as a very tasty & healthy Gumbo recipe and what to eat for an organic CLEANSE . These ladies are really on the ball, which is motivating for me and I'm sure you will find it motivating as well.

I hope I do better this week...

Are You Ready To Work It Out?!

The month of April is when we really start to see things come alive. The sun is shining bright, the flowers start to push through the dirt with fresh stems and buds, the trees begin to get green and we all begin to unwrap and show a little bit more skin. Well, for some of us the showing of more skin can bring about a little bit of anxiety. We have to kind of tone up and cut back here or there, because we see the after effects of those cozy comfort foods during the winter.

Previously, I had agreed to take part in a 4 week healthy eating challenge by a fellow blogging buddy Swarthy Daisy, which is great because it will help me to focus a little bit better on...being healthy. So imagine my excitement when I was invited to attend WORLD FITNESS DAY on May 1, 2010 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Ga. How cool is that? The whole dome filled with people ready to be lead by some of the world's most widely known fitness leaders. All working together sharing their passion for health and fitness for mind, body and spirit. Oh My Goodness! I am soooo There!

I'm very excited because some of the fitness experts that will be there are people that I grew up on. I mean come on, who doesn't remember when Jane Fonda was working it out with her fitness videos rocking her sweat band on the head, wrists and the colorful leggings? I was always entertained by the energy of Richard Simmons and when I was older I bought the Billy Blanks DVD's and tried (i do mean tried) to keep up with him in my living room. Even the Great Debbie Allen and Denise Austin will be there! It is an all star team. We will also have an opportunity to be entertained by legends such as the Pointer Sisters and Atlanta native Ludacris.

This is the first annual event, and I am sure that it will be highly regarded for the years to come. What is also great is that this event will benefit Jane Fonda's Organization; The Georgia Campaign For Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, founded in 1995.
This is an event you do not want to miss, come out and join us as we strive to get healthy and fit. Wanna know something even cooler? If you can't make it, or do not live in the Atlanta area you can still have fun because it will be live streamed on www.UStream.TV....ohhhh, the wonders of technology! So there is no excuse not to participate.

Check out this video, it gets your adrenaline going and whets your appetite for May 1st, See you there!

Help for Isabella

Recently I received a call from a friend and colleague in DC regarding her god daughter Isabella. A beautiful little four year old with Leukemia, who in 2008 received a bone marrow transplant and was in remission until March 2010. As she told me the story of this brave little girl, I was very touched at heart, because being a parent of a daughter AND a son I cannot imagine the heartache that Isabella's mother is going through... Actually, I can imagine it. As a parent there is NOTHING worse than feeling helpless when it comes to the well being of your child.

Currently, Isabella is in need of another bone marrow transplant but does not have any prospects. Why? Because, only 30 percent of the patients in need find a matching donor in their own family. Which means that they will then have to turn to the National Marrow Donor Program. That should solve the issue right? Wrong! There are not enough minorities/people of color registered to be a donor and so people of color have the hardest time getting a donor match. Which means there is only One in a million chance of getting a match. How sad! This was a eye opener for me, because I did not know that in order to receive a bone marrow transplant the donor has to be of same or like ancestry.

I began to wonder "why is it that so many minorities are not represented in such a needed area?" Well I believe it is because of a lot of misconceptions within our communities. So I did my own research and came across the Be The Match Registry (also known as the National Marrow Donor Program) . This website is full of information, one page that I found very informative was the MYTHS & FACTS PAGE where I learned that I was wrong in my knowledge about being a donor. It is not a overly painful procedure that is done without anesthesia, and there is more than one way to donate. You should check out the site, perhaps there is a myth that you believed too, but can learn the truth to. Go to www..marrow.org

Please check out the site find out where you can go locally to register and learn what you can do to help Isabella and children like her. And imagine, what would you want for your children if they were in her shoes? How would you feel if YOU were Monica, Isabella's mother fighting for the survival of your child which is dependant on the sacrifice of others? A serious matter, deserving serious attention.

Here is another site that I found for those who want to help but want to do so without the use of blood. I know that personally I want all of my needed surgical procedures to be performed without the use of blood transfusion. If you have the same beliefs or concerns then this site www.noblood.org is a great place to start looking for bloodless alternatives when donating and receiving for transplants.

