A "mini break"

Stop for a moment and sit back in your chair. Take one of those deep breaths in through the nose, and exhale from the mouth. Do it a few times. Remember: when stress enters we slow our breathing down - almost stop when we are angry! As you breathe think "I am relaxing myself, slowing my heart rate, lowering my blood pressure, maintaining optimum oxygen so I can think better, and giving myself and the only place I have to live (my body) - a few moments of regeneration!"

Believe me - it will do all those things for you. After a few breaths, stretch your arms up in the air, blink your eyes several times, wiggle your toes and if you need to take a bathroom break - don't put it off! Do it now. The walk will do you good anyway and get that oxygen moving through the body again.

NO STRESS is worth your life! It will all work out somehow. Don't add to your problems by stressssssssssing out!

CREATE a wonderful day, and better yet, a great life for yourself. I really care!

How do I relieve stress during this busy time?

1. I remember to breathe! Breathing can calm you down, lower your heart rate, make you think more intelligently, and help any pain you might have to diminish. That is just a partial list of the good things that will happen to you when you remember to use your oxygen. It's a gift. Try holding your breath for 4 minutes and see how precious your oxygen is to your life!

2. Prioritize - Make sure that the tasks you are trying to accomplish don't cause you
to loose your temper with those people in your life you are trying to please! People first (LOVE), all the other stuff next.

3. Loosen the old thought that Christmas is about "presenting" a great dinner table,
buying the best gifts, or decorating the house with a million lights. It's not. It's about LOVE LOVE LOVE. For us Christians it is the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior. For non-Christians it can be a lovely time to celebrate family and the spirit of giving. Don't diminish one moment with frustration and anger. Take it easy...take a breath!

4. Don't forget to give yourself a hug once in a while. You work hard and you know it. Count small blessings we skip over each day. I was shopping and looked up and saw an awesome sight-so I took out my little camera and captured it (photo on the right). What a blessing to see such beauty!

Have a wonderful holiday season and DON'T spend it drinking too much. You loose your spirit when it is saturated with booze. Yes, I have a drink now and then - but I
am in charge; not the alcohol. Be safe. Be YOURSELF!

Quick thoughts

A collage of thoughts for you...busy time of year!


Turns out sitting up straight is actually bad for your back. Sitting at a 90 degree angle puts pressure on the lower back-enough to squeeze fluid from the disks that cushion vertebrae. Adjust the height of your chair so your hips are 3 to 4 inches higher than your knees. Recline slightly, with a small pillow behind your lower back, so you backbone is at a 135-degree angle to your thighs. These conclusions were found in Scotland as researches took MRI scans of 22 volunteers.

You can learn from your children, be led by them, keep young through their eyes, and get many blessings in return from loving and guiding them.


Water: First thing in the morning drink 12 oz. Your body loses fluid stores overnight, which can make your mind foggy. Star the day with H20 and it might keep you from seeking out coffee or tea -at least cut back or dilute. Drink 30 meals before meal to help you fill up a bit. German study- drink 50 oz. of cold water a day-can help you burn up extra 50 cals per day-5lbs. a year, without exercising. metabolism boost due to extra effort needed to raise the water’s temp to 98.6F.


Interesting -students who drink too much may be setting themselves up for heart problems.
AMA excessively - double levels of C-reactive protein, a biological marker for inflammation associated with higher chance of cardiovascular problems. (heavy drinking defined: 3 or more alcholic drinks at least 3 days week or at least 5 drinks two days of week. Moderate: 2-5 drinks at one time, one or two days week. CRP levels on heavy MORE THAN DOUBLED, placing them in zone associated with moderate risk of heart disease More studies on way-still, setting up a dangerous pattern. Not to mention “date rape drug”, blackouts, risky behavior-aids, pregnancy, drinking and drive, turn into big A holes!

Hope you are using your wits and not over eating throughout the holidays. Take a bite of everything but don't be a pig. It's your body - the only place you have to live! Whatever is on the plate is NOT TO DIE FOR!

Blessings and love!

Unexpected trauma II - the continuing story:)

I could have been upset when I was getting ready to serve dinner to my husband. One
of the baked potatoes decided to BLOW UP! Of course I had just cleaned the oven, and I
was very hungry.

I have no idea why it blew up. In all the years I've baked potatoes and there have been thousands (no lie), I've never had this happen!

So my stress management technique: Laugh. It actually was funnier than upsetting...I
opened the oven and there was my potato (of course it was mine, my hubby was starving)
all over the oven. :)

I reckoned that I wasn't supposed to have the potato as I always use too much butter and sour cream, and I am trying to loose a few pounds before the holidays. Dinner was still great, and I was not "over-stuffed", nor did I feel guilty.

So when something happens that could be unexpected trauma, but it's really not life altering, take it with a sense of humor. Laughter saves many a day!

USE IT - laughter is free and always cheers up those around you. Besides, it's fun.

Unexpected Trauma

Ok, this is a "little" trauma, but it could have been WAY BIGGER if I had let it!
Several months ago my husband bought me a new Schwinn sidewinder bike (designed particularly for women). A couple of days ago I put it in my vehicle and went to a bike trail and rode. It felt great. I do that as often as I can.

When I got home I took the bike out and as I sat it down the phone rang. I quickly opened the kick stand and ran for the phone....last time I'll do that:).

By the time I got there no one was on the line, so I used the restroom and thought I'd
run a few pressing errands. When I came back out the garage door I didn't see the bike so never thought a thing about it! Obviously the kick stand wasn't fully opened and the bike was laying on the ground.

I jumped in the vehicle and backed up - right over my new bike! THUD! I thought I had wrecked it! I did cry (crying is good as it cleans out the tear ducts) - then I called my husband and told him.

He was not mad, but felt terrible I had been crying. He said it's okay - "Stuff happens". We'll just get it fixed." I was fortunate as I know some men can be nasty
about things like that. (Just to clear this up: I don't accept material things being more important than people, so if he'd been upset about the cost, I would have dealt with it differently-but peacefully:) War never ends, as we see all over the world!

Anyway, I felt better, will be more careful next time, and am prayerful and happy it wasn't a child or adult! I will be more careful and that is my lesson learned.

Have a wonderful day and you be careful too!

Think about it.....

When was the last time you lit a candle in the day time? Have you played any warm and cozy music just for you? Pick a rhythm that makes you sway to it.

When was the last time you stood outside? Just stood. Quietly listening, looking, smelling all that is around you, for all these things are life and have a place in this world. Accept that and you will learn to love all things, because all things will change according to the light and love you share.

I took a picture of the moon before sun up this morning. There was a star way above it. I didn't really see just shadows from the tree branches. When I put it in photo shop I just changed a few things and now I can see the branches too.

Do something different today. Walk down the stairs instead of using the elevator.
One day I watched a group of Canadian geese flying in perfect formations. I watched them until they were gone. I was in the Costco parking lot. I heard them and just
looked up and paid attention to them. It was beautiful.

When I looked back down I realized there were four or five people standing near to me and we were all watching together.

It's your day. Take a breath and ENJOY!

Right now - do this for YOURSELF, please!

Since you are sitting down just push your chair back for a moment and press your shoulders down and back. Make that posture count for good oxygen intake. Now hold the abdominals in and take a few deep breaths. Breathe in through the nose, and out through the mouth.

Slowly again - in through the nose, and out through the mouth. Two or three more mindful breaths remembering we need oxygen to live and good breaths make our thinking
clearer. When you exhale you visualize all the negative thoughts you hold within fall down to the fingertips and dissipate.

Now turn your neck to the right and hold for a moment. Now back to center and then to the left and hold. Bring your head back to center and let the right side of your head fall towards the right shoulder. Hold a few moments. Now back to center and lay the left side of your head to the left shoulder. You'll feel the stretch on each side and this is good.

Roll your shoulders back in circles a few times, then roll them forward.

Blink your eyes quickly 10-20 times and close them. Rub your fingertips together until they feel warm and lay them on your eyes. Take in two more mindful inhalations and exhalations.

Open your eyes and SMILE! You have done something wonderful for yourself and it didn't take that long at all! Now resume whatever it was you were doing and remember someone out here on line REALLY CARES!

Be careful what you dwell upon in thought or vision

TRUE FACT the things we think about repeatedly, and the things our eyes behold really have an affect on us!

You know this innately. For instance, children watching violence does affect their
thought process. It will desensitize the horror of violence and make it more acceptable in their minds.

We create brain cells according to what we see and hear habitually....and the thinking does become altered accordingly.

An old Cherokee tale explains it quite beautifully:

An old Grandfather said to his grandson, who came to him with anger at a friend who had done him an injustice...

"Let me tell you a story. I too, at times, have felt great hate for those who have taken so much, with no sorrow for what they do. But hate wears you down, and does not hurt your enemy. It's like taking poison and wishing your enemy would die."

"I have struggled with these feelings many times. It is as if there are two wolves inside me; one is good and does no harm. He lives in harmony with all around him and does not take offense when no offense was intended. He will only fight when it is right to do so, and in the right way.

But...the other wolf... ah! The littlest thing will send him into a fit of temper. He fights everyone, all of the time, for no reason. He cannot think because his anger and hate are so great. It is helpless anger, for his anger will change nothing."

"Sometimes it is hard to live with these two wolves inside me, for both of them try to dominate my spirit."

The boy looked intently into his Grandfather's eyes and asked, "Which one wins, Grandfather?"

The Grandfather smiled and quietly said, "The one I feed."

