Change Your Mind, Change Your Life

Got Stress? Watch this for a laugh!

2007-12-12T15:19:00.000-05:00

Words to live by

2007-12-07T15:41:00.000-05:00

During the holiday season life can get tense. Remember to keep it simple and be present in the moment. When you do that - memories are made - connections with friends and family happen more easily. Enjoy the month of December - we are here to experience joy - not struggle! Get it?! Here is some humor:

WORDS TO LIVE BY

1. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
2. Opportunities always look bigger going than coming.
3. Bills travel through the mail at twice the speed of checks.
4. A conscience is what hurts when all of your other parts feel so good.
5. No man has ever been shot while doing the dishes.
6. A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.
7. If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you've never tried before.
8. Junk is something you've kept for years and throw away three weeks before you need it
9. Experience is a wonderful thing. It enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.
10. Never lick a steak knife.

Author Unknown

Hugs,

Poem

2007-11-19T13:10:00.000-05:00

Don't Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won if he'd stuck it out.
Don't give up, though the pace seems slow -
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than
It seems to a faint and faltering man;
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late, when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are -
It may be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -
It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit.

Author Unknown

Hugs,
Gin

One and Only You

2007-11-01T14:27:00.000-04:00

One and Only You

Every single blade of grass,
And every flake of snow-
Is just a wee bit different...
There's no two alike, you know.

From something small, like grains of sand,
To each gigantic star
All were made with THIS in mind:
To be just what they are!

How foolish then, to imitate -
How useless to pretend!
Since each of us comes from a MIND
Whose ideas never end.

There'll only be just ONE of ME
To show what I can do -
And you should likewise feel very proud,
There's only ONE of YOU.

That is where it all starts
With you, a wonderful
unlimited human being.

-James T. Moore

Hugs,
Gin

Pottenger's Cats

2007-10-09T14:22:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of Pottenger's cat study? Watch this YouTube video which is just over 6 minutes and learn about that study and how it applies to us and eating "living" food. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPCOGSnjP5w

Hugs,
Gin

Eat Better

2007-09-27T16:38:00.000-04:00

Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants...and eat less foods that are manufactured in plants!

Hugs,
Gin

Emotions and the Body

2007-09-26T15:58:00.000-04:00

Your body records and remembers all your negative feelings - that is if you keep them. Feelings are great, they tell us many important things - but we should not become storehouses of negative feelings - just the positive ones! The following is a primer to get you thinking about what parts of the body stored or unresolved emotions affect.

Kidneys - fear
Fear can manifest physically as kidney stones.
Fear from abuse can affect this area.
Guilt and shame can also manifest in the bladder area (part of the urinary system/kidneys)
or in the sex organs resulting in cysts, tumors, infertility, menstrual problems (guilt and shame = anger that has been turned inward with no resolution).

Spleen - worry, reminiscence, and over-concern

Heart/Pericardium - shock and grief, trauma, emotional stress

Liver - anger (especially the unreleased variety...gee, what are you keeping it for?)

Lungs - grief
If you don't cry when you feel deep sorrow...over time that emotion will settle in your lungs and asthma will develop

Gallbladder - CONTROL (are you a control freak? well STOP now!)
This could be controlling, being controlled, or even out of control. Gall stones in the gall bladder = solidified anger from the liver

Pancreas - resentment or bitterness, dwelling on the past
Stop judging yourself - what you did, what you didn't do, what you should have done...and if you are hanging around with someone toxic who keeps reminding you of your shortcomings or mistakes...tell them goodbye! Life is a learning process, so be on your way and live in the present!

When we become aware, we are learning. YAY!!! You are never too old to learn something new.

Hugs,
Gin

Always Be - POSITIVE!

2007-09-19T16:15:00.000-04:00

My children hear me tell them to be positive, I tell myself to be positive, blah, blah, blah. The following humorous story focuses on the results that can be attained if we push ahead and choose again, and again, to think positive - great things happen!

FROGS

Once upon a time there was a bunch of tiny frogs that arranged a running competition. The goal was to reach the top of a very high tower.

A big crowd had gathered around the tower to see the race and cheer on the contestants.

The race began....Honestly: No one in the crowd really believed that the tiny frogs would reach the top of the tower.

You heard statements such as:

"Oh, WAY too difficult!!"

"They will NEVER make it to the top." or:

"Not a chance they will succeed. The tower is too high!"

The tiny frogs began collapsing.

One by one----- Except for those, who in a fresh tempo, were climbing higher and higher....

The crowd continued to yell, "It is too difficult!!! No one will make it!" More tiny frogs got tired and gave up....

But ONE continued higher and higher and higher...

This one wouldn't give up!

At the end everyone else had given up climbing the tower.

Except for the one tiny frog who, after a big effort, was the only one who reached the top!

THEN all of the other tiny frogs naturally wanted to know how this one frog managed to do it?

A contestant asked the tiny frog how he had found the strength to succeed and reach the goal?