Let's give Isabella and others like her a fighting chance.

Fit and Healthy Friday's - week#1 of Blogger challenge

Okay so here it is the end of week number one of the healthy eating blogger challenge. As I mentioned before there are a group of us blogger's engaged in this challenge for the month of April. What you see above is a collage of pictures and information about ourselves that each blogger is required to post...as if you don't already know much about me anyway. Hehehehehe!

Anyhow, I'll go ahead and tell you about my week. Good things first, I started to get mobile! I got off my but and went walking a few times this week. The weather has been great and so I was encouraged to get out and walk for about 45 minutes. Yay me! I can see it now...my thighs will be shrinking!

I have increased my protein intake and cut out the fried foods. My diet this week has consisted of primarily grilled fish and skinless chicken breast, along with a green salad. I have had very little starch and I am increasing my fiber by eating about 3 apples a day, often before a meal, along with drinking 8 ounces of prune juice each morning.

The bad things...I am still craving my snacks and so I have not totally given them up. What I have done is put limits upon myself. Changed my portion size of a snack, such as only eating about two table spoons of the ice cream instead of three scoops (less guilt). I went to the movies on Sunday and indulged in popcorn and soda. I managed to have control though...instead of my regular two buckets of popcorn, I only had ONE bucket. TRUST ME that is a huge accomplishment. I LOVE MY POPCORN.

I plan on kicking things up a notch or two next week...I'm gonna join water aerobics! Stay tuned for next Friday's post.

Tonight was the last night

Yes, tonight I said my goodbyes to my last pork chop. Seasoned with Adobo and fried in grease, with two sides of scalloped potatoes and baked beans with a biscuit. I was saying bye-bye-bye because as of April 1st I will be participating in a healthy eating blogging challenge. Myself along with my partner with Be.Beautifully.Well, SwarthyDaisy and Dalia of Eating Beautiful Blog will change our diets and increase our physical activities for one whole month. (Hopefully it will be for good)

Now this is not new to me. I have embarked upon a healthy living and eating lifestyle at various times in my life. The problem is that I have been backsliding....okay, more like bungee jumping when it comes to sticking to the healthy choices. A lot of my struggle with healthy eating comes from my own head. So, this is the reason why I had the big dinner of the foods that I know are not good for me. Hey, I had to get it out of my system! I know it's not smart to do that but, it is what it is.

For the next few days I will be detoxing before going full steam ahead. Then the challenge begins. I will be working out, eating right, cleansing my mind, body and spirit. Every Friday I will post an update of my progress. Please check in with me, cheer me on!

Therapeutic Thursday's: Rose Hydrosol

It's smell is very distinct, and posses a seductive quality that many find appealing. I'm speaking about The Rose. Although I do like to try my hand at some summer and spring time gardening, I've never planted a rose bush. I think it appears to be such a delicate flower, I don't want to take my chances with it for fear that I would ruin it. I like very simple and hearty plants and shrubs, drought tolerant and requiring little maintenance. The Rose would NOT be one of them in my opinion.

But, what I can have at home is the Rose hydrosol. A hydrosol is the by product of the steam distillation of plants; A process of extracting the life blood or essential oil . Once the essential oil is skimmed off the top, the water remaining contains minute molecules of the essential oil and other properties not found in the essential oil itself. Therefore making the water a very useful product. Using hydrosols is a great way to gain the benefits of very expensive essential oils, without paying the expensive price. ( of course, I like that)

The benefits of Rose hydrosol are numerous. It works wonderful as a skin toner, especially on mature skin. Use it in replace of water when creating homemade masks, and lotions. Rose hydrosol is also antibacterial, making it good for acne prone skin. In particular, this hydrosol works especially well with women. In her book, Susan Catty even suggests that it be taken internally to balance the female hormones (yes, drinking it. it's not bad). I like to also use it as a linen spray, a air spritzer, and as an addition to my bath water. There are many options, which one will you choose? Check out this book by Susan Catty, it's a great way to learn plenty more about hydrosols.

