Friday Light Night 12/31/11

...on Saturday.  Hi Everyone!  Well, it's the last night of the year, can you believe it?  I hope that you have had a wonderful year.  The last few years have been such a learning experience for me with the minor, yet trying health issues I battled through and becoming a new mom.  Being a mother is such a rewarding experience, but it takes a ton of patience and lots of love.  I look forward to giving my little one a sibling to play with sometime over the next year.

As I look back on the year, through the good times, the trials and the tribulations I know that everything was as it should have been.  Everything was written out in the pages of time... I look forward to what is in store for my family and I in the coming year.  Most of all, I look forward to creating that "1 extra hr of time" to do the things that are important to me, so that I can be the best wife, mother, daughter and friend.  I look forward to making the time to hang out, relax and rewind with old friends and new friends.

I hope that you make time to do the things that you love, to be with the ones you love and care about and to just relax.  Find that extra hour to do something for yourself... get up a little earlier and workout, or to read and have a cup of tea.

Here is to a blessed, healthy, happy, safe and prosperous New Year 2012!
Jennie

Friday Light Night 12/23/11

"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas... everywhere you go..."  I hope that you, your family and friends have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed, healthy, happy, safe and prosperous New Year 2012!

Jennie

Friday Light Night 12/16/11

Happy Friday!  The countdown is on... one week until Christmas.  I am surprising my hubby and taking him out to dinner tomorrow evening, maybe a movie, or some shopping/walking around to enjoy the Christmas season.

Live in the now.  Be in the present.  Stop what you are doing and really take something in.  Enjoy a child walking and shopping with their parents, breath in the fresh, crisp, cool air (assuming you are somewhere cool) and really breath it in, close your eyes and take 5 deep breaths and relax and think... if you are feeling overwhelmed, or stressed, do you really have any reason to feel stressed?  Is it that bad?  Do you have a roof over your head, a bed to sleep in, food in your belly, family and friends who love you, clothes on your back?  Be thankful for the many things that you do have today and make sure your appreciation is accredited to the One who deserves the praise and thanks.

Have a blessed week... until next week...

Friday Light Night 12/9/11

...on Saturday!  Hello my dear friends.  The Christmas holiday is approaching quickly.  I will start baking my cookies over the next week, I have a few small gifts to get and Christmas cards to write up.

I can only hope that the next two weeks move as slowly as possible.  I get tears in my eyes almost every year when Christmas Day nears the end.  I know it will come again, but it's so relaxing and such a joyous day with family and friends.  I hope the Christmas music plays on through New Years, as it always starts a day or so after Halloween and it stops the day after Christmas- that just doesn't make sense!

I hope the next two weeks are full of fun, laughter and joy for you and your's!  Be spontaneous and do something fun!  Talk to you soon!!!

Friday Light Night 12/2/11

It is December 2011!  I is the remaining month of the year and what a joyous month it is!  Shopping, baking, Christmas parties with co-workers, family and friends, holiday foods and treats, breathing in the cool, fresh air after being inside all day, living, loving and laughing...

My daughter is growing up so fast.  I am embracing and enjoying every minute with her, as I know that a day will come when I look back and think, "I remember when..."

Have an amazing weekend!

ABC'S- I Am Not Waiting For A Change

PUMP IT UP!  Embrace change.  It is inevitable.  The more you anticipate change and embrace it the easier it is to work with the changes themselves.

I was working out last night and listening to my MP3 player.  You know how that song, or series of songs comes on and you get pumped up?  Well...

A- I am Alive
B- I am Belief
C- I am Consistent
D- I am Determined
E- I am Encouraging
F- I am Fearless
G- I am Grace
H- I am Health
I- I am Inspiration
J- I am Joy
K- I am Kinetic
L- I am Love
M- I am Motivating
N- I am Never-ending
O- I am Optimistic
P- I am Power
Q- I am Quick
R- I am Ready
S- I am Strong
T- I am Thankful
U-I am Unstoppable
V- I am Victorious
W- I am Winning
X- I am (e)Xhilarating
Y- I am Youthful
Z- I am Zealous

Get a fire blazing in your mind and in your heart.  Envision yourself over and over again just as you want to be and become that vision.  Believe in it with every inch of your body.  Inspiring and motivating you... go get em!

Friday Light Night 11/25/11

I hope you enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday.  I had a wonderful time with my family, but it went by super fast.  When you are in the kitchen all day cooking and then cleaning and then everyone leaves, it goes by fast!

It was a beautiful outside today.  My daughter and I raked the leaves, as my husband had a boys day out.  Now, I am going to get started on some Christmas shopping.  I love going out to shop, but for whatever reason, maybe because it's convenient, I do a lot more online shopping than I used to.

Here's to a wonderful weekend and yes the countdown to Christmas begins... wow!

Tis The Season Of Giving

Christmas is my favorite holiday. Oh, the lights, the music, the shopping, the holiday foods and the memorable times with family and friends... People are a little more nice and a little more generous, but aren't we here to serve others and to give on a daily basis?  Which brings me to the point of my article...

We were put on this earth to serve others.  When you have your first child you will find that you are often asked, "Can you remember what you did before you had him/her?"  My answer was, "Yes."  It is true, prior to having children you can go here and there as you please and you have much more independence, but once they are born and a part of your life you cannot imagine a second without them and you would die for them in an instant.