So pay attention to what you FEED your mind and the minds of your family and those you share life with daily. We can help change the world if we work at it from within our own minds!

CREATE a beautiful day!

FAMILY visits can be Fun and not Stressful!

We recently had a family of five stay with us for almost three weeks. The guest room was used and the office was full of children on the floor. The small kitchen was always fragrant with something cooking, and the table squeezed us all in for meals. Every chair was used in the living room, and someone usually was patiently waiting for a shower or to use the toilet.

We had a ball! Would you like to know how? We were as polite to each other as we would have been to strangers. We picked up our own messes and helped share in the responsibility of cooking, cleaning and doing laundry. No one took advantage of anyone else, and when the children began to squabble - the parents / or grandparents attended to resolve the problem instead of ignoring because of adult conversation.

No one drank alcohol. Let me repeat that: NO ONE DRANK ALCOHOL! No I am not a prude and yes I do have a glass or wine or a drink once in a while. But this is what I've learned over the years:

If no one drinks while at a family gathering, misunderstandings WILL NOT happen. Children will not be left on their own. Arguments will NOT happen.

I've seen it so many times in "past" days. Keep in mind. Alcohol is a drug and if affects everyone differently. Most can handle a drink or two, but many simply cannot.
There is always (guaranteed) one who gets mad or upset or just plain drunk and stupid.

Don't take that chance with your family - or anyone else's for that matter. You will remember the gathering with love and joy. Keep in mind also - children LEARN what they see and hear - and they see and hear MUCH MORE than you will ever know....until perhaps it's too late.

Have fun. Stay away from alcohol at your next family visit and you will be part of the pleasure, not the problem!

Honest!

A quick post - CELL PHONES

Just a small stress management technique!

If yours is stolen or lost......do you have a hard copy with a list of all the numbers available?

Yes, I know you can get them from email, but would it not be simpler to have that hard copy?

My daughter's phone was stolen, so I know it can happen! Hold on to your "stuff", make hard copies of your numbers, and PRAY FOR PEACE!

GONE BUT NOT PERMANENTLY!

I won't be posting for a while....at least I don't think I will. I have family coming to stay and I will try to be spending the majority of my time LOVING them! They are
moving from the east coast and I am so excited I could literally jump out of my skin!

I hope you don't forget to check back with me in a couple of weeks. In the meantime,
love those who are around you. Don't ignore them for someone on line!

Keep the priorities of life in order and remember to laugh, move, have fun and bless
your hearts!

I care!

I need to breathe!

After reading the newspaper, news on the web, magazines, and so forth, I need to take
a breath and relax myself!

So much waste, so much dwelling on horrible incidents and potential disasters.
So right now, and I hope you join me, I am going to take in a few deep, mindful breaths.

As I do so, I am going to visualize all the trauma, all that which I CANNOT do anything about, leaving with my exhalation. This is not to "deny" problems, but to attend to
my own well-being. For if I am to do ANYTHING about ANYTHING, I must empower myself
with positive thoughts and strong intellect.

In breathing my inhalation I think about drawing in fresh oxygen, getting it to my brain (which needs 50% more to think optimally), and regenerating my spirit and my body.

In breathing out I am letting negativity push out down my arms and through my fingertips, and I am releasing in order to think in more positive terms. That will enable me to "handle" what is happening in MY WORLD....and to touch, what I am able, in the world of others.

Another few minutes of mindful breathing and I am up from the computer and out to accomplish a few things, and enjoy the moments of my life. I hope you do the same.

Fill your mind with positive thoughts...

and be grateful for all the small blessings we take for granted every day! We so forget to appreciate all that is given to us without asking!

To walk, to talk, to have food on the table, to love, to be able to love, to breathe
freely and enhance your life in doing so, even to be able to use an indoor toilet!

Sounds silly, but take away the "small" blessings and our lives would echo with so
much less joy than we have now.

And remember.....DWELL on positive things. Pay attention to anything that will feed your mind with WHO you want to be, and WHAT you want out of this life. Drop the negative and push away nasty garbage that is fed to us daily.

The following is just a small blurb from an email I received this morning. I think it is worth posting:

"Sometimes we are so busy adding up our troubles that we forget to count our blessings.
Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture you can change a person's life, for better or for worse.
God puts us all in each other's lives to impact one another in some way. Look for God in others.
The best and most beautiful things cannot be seen or touched - they must be felt with the heart ~ Helen Keller
Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God.
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment, thank God."

CREATE A WONDERFUL DAY!

Sometimes being still is the best to manage it all

To the right of this brief post is a blue sky and cloud for you. I was going to the market after a rain and the sky was so blue and the cloud so white - I felt like I
needed to snap it......it might never happen again! ENJOY!

Money that isn't there

When you are stretching to meet the demands financially, when you have unexpected expense, when you just can't figure out what you are going to do.......

Take a breath! Say a prayer. Take another breath.

You know, you can only do the best that you can. Circumstances change momentarily.
One moment I had a bit of money coming in....the next, I broke my tooth ($750.00),
have to pay a prepayment penalty ($2,800.00), have to pay back money ($400.00) the
state overpaid my hubby on unemployment last winter.....and so forth and so on!

That is lots of money for unexpected expense (THIS WEEK!). So you know what I did when I found out?

I took a breath! Said a prayer, maybe it was 20 prayers. Took another breath and thought, "Doing the best we can. It will all work out somehow. Not going to let money destroy our lives. Won't do it!"

I feel better. Truly. Try the techniques. PRACTICE them as we are creatures of habit and will get into the habit of thinking in positive terms.

Have a wonderful weekend no matter what! Love on somebody. Enjoy your life!
Your health will be better for it, your family will, and you will feel better about it all. HONEST.

Urgent for all parents!

www.ToyRecall.biz is just one site to check. Mattel is recalling millions of toys that are potentially deadly for the little ones. You've probably heard, but just in case,
please check this out for the safety of your children!

Wasn't going to post, but our children are so helpless and dependent on our decisions...protect them, and God bless them!

Whatever you are doing right now............

TAKE A 60 SECOND BREAK TO REFRESH AND REGENERATE!
Sit back from the desk. Take a deep breath inhaling though the nose, and exhaling through the mouth. Do it again and think: "Whatever my challenge, I will approach it refreshed in one minute, knowing I will do the best I can."

Take another breath. This time as you exhale, visualize all the negative thoughts you may harbor, and all the past anger or disapointment you may feel - flying out your fingertips into oblivion.

Now stretch your arms up overhead, clasping your hands together, as you lean back in your chair slightly. Put your hands behind your head and gently lift the head elongating, the neck and holding the weight of your head in your hands. Release.

Wiggle your toes and fingers and take another breath! Point your toes away from you. Press the heels away from you. Do this several times.

Roll your wrists one direction, then the opposite direction. Now blink your eyes several times.

If you NEED to use the restroom DON'T HOLD IT AND WAIT! THAT IS TERRIBLE FOR YOUR BODY. GO NOW.

Other wise, one more mindful breath and smile (No particular reason - it just feels good.) You could do this maybe once an hour. That's only 8 times in 8 hours....only 8 minutes. You are worth it and you will be better for it!

I won't be posting for a couple of days, so in the meantime - ENJOY your work, enjoy your play, and PLEASE enjoy each moment of every day. Time is accelerating - make it precious time!

Truth that does not waiver

“The relation that exists between the mind and body is very intimate. When one is affected, the other sympathizes. The condition of the mind affects the health to a far greater degree than many realize. Many of the diseases from which men suffer are the result of mental depression. Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces and to invite decay and death....

Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and prolong life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul.”

Ellen G. White
1827-1915

Tale of Two Wolves

The first exercise I teach, regardless if I am teaching high intensity aerobics, low-key exercise, relaxation, or even dance....is to EXERCISE THE MIND. These two short tales go hand
in hand with using our brains and finding magic can happen to each of us, if we just EXERCISE our powers and believe! CREATE a wonderful weekend! I care:) Thank you for sharing my sweet spiritual friend and sister - Lynn.


-Native American-

A grandfather was telling his grandson, "There is a conflict
inside of me and in every one of us. Two wolves live within me.

One wolf is jealous, angry, covetous, rude, disrespectful,
lazy, unkind, resentful. The other wolf is kind, loving,
grateful, compassionate, happy, helpful. They are battling
within each of us"

The grandson asks, "Which one will win?"
The grandfather thoughtfully answers, "The one you feed."
**************************************************************
Tale of unknown origin

A man who had been traveling a long way approaches the
gate to a small village. Sitting outside the gate is an
old, wrinkled woman.The man asks the woman "What kind of
people will I find here in this village?"

The woman answers "What kind of people did you find in
the last village you were in?" The man said, "They were
terrible people. Greedy, obnoxious, hateful, rude,
Thieves all of them. It was awful." "You will find the same
sort of people here then" she answered. And the man hung his
head, turned around and walked away.

Later that day another man who had also been traveling a
long way approaches the same gate to the same village
and sees the same old woman sitting outside the
gate. He asks, "What kind of people will I find in this
village?"

The woman in turns asks, "What kind of people did you
find in the last village you lived?" He said "They were
wonderful people! Kind, generous, thoughtful, helpful, loving
people. I hated having to leave."
The woman looked at the man and answered

"Then you will find the same sort of people here."
And the man happily walked through the gate into the
village.

Which wolf do you feed daily? What expectations of people
do you have?

How to handle UNEXPECTED expense!

SAME OLD TECHNIQUE (but always effective).
First TAKE A BREATH.