Orange is the Color for January, Pt 3: A reflective interview

In my effort to encourage awareness and education for Cervical Cancer and HPV I have taken on the responsibility of researching and educating myself more on it. The things I have learned have really enlightened me.

Even more enlightening was my interview that I had with an endearing, bright and cheerful, young woman who I am so thankful for sharing her story of HPV with me openly, so that I may share it with you. Over a cup of Caramel Macchiatto and coffee cake in a local Starbucks here is our discussion:

girl talk...keeping it real

Q: What motivated you go to the Doctor to be checked out? Did you have symptoms?

A: I did not have any symptoms health wise. However, during intercourse it was brought to my attention that I had a few "razor bumps" on my genitals. My partner and I weren't sure what to think of it initially, so I did not do anything right away. However after a couple of weeks, I knew that I needed to have it checked and so I did.

Q: Once you had your exam, how long did it take to get your results back?

A: It took about a week for the results of the cervical biopsy to come back and to have my diagnosis of low risk HPV, the genital wart type.

Q: What were your initial thoughts upon learning the test results?

A: I cried many tears and had many thoughts; " are they going to go away?" "how will I explain this?" "will I have to give up sex?" (that bothered me) I wondered who I got it from, because I went through a reckless period in my life that resulted in several sex partners.

Q:Prior to diagnosis, did you know what HPV was? Or the dangers of it?

A: Well, yes and no. I knew of a friend that had contracted it, but did not know the depths of how serious it can be. Like I did not know people died from it because of the cervical cancer it causes.

Q: How old were you?

A: 20 years old

Q:How did you try to deal with the diagnosis? Did you seek counseling or a support group?

A: No, I did not seek any counseling. I just tried to come to terms with it on my own. I had to think about and come to terms with the decisions I've made and the consequences that go along with them. I had to deal with the emotional frustrations that come with accepting that I got this and that it is classified as an STD. It was not easy, but I was able to accept and move forward.

Q: Did you discuss this with future partners? When did you inform?

A: Once it was decided that my partner and I were going to be in a serious monogamous relationship, touching on the subject of sex without condoms. We were both getting tested to know our HIV status I thought it a good time to tell him then.

Q: What was his reaction?

A: Initially he was very upset. He was concerned about the future of our relationship. He wants to have a family and had feared that my having HPV would hinder those plans. He did his own research online and spoke to his Doctor about it. Having children and quality of life was not going to be affected by the type of HPV that I have, so he was relieved and became my supporter. It is no longer an issue in our relationship, he understands fully.

Q: How do you feel about counseling and organizations like Tamika and Friends? Would you recommend it?

A: If someone feels that they need someone to talk to in order to deal with their diagnosis and their future, then yes they should seek counseling. They should do the research and join organizations. The organizations provide wonderful outlets and support, they provide a voice and help to ease the anxiety, helping to see that you are not alone in your struggle.

Q: Did you get the HPV vaccination? And would you recommend it to other women?

A: Yes I did get vaccinated it is a series of three shots. One every three months, for six months. And ooooh! they hurt too! Those that are not diagnosed should do the research and make a personal choice based on what they have learned.

Q:Are you dealing with wart outbreaks?

A:I found a Natural healing Oils company online to treat the warts and I have not had a break out since. The company is amoils.com.

Q:Advice for other women, young girls?

A: Be smart. Be aware. Protect yourself and make good choices.

Wow, the time had come to end our lively conversation. Reluctantly, I departed from this chatty young lady, who obviously has matured in her own ways through life experience. She certainly is a tough cookie with a tender heart.

I enjoyed conducting this interview and I hope you were enlightened as you read it. Learn from this story and those of the many other women who have been diagnosed with this illness. Fortunately for this woman her diagnosis did not result in the removal of her reproductive organs, but not every woman with the disease can say the same. Every hour a woman is told that she has cervical cancer and every 2.5 hours a woman dies from it. Share this information with your sisters, mothers, aunts, cousins and friends. Get your exam and take the pledge http://www.pearlofwisdom.us/pledge

*Although information was shared from this interview on a product to use to remove genital warts, I do not endorse it. It has worked for this young woman but each person must check with their own physician before using anything. Removal of the warts does not mean that the illness is cured. There is no cure, only prevention. Go to http://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/hpv-genital-warts/hpv-treatment-is-there-hpv-cure for more information*

What are the options when what is natural is not an option?