I have family members and friends who have chosen not to have children.  I fully respect their decision, but I don't quite understand it.  They enjoy being married with no children, they enjoy "us time".  This takes me back to our purpose.  We are here to serve others.  We are not here for us.  It is difficult not to be selfish, as having children takes a ton of patience and a lot of time, but it's worth every minute.  I also know some people who have avoided having children simply because they are afraid of worrying too much when they have children and so on.  We can't live our lives in fear.  We must live our lives in faith, as we are not in control of anything despite how much we want to believe, or act as if we are in control.

Every time you see children mentioned in the bible, it talks about what a joy and blessing they are.  Being a parent can be very difficult, but it is so rewarding.  I must look at my daughter a billion times a day and think, "I couldn't imagine my life without you," as I kiss her cheeks a billion times.

Part of serving others does involve serving ourselves.  In saying this I mean that in order to serve others we must take care of ourselves as well.  We must honor our body and work to be healthy.  If we are not healthy we won't be around to care for anyone else.

If you think you are incapable of having children, or you have been told by a doctor that you are not capable of having children, that's not true.  It's not up to the doctor as to whether, or not you can conceive a child.  It's up to God and God said that, "He will love thee, bless thee, and multiply thee; he will bless the fruit of thy womb, and thy fruit of thy land, thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil...Thou salt be blessed above all people and there shall not be male or female barren among you..."  Deuteronomy 7:13-15.

"There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren in thy land, the number of thy days I will fulfill."  Exodus 23: 25-26

And so on...

We are all capable of having children, having a healthy, enjoyable, full term pregnancy and an amazing child birthing experience, but you have to pray for it and believe in it too.  I prayed for my daughter prior to conceiving her, I knew that I would not have morning sickness, or any of the other so-called ailments, as I did not believe in them either, I knew that I would have a full term, 40-week pregnancy and I knew that labor would be a joyous, painless experience, yes PAINLESS.  I had no cravings, as I ate healthy and nourished my body and my baby with healthy foods.

We have been fed so much garbage about so many different things.  We were all designed to have children.  Our bodies are fully capable of creating and/or bearing children and it is to be a joyous, happy, healthy, comfortable experience, free of pain and discomfort.  I know it's hard to believe after you've been fed years of garbage, "Oh you'll have morning sickness, oh you'll be in labor for 12 hours, oh you'll deliver early."  NOT TRUE!  Turn to the bible and you will see that we are all here to serve others, bear children and enjoy the experience of pregnancy and childbirth, live in health and to be happy and prosperous.

We are what we say we are too- - -We have to reprogram our way of thinking.  So, are you here for you, or for something greater?  There is nothing more wonderful than giving of yourself and having a child.  If you choose to have children, I wish you all the best.  It's such a fun and magical experience.  Have a great week!

Friday Light Night 11/18/11

Wow!  What a great day!  My hubby worked from home today and this evening we all headed out to do a little Christmas shopping, enjoyed some dinner and we walked around a local outdoor/indoor mall.  The big Christmas tree was up and all the lights were lit throughout the mall.  It was wonderful!

I have so many little things to do... Christmas shopping, organization throughout the house, preparations for Thanksgiving, finish up writing my nutrition program, etc, but oh, what a wonderful time of year!

Although this is a magical time of year, it can be stressful for many... the hustle and bustle of the holidays.  Take your time and enjoy every minute of it- - -You will find in the long run that there was no need to get stressed out in the first place.  Have a great weekend!

Friday Light Night 11/11/11

11/11/11- Thank you to all of the Veteran's out there!

Thanksgiving is fast approaching.  Do you have your meal planned out?  There are so many ways to alter sugary, fatty dishes into healthy, yummy dishes.  I like to look around online for ideas.  For instance, I am making a vegan broccoli cheese casserole using Daiya cheese (great stuff for being dairy free, gluten free, lactose free and soy free).

Have a great weekend!  Talk to you soon!

Cold/Flu Season- Stocking The Medicine Cabinet

It's that time again!  The holiday season is approaching and the last thing we want is to come down with a cold, or flu in the midst of it.  I realize that you may want to indulge in some treats during the holiday season, but I would suggest minimizing your consumption.  Fatty foods and sugar do no good for your immune system.  Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, exercise, drink 64oz, or so of purified water everyday, keep stress to a minimum and enjoy time with family and friends.  Treat yourself occasionally.

I have been trying to catch up with some friends... friends that I have known for years and that I hope to know for many years to come.  It's wonderful to catch up with our friends, to watch their children grow and to be a part of their life (if they have children), to reminisce on the past and just enjoy each others company.

If you feel that you are coming down with something act on it.  As soon as symptoms start to appear, I up my fluid intake (water and tea), exercise lightly (don't over do it... working up a sweat will help your body release toxins), try to go to bed a little earlier, take a hot bath, drink some hot tea, clean my nasal passages out with a neti-pot, or Neil Med sinus rinse and I may take some extra vitamin C, echinacea/elderberry, or a homeopathic supplement.