One thing I have learned in this life is that just when the bills are paid and you might have a few dollars extra - SOMETHING jumps in to grab those bills!

It is exhausting, discouraging, makes us angry, and unfair! BUT WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?

Are you going to let money problems RUIN your life, your relationships, your family?
DON'T YOU DO IT! This too shall pass.

Whatever the problem a resolve will come if you maintain your cool. Remember, it's just one of those circumstances that happens and you STILL have the CHOICE of how to respond.

Here's an example: Yesterday I attended a workshop I could little afford. I am trying to create a business that is successful on the internet. They provided lunch, and just before the part I really wanted to hear, I bit down on a piece of uncooked rice and totally broke my tooth.

I had to excuse myself, go to the dentist, and was told "You need a crown. That will be $800.00 please!"

I took a breath. ALLOWED myself to be sad and discouraged for a few moments, and then took another breath. I arranged for payments, called my husband and told him I felt badly about the cost. He teased me for a minute and said, "Gosh you are expensive!" I responded by "But I'm worth it, huh?" He agreed. (Phew, got him fooled:).

Then I returned to the seminar. (Of course I didn't smile my normal big mouth smile...it looks terrible:). This morning I am so glad I picked a positive response.
You know life is going to hand you troubles year after year. That doesn't mean you have to CHOKE on them and ruin the MOMENTS of EACH DAY. All we have are these moments.

Happiness or another bill? I CHOOSE HAPPINESS....no matter what the cost!

Have a wonderful day. I care!

Is your neck tired and stiff?

I love input from those who are also in the field of making us healthier
and stronger! Here's one I think works beautifully!

Try this:
"Breathe and sigh often, as you rest your left palm on your right shoulder.
Pull down from your shoulder to your breastbone (sternum) as your
fingers sink into those muscles.

Repeat 3 times. Switch sides and repeat."

It works and it feels wonderful and is soooooo good for you!
Thanks Lynn, you sweet little angel!

No matter how stressful your day may appear....

REMEMBER: We only have the moment we are in right now! Can't change the past, only
can dream of the future, but what we have is HERE and NOW.

Use your moments with love and compassion. Be forgiving of others and take many of the tasks that seem so important - lightly, with confidence that you can only do so much, and with a sense of humor.

My love and prayers to those lost spirits in Minnesota, and those around the world....
and my love too, goes to families who must learn to go forth and survive.

CREATE your life from this moment forth!

Electronic devices and STRESS!

I read that the average American has at least 26 electronic devices between their home and place of employment, and they are literally DRIVING US CRAZY!

Yes, they are wonderful and helpful. But in all honesty, haven't you sometimes felt
like picking up your computer and throwing it? Haven't you cussed when the cell cut you off from an important conversation, or someone in traffic cut you off because they were busy using their hands to talk on their cell phone?

We all have endured STRESS caused by one of our electronic devices at one time or another. As wonderful as they are, we CANNOTallow an electronic "object" to control our emotions and our lives!

Here are a few tips to help when you feel like flushing one of these things down the toilet. (80% of respondents in a recent survey confessed to at least cursing out loud at a machine!)

1. Reboot and relax. Stop for a moment and drop your shoulders. I will guarantee under stress that they go up. When they do you limit circulation to the brain - and the brain needs 50% more oxygen to function optimally. So think, drop the shoulders, take a breath and remember you are restoring the flow of oxygen and blood so you can be calmer and think clearly.

2. When we stare at computers we deprive our eyes of tears. We blink less and our eyes become tired and dryer. When we age our eyes are dryer anyway, so this isn't good. Stop. Every 20 minutes or so look away from the screen for 20-30 seconds.
Blink your eyes a few times. You can even rub your fingers together until they are warm, close your eyes and place them on the lids. This will feel great and help to relax them.

3. Stop typing once in a while. Your hands take a beating. Shake them. Stretch them. Do a bit of self massage. Breathe into them. They work hard for you ALL day, not just at the computer!

4. TURN OFF THE CELL PHONE in the car! Cell phone use is the cause of many accidents. Cell phones are terrific for emergency use, or something that is critically important. But think. What did you do before adding this device to your life.

Probably no business while driving. No "emotions" caused by conversations. No
anger from other drivers because you aren't paying attention. Turn off the phone!
TAKE A MINI-VACATION........listen to your favorite music! Think, plan, just enjoy the drive if you can.

Okay, that's it for now. CREATE a beautiful day and remember: It's YOUR LIFE!
Save it, use it wisely, remember to laugh and smile. I care!

PAPERWORK NIGHTMARE!

All of us deal with having more paperwork than we know what to do with these days. We
are afraid to throw anything out, but we don't have file drawers enough to keep it all.

This is a list I complied (after doing a bit of research) to help you get rid of excess paperwork lying around the house. Be sure to remember that when you dispose of "stuff", if you don't have any way to shed your things, you at least make sure names, numbers, etc. are REALLY minced up small.

Identity theft is no small problem to face, so guard yourself and your family.

Here is what you much keep for at least a good while, and perhaps forever:

1. Canceled checks that are related to tax deductions or major purchases. If you pull these checks out from the rest each month it will save you lots of time later. Also keep any charitable giving and medical expenses. You can file these in an envelope saying CHECKS for TAXES 2007.

2. Keep a file with purchase and sale documents, including IRS Form 2119 for every home you've owned.

3. Keep a file of capital home improvement costs. Routine repairs don't count. Only things like new roof, remodeled kitchen, etc.

3. Credit card records - keep for 6 years.

4. Health records are forever.

5. Contracts (even those paid) are to be kept for 7 years past the expiration date.

6. Investments, contributions to IRA's, and brokerage accountings.

7. A will. (VERY important for your family - even if handwritten and witnessed by
three people is better than nothing!).

8. IRS returns. The IRS has three years to examine your return, and six years if there is a substantial under-reported income.

TRUST ME ON THIS ONE - my husband and I were audited about eight years ago and I had to come up with a TON of paperwork.

My bookkeeper made huge mistakes and we were fined, both for the errors and every day
they hadn't been paid! We had no idea we owed money. She didn't have to account for a penny of it, not even a fine. If someone does your books make sure they are
qualified.

These are the papers you should make sure to keep in a safe deposit box or someplace very safe.

1. Deeds and records of ownership. Documents as to the condition of your home and a written inventory of goods in it.

2. Birth, marriage and death certificates. Also passports.

3. Stock and bond certificates

4. List of all insurance policies and agents.

5. Adoption papers, divorce decrees and child custody agreements.

Even if you don't have a lock box to keep them in, make copies of these items and store them separately in case you need them.

YEAH! Now we are down to the toss out stuff!

1. Expired insurance policies.

2. Non-tax related checks (but they have to be more than three years old:(.

3. Records for items you no longer own. (Cars, boats, etc.)

4. Pay stubs going back more than two years.

That's pretty much it. If anyone out there can think of anything else, please drop me a comment or email and I will post an addendum to these lists!

Have fun and get to shredding and trashing all the useless garbage!

How NOT to start the day

Check out the photo on the right. I got up at 6AM - brushed my teeth (in order to kiss my husband goodbye. Drank a glass of water (to dilute the acid in my two cups of coffee), and proceeded to spill the coffee all over the table, the chair cushion, and the floor I had just cleaned the night before!

So you know what I did? I LOVE the fact I teach stress management - it's made my life paradise! I looked at it and thought: "You know, it's a good thing mama taught me to be flexible and accept change. We never know just what will happen."

I looked at the mess again and actually giggled. That wasn't the way I intended to start the day. Tried to get the dog to lick it up, but dogs are smart-they don't like coffee:).

So - I poured another cup - got the mop out and began the cleanup. Washed the cushion and finished by dry mopping the floor so I wouldn't slip and break my fanny!

All in all, it was nothing. It was rather funny as it reminded me we have little control over what happens to us, but ultimate control over our response. I love it.
Was kind of like a Saturday night live skit....

It's not WHAT happens to you, but HOW you respond that changes your life and the lives of those around you!

Keep hold of that sense of humor and all will be okay. Have a WONDERFUL day where
ever you are and whatever time of day it is! It's your choice. I care!

When you reach an impass - hit the wall!

STOP and take a breath. I shall do it with you as I hit that wall a few moments ago. If you feel yourself getting upset, angry, or impatient with a job you are doing - WHATEVER - it is the time to MAKE CHANGES! Not tomorrow, right now!

Take a breath again! (If it isn't now, when this happens this technique will always work.) Control your response, your intellect, and your happiness with your oxygen. You are an oxygen machine and it works! Try it.

The second thing you do is to get up and walk away. Stretch. Move to a different task. Do something to divert your attention from this mind boggling event that is chemically changing who you are!

You may say "I can't - I have responsibilities!" Well, unless it is life threatening to you or someone close to you, it is LIFE THREATENING in the long run of it unless you CONTROL what is happening!

You can't control all the circumstances happening, but you can ALWAYS control your response.

Is the thing that is frustrating you important enough "to die for" - I think not!
Re-evaluate what you are doing and make necessary changes (even if just for a few moments to gather your wits about you, and make a plan). You will be relieved that you've done this, and so will your family!

Remember: Sometimes when you let loose on those you love THEY ARE NOT ACTUALLY THE TARGET. They just happened to be in the way and catch your wrath. Think about it and be flexible enough to try these techniques. You will be glad you did.

I know I am. I am now relaxed enough, regenerated, and calm enough to return to what I was doing. I am actually building a new website and I hit that wall.

I feel better. Hope you do too. I actually care!