Some where along the way I picked up the habit of noticing labels, especially name brands. There was a time in my life in which I wouldn't be caught dead in public with an "off brand." I was like that with everything from clothing & personal items to food & appliances. I always felt that the name brand and the price determined the quality. When my son was born, I kept up this pattern of label watching, only the best for my baby, right?

So, when I had to decide how I will feed my newborn it was only natural that I chose breastfeeding. It was the best. We breastfed for 7 months and then needed to switch to formula. Once again....the best. So we bought the best name brand of infant formula that we could afford.

As I look back on my label watching patterns now, I feel so silly. I was focused on the wrong things, worrying more about the brand than the quality ingredients that were to provide needed nutrients to my child.

I recently read the Consumer Reports regarding the subject of buying formula and to my surprise I realized that I wasted a lot of money. How much? I really don't know the exact figures, but according to reports the average formula fed baby will drink about $2,000.00 worth by it's first birthday. I figure since I only breast fed thru 7 months, I didn't spend that much, but still...every dime counts. While I was watching the name brands I should have really been reading ingredient labels. If I had then I would have known that all of the baby formula sitting on the shelves had the same levels of nutrition. The formula's may be varied but the nutrition is the same, because the Food and Drug Administration set certain standards for all Formula manufacturers in the U.S. . As long as the formula was bought before the "use by " date, it was of acceptable quality.

Even more importantly to consider are the various features of the formula that is chosen. I remember times when I would spend seemingly hours in the baby aisle trying to figure out which added feature was "the best." It was confusing! A baby needs formula that is fortified with Iron, and probiotics are good for proper digestion and balancing of the flora in the intestines. Just about every type of formula nowadays contains DHA and ARA, both of which are synthetic versions of the natural fatty acids found in a woman's natural breast milk. This natural ingredient is supposed to assist in proper brain and eye development. However, the scientific evidence supporting whether or not the synthetic versions of these fatty acids that are added is beneficial in the long term is still on the fence. According to certain studies on this subject, the positive effects that come from this additional feature is short term, not long term. Which in my opinion means that if it costs more to have it, perhaps you don't need to buy it. Especially if it's synthetic and not proven to be beneficial in the long term. Save the money.

Seems to me that when looking to buy formula, today's modern mommy should still look at the label. Not for the name brand only, but for the things that matter the most. I am no longer in the baby aisle when shopping at the grocery store, but if I was I would not repeat that silly way of doing things. I would clip my coupons, sign up for savings and free products with my formula company of choice and most importantly I'd buy the store brand...proudly!

Reading the Consumer Report has certainly opened my eyes to labels and ingredients. It basically has proven what my husband (Mr. frugal himself) has been telling me all along: "The name brand doesn't always matter, it's the ingredients. Many products are made the same, the only thing different is the name."

For further information you can go to http://blogs.consumerreports.org/baby/2009/07/save-money-on-baby-stuff-cheap-formula.html

*I have not been paid to do this review of formula manufacturing, however I was supplied with the book; Consumer Reports Best Baby Products the A to Z e verything you need for your baby. *

Lately, I havent been getting enough of it.

Ive been guilty of something, really guilty. I have not being doing what I know that I ought to do. I have not been drinking enough water. Which is pretty sad because I work in the holistic health field and promote healthy living. I tell my clients to drink a lot of water after each reflexology session, "It carries away the toxins." Yet, I am not heeding my own advice.

I don't know why I am being so rebellious. I know that water has many benefits such as:

• supports the metabolism
• supplies nutrients and oxygen into cells
• healthier skin
• aids digestion and constipation and
• detoxifies

I've got to get better with this before I create a situation. Last year I was hospitalized due to serious kidney infection. Not. Fun. I certainly do not need a repeat of THAT. Besides, it's not cute to have dry cracked lips or wrinkly, flaky skin ( sure signs of dehydration).