If you are not accustomed to making some of your own remedies, here are some things I like to keep on hand in my medicine cabinet (and it's always growing):

1. Zand Zinc Cough Drops- Zinc has been shown to kill off harmful bacteria (strep, etc) and it can boost your immune system

2. North American P73 Oregano Oil- kills almost anything from viruses, to bacteria to fungus

3. Homeopathic remedy such as: Boiron Cold Calm, B&T Alpha CF, Hyland's Cold/Flu, Borion Oscillococcinum (taken at the first sign of a cold, or flu can stop the illness in its tracks, or shorten the severity and length of the illness)

4. Ester C (vitamin c), or Carlson Chewable vitamin c for kids 

5. Well Child Echinacea, Elderberry syrup (great stuff and great tasting) and echinacea/elderberry for adults- boosts the immune system, antiviral/anti-bacterial

6. Food based probiotics such as: Garden of Life Raw Probiotics for children, or Primal Defense (both dairy free), Genestra brand probiotics

7. Herbs for Kids Temp Assure- great at regulating temperature 

8. Herbs for Kids garlic ear oil- great for ear infection prevention, or treatment

9. Source Naturals Wellness Earache (ear infection)

10. Calendula lotion/cream- rashes, minor skin irritation

11. Tea tree oil ointment, chest rub, antiseptic (antibacterial, anti-viral)

12. Nux Vomica, or a Homeopathic remedy like Hyland's Upset Stomach- tummy aches, or over-indulging in fatty foods, etc

13. Hyland's migraine- headaches
14. Hyland's sore throat, Boiron Chestal, B&T bronchial syrup, Umcka- cough/sore throat
15. BioAller's Sinus & Allergy, Hyland's Sinus, Boiron Sinusalia- sinus congestion, allergies, etc
16. Amazing Grass Superfood, wheatgrass and Superfood for kids (whole food supplement, throw this in our smoothie everyday)
17. Vibrant Health Green Vibrance (whole food supplement)
18. Bioraculous Superfood Green Drink (tastes amazing and mixes really well with water, kids love it!)
19. Life Force International Body Balance (whole food supplement, trace minerals, aloe vera, amino acids, enzymes, vitamins, etc)
20. Boiron/Hyland's Homeopathic Kit (general remedies to keep on hand with an instruction manual)
21. Throat Coat tea, Yogi's antioxidant tea, etc
22. Pekana Apo Infeckt and Pekana Ricura- homeopathic anti-viral, anti-bacterial, relieves symptoms
23. Neil Med Sinus Rinse, Saline Spray (traveling), Neti Pot (clean out your nose when you feel the sniffles coming on, clean out your nose 1-2 times a week to clear out germs)
24. Curing Pills- stomach aches, sour stomach, early stages of stomach flu, etc
25. Braggs Raw Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar- mix 1 tbsp with 1 tbsp honey and a little water and drink to thin mucous and aid in digestive issues

You may find that some things work and some things don't.  For instance, one homeopathic remedy may work great while the other appears to do nothing.  Once you find a couple that you like, stick with them.  I like to keep a variety of things on hand during the winter months, so if we are feeling run down we don't have to run out to the store.  A lot of stores that carry these items may close earlier too and if something hits in the middle of the night it's great to have it there.  I like Vitacost.com- great prices, free shipping on orders of $49, or more, returns accepted within 30 days and quick shipping.

Honey and lemon mixed together works great as a throat coat/soother too.

So... here's to keeping healthy during the holiday season.  E-mail me if you have questions on homemade remedies!  Have a great week!

Resources:
1. http://abchomeopathy.com/taking.htm (learn more about homeopathy)
2. http://www.p-73.com/

Friday Light Night 11/4/11

I had a cup of tea this afternoon and the tag on the tea bag said something along the lines of, "You will feel fulfilled when you have convinced someone to do the impossible."  I tried to find the actual quote, but the bag is buried in the trash.  Wow- did this hit home for me.

Day in and day out I over hear people talking about things, "Oh my son has allergies, my mom had to have this procedure done, if only I could lose 30 pounds, I need a nap, my arthritis is really bad, I need to take my medication, I promise I will do it" and so on.  I want to change people's lives.


We have the power to prevent and reverse degenerative disease and cancer: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis, diabetes, Crohn's disease, Celiac disease, cancer, MS, Fibromyalgia and obesity.  I know it's hard to believe when you turn on the T.V. and there's an advertisement discussing the health benefits of milk, or a "Happy Birthday American Cancer Society clip", or an advertisement on a new drug that can relieve IBS, or erectile disfunction, but the evidence is clear and true.  Eat the way we, as humans were designed to eat and SAVE YOUR LIFE.

The day I can help you transform your health and in turn transform your life is the day I have won the lottery.  Follow me...

Have a great weekend!

Friday Light Night 10/28/11

Is it really going to be November on Tuesday?  Holy Cow!  I love this time of year.  I love the Christmas music (even when it starts the day after Halloween- ha!), shopping for family and friends, spending time with family and friends, the scents of the season/holidays, the warm meals and so on.

My hubby and I have been clearing useless items from our home.  We are also brainstorming about upgrades/additions to our home.  Fun stuff!  I love the ideas, but I don't like the messes that go into the improvements- ha!  Everything is temporary.

I hope you had a great week and that you have a wonderful weekend as we near the end of October.  Until next time...

Choosing The Right Doctor For You

I personally think it is very important to choose a physician based on their skills, know-how and kindness. Some people choose doctors because they are covered under their insurance plan, others may choose a doctor based on a referral from a friend.  Our health should be a top priority in our life.  When I think of my health and investing my money into a doctor, I choose to invest my money into a doctor that I believe in and that I trust.  If I could not afford to visit the doctor of my choice, I would find a way to make it work, again, I am nothing without my health.

I have an osteopathic family physician and two trusted naturopathic physicians.  They are very familiar with the benefits of a plant-based diet, natural supplementation and homeopathic remedies (when "needed").  My doctors talk the talk and walk the walk.  Dr. Popper is one of the naturopathic physicians that I firmly believe in and trust.  She is doing what she loves; helping people live in optimal wellness and she looks amazing herself!  