If you are "under pressure".........

........just remember: You can only do so much in one day! Believe me, whatever doesn't get done will be waiting for you tomorrow.

We put so much pressure on ourselves to achieve perfection, to accomplish all our tasks, to be the perfect parent. You know what I mean. Well let it go! None of us will achieve perfection in this lifetime.

What we can work up to is a heart attack if we take all the stress placed in front of us DEAD serious. I don't mean to slack and procrastinate. I simply mean, step back and take a breath. Appraise what can ACTUALLY be accomplished this day. Step forward now into a realistic picture.

Don't let others push your buttons. Guard your life and your heart. You are the only one who can do this, and remember, you only have one place to live - YOUR BODY!

If you screw it up by overplaying every day, and suddenly die from a heart attack...or go insane, how good will that be towards all you are working to achieve?????

Don't be blind and say THIS WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME." It can certainly happen to any of us if we don't take care of ourselves and let stress run us over!

Please stop throughout the day and take a breath. Remember this is your life, and
return to your days with a more positive attitude, keeping in mind - You can only
do so much in one day!

I mean it. If you have a boss that is trying to put you into an early grave, perhaps you should re-think things a bit!

TAKE CARE OF YOU AND YOU WILL BE TAKING CARE OF THOSE YOU LOVE BY DOING SO!

Einstein's Wisdom

Ethical axioms are found and tested not very differently from the axioms of science. Truth is what stands the test of experience.

Summer Rain

It is very unusual in my hometown to get even one drop of summer rain. Last night I awoke to the sound of rain pouring on my roof. A down burst which dropped me back into my dream state with a smile on my face.

This morning it's still raining, and so after weeks of having the house closed up due to escalating temperatures (100-118), I immediately got up and opened all the windows. As I sit here writing I can hear the rain still coming down. The trees are much greener and have a luster due to the water cleaning all the leaves.

The sound of traffic has diminished and only a few heartiest of birds are singing the song welcoming dawn. It's too much temptation to resist and so I will pour a cup of hot coffee and sit on the steps just thanking my God for these drops from heaven. Water is so cleansing.

Time flies and two days have passed. Temperatures are warming. We broke two records-a low in temperature only passed in 1932, and rain amount - we got 1.25 inches and the last time it rain any amount was in 1986 (a pittance compared to this!).

I went kayaking and everything smelled fresh and the sky was clear and deep blue. The water was cooler, but I still swam and really enjoyed the outdoors.

REMEMBER: Being outdoors in fresh air and away from the city is healing! Do it if you can:).

A couple of "stress management" techniques my mama left with me, for you.
1. Never leave a room without something in both hands! It really helps as you are
always taking care of business, and it doesn't take much to get into the habit of doing this. My husband swears I take 50 things in my hands! I don't.:)

2. Double bag your trash cans. I stopped buying trash can liners as the expense was adding up. IF your stores still use plastic bags, use those to line the trash cans, and put in two or three so that when you are rushed you can just grab a bag, and your can is ready to go already! I swore (when mama was alive) that I would never do that, but you know what - listen to mama. These older folks have lived and know what they are talking about for sure!

Now take a breath. Press your shoulders back and DOWN. Take another breath! Stretch a bit - arms up in the air. Wiggle your body all over and SMILE! Someone
out here in BlogLand LOVES YOU - for real!

EVERYONE "SAYS" THEY WANT TO MANAGE STRESS MORE EFFECTIVELY

OVER 80% of medical visits originate from stress induced reactions upon the human body! Stress changes chemical combinations within us and drives us to the "fight or flight" stage, which in turn accelerates wear and tear on the organs, muscles and all the inner workings of the body. It also plays havoc with our minds, and can literally be debilitating!

This culture is the instant gratification culture. We want what we want, and we want it now! In learning to TRULY change your life, and MANAGE any stress, you must dedicate time to practice techniques, and be consistent. Does that sound so very difficult?

Herein lies the problem. This culture has us going so many directions at once, and believing the list of duties MUST be completed, that we are driving ourselves mad!

Each day has 1,440 minutes in it....that is 525,600 minutes in one average year. Ten
minutes a day devoted to stress management education and practice still leaves you
1,430 minutes a day....and 521,950 minutes a year to devote to all these other tasks you deem important enough to leave you frazzled, irritated, and less than feeling wonderful! Come on now, that doesn't make sense.

Here is the choice: 1. Watch your stress levels keep rising with no resolve in sight. Prime your body for a heart attack and your life for constant turmoil. 2. Love yourself and your family enough to take 10 minutes a day to CHANGE YOUR LIFE and the lives of those around you.

I think the second choice is worth 10 minutes of consistent practice on managing stress. You WILL FIND YOU LIKE IT! You WILL FIND YOU WILL INCREASE YOUR practice
time as you get "in the habit". We are creatures of habit and we can develop habits easily. Why not a pittance in time to develop a life style that will enhance your mind and the health of your body simultaneously?

Whether you try my CD or someone else's, in my heart of hearts I WANT YOUR LIFE TO BE BETTER FOR ALL CONCERNED! Of course I believe you should pay a one time fee for the CD and let me help you create new brain cells, and be rid of negative thoughts and actions. I charge much more than that for 1 hour of personal training. I personally selected the original music, and put 3 relaxations on the CD - for "newcomers" and for those familiar with it all. Over 30 years I have seen people change their demeanor to an empowered and calm personality - miracles can happen.

Please go to my new website to check it out. I have a couple of samples of the CD you can listen to, a couple of articles and my complete biography.

http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com or go to "links to my resources" on the right of this page.
My husband calls me "The human happy face" - I practice what I teach :) and I want this joy and empowerment to be YOURS! I TRULY CARE!

School and it's many challenges for YOU

Ahhhh, school is near and parents are all handling it differently! Some can hardly wait to send the children back to the learning environment. They envision a few hours a day with no one saying, “Mom (or dad), I’m bored”, “I’m hungry”, or even, “Can you take me to my friend’s house?”

Others are dreading the demands that children in school can bring home to the parents. The cost of books and supplies, new clothing, the tasks of shuttling children to school activities and sporting events, the required PTA, helping with homework, and all the parental duties that go along with those who have children in school.

When you begin to feel yourself paralyzed by “dread” of things to come,
do exactly what you are doing right now! Take a moment or two to do something for yourself.

Whether it’s reading a quick article, just sitting still for a few moments, or taking an unplanned trip to the store to pick up a few things you need or want!

You are DIVERTING your own attention from these dreaded fears surrounding “school is upon us”, and concentrating on something else for the moment.

Diversion is good. The definition, simply put, is “an instant of turning something aside from it’s course”. We are only capable of thinking about one thing at a time!

This does not suggest that you will never need to think about the challenges you face, but it will give you just a bit of time (while doing one of these activities or something you choose) to take a breath! When you breathe, your intellect is sharper. When you are stressed out you slow your breathing without even knowing it, which in turn stresses you out even further.

This is the bottom line. You will never complete the list of things that need to be done. When that happens it means you are dead! There are
on going demands that will bury you though, if you don’t realize that
the only way to be in charge is by making the best choices in handling
things, and then letting go.

95% of all that you spend your life worrying about NEVER COMES TO FRUITION! Honestly! Worrying about not being able to “take care of all that is necessary”, is simply a waste of your time and energy.

Prioritize, delegate, stay in the moment. You know what needs to be done and it’s about time you give yourself credit for handling so much already!

Remember that life always gives us stress to manage. We may not have the choice in what happens to us, or the demands that challenge us, but we ALWAYS have a choice in the response to these things.

It's not necessary to implode, or explode. Loosing your cool will only worsen the scenario. When you find yourself in the position of having just too much to do, perhaps in too little time, and there is NO WAY to change it - If you are the person in charge of doing the multitude of tasks... then the only thing you can do is ACCEPT IT.

The truth is, unless you have someone you can “pass the ball to”, you’d better start using positive affirmations to create those brain cells necessary to take care of business.

Don’t let the negatives overpower you. Take a breath and think: “I will get things done to the best of my ability.” “I will take each moment as it comes and remember that I am capable and dedicated to finding resolve to challenges.” “I will remember that I can only do so much in one day, one hour, one moment.” “I will remember that my children and all the children who’s paths I cross will look to my attitude and demeanor as either horrible or positive, and they will learn from me.”

If you are a person of faith then truly the first thing that should be done is asking for help. Just as your children look to you for help and ask repeatedly for it, pray often! Of course with prayer must come letting go and letting God oversee your needs. That’s faith.

If you do not believe then your only choice is to decide whether you want to let things drive you crazy, or whether you will simply do what you have to do! Affirm your capabilities and breadth of intellect sprinkled with the right amount of emotion.

Get ready for a WONDERFUL school year. Anticipate all the positive things that will enhance your children’s lives, and remember this time is fleeting. One day soon you will recall the excitement of these days, wishing you could do it all again. Make them calm and joyous. Make your children glad to be alive and excited about it all.

YOU CAN DO IT! Take a breath and rock and roll.

Airline passenger? Be prepared!

The first day of my trip I stood 7 1/2 hours in line. My flight was canceled. So here are a few tips to help if your day comes and circumstances radically change for you!

Of course, ALWAYS take a deep breath or two. The additional oxygen will help you to calm down and keep your brain thinking optimally.

Remember: whatever the circumstance - whether you like it or not - though you may
not have the control to change things, you always have the CHOICE to respond in a positive manner. After all, if you CANNOT CHANGE THINGS, ACCEPT IT - and find a way to put a positive slant on the situation. You can always do that if you just try.