I know that I need to drink 75ounces of water a day, as a rule- drink half your body weight in ounces. So I'm going full force with this. Again... Doing whatever it takes, adding lemon, mint leaves, cucumbers or limes to add flavor. Making my water consumption more palatable, because woman cannot live on coffee and wine alone. Although it makes life more interesting. haha!

What about you? Do you need to boost up your water intake?

Orange is the color for January part 2-Say something!

As you may know by now, January is national Cervical Cancer Awareness month. Why is this of importance to you? Well, because cervical cancer used to be the leading cause for cancer deaths in the united states. However due to increased awareness and yearly Pap tests, women are able to find cervical precancer before it actually develops into full blown cancer. Which results in fewer deaths. Regardless of your age, race, health or relationship (monogamous or not) you are still at risk. If you are a female, you need to be in the KNOW.

The main cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus, better known as HPV. It is passed on through sexual contact. This virus is very common, in fact according to the CDC most sexually active women at some point in their lives will have contracted the virus, the majority of which will not develop into cervical cancer. Although not all who contract HPV will develop cancer do not be fooled into thinking that cancer is the ONLY thing to worry about. Did you know that there are over 100 types of the virus? Of which there are various types of warts. There is low risk HPV and high risk HPV (30 of which are the cancerous type)

Here are some additional facts for you to consider:

• During the the development of HPV you may not have symptoms.


• Using condoms is not a sure protection against the virus.


• HPV can be contracted by skin on skin contact and even anal sex.


• Even if you have been married for years or only have one partner it is possible to have been infected. (that was a shocker for me)


• HPV can be contracted in the mouth, tongue, throat and tonsils

Education is your best form of protection against HPV and cervical cancer. Share what you have learned with others. Say Something! Click this link to get your say something kit to help teach your friends and family about cervical cancer.

Orange is the color for January- Part 1

Last year, my cousin /business partner /best friend and I came up with the idea to merge our two passions; massage and reflexology to create one business. Our services are for everyone, but with a concentration on women. Helping women to create a healthy place within their own mind and body, remembering that beauty begins within. (more on that later, I promise.) Anyhow, as we were forming this venture I realized that I wanted to be more than just another "spa service", that I wanted to be one that was an advocate and supporter regarding health issues related to women. Not any random issue, but one that was of importance to me personally. One that has affected myself or those that I love. The first health issue I thought of was HPV and cervical cancer. Although I do not personally have either of these illnesses, I am related to women that do, and I would like to understand more about it so that I can be more of a support.

As I was pondering these thoughts, it occurred to me that I met some lovely ladies at Blogalicious who were representing Tamika and Friends. A wonderful organization dedicated to spreading the word about prevention , treatment and support for HPV and cervical cancer. I pulled out their brochure, and contacted them. Their website www.tamikaandfriends.org is full of advice and soul stirring personal stories of women, including Tamika Felder herself. They have great programs to fit every one's needs and an opportunity for all to get involved from a small to a large level.

I signed up to be a friend and I am so excited! My first chance to report for supporter duty will be on January 27Th for National Wear Orange Day. In a few days I will post more information about what this small event will entail and lead up to a larger event in the weeks to come. HPV and cervical cancer is PREVENTABLE AND TREATABLE . January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Take the first step and get educated on the subject. It could save your life or that of someone you love.

Until next time....

*HUGS*

One Simple Act

Walking into a store a man OR woman decides to hold the door open for you. An older woman is walking who needs assistance is approached by a young boy to steady her steps. Giving a listening ear to a friend in need. Providing a day of babysitting for a single parent or stay at home mom free of charge, so they can have a break. Giving a donation to someone in need. What do all of these situations have in common? They are all simple acts of kindness. Simple acts of thoughtfulness and generosity. Although simple, they are powerful.

It's all about paying it forward. We are living in a society where there is so much selfishness and individualism. Each one forgetting about the needs of their fellow man/woman, not realizing that kindness begets kindness and would really make the world a better place. Human lives are all intertwined where one good or bad deed can and will create a domino effect. However how much more fulfilling and satisfying is it when you know that YOUR good deed created a chain of happiness to others? Releasing wonderful endorphins into the atmosphere...sigh.