I can't stand the idea of being under the care of a physician who knows little about the benefits of a healthy diet.  I can't stand the idea of being under the care of a physician who is overweight, even slightly, or who takes one, or more medications themselves.  If a doctor cannot take care of themselves, why would you trust them to take care of you?  What does that say to you about that doctor?  Ask any M.D. how many hours of their 7-10 years in college were spent taking nutrition courses.  I guarantee they will say that nutrition was a very small part of their education.  They are M.D.'s!!!  They went to school to learn about medicine and how to treat people with medicine.  There is a time and place for medicine, but a healthy diet is the UP MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO TO BE HEALTHY AND STAY HEALTHY, PERIOD.  

I know many people who have been raised in the era of thinking medicine is the only way to stabilize high blood pressure, or that medicine can prevent illness through the use of vaccinations, or that chemotherapy and radiation are the only options for cancer treatment.  I know people who think a plant-based diet cannot prevent, or reverse cancer.  I know people who think that there is no scientific evidence to support the health benefits of a plant-based diet.  The doctors who wrote The China Study and appeared in the recent documentary, "Forks Over Knives", are highly accredited, well-known doctors who have presented YEARS of scientific evidence LINKING DIET TO CANCER and they know more than the people I know.  Dr. Colin Campbell, Dr. Pamela Popper, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn and Dr. Neal Barnard are just some of the many doctors who know what they are talking about when it comes to living a long, healthy, enjoyable life.

So, when you choose a doctor, choose one, or more that you believe in and that you trust with your life.  Choose a doctor who is living the life that they speak of.  

Consider the following too:

1. Do drug reps purchase meals for the doctor and staff, provide gifts, or provide incentives if a doctor prescribes a particular medication?

2. Will the doctor respect your decision(s) if choose to consume a plant-based diet, opt out of vaccinating and choose to take natural supplements/remedies (if necessary)?  Can they provide personal insight on these topics?

3. Can you contact them any time you have a question, or concern?  Do you have the ability to contact them in other ways, aside from calling the office?

4. Is it fairly easy to schedule an appointment when needed and will the doctor spend the time to address your questions and concerns?

5. Do they recommend any form of diagnostic testing?

Diagnostic tests are useless in preventing and treating cancer.  If we look at most of the scenarios, the quality of life has not improved through the use of diagnostic testing, nor has the length of life been extended.  These tests and their treatments, like all medicine, for the most part, only address the symptoms and not the cause of the condition.  For instance, too much protein in the diet creates an acidic, inflamed environment in the body, which in turn can lead to the development of cancer.  If someone is diagnosed with cancer and opts to undergo chemotherapy treatments and also opts out of making dietary changes, they are not removing the cause of the cancer; a poor diet.  Let's not neglect the fact that chemotherapy and radiation are absolutely horrible on the body.  A great resource for alternative options to chemotherapy and radiation treatment, along with the truth about many other health related topics can be found on Ralph Moss's website:

http://www.cancerdecisions.com/.

Of course the FDA supports PSA tests... they are just another way to make money and keep docs in business!  PSA tests are useless!

http://www.brightsideben.com/wp/?p=1670

Talk to you soon my friends.

References:

1. Rosenthal, PH.D., S.M. (2001).  Stopping cancer at the source. Canada: Your Health Press
2. Campbell, PhD., T. Colin., Campbell II, M. Thomas. (2006)  The China Study.  Texas: BenBella Books, Inc.

Friday Light Night 10/21/11

I have been working on getting rid of things in our home that have no use, or that has been sitting for some time.  I personally do not prefer to keep things around to just keep things around.  There is of course an exception for some things, but if it has no place and no use I donate it.  It feels wonderful to clear the house of things that do not have a place.  I also find myself wanting a new hairstyle and some new clothes... a new look! 

If you could buy any car today, what would it be?  Here are some of the cars I would like to look into purchasing over the next year, or so:

So, which one would you pick?  :-)

Life is worth living, so take care of the one body that you have.  Talk to you soon.  

Friday Light Night 10/14/11

Want to know the key to perfect pancakes?  Don't change the recipe- haha!  I do something different almost every time I make pancakes and I my hubby gives me a smiling smirk from across the table as he thinks, "Why don't you just stick to your original recipe."

Halloween is right around the corner.  Remember, there are healthy alternatives to candy.  I picked up some spider, skeleton and pumpkin rings.  I have also seen some stickers, erasers and pencils.  There is nothing healthy about candy and there was a time when candy didn't exist and everyone got by just fine.

Have a blessed weekend!

Friday Light Night 9/30/11

Tomorrow is officially the first day of October!  I can't believe how fast time goes by.  It's a cozy, cool, rainy day outside, so I am making lentil soup, salad and rice bread for dinner.

It has been a wonderful, productive week... lots of new, yummy meals, working on my nutrition program, spending time doing new things with my daughter, getting up at 5AM to hit the gym, working with my family and friends and assisting them with their health concerns and now I am looking forward to the weekend with my hubby and family.

I hope you have a blessed and wonderful weekend!

Friday Light Night 9/23/11

Happy Friday- it's almost October!

I want to reiterate that it takes time to adjust and feel comfortable with diet and lifestyle changes.  It takes around 90-120 days to lose cravings for some foods.

Knowing is half the battle... I know what foods are good for me and what foods promote illness, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis and cancer.  I love the food that I eat, because I know that it nourishes my body, makes me feel great and it is the best natural medicine for preventing disease.  