When you allow the "challenge" to upset you, you are simply wasting energy and actually making the situation worse! You will chemically change your body and can (ultimately) do damage to yourself by getting stressed out about something you haven't control over anyway!

Try to make reservations way a head of time. Request your specific seat. When through security, buy water and snacks and wear comfortable shoes. Keep your focus on the fact that the only thing you have control over is your attitude-your response.

You will really help yourself, and others, by using your oxygen, your intellect, and remembering if you are calm and relaxed it can change others to follow your example.

It's a beautiful day and I am home from my trip!

Will be writing a new post today or tomorrow. Had a wonderful trip, but kind of trying at the airport the first day!
Will expound soon.

.... Take a breath! Take a moment to tell someone you love them! Hug someone today (even if it is hugging yourself:)!
Time is fleeting and it's time to enjoy the moment.

Vacation

Hi all,

I am on vacation until July 17th! My darling husband is frying in the heat working hard, and I am 3,000 miles away, loving and hugging extended family, and learning to boogie board and surf. He rocks!

I am trying new activities I have NEVER done before. I may crash and burn but I'll give it my best try!


My posts may be kind of few and far between for this time. In the meantime, please
take care of yourselves and take time to breathe and enjoy each moment of your life!
Blessings to you all!

Two short poems by Mercy Richey - 1901

These were written by a woman I never met. I helped a friend clean up her apartment after she passed on. My friend told me I could keep what I liked as she had no family.

The few things I kept are precious to me. I am not sure why. Her written thoughts were given as a gift to me and part of her Spirit now resides inside of me.

She wrote with heart and intellect: Hope you enjoy!

"The fabric of my life is gray - hard work in one small place.
I'll concentrate on trimming it, with lots of laughs for lace."

"We clean our houses every day, and throw the useless things away.
But often let our minds for years, be filled with foolish thoughts and fears."

For Sandi, my friend, and anyone else who may have stress to deal with this weekend!

ANYONE WHO HAS CHILDREN must go through such varied stress over the years, sometimes it is almost mind warping. It happens to all parents, so take a bit of comfort in the fact we are not alone in learning to manage these stresses.

Keep in mind, sweet lady, that there could be MANY reasons you are feeling unusually stressed out about this problem. The week could have been more stressful than you realized, your hormones and body chemicals may be altered some by your concern. It does happen. The body responds to stress and will make it worse by changing!

When we are fearful about anything, we take smaller breaths - making our situation much worse. When we are shallow breathers, we get less oxygen to the brain, which affects our thoughts and decisions, and not in a positive manner. Our muscles and ligaments and even the organs within suffer from this lack of oxygen - which adds to the problem.

These things will help if you DO THEM MINDFULLY this weekend. That means whenever the worry starts taking over, flip from "emotion" based control to "intellect". What I mean is remember, you are in charge of your thoughts, so when that fear enters, think: "This is not productive. It is not good for me or my family. I will
not succumb to fear. I will use my intellect and make immediate changes for the better!"

May sound silly at first, but it works. Divert your attention by taking a couple of minutes alone (or if that is impossible, include the children in this "game"). Sit, straighten up a bit and breathe! Inhale slowly through the nose (which will give you needed oxygen and help you relax-REALLY, it's the physiology of the body); exhale
through the mouth slowly. As you exhale visualize all the negative thoughts and fear flying right out your fingertips. You are in charge. Do this for a couple of minutes minimum.

Whenever you start to fret again, DO IT AGAIN! It's your life. You have a family to care for, so CARE FOR YOU and be in the best frame possible. It takes a bit of practice to get in the habit but YOU and your family deserve the best! (If the kiddos are around and you play the "breathing game" - it will also teach them and help them in every way.) I promise.

Lastly, here are a few thoughts to ponder. Mama always said, "What's the worst that can happen? We have to handle it no matter what, so when you figure that out, then every incident above the worst can be handled too." Made sense to me.

FEAR doesn't change ANYTHING. It only does damage. Besides (and this is factual too), 95% of what we spend our lives fearing NEVER HAPPENS!

If you like, check out my website: http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/
as there is a bit more there on fear.

Draw positive, healing thoughts to yourself. Think in terms that will pull good energy and healing power towards you and YOUR FAMILY! Some may think this silly, but we have magical powers yet untapped. They work!

My first line of defense is my faith. It's tough, but I try to always leave the results of a scenario in God's domain...that's faith. I pray, pray, pray. I will pray for you and your son, and family. Remember, we can only change some circumstances in our lives. Some are out of our control.

What we can change is our RESPONSE to those circumstances. We can empower ourselves and our families by our positive, loving, and confident response! I have confidence enough in you to know YOU CAN HANDLE IT! Keep the faith my friend. I KNOW you will create a GOOD weekend for yourself and family.

Happiness Hog

You bet I am! We all have a right to be happy in our life here on earth as humans!
Misery runs like a raging river and it's out of control. It's reported on every news broadcast on television, in the newspapers and magazines, the radio, and yes on my beloved internet!

There is something in the air that seems to draw individuals to tragedy. Whether it is because we feel empathy, or compassion, or even are secretly grateful it didn't happen to us, misery sells!

I am not buying.. Let me say it again I AM NOT BUYING!

It is a fact that the things we dwell upon will eventually become our lives and eat us up from the inside out. I have a friend who split up with her mate after 27 years. He was terrible to her. Violent, bossy, and selfish. She can recalls easily his negative traits. Yet she mourns. I pray she will begin to retrain her mind, filling it with new potential scenarios and positive thoughts.

It does make a huge difference. What we think about, what we roll over and over in our minds, can become our lives. I knew one wonderful woman who spent over twenty years being miserable without the need!

When you hear all the horror, all the terrible things, it's ok to review what is happening. Pray, do something within the realm of your world to help, discuss it with a friend, but when you've done what can be done - release it.

Take a deep breath in through the nose, and exhale through the mouth. Do it as you inhale as if you are filling a balloon from the bottom upward. As you exhale, let the balloon collapse from the bottom upward, and let the worries fly out your fingertips into oblivion.

You HAVE A RIGHT TO BE HAPPY. If you suck in all the problems it will weaken your physical, mental, and spiritual being. Use the breathing technique above after you've done what you can do....it will all work out as it will......

Remember: to be your best self, to be the best for your family, friends, and peers,
to do the best you can to KEEP misery from happening - YOU must be able to be in charge of your mind, body and spirit.

YOU CAN DO IT! (Nobody else can do it for you! :)

Male climacteric

Hey guys (around age 35 +) notice ANY of these symptoms?

* Decreased mental quickness and sharpness
* Decreased energy, strength and endurance
* Less desire for activity and exercise
* Decreased muscle and increased body fat
* Mild to moderate depression and irritability
* Depression and/or loss of eagerness and enthusiasm for daily life
* Decreased sex drive
* Decreased sexual function and/or sensitivity

Before I continue I want to clarify something. This information is not to belittle or injury anyone! It is not shameful to experience NORMAL physiological changes- if we are lucky enough to age!

We’ve all heard of the menopause happening in women, but not too many of us have heard about a man’s challenge in facing this time.

All women hear is that men are scoundrels, screwed up, or just a mess all together. The reasons behind this (in most cases) are real, and they can be helped. That is why I want to share this with you.

The most happy men and women I know have “understanding” of each
other’s physical challenges. I say challenges because there is such a nasty misnomer about so many of the natural changes men and women see in a lifetime. Knowledge is power, and I hope to empower you with the means to greater understanding, patience and peace

For women, it is the menopause, and for men it is “climacteric” (or andropause) , the corresponding time in the life of men 35 and older. The word climacteric comes from the Greek word klimakter, which means literally a rung of a ladder, or figuratively a critical point.

Climacteric is the l physiological process that marks the end of maturation and the beginning of new stages in life. It’s defining point normally takes place without any external influences. The changes in personality and a man’s actions often reflect a decline in male hormones. There is life after the climacteric period!

There are some who feel that hormone replacement therapy helps. The body declines in testosterone, thyroid, human growth hormone, and DHEA. I also TRULY BELIEVE that when people (male or female) are aware
of what is happening to their bodies, it is much easier to find a plan
to help the scenario.

When I entered the menopause , younger than most at 34, my mama had told me all about it. She swore that much of it was “placed” in our heads by well meaning authorities that assume everyone will experience the same symptoms and problems. This is simply NOT TRUE!

We are all different, have different background, genes, health histories,
and face these things individually. I truly believe in the power of mind over matter, and know that the way we tackle a challenge depends on our mental state.

I knew a fellow once who was hurt in an accident. He kept thinking, “I’m really hurt. I won’t heal.” The doctor’s couldn’t find anything and attributed it to possible nerve damage. I think he “thought himself” permanently disabled, and is this way after 20 years.

I was in a serious accident and was told I wouldn’t heal and do the same work. Well, I believe in prayer, but I also refused to believe that I would be permanently kept from being me. It took time, but gratefully, everything healed and I kept on doing what I do!

Back to you guys. Don’t think, “I am getting old” , “there is nothing I can do, etc.” BS. Start thinking in positive terms and realizing that there are hormone treatments, natural therapies, and mind over matter works, if you work at it!

Besides, most older guys I know haven’t aged badly at all. In fact, it seems for men, that most men age beautifully and are still sexy and handsome - gray hair and all.