Recently I had the privilege of participating in the McHappy Day at McDonald's. This enlightening experience gave my children and I an opportunity to learn about McDonald's support of the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Along with other bloggers we were able to work behind the counter and the drive through of a Decatur, Ga McDonald's, owned and operated by a very enthusiastic and passionate Carrie Salone. While being McDonald's employees for a while we had the opportunity to ask the customers to give a hand by donating a $1.00 to the RMHC. One dollar is all that was asked of each customer, one SIMPLE dollar. Small, yet powerful because each dollar donated went to help a sick child in need at the Ronald McDonald House. Providing a comfortable, healthy, beautiful and often times FREE accommodations for those experiencing the hardship of treating a serious illness.

After we were done working we were taken on a tour of the actual Ronald McDonald house in Atlanta. Let me just say I was completely imressed and touched by the care, consideration and love that it took to build this wonderful facility. It is equipped with a state of the art kitchen area. Several living rooms, perfect for reflecting, reading playing games or watching television. I was excited to see a very large laundry area and a library equipped with Internet and computers to make the residents feel as if they were in the comforts of their own home. The design of each room was carefully thought through, each room has a special filtering system to keep the air as clean as possible to prevent further illness to the children with sensitive immune systems. In fact, this particular house is the only Eco friendly house available. Leading the way for more to come, I'm sure.

We were able to hear testimonies from a few families who have benefited from this charity and believe me when I say it was moving. My eyes were certainly opened and I have to admit that I inwardly felt shame. Shame, because I have been to McDonald's and seen the donation boxes for the RMHC and dismissed it as some sort of scam not really knowing or believing that my simple act of dropping in some change would really go to such a worthy cause. However, now that I have seen for myself first hand what those small donations can do for these children and their families I will be a supporter. Even in such a small way as dropping in a few coins when purchasing my meals.

How else can you and I help? I know you want to know... Well, other than dropping in a few coins, food can be donated to the RMHC as well as books, toys or games for the residents. So what simple acts can you do? Some one needs a hand...one day it may be you, it may be me.

Here is a link to the pictures that was taken of our enlightening day; http://picasaweb.google.com/marloherring/McDs_Bloggers?feat=email#

*To read more about doing simple acts read this great book by Debbie Macombes, One simple act.*

*For information about the Ronald McDonald House Charities go to http://www.rmhc.org/ and http://rmhc.org/how-you-can-help/donate

Just what the Doctor ordered

The Doctor gave strict orders as I was discharged from the hospital. No lifting, no pushing or pulling of any objects. Complete bedrest for about 2-3 weeks. How's that been going? Well, here's what I've been dealing with for the past 7 days.

In the a.m. my son brews my coffee just the way I like, while my daughter places frozen waffles in the toaster and cooks my bacon not too crispy. My Hubby comes home from work in the p.m., does the laundry, cleans the kitchen, puts dinner on and brings it to my bedside with a smile and a kiss. "Do you need anything else?" Once I have completed our homeschooling lessons for the day, my only care is: which of my favorite movies do I want to watch? Catching up on t.v. reruns, reading great books & journaling. At the end of the night my sheets get retucked, pillows are fluffed and comforter is smoothed out.
Mmmmmm, Mmmmmm!!
A sistah can get used to this. I wonder if I can get a Doctor's note for an extension on my recovery time? This is like the best staycation I ever had! Too bad I had to lose a body organ to experience it.

Just sayin'

Saying goodbye

when something has been apart of a persons life for as long as they can remember, seperation is not an easy matter. Feelings of anxiety, lonliness and fear are hard to overcome, often resulting in tears.
Today, I will be experiencing a seperation of my own. Today, I will be detached from something that is very much apart of myself...my uterus. Although we have been together fo 37 years, through thick and thin. Good times and bad, it is time to say goodbye. As I reminice over our time together I can recall the feelings of fear as It gave it's evidance of maturity at the ripe age of 13. Oh! the merciless and seemingly endless displays of affection that was shown to me by way of cramps, bloating and back ache. My uterus was so gracious and givng. Every month it would surprise me with an overflow that was beyond measure, often on days that I least expected..:(
The best gift I have recieved from it though, is it's ability to carry and nurture my two unborn children. For nine months it provided a warm and safe place for them to grow. Providng me with a gift beyond compare.
So as one can see, my uterus has been both a negative and positive force in my life. With the negative being it's most dominant trait. It's no wonder then, after the doctors evaluation I felt no sadness. His conclusion and solution of the matter was to have a partial hysterectomy. A little snip, clip, and pull and it will be no more. How do I feel? ...hallelujah! Hit the road jack! Buh-bye and sianara! Each day on recovery is another celebration, which is even easier to do when I have a bottle full of percocet. I'm never tardy for the party!