Have a wonderful weekend!  I am hoping that the rain holds off on Sunday, so I can go apple picking!

Enjoy and be well!

Allergies, Bad Breath, Can't Sleep, Constipated, or Parasites?

According to Wikipedia, parasites are organisms that live on or in a host and they get their food from the host.  Parasites live everywhere, so we come in contact with them daily.  This includes our pets.  They live on fruits, vegetables and meats, they live in treated drinking water and they live outside.  It is the parasites job to play "hide and seek" in the body.  Most of the symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, illnesses, or are accepted as a normal part of life.  

I want to make it VERY CLEAR that a lot of conditions and illnesses are also related to poor diet and lifestyle choices, however, in my experience I have come to learn that most people can benefit from a parasite and yeast cleanse.  It seems that most people who are overweight and make poor choices regarding their diet and lifestyle have some parasite and yeast issues.

Some of the symptoms are:

Stomach or Gastrointestinal issues (gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, etc)

Fatigue and A Difficult Time Sleeping (parasites are most active at night and around the full moon)

Chronic Infections or Illnesses

Lack of Desire for Sex or Reproductive Problems

Mood Swings


Eye Sensitivities

Skin Disorders

Muscle and Joint Conditions

Decreased Appetite, Digestive Issues

...and many other symptoms

Some doctors willingly admit that most people will encounter a parasitic infection at some point in their life, while others are more resistant to the idea.  Think about it...

What if most of the conditions: arthritis, bad breath, acne, constipation, etc, were all related to parasites?  After all, if they remain undetected for a lengthily period of time they can make their way into organs and tissues and really do some damage.

I believe in trusting the preponderance of scientific information when it comes to a variety of topics.  I am not one for stories, but I find it VERY interesting that Dr. Bailey, owner of HumaWorm, states that no one in her family has ever experienced health related conditions like high blood pressure, or cancer and they have completed a parasite cleanse twice a year since they were two years old.  

Most parents are told by their doctors that a consistent runny nose is caused by teething and that an occasional cold or flu is just part of being a child.  This is certainly not the case.  I have seen symptoms in children, for instance, chronic runny noses during the winter months and a series of colds, flu's and ear infections completely vanish within days of beginning a parasite cleanse.  

The modern medical approach in the treatment of parasites is through the use of drugs such as Vermox, but these types of drugs are very destructive to the liver.  Vermox, for instance, can potentially decrease blood cell count, cause seizures, drowsiness, skin disorders and gastrointestinal distress.  The word antibiotic means, "Against Life", and antibiotics kill off both the good and bad in our body.  It is not a new topic...antibiotics have completely altered the microbes within our bodies.  Viruses and bacteria have recreated themselves in ways that antibiotics are sometimes ineffective.  Homeopathic and herbal methods prove to be much more gentle and effective.

There are a handful of natural, gentle, effective and affordable ways to remove adult parasites, eggs and toxins from the body.  Most parasite cleanses are taken over a 30-day period, as the adult parasites are removed within the first several days and the eggs and toxins are removed over the remaining 23 days. Some cleanses focus on cleansing the blood of parasites, some focus on cleansing the intestines and some focus on both.  With that said, depending on the location of the parasites, some cleanses will do the job and others will not.  Garlic, papaya/papaya seeds and cloves are just some food articles that are anti-parasitic.  Depending on the length and severity of the infection, more than one cleanse may be necessary.  Parasites leach minerals away from the body, so it's sometimes suggested to temporarily supplement with a high quality mineral supplement to restore health.  It is important to consult with an educated health consultant, or doctor prior to starting supplementation.

During the winter months I will be trained and certified to test for a variety of health related issues, including parasites and yeast.  I will also be able to determine what supplements will be effective in restoring health and what supplements will not be effective.  

Next week I will discuss the topic of Candida.  I hope you have a great week and I look forward to chatting with you on Friday!  Be Well!

References/Resources:

1. http://www.humaworm.com/

2. http://www.livestrong.com/article/255305-vermox-500mg-side-effects/

3. http://www.doctoroz.com/question?query=parasites

Friday Light Night 9/16/11

Happy Friday Friends,

It's going to be a nice weekend out here in the beautiful state of Ohio- Go Bucks!

I have some things that I look forward to sharing with you, but my hubby started a movie and I have been working on some other things, so I am logging off and I will chat with you soon.

Enjoy the weekend and be well!

Patience and The Journey To True Wellness

Becoming truly well takes time, particularly after we abuse our bodies over the course of 20-30 years. Eating processed foods, fast food, dairy products, meat with added hormones, antibiotics and steroids, heavy metals, coffee, breathing in toxins, drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, taking antibiotics for illnesses that can be treated naturally, etc... these are reflections of the standard American lifestyle.


Did you know that the word antibiotic means, "Against Life" in Latin?


I never questioned taking antibiotics for an illness.  I was raised to believe that there was nothing wrong with vaccinations, there was nothing wrong with taking antibiotics for illnesses, or infections and that, for the most part, I could trust the medical community to want what was best for me.


My trust and feelings towards the medical community changed after a series of events.  Doctors were writing in my files that they had diagnosed me with a particular illness, but they had never mentioned anything in regards to it to me.  I came down with one illness after another and it took a lot of begging and pleading to convince doctors to test me for a possible staph infection that came back positive.  Doctors neglected to mention that there were serious side effects to taking birth control.  Doctors prescribed one drug after another for a miscarriage, an infected bug bite and in addition to this made no mention of the necessity of taking probiotics while taking all of these drugs.  I watched close family members and friends lose their loved ones to cancer and degenerative conditions with no guidance from the medical community on the benefits of "simply" making diet and lifestyle changes to reverse disease and improve the quality of life.  Just as you, I know a number of people, including children, who are malnourished and are taking drugs for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fibromyalgia, arthritis and many other conditions that are reversible through a plant based diet.  