JUST BE AWARE THAT CHANGES YOU MAY BE FEELING MAY NOT BE BOREDOM IN A RELATIONSHIP, BEING WEARY OF A JOB, WANTING TO MOVE OR CHANGE SOMETHING........You may simply be going through something that is very natural and happens to most men at this point in their life. Chin up! Knowledge is power!

As for the women folk, I think we need to keep these things in mind and be supportive of the guys....just like I hope they will be for us!

Happy Father's Day to all you guys out there!

IT'S A TOUGH JOB, AND NOT ALL GUYS ARE UP TO THE CHALLENGE......but for those of you who take it seriously (and there are plenty of you) - God bless you!

Too many people these days don't realize the important effect a father has on his children. You teach them patience through your example, and though just like HOMER SIMPSON, sometimes you feel like choking them (I say this with humor) , you forge a head day by day, experience by experience.

There is no master book specifically for guys on the complex functions fathering requires. Women multi-task because it's part of our nature. You guys learn to do and say things you never dreamed of as a young man. But that is LOVE:)

It's NOT ALWAYS genetic connection that makes a great father! Sometimes a step-father steps up and does magnificent work. My husband, for instance; he'd never had children and yet when we married he melded into the job of step-father like he was the children's own genetic father! He did a splendid job and the children adore him!

What it takes is love, dedication, developing extended patience, and unconditional loyalty to the job. We've all made mistakes as parents, so for you father's that think you aren't doing a good job - IF YOU ARE THERE for them - IF YOU LOVE THEM - IF YOU ARE TRYING, then accolades to you! Keep up the GREAT job!

Einstein Quote

"Try to become not a man of success, but try rather to become a man of value."

Have a wonderful weekend. Treat yourself to some activity outside. Think about breathing. It's free and will heal your body and your mind! Whatever you do, also be grateful for just the fact that you are able to do it!

Share love with someone who needs it, for whatever love you give will return to you multiplied. Maybe not at the same instant, but it will be returned to you. I promise!

BE CAREFUL ABOUT THIS OVER THE COUNTER WEIGHT LOSS DRUG

I know - it's barely on the market, but please be very careful. The name is Alli. I know the food and drug administration has approved it, but didn't they also approve
quite a few other things that NOW they are backing down and saying these same drugs are dangerous.

This drug is supposed to help you "loose weight while you sleep." DUH! You are not
eating while you sleep! It is supposed to help "along with exercise and diet." Well, DUH! Those two things alone will help you get to where you want to be health and weight wise.

The side effects include "gas and loose stools" - Nice. It also makes no claim to keep the weight off "long term."

In my humble but researched opinion - STAY AWAY FROM IT. Don't spend your money dreaming to loose as you sleep. Wake up.

Moderate exercise (as little at 20 minutes a day) and just slightly changing your calorie intake (drop 100-200 calories a day) - will REALLY help you achieve your goals.
Just be consistent and patient. There is NO quick fix!

Be safe with your choices for your body. I care!

Today's tips on staying robust and relaxed!

TAKE A BREAK! TAKE A BREATH!

It's your life. Even if it is only for a couple of minutes. Stretch, move around,
and blink your eyes for 15 seconds. Now rub your hands together until they get warm
and place them on your eyes for a few seconds. Give those poor babies a rest for a minute!

We so abuse our bodies and forget to give them time to recover. PLEASE.....remember
to love your body (and not just it's shape or tan), but think: "My body is the only place I have to live. It works for me 24/7-even when I sleep it is regenerating.
I will get into the habit of taking a couple of minutes every hour during the day to let my body and mind rest."

I care!

WONDERFUL ADVICE! "How to stay YOUNG"

I never much cared for George Carlin as to me he was a pretty nasty comic - HOWEVER,
a friend just sent me his "advice" on how to stay young, and I think it is positively appropriate and wonderful advice. Therein, I wanted to share it with you.

George Carlin
(Absolutely Brilliant)


HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay "them."

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.

3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, music, art, stock, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keep sakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

We all need to live life to its fullest each day!!

Don't forget to stay hydrated in the summer heat!

For a human to stay hydrated, means your body chemistry combines chemically with water molecules. Water molecules are chemically "bound" to another compound or element within your body.

When someone says,"You don't drink enough water", they probably care for you! When you don't drink enough water various things happen.

First, remember that next to oxygen in the importance of life sustaining things we take into our bodies, water comes in second in importance. That is pretty high in the order of things we need to sustain life! We can live for only minutes without oxygen, and only days without water.

Here is a little known fact. When you don't get enough water for your internal organs, they begin to take water from other organs. Amazing, eh? The body knows water is to maintain life. Often we don't realize it.

When you don't get enough fluid in your tissues, your cells start to draw it from your bloodstream. Your blood will thicken (it makes sense - think about it), and it can put a strain on your heart or make you feel weak or light-headed.

Particularly for those of us who perspire profusely, you must replenish your fluids.


I've heard, "But I don't like water. It tastes awful." "I feel like I am drinking nothing and it makes me feel too full." That can be a blessing for those who want to loose a few pounds. Drink water about a half hour before a meal and you won't eat as much. Really!

When I first made the transition from wine to water, (only Jesus can turn water to wine:), I would put my ice water in a lovely crystal wine class with some ice and a twist of lemon. It looked lovely and each time I took a sip I thought "Ummmmmmm -
no calories, no headache, no organs starving for water, and no guilt!

It worked. I got in the habit and I have over the years always taken a bottle or jug of water with me where ever I go in the summer. It is mandatory.

If you need variety, drink caffeine free sports drinks or iced fruit juices (add water to keep calories down). It's fun to be creative. I like sparkling water just flavored with a twist of lemon, lime or orange peel.

Fruits and vegetables can supplement some water intake if you eat five servings a day.

Watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges, apples, and so on. Fruit in the summer is magic. For veggies how about tomatoes or carrots. Be creative.

Lastly, remember ALCOHOL and caffeinated drinks deplete your water supply.

This body will work for you for years and years, and in great health, if you just treat it with as much respect and care as you do an automobile. The requirements are easy, not as costly as auto repair, and will absolutely make you feel better!

You may not think so at first, but give it time and THINK: If I do the right things for my body and mind my spirit will function better too, and my health will improve.
That is simply the physiology of the body!

Now get up and stretch a bit, walk out to the kitchen and get a glass of water (doesn't have to be huge-just frequent). It is the nectar of God and a great healer!
ENJOY> I care!

Take time to go outside and enjoy nature!

Nature itself is healing. Breathe! Walk, ride a bike, skip, take a drive (and then get out of the car and stretch and walk around a bit!)

Whatever it takes, it's the weekend - it is time to enjoy our still beautiful world.
I went kayaking yesterday, which is a blessing to me, for sure. My face hurt from
smiling all day. Saw lots of birds, ducks, geese, turtles, fish, and children playing on the shores. Families camping, children swimming.

Nature is available to most of us, so take advantage and it will help to heal you in body, spirit, and mind. If you are, for whatever reason, unable to do anything, then please enjoy the Canadian geese family that visited me in my kayak, and roll through past photos and become a part of them by visualizing the sights and imagine the sounds and smells. Take a breath and enjoy your moments!

Have a wonderful weekend and remember a stranger really cares!

Please take 2 minutes to watch this YouTube video

I normally don't forward things, nor recommend too much, but as a human being, I think this is one of the most touching things I have seen for a long time. I think we need reminders that all those fighting this horrible war are just doing their job - loosing limbs and lives, and they need our love, support and prayers. Thanks for taking the time to watch this.

Tribute video made by 15 year old...VERY GOOD

This is powerful and so well done. Imagine a fifteen year old. This video is the hottest thing on the internet and on Fox News today. Lizzie Palmer who put this YouTube program together is 15 years old. There have been over 3,000,000 hits as of Tuesday 5/8.

In case you missed it, here it is: look to your right above my photo headed
"Watch this please" and click on it!

Have you taken a breath yet today?

A MINDFUL BREATH! We breathe without thinking about it, and remember, when we are stressed, we almost stop breathing. So if you
haven't thought about taking a breath today - do it now. Slowly inhale in through the nose, and slowly exhale through the mouth. Do it several times, and when you exhale, visualize all the negativity and stress flying right out your fingertips into infinity.

You can only do what you can do! Hope you had a wonderful weekend, and a good day today. Remember, EVERY moment is a new life - begin again, and CREATE a relaxing evening (no matter what) and a good day tomorrow!

OKAY RIGHT NOW DO THIS!

DO THESE THINGS SLOWLY AND ENJOY! IT'S YOUR BODY AND YOUR LIFE!

Sit back just a bit. Sit up straight, holding your tummy in and pressing your lower back into the chair.

Stretch your arms up in the air as far as you can reach. Clasp your hands and take a breath. Now exhale through the mouth. Put your arms down.

Lay your right ear towards your neck. Stretch it but don't bounce. Take a breath and exhale in the same manner.

Lay your left ear towards your neck. Stretch - no bounce. Take a breath and exhale in the same manner.

Now wiggle your toes and your fingers. Take another breath and exhale.

Say out loud: "I am happy" (put the emphasis on happy). "I am alive. No matter
how challenging things are, I can handle it."

We are training the brain and creating new, positive cells. How cool is that, and a great thing to do for yourself. We are such creatures of habit. GET IN THE HABIT of thinking positive thoughts.

Just think - this has been probably less than a minute, and you have treated your body and mind to a brief period of relaxation. You will benefit from this - I PROMISE!

Remember during the day, or even in the evening - every 30 minutes just do some simple moves and rest your eyes for a few moments. It will keep you sharp, more relaxed, and YOU NEED IT! Remember....I am YOUR personal trainer and I CARE!