It turned out.... That the winner was not listening!!!!

The wisdom of this story is:

Never listen to other people's tendencies to be negative or pessimistic.... because they take your most wonderful dreams and wishes away from you -- the ones you have in your heart!

Always think of the power words have.

Because everything you hear and read will affect your actions!

Therefore:

ALWAYS be.... POSITIVE! And above all: Don't listen when people tell YOU that you cannot fulfill your dreams!

Hugs,

Gin

P.S. Remember changing a negative thought is as simple as stopping and choosing again!

Setbacks

2007-09-16T22:02:00.000-04:00

What are setbacks? They are proof you are moving forward, learning, growing...not standing still and stagnant in your life. If you make mistakes - so what! At least now you know that approach doesn't work. Have the ATTITUDE that keeps you going positively into the future - more mistakes, more forward progress toward your goal.

Picture this: you are sitting in your stopped car with the engine on...now you want to turn your car to the right or left...how easy is that? Difficult. Now picture yourself in your car rolling forward slowly and trying to turn your car to the right or left...now it is easy.

Parallel this to your life. In order to change directions in life you better be moving, that is participating in life and making occasional mistakes. Don't let fear paralyze you to the point you can't move toward your dreams and goals. Go for it!!! If you make a mistake, just choose again and keep going!

Hugs,
Gin

Attitude

2007-09-14T09:09:00.000-04:00

This says it all...choose to live a positive life today!

Attitude

There once was a woman who woke up one morning,
looked in the mirror,
and noticed she had only three hairs on her head.

Well," she said, "I think I'll braid my hair today."
So she did
and
she
had
a
wonderful
day.

The next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror
and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.

"H-M-M," she said,
"I think I'll part my hair down! the middle today."
So she did
and
she
had
a
grand
day.

T! he next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head.

"Well," she said,
"today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail."
So she did
and
she
had
a
fun,
fun
day.

The next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head.

"YEA!" she exclaimed,
"I don't have to fix my hair today!"

Attitude is everything.

Be kinder than necessary,

for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Live simply,

Love generously,

Care deeply,

Speak kindly......

Leave the rest to God

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...

It's about learning to dance in the rain.

What Do Angels Look Like?

2007-09-10T09:27:00.000-04:00

What do Angels Look Like?

Like the little old lady who returned your wallet yesterday.

Like the taxi driver who told you that
your eyes light up the world, when you smile.

Like the small child who showed you
the wonder in simple things.

Like the poor man who offered
to share his lunch with you.

Like the rich man who showed you it
really is all possible, if only you believe.

Like the stranger who just happened to come along,
when you had lost your way.

Like the friend who touched your heart,
when you didn't think you had one left to touch.

Angels come in all sizes and shapes,
All ages and skin types.

Some with freckles, some with dimples,
some with wrinkles, some without.

They come disguised as friends, enemies,
teachers, students, lovers and fools.

They don't take life too seriously,
They travel light.

They leave no forwarding address,
They ask for nothing in return.

They wear sneakers with gossamer wings,
They get a deal on dry cleaning.

They are hard to find when your eyes are closed, But
They are everywhere you look when you choose to see.

Â© 1990, Veronica M. Hay

Begin your journey today!!!

2007-09-09T21:00:00.000-04:00

Begin TODAY - NOW! What are you waiting for? Perhaps a blue moon on a Monday? Timing will never be perfect so stop making excuses! You alone are responsible for your life, so take some sort of action. If you have to address fears, old emotional issues, disappointments, anger, regrets, guilt, gee - bite the bullet now and get past all that old dirt under the carpet of your life. If not today - when? Decide if you need to talk to a counselor, and if you do, get it done. If you need energy healing or acupuncture to heal the electrical system of your body - do it! Where will you be in one year if you don't begin your journey? I'll tell you, one year older standing in the same spot of life. Life is meant to be lived - just do it!

Hugs,
Gin

Start a Journal

2007-09-08T22:42:00.000-04:00

I know I have written of the importance of journal writing. Well - good for you if your are, and what are you waiting for if you haven't started one yet. It's the small things in life that accumulate and make the big differences in our lives. Journal your game plan. Write about obstacles, frustrations, wins, unload what is on your mind, vent, write about what you love, what you fear...all this writing will set you free! You ask, how on earth does this fit into a wellness program? In a nutshell, If you clear the junk in your mind, you will allow your mind and body to do what comes naturally, HEAL. If you are in the healing mode, the aging process also slows down...because, you guessed it, you are less stressed! Less stress = health and youth. Sounds good to me!!!

Hugs,
Gin

Game Plan - you need one

2007-09-06T14:54:00.000-04:00

Game plan...we all need one to reach our goals. I know, I know, I have mostly been the type to wing it, though. My game plans have usually formed in the back of my mind quickly and logically. Though, when I have put pen to paper...wonderful things have happened, and faster than my "winging it" style. There is definitely something to be said for the process of physically writing your game plan - it gets your body involved , it becomes real and you internalize it deeper than a thought or words. You are also seeing the words you write and they become real on paper, planting themselves in your subconscious. Even better, date the page in a notebook and then mark it later with an achievement date! I have also written my "game plan" on a small piece of paper and carried it in my wallet, and looking at it often.