Please understand, I still believe that there is a time and place for medicine and for traditional M.D.'s, but I lost a lot of faith in the medical community after completing my degree in the field of natural health, battling through my own medical wars and after witnessing my loved ones die of preventative conditions.


What can you take away from this?  If you are making diet and/or lifestyle changes stick with it, stay positive, visualize yourself being healthy, happy and fit, find friends who can support you and join in and be patient.  Becoming truly well takes time and you are on the right track.


I have been working on this post all week.  I chose to revise this post, as I want to educate you.

Have a blessed night and a wonderful Friday!  Thank you for being so patient with me.

Until tomorrow friends... be well.

Friday Light Night 9/9/11

Happy Friday Friends!  I hope that you had a wonderful week.

Settling down to watch a movie...  I picked up a ton of fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmers markets this week and I can't wait to eat everything up!  I wish I had a huge green house to grow herbs, fruits and vegetables year-round.  One of these days... never stop dreaming.

Have a great weekend!

Vaccine Debate Cont.... Garrett & Cindy Goldenberg

I realized that I should have included this in my post last evening, but the post was quite long, so I am adding it in today.

This brief, summarized story is one of many.  It is very compelling and was taken almost word for word from Barbara Loe Fishers book, Vaccines, Autism & Chronic Inflammation: The New Epidemic.

"Garrett Goldenberg was a healthy, happy, 13-month old boy and 2 weeks after his MMR shot he began to display autistic like behavior.  At 18 months he received the haemophilus influenzae B (Hib) vaccination and his autistic behaviors began to worsen.  He was flapping his arms, twirling and spinning, talking non-stop, gagging on his food, etc... Cindy, his mother, took him to a variety of speciality doctors who ran numerous tests and one test came back showing that his rubella titer was borderline high.  She wondered why it was above normal after he received the vaccination over a year ago.

Her research began and what she found convinced her that just as the rubella infection can cause autistic behaviors in children with rubella, so could the live virus in the vaccine MMR shot.  She also became convinced that, because vaccines are injected directly into the bloodstream, they are capable of causing immune dysfunction, interfering with the body's primary immune system and affecting immuno-globulin levels which facilitate absorption of nutrients by the mucosal lining of the gastrointestinal tract.  She met with Dr. Sudir Gupta, MD, PhD and he also confirmed that Garrett had increased rubella titers, etc...  Cindy began to make numerous dietary changes in Garrett's diet and also added in some supplements.  She also worked around the clock with a variety of therapies to restore his physical and mental state of health.

Years later, Garrett graduated from high school with A's, went to prom and was the first person to recover from regressive autism.  Cindy was instrumental in providing doctors with insight into healing autistic children and providing hope to many others." (Fisher, Pg. 21-23)

You can also read about Jennie McCarthy's story as she battled through the same conditions with her son.

2. Fisher, L. Barbara., (2008)  Vaccines, Autism & Chronic Inflammation: The New Epidemic.  Ohio: 

    PB Industries, Inc.


http://www.generationrescue.org/  Jennie McCarthy's organization

The Vaccine Debate

I hope that you enjoyed the extended weekend.  I have recently noticed several people making note of their discomfort, or potential concern about vaccinating their infants and children.  I personally have friends and family members who know for a fact that they, or their children have had adverse reactions to vaccinations.  This is a decision that I do not take lightly.

There are many doctors who appear to be open and willing to agree with the proving of a reaction.  Most, if not all chiropractors are against vaccinations.  There are other doctors who will simply direct you to a government, or pharmaceutical website that exists to convince you that there is no proof that vaccinations are linked to autism and other common day conditions.  Doctors receive commissions on the products that they prescribe, they are spoiled with free lunches and goodies from their visiting Pharamceutical reps.

I am referring to all vaccinations here, including the flu vaccination, chicken pox vaccination (an illness that was normal when I was a child and I will most likely not get it now, as I naturally developed immunity to it), measles, tetanus, etc.  Continuous vaccinations suppress the immune system and the nervous system, can alter the body's natural ability to fight off illness and can create havoc in a variety of other ways.  The government appears more open to the idea of protecting the pharmaceutical companies than it does to protect the general public.  Lots of money involved here... Check out the book, "The Truth About Drug Companies," by Marcia Angell's.

Reactions to vaccinations can occur within hours, days, weeks or even months after the actual vaccination has been administered.  The symptoms may vary as well.  According to Barbara Loe Fisher, co-founder and president of the National Vaccine Information Center, some of the possible symptoms are, "Redness at the site of the injection, high pitched screaming, inconsolable crying, high fever, paralysis, seizures, loss of consciousness to behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, confusion, flapping, loss of relatedness, eye contact, etc... Often regression is accompanied by symptoms of immune dysfunction such as new food  allergies, environmental allergies, asthma, digestive issues, skin disorders and chronic respiratory and ear infections, etc." (Fisher, Pg. 41)