Easy techniques to be rid of MANY STRESSES

.......if you just take the time to do these things. We are all, of course, rushed these days. Too much to do, too little time. These three things are primarily for women to use, men can use them too. Actually my husband does (only two of them.)

1. How easy is it to loose your keys? Have you ever had your purse stolen? (I have!)
Simply buy a clip like the one in the photo and put it on your key ring. You may have to get used to "the look", but I will guarantee you won't loose your keys, or have to struggle looking for them in your purse, if you have one of these little lifesavers.

I hook the keys to my belt loop or to my purse. Easy to find, securely there. Another trick that I love is this. You've heard how purses are stolen at times when you leave yours sitting in your shopping cart. Well it takes one second to hook your purse from your attached key ring, to one of the metal parts of the shopping cart.

Guaranteed, if someone goes to pick up your purse they will get a jolt as it will be attached to the cart. So easy. So effective. Believe me, yesterday in the store I noticed it was a thief's paradise. There were so many purses sitting in the shopping carts with women totally looking the other way. This does relieve stress!

2. Purchase a timer. I don't care if it's from the dollar store or an expensive one. Just get one. I cannot tell you how much this thing has saved both my husband and myself LOTS of stress. For mom's - when your the baby is sleeping and you have food in the oven (for me it's cookies usually:), and you want to sneak a minute or two on the computer - use a timer. It will save the fire alarm from going off when your cookies are burnt!

I use my timer for everything - even what time I have left before I have to leave for an appointment. My husband uses it regularly too! A great way to lighten your stress load.

3. Lastly, (and this one is mostly for women), get a whistle to put on your key ring. I bought my daughter a pepper spray when she lived in L.A. and she proudly displayed it to a police friend of hers. He said, "Get a whistle". It makes sense to me.

If, God forbid, you are attacked, a whistle while you are fending off the attacker would really attract attention. Besides, it is a known fact that if an attacker hears a whistle sometimes they will just leave. Really.

You might think it could never happen to you. WRONG. I had an attempted rape. It
does happen. It could save your life. To be prepared is certainly one way to defend yourself before anything happens!

So there it is. Three little tiny things you can use to remove MANY STRESSES!!! Just take a few moments out of one day to make three small purchases and get in the habit of using them effectively.

Have a wonderful day, and BE SAFE, not paranoid!

Read this and PLEASE, treasure each moment you are alive!

We often take for granted the simple fact that being alive is truly a gift! We are poised to dwell on the challenges, the tough times, the almost impossible probability of how life can drain us if we allow it to do so!

Yesterday began as any other day. Within hours the phone rang and my neighbor said, "Marsha, I need you." It was only then I realized that the fire department and an ambulance were parked in front of her home.

As I entered the home my neighbor said, "Marsha, the paramedics have been working on mom for 5 minutes. She fell out of bed and was turning blue. I called them right away."

Then she cried as I hugged her. I told her that she had done everything she could do to help. For 15 years I watched this young woman care for her grandpa and her mama. She dedicated her life to doing so.

Never a smoker, she lived in this home, filled with smoke from these two chain smokers. She faithfully cared for them over the years. Her grandpa died from cancer, and her mama.....yesterday, passed on from congestive heart failure.

As I hugged my neighbor, I whispered in her ear. "The quality of your mama's life was diminishing ever so fast. You know she hated being able such a burden to you, being so trapped in a 300 pound body that she needed help just to sit up in bed."

"If she doesn't make it, you must know that her spirit will be with God."

She looked at me and said, "And with grandpa too?"

"Yes," I replied, "and with my mama - who will probably drive her crazy." She smiled through the tears and told me she knew.

The fireman was young. He came out of the bedroom and said, "Maam, we've done
everything we could do. Everything that would have been done in the hospital. I am sorry, but she is gone."

I held my neighbor again as she cried. Then she stood up straight and said to the paramedic, "We know what to do. Grandpa died in October so we'll just wait for the coroner to arrive."

She will be okay. She will survive, and at some point, her life will begin again. There are stages of grief, but she is strong, so I know she will begin to heal soon. She somehow knows that it happened as it should.

I say again, TREASURE EACH MOMENT YOU ARE ALIVE! LIFE IS FLEETING. DON'T FORGET TO LOOK AROUND YOU AND LOVE THE ONES YOU LOVE. SMELL THE FLOWERS, FEEL THE BREEZE AS IT MAKES THE LEAVES IN THE TREES SING. AND IF YOU FEEL YOU ARE ALONE, REMEMBER - YOU ARE NEVER ALONE!

God loves you and so do I - you are, afterall, my human family!

This process, this thing we call life, it goes quickly. Cherish it.

Take a breath - Not a drink...

...at least not at 10:00 AM. I went to the post office on Friday. As I got into my car a vehicle passed by and the music was very loud. The driver was singing and laughing. At first I thought it was great that someone was actually singing and having fun.

When I backed out and drove by the couple they happened to look at me, so I simply smiled and said, "You two are having way too much fun for so early in the morning."

The guy smiled back and said, "Well, it's five o'clock somewhere, isn't it?" He slurred his words. Get it. He was already drinking and driving. Not good!

It was only a few weeks ago I saw a five car pile up at 1:00PM at an intersection near my home. Someone was drunk as a skunk and plowed into a vehicle stopped for the red light. Like a domino effect - four other cars were immediately involved. SMASH, CRASH. Ambulances on their way, police too. It was terrible.

It was unnecessary. I am NOT SAYING, "Never have a drink". I would be a hypocrite, if I did, as I still have one occasionally. I truly believe alcohol is one of the most insidious drugs on the market, legal and condoned and advertised. Drink and you'll get the sexy women. NOT. Drink and you won't remember who you were with is more like it!

This is a PLEA! PLEASE DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE. Don't die for a drink. Don't start out your day with a drink. I was married to an alcoholic who used to do that. He's dead now.

Value your life and the lives of others and take a breath......it WILL relax you!

THANK YOU PATTI!

You know who you are! Just in case you didn't read my response, I wanted to thank you
for letting me know you are there and you enjoy what I am doing. I think people should be given appreciation and a thank you for the good things they do. We are always told when we mess up.

I appreciate you taking the time to let me know - I am not alone:) Blessings and true caring from me to you!

BREATHE!

This is a quick thought, a quote from an uplifting little book I read daily - the
Daily Word.

"If I should let my thoughts remain on concerns, I would experience an increase of emotional stress and physical tension. What I'm thinking affects how I'm feeling. So whenever I realize that stress and tension are interfering with my natural rhythm of breathing, I take a deep breath and relax. Taking the next breath, I focus on Spirit as the presence of life within me and the very breath of life that is continually revitalizing me. Calm and at ease, I breathe in and feel renewed as a rush of energy flows though out my body and peace fills my mind."

You know,it is TRUE! Not just a group of words put together to make us feel better. The physiology of the body works this way. When we think about concerns we actually have a tendency to hold our breaths and give our mind and body less oxygen than we need.

Use the gift of cultivating your oxygen and you will find your life changing for the better. EVEN IF CIRCUMSTANCES DON'T CHANGE - YOU WILL CHANGE! You will think more intelligently, your muscles and ligaments and all the organs of your body will be more relaxed and you will feel better for it!

It seems too easy, almost silly. It is the TRUTH! The best way to get high in the world - BREATHE! It's natural, free, and legal. It is addictive though....the one
addiction you can really profit from using!

PLEASE have a wonderful and safe holiday and remember the reason behind it. It is to honor those in the military, men and women, who have died in service for their country and our freedom. Honor the days by staying sane and sober and not getting behind the wheel if you drink.

Moderation is a wonderful word! Have fun!

WALK, WALK, WALK!

In many places the age of someone considered to be a senior citizen is 55. That seems awfully young to me! Nonetheless.......so be it.

Mama used to say, "Be nice to the elderly, for it is you in the future." Makes sense to me. Time scoots by quickly, and if we are lucky, and work at it a bit, we can live to be a senior citizen and a healthy one at that.
This morning I went for a brisk walk. At the end of the walk I saw three cheerywomen setting up a table. There were sheets of information being placed on the table, and all sorts of things. I was just too curious to pass by without asking: "What is all this?"

Come to find out, they were there to celebrate a fitness walk for seniors. They were loaded with information, other "goodies" and a calendar of events for seniors that included classes to stay fit and limber. Many of the classes were free, and some just a minimal cost.

These women were obviously motivated and absolutely charming. I asked if they might pose for a photo so I could share it with you. WHAT A GREAT THING TO DO....help people stay fit and healthy. As I've said before, you know you only have one body to live in - cherish it!

I was without a pen or pencil and the name of the group they represented flew away the moment I got into traffic. I called the park all day to get a name, but the gentleman who could tell me never came back into the office.

So "ladies of the walk". I apologize. I don't know your names either, but won't forget your great smiles and dedicated motivation.

I do want to honor what you are doing and suggest to everyone in the blog world (no matter what age) remember to MOVE. Walk, skip, jump, glide, hop, side step, do retro-walks, just MOVE. Your body will work so much better for you when you take care of it.

When you walk, breathe! Enjoy these moments of your life and the beautiful summer by getting outside and taking care of yourself! Do it! :)

Quick thoughts that are important!

Stress hormones,like cortisol,can put a damper on your metabolism. When you become "stressed out" about something, these hormones are activated. When your day is hectic, close your eyes and take five deep breaths. Exhale through the mouth. You will lower your heart rate and keep that metabolism "rockin' and rollin'"(particularly important for those of you who are trying to lower your weight.)