Goodbye, dear uterus. Breaking up is so hard to do...NOT!

Sugar-free

When I was a younger, I lost a very dear grandparent to the consequences of diabetes. It was painful to watch as the years rolled on and he would lose more and more parts of his body by amputation due to the spreading of gangrene. First it was a toe, then a leg, another leg and then the thighs. By the time of his death he was without lower limbs and had been in a coma for a length of time. Heart wrenching to say the least.

As I grew up I was always aware of the problems with "sugar" and was always on the look out for the tell tale signs. I would learn in my adult years through my own research of family history that diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure were the leading cause of death within that lineage. Once I got into my twenties and later on throughout my thirties I began to see them. Slowly but surely, the physical signs of diabetes crept up into my life.

I began to take matters more seriously and made big changes in my life regarding my diet and exercise. It all made a huge difference. I was never diagnosed with the illness but I was a close runner up to it. I display many of the signs of a diabetic but have yet to be called one. It is a struggle for me every day to stay on the right path with my health because, the truth of the matter is that I just wanna do what I wanna do and eat what I wanna eat. However that is not the choice of wisdom, considering what is up against me. So I press on!

Which is why I was delighted to find out about Divabetics, outreach for women. "It is a non profit organization that introduces diabetes education with a 'glam more, fear less' Philosophy to help women at risk and affected by diabetes to look at their diabetes in new ways" * from the site*

This organization was inspired by the late r&b legend Luther Vandross, founded and created by his assistant Max Szadak. Divabetics hosts Divabetic glam makeovers in various cities of the United States along with providing a encouraging programs on their website for all who are in need. They have great team of educators and health care professionals ready to assist you to be all that you can be whether you currently have diabetes or are looking for preventive care.

I think it is a wonderful concept and hope that more will look into this great resource. We each only have one body and unfortunately we are not always kind to it or vice versa. However, it is never too late to make changes. I will end with this great affirmation that I saw on the website, which by the way, they have several affirmations that are so inspiring.

"I AM A DIVA WHO KNOWS MY FIRST PRIORITY IS ME"

*November is national diabetes month. Help spread the word about prevention and treatment with someone you love*

Take care...

Therapeutic Thursdays

I have something new that I want to start on my blog. Because I have an appreciation for holistic health I want to share it with my readers. One way that I have decided to do this is to begin a new series called Therapeutic Thursdays. Originally I was posting these on my Hippie Chicks fan page but figured it would be a good feature here too.

My first Therapeutic Thursdays post will be :

Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary is one of my favorite essential oils because it can do so much. Popularly known as a tasty addition to chicken, fish and vegetable dishes. Outside of its wonderful flavor however, it aids the digestive system when it is eaten.

As an essential oil it works as a stimulant to the body's central nervous system. Which is no wonder why it has been commonly called a "wake up" oil. When trying to get yourself in gear for the long day ahead incorporate a few drops in a natural shower gel. Or create a wake me up spray with Rosemary, peppermint and sweet orange. Spritz a little bit above the sleepy heads in your house. There will definitely be a sense of clarity in the air.

Along, with keeping you alert you can also count on Rosemary to soothe your aching muscles. It is an antiseptic oil, so it is great for conditions such as muscle sprains, arthritis, and rheumatism. I like to use it with Lavender, peppermint, and cypress for a good back rub.

With the cold and flu season upon us and everyone very concerned about the Swine flu, now would be a great time to pick up a bottle of Rosemary. It is good for the immune system, use up to 5 drops in a warm bath.

See what I mean? Variety. So, the next time you walk past a fragrant Rosemary bush and rub its leaves between your fingertips, remember all of its goodness. It is so much more than just a fragrant bush.