According to Dr. Pamela Popper, a trusted friend and very well known naturopathic doctor who recently appeared in the documentary, "Forks Over Knives," states, "In the U.S. the death rate of childhood diseases actually began to drop dramatically when living and sanitation improved, not when vaccinations were introduced."  Let's use an example, she goes on to state, "The incidence of measles was 400,000 in 1965 and only 100 in 1999.  However, during this same period of time, the rates of asthma, allergies, ADD, mental retardation and learning disabilities increased dramatically." (Popper, Pg. 236)  She makes the point that, "...many physicians who recommend vaccinations to their patients do not recommend them for their own families."  (Popper, Pg. 237)  Dr. Popper also mentions that there have been no large-scale clinical trials to prove whether, or not vaccines are truly safe and effective.  A billion dollars is set aside each year by Congress, so that new vaccines can be developed and put into use, but there is no research money set aside to study the safety of vaccines. (Popper, Pg. 238)

Did you know that most vaccines contain cultured bacteria, viruses, dog or monkey kidney tissue, chicken embryos, pig blood or cowpox pus?  (Popper, Pg. 239)  Have you ever thought to ask to see the list of ingredients in the vaccine prior to administering a vaccination?

"According to a 1991 article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the lowest vaccination rates among medical personnel for the German measles vaccine occurred among ob/gyns and the next lowest among pediatricians." (Popper, Pg. 237)

"...1991-1994, there were 38,787 adverse reactions reported to the Vaccine Adverse Reaction Reporting System.  45% of these reactions occurred on the same day, 20% on the day after and the rest within 2 weeks.  Reports of deaths for children between 1 and 3 months of age were recorded as resulting from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, rather than as a byproduct of vaccines, even though there may be a cause and effect relationship."  (Popper, Pg. 238)

Most children receive approximately 37-84 doses of 14 different vaccines by the time they reach age 6.  This could be a potential reason as to why they have adverse reactions.  I personally could not imagine vaccinating my newborn child, particularly with vaccinations such as Hepatitis B, a sexually transmitted disease.

"In 1989, the Centers for Disease Control reported that measles outbreaks were occurring in schools that had vaccination levels of 98%.  One study concluded that the apparent paradox is that as measles immunization rates rise to high levels in a population, measles becomes a disease of immunized persons... These studies suggest that the goal of complete immunization is actually counterproductive..."  (Popper, Pg. 242)  This is also similar to the outbreak of whopping cough last year in Ohio.  Most of the people that were getting the whooping cough had been vaccinated...

I could literally go on, and on, and on about the potential side effects of vaccinations.  I am going to include some reliable sites below that are also great resources about the various topics surrounding vaccinations.

Please let me know if you have further questions.  Thank you for checking in with me and good night!

http://www.generationrescue.org/

http://www.generationrescue.org/resources/vaccination/vaccine-ingredients-and-side-effects/

http://www.childhoodshots.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vaccination-Information-Network-VINE/69667273997

http://www.webdc.com/pdfs/deathbymedicine.pdf

1. Popper, PhD., Pamela., (2006)  Dr. Pam Popper's Guide To Family Health.  Ohio: PB Industries,
    Inc.

2. Fisher, L. Barbara., (2008)  Vaccines, Autism & Chronic Inflammation: The New Epidemic.  Ohio: 

    PB Industries, Inc.

Friday Light Night 9/2/11

Happy Friday Friends,

I hope that you are all looking forward to a long and relaxing weekend.  I am going to make Friday nights, "Light Nights," as I usually wind down and relax Friday evenings.

I constantly hear parents saying things like, "My kids won't touch vegetables, they barely eat fruit, I have to take food with me just in case they do not like what is being served, they don't drink water, etc."  I can relate to the idea of taking food along just in case they do not want to eat what is being served, as we don't eat a lot of the things that most Americans eat.  In due time, I will discuss my thoughts on a variety of issues when it comes to children: obesity, colds/flu's, diabetes, vaccines and the potential side effects, malnourished children, etc.

My sweet daughter was having lunch on Wednesday.  We had homemade coleslaw with green peppers, tomatoes, onions, sweet/hot peppers, red cabbage, green cabbage and carrots, vegan, gluten free corn bread and stuffed green peppers with potatoes, tomatoes, kidney beans, brown rice, onions and spices.  Not only did she eat everything, but she asked for the bowl of coleslaw and was picking at it with her fingers.  I just sat there in delight, as I watched her enjoy all of those vegetables.  I am so blessed.

Have a great weekend!  I will talk with you on Monday.

My Ears Are On Fire

Happy Monday!  I hope your week is off to a great start!

I had a wonderful day- it was beautiful outside too.  I had a difficult time trying to decide what to chat with you about tonight.  I have a zillion things on my mind.

It breaks my heart.... Day in and day out I hear things from my family members, friends and from people living their life in public.  I hear things like,"I am tired, I need a nap, I need another diet coke, my arthritis is flaring up, my chest hurts, I need to fill my prescription (s), my kids are sick again, my kid won't eat that, no I didn't eat breakfast and I'm still not hungry, I picked up some steaks that were on clearance,  I don't like water, I'm fat, I need to lose weight, I have heartburn, I have a hard time seeing, I forgot, I'm stressed, I am craving sugar and so on."  These statements are all connected- POOR DIET AND LIFESTYLE CHOICES.  

Achy bones, the constant need for a nap, cravings, taking prescription drugs, poor digestion, skin conditions, continual illnesses, heartburn/acid reflux, consistent edginess, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, eye problems, arthritis, being overweight, forgetfulness and stress are all red flags that should not be ignored.  All of these symptoms are, unfortunately, precursors to something greater like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc, if diet and lifestyle choices are not improved.  Most of us walk around thinking these "symptoms" are a normal part of aging, but they are truly not.  The Average American will put more thought into what type of fuel to put into their car than what type of food to put into their body.  Sure, there are some people who seem to eat whatever they want and they have no health related issues that they are aware of, but the preponderance of scientific data proves otherwise.  