Think yourself stronger. "Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation found that people who imagined contracting their biceps for 15 minutes, five days a week for 3 months increased their arm strength by more than 13 percent."

I am not surprised. MIND OVER MATTER and BRAIN MAGIC - we all have power available from within us. Power that truly does work! It is all about three things: 1. believe it. 2. bring it to the surface. 3. Practice, practice, practice.

Think and improve your lives: "I know better than to waste time and energy worrying about my future. I only can truly live in the present. I pause and gently wave all worry thoughts away from me - no negative concern, large or small can interfere with my peace of mind."

As you exercise these thoughts your power to make good choices and think in a positive manner will increase daily.

No one out there wants to guess!

Heck, maybe no one is reading all my stress management information on this blog.
Maybe no one is reading this blog!

I hope someone out there is, and can use some of the information - I love to share! But if no one is reading, I am STILL enjoying writing and playing,and sending out love and positive thoughts anyway.

The photo is actually a bud. A flower about to blossom. A beautiful creation on this earth.

Tomorrow is another day, and another chance to breathe and enjoy each moment. Sleep well.

Guess and Win!

I am going to be out of town until Monday, but the first person who guesses what the
heck the latest picture I posted is, gets a NEW relaxation CD FREE!

MAKE SURE you have a great weekend. Do some mindful breathing, stretch a bit, and
even walk or do some activity. You body, mind and spirit will all thank you by working better and feeling better!

You deserve it!

Yahoo!

This blogging, and the whole internet "process", is a great learning experience! It's like learning a new language, new ways to develop and fix photos, and a wonderful way to share and learn from others.

I LOVE IT! I have also made some genuine friends during the process, and hope to actually, physically, meet them some day.

Today I have just posted the first website I have ever made on my own. It still has a ways to go, and I am sure I will be updating and changing it over the coming months,
but I feel wonderful that it's actually posted!

If you are interested in taking a peek, check out: http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com.

Happy Mother's Day to ALL Mothers

Before I begin a post dedicated to my mama, who has been gone now over nine years,
if you have lost a child, or know of someone who has, please send them to read the post for them at http://marshaobrien.wordpress.com

To Mama, with love.

I love you. I always will. You were an exceptional mama to me, and one to many other children in your world. I honor you by remembering a few of the things you did to change my life forever. Your spirit of love lives brightly in my heart.

You taught me about God and Jesus, a gift I have treasured throughout my life. You taught me about unconditional love, and gave it freely to me every day you were with me.

You loved my children and proved it time and time again.

You taught me how to step into another man's moccasins, and how to truly forgive. You stepped in my shoes and by doing so helped me get out of a deep hole I was digging for myself.

You rescued me, more than once, from abuse inflicted by others and by myself.

You never judged me, or anyone. You helped even strangers. You were a protector of the underdog and encouraged me to stay firm in what I believed.

You gave me a spirit of adventure and I always knew I could count on you.

You told me there were two things I could always count on. God and love. You were right. Both truly never fail.

You took me in when I was struggling, listened when I went on a rampage, counseled me when I'd been hurt. Though sometimes I pretended not to listen, I always did.

You were an example of how to live with terrible pain gracefully. You taught me about aging, and were an example of how to rise about the loss of a loved one.

You built me up no matter how life tried to tear me down. You made me know the joy of giving. You gave of yourself and your bounty, with no expectation of a return.

You taught me to be tough and bounce back. You taught me how to stay healthy and strong through nutrition and movement. You were ahead of your time.

When I was in need of anything, or deep in despair, you would appear, like an angel.
Positive, packed with problem solving ideas, you would do do anything to help, and always offering hugs and a hand to hold.

You reminded me to laugh and never let a challenge in life overcome me.

.....and towards the end, you said: "I can bear the pain, and it will be worthwhile if we can share what we've learned about osteoporosis with other woman, to deter and perhaps diminish their pain." You were selfless.

Your consistent love and dedication as a mother has sustained me through out my life,even after your passing.

I remember your words written in the diary I asked you to keep for the family.

"The only things that count in life are the imprints of love which we leave behind us after we are gone."

My little mama....... Marjorie Grace Phillips Walker (1916 - 1998)

This weekend

GO OUTSIDE AND MOVE YOUR BODY! Enjoy the springtime and do something that works your body, refreshes your mind and senses, and helps you to remember there is more to life than the internet! I love the internet, but I only have one body to live in! Take care YOURS and enjoy good health and the freedom of movement as long as possible!

How to correct a mistake

Fess up to it! I am still in the midst of “pressing things” but someone brought to my attention that I made an error in the spelling of a word. YES I did. For my entire life I have spelled GREAT, as it should be!

Somehow I have, over the last few months switched the spelling to GRATE. Wrong:). As my darling sister pointed out to me, “you grate carrots”. Right on!

I know it’s not life altering. I know I am not guilty of killing THAT MANY brain cells. It may just be one of life’s mysteries forever. Anyway, what this silly little post is about is to correct my error. I want to let you know, I know, GREAT is the spelling I intended in several posts. Since I don’t have the time, currently, to go back and read and correct the posts, I just wanted to say, “WHOOPS!” and tell you to have a GREAT day!

I copied this from my other blog as I still am "away" for a few days...just wanted to let YOU know I made my first mistake (hahahahahah).

Keep me in mind

I won't be posting for a few days, but will be back soon! In the meantime, take a breath now and then..a mindful one. You know, in through the nose, and out through the mouth. Nice and slow and deep. You will slow your heart rate and can even lower your blood pressure some!

When you sit for long periods don't forget to sit back, stretch, wiggle your toes, stretch out your fingers, and take another breath! This is YOUR LIFE, YOUR BODY, and for all the hard work you do, if you don't take care of yourself - your body, mind and spirit, all will SUFFER.

Besides, realistically, in order to do your best work this awesome oxygen machine needs to be taken care of at least as good as you would do for your car. Please remember to love YOU, and you will find you have more energy, better health, and optimum intellect to solve all the tasks that face you!

Now take a breath and remember someone who doesn't know you TRULY CARES!

For a better weekend, think about this

The past is OVER. The future is UNKNOWN. Enjoy the present. The only moments you have. Marvel in the NOW!

Mama used to say, "I know what that look is on your face. It's the look that tells me you are loving me. You don't have to say a thing."

So look at those you love and speak with your eyes....and then your actions. Hug somebody!

CREATE a spectacular weekend!

Keep this in mind

For every pound you gain, your body creates about an extra mile of blood vessels.
Blood must travel that much farther, which strains the heart and ups your risk of high blood pressure.


When you start to go for that third cookie, think of your poor heart and say, "No thanks." Your heart will appreciate it and your health will reflect it sooner than you think!

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF - You know :), as I've said before, "You only have one place to live, and that's YOUR BODY!

Smile. Somebody really cares!

A Promise

The main reason I began this blog is because I made a promise many years ago to get health of "body, spirit and mind" to as many people as I can, for as long as I can!

I have tried to share over the years, classes with some folks who just didn't have the money, by trading for their services or something they wanted to trade in exchange. Bartering. It was actually fun too.

One time I had a class wherein if someone brought a heart - the classes were free for the week. I got so many wonderful hearts. Cookies, an apron, drawings, sachets, a bracelet, a headband with hearts, and so on. It was wonderful and we had a grate time. What I got in return was an unbelievable feeling in my own heart!

I have enjoyed excellent health because of the training I consistently do, and the stress management techniques. I believe EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT to learn how to get healthy and manage the stress we all encounter on a daily basis. Not everyone has the money to take classes, but I will say it again, EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT to find out how to change their lives, and the lives of those around them.

One time I mustered up the courage to do a cable television program. I did twelve one hour shows. The first six were different types of instruction. The last six I had guest instructors show their styles of "fitness training."

The last six shows I hadn't rehearsed with the guest instructors - on purpose. I wanted to show that even if you can't do all the class or all the moves - it's okay, do what you can do! I was the perfect example of not doing all the right moves:).

I even got my 78 year old little mama to come on and we did a show helping seniors to learn they can do lots of things, and more than they might realize. It was fun and from the response I got, it helped some people. They replayed the videos for 5 years because of requests. I didn't get paid for those shows (well, not money). I wanted to reach and teach as many people as I could.

My PRIMARY GOAL in writing this blog, as I mentioned before, is to share what has been given to me, and without cost to you. I will even answer specific questions if I can help you, if you just ask!

Of course that doesn't mean I still don't need to make some money. I've put thousands of hours in schooling, specialized classes, and training over many years to do what I believe in. I've seen miracles. The moment someone makes the first step towards changing their life, the miracle begins to happen.

So here is the deal: Once every couple of months I will mention the fact that I do have relaxation CD's for sale. Also a book to help those who care for an elderly person or parent.

So far, the response has been incredible. From both the book and CD I have gotten comments and letters that warm my heart and my spirit.

PLEASE - if you know of someone that needs help in this area check out my website. Both the book and CD are listed there.

For a one time payment, you can help YOURSELF or someone else! A gift to someone you love - or a gift to love yourself!

Now here's the other promise to you. I promise I won't fill this blog with various advertisements and clutter it up. I promise I will keep it positive and clear in purpose, and try to share as much important information for you that I can. I will keep current and up to date and share all that I know to help you change your life and the lives of those around you for the better!

I promise. Now move your eyes just to the right and go look at my website:)