The medical community has been trained to treat symptoms through the use drugs, but drugs in fact put a blanket over the real cause for these symptoms, so we are most likely still creating a haven for future illness.  There is also no sure way to tell what the short-term and long-term side effects of the drugs are.  Most of the medical community has very little training in the field of nutrition and lots of training from the Pharmaceutical companies on diagnosing and treating conditions with drugs.  They are also paid a commission on the drugs that they prescribe and who can miss the free lunches and goodies at the office. 

The word antibiotic means, "Against Life."  There is a time and place for medicine, but most conditions, including cancer and degenerative disease, can be prevented and reversed by consuming an optimal diet, a regular exercise program and by keeping stress under control.

Nighty, night.

Why Am I Here With You

We all sadly lose the ones we love at some point in our lives.  Sometimes we feel that we lose someone all too soon.  Just like you, I have lost family and friends to cancer and degenerative disease.  I have waged through my own minor, yet annoying health wars.  And the saddest thing about it all... if I knew then what I know now things may have been quite different.  After years of personal research, a Certification as a Fitness Trainer, a degree in the field of Natural Health, a continual influence from alternative health practitioners and an eye-opening miscarriage, I am here with you today and tomorrow.  

I am very candid and at times I may say things that make you smile, things that make you laugh, things that make you cry, things that make you angry and things that you may not agree with.  I am open minded and I only want what is best for my family and for you, so again, that is why we are here, Well Beginnings.

I will say it again, and again, our diet and lifestyles choices will either save us, or kill us.  Most of us have been raised to believe that medicine is the answer to everything.  There is a drug for almost every condition.  We are constantly under the influence of the government and medical communities and it is my belief that we are completely brainwashed when it comes to truly knowing and understanding how our bodies work.  

The American Institute for Cancer Research reflects that 1 in 10 people were diagnosed with cancer in the 1930’s, 1 in 5 people in the 1970’s and today, 1 in 2 people.  Modern medicine is failing- we are not winning the war on cancer!  

Homeopathy, a more natural form of medicine, emerged in the early 1700's  thanks to its founder, Samuel Hahnemann.  By the early 1900’s, drug companies were releasing drugs that were easily administered and the profits were substantial and they are in the billions today.  Pharmaceutical companies play a role in developing treatments and diagnoses for patients, even more so than the doctors themselves.  Ask any doctor what percentage of their education was based on nutrition vs. the use of drugs.  The majority of them will tell you that they learned very little about nutrition.  

Our genes only account for a 2-3% likelihood that we will inherit a condition such as cancer, obesity, or high blood pressure.  We are in control of our health.  I know many people who have several family members who have numerous health issues and who will swear to you that they cannot control being overweight, but these families also have a few people who are in optimal condition, are healthy and physically fit.  

If I were to be in a horrible car accident and my body was mangled I would certainly want the best medicine and procedures available to mend me back to health.  There is most certainly a time and place for medicine, but it is not the answer for everything.  Through the use of natural medicine, natural supplementation, a plant-based diet and a healthy lifestyle we can prevent, reverse and turn back the pages of time with disease.  

I am here as a friend, a fitness instructor, a fertility and faith coach, a teacher and an expert in the field of health and nutrition.  Good night.

Acknowledgements

Hello Family, Friends and Newcomers!  As you know, this is my first blog, finally!  We shall see when the next one follows.

I feel driven to talk with you tonight.  Some exciting things have been happening over the last few days. 

I went to my parents for a family get together today and it was also their 34th wedding anniversary.  I enjoyed catching up with everyone and as I left, after already saying good-bye to everyone, I turned around and said, "I love you guys."  I missed them and I was not even out the door.  I felt moved.  Upon my arrival at home, I realized I was here with you for many reasons. Well Beginnings is here with you for many reasons and here I am writing my first blog.

Thank you God for the many things that you have blessed me with.  All things are possible with you.

To my husband who is the love of my life and the man of my dreams...  thank you for supporting me in everything that I do, for believing in me, for standing by me, for encouraging me and pushing me to be all that I am destined to be.

To my sweet, precious, angel... you are my world.  You make me want to be the best mommy I can be.  You teach me to laugh, to be patient and to live life with lots of energy!

To my parents, thank you for loving me unconditionally, raising me with all of the love in the world and sacrificing one thing after the next, so that I could have a blessed and fulfilling life.  

To my brother, my "little" buddy, who I love with all of my heart and soul... thank you for being the best brother and my friend.  

To my mother and father-in-law... thank you for loving and supporting me unconditionally, for making me feel as if I were your own daughter and for blessing me with such an amazing husband. 

To my Aunt C and Uncle P, thank you for your unconditional love, support, generosity, smiles, laughter and joyous times together.  I love you with all of my heart!

To Great Grandma GG, thank you for all of your love, support and for teaching me to depend on myself.  With you, I know all things are possible.  I love you!

To my family and friends, we create so many wonderful memories together...  You are thought of everyday, missed and wished the best the world has to give.  

To the many doctors and friends that have blessed me with your time and precious knowledge about health, nutrition, fitness, science and life.  

You all have such a special place in my heart.  As the sun rises and sets, I look forward to growing and learning together and I hope that I can be a blessing in your life, just as you are in mine.