Assignment: Write out a game plan for one of your goals, make it short and sweet, so you know when you have reached each step on your journey.

Your benefit - - your subconscious will also be working on your goal...and remember, your actions take you either closer or farther from your goal. Choose wisely.

Hugs,
Gin

What is your vision for wellness?

2007-08-29T16:06:00.000-04:00

Now that you have taken a peek into the future, how do you look and feel?

With any change, take it slowly and realistically. What changes would you like to incorporate into your health/wellness lifestyle? Life does not have to be a struggle - so don't make it so. Take a few minutes to write down your wishes and goals, and some ideas to make achieving them fun! Planning is the best way to success. You could begin with (for example):

My wishes/goals for the next three months:

1. Exercise - play frisbee with the dog for 30 minutes once a week.
- walk 2 miles two times per week
- take the children to the park once a week (and play with them, don't just sit)
- park your car farther from the front door of your work, get some extra steps

2. Food - 1/2 of my plate will contain live food, full of enzymes that will nourish me!
- I will take my morning and afternoon snacks to work with me every day

3. Stress - I will cope with stress better by taking 5 deep breaths every hour and notice
how shallow my breathing has become - and I will change that!
- I will realize I can only control myself - not others

Get your imagination going...you are planning the rest of your life!!!

Hugs,
Gin

Want to see into the future?

2007-08-28T16:31:00.000-04:00

This technique can be fun - and it can also be alarming.

Would you like to see what you might look like in 20 years?

1. Think about your eating habits, sleeping habits, drinking, emotional life, your attitude, your exercise level (couch potato?) - you get the picture.

2. Now think about someone you know that mirrors your style of living and is 20 years older than you are right now.

3. Notice their health, skin tone, level of agility/flexibility, cognitive thinking, mental attitude, zest for life...are they always focused on their aches and pains? (you manifest what you focus on) Does their body skin sag...face look like leather...hair completely white?

4. Now, visualize yourself in 20 years - how do you look and feel with your present wellness program? Do you need to make some changes?

This can be a life changing exercise.

Next, the game plan for wellness.

Hugs,
Gin

Mistakes

2007-08-23T16:22:00.000-04:00

"Mistakes are part of the dues one pays for a full life."
- Sophia Loren

Really, it's no fun trying to be perfect. You don't learn much either. Be fearless - go out and live!
As Nike says..."Just Do It."

Hugs,
Gin

Closet Clutter

2007-08-20T15:13:00.000-04:00

Did you ever stop to think of the correlation between a closet full of clutter and your cluttered mind? Well, there is a connection. Too much "stuff" can clutter your mind and prevent you from allowing anything new into your life. Hmmm. Who likes being stagnant in their life? Not me! It certainly is not like "out of sight, out of mind" - remember how your subconscious works like a minimized computer window? The clutter behind a closed door might not be in your face, but it's running in your subconscious non-stop. Your mind does have limited space, why would you want to fill it with unnecessary "stuff"? Clean out a closet. Donate, donate, donate, and help others. Journal how good you feel, what thoughts pop up when you are done cleaning your closet? Do you feel better about coming home? Do you feel more motivated? Clean your closets!!! It's a great place to begin.

Hugs,
Gin

Are you playing the victim?

2007-08-18T21:07:00.000-04:00

Are you playing the victim role? Are you able to recognize the signs in others...how about in your children? Are you keeping your children (whatever their age) responsible for themselves and their actions?

Here are the obvious red flags to playing the victim role:

1. BLAME - do you blame others...find fault in others...find it difficult to apologize?

2. JUSTIFY - do you try and justify your actions at all costs?

3. COMPLAIN - and whine...join others when they are complaining...remember what we put our attention on grows - if you are complaining...maybe your life is crummy because you are focusing all your attention on complaining thoughts!

Take a break from the victim role!!! Start a new pattern by eliminating any kind of whining or complaining for the next week - AND avoid conversations with others who are complaining. If you want different results...try this!

Hugs,
Gin

Is fear holding you back?

2007-08-15T16:03:00.000-04:00

Is fear holding you back in various areas of your life? How many types of opportunities have you passed up because of fear? One afternoon I looked up quotes on fear (trying to examine and eliminate my own fears)...and came up with these quotes that spoke to me:

"Only when we are no longer afraid to we begin to live."
- Dorothy Thompson

"Don' be afraid to go out on a limb. That's where the fruit is."
- H. Jackson Browne

"Fear is only as deep as the mind allows."
- Japanese proverb

"Feel the fear and do it anyway."
- Susan Jeffers

"Fear breeds fear."
- Byron Janis

"Worry gives a small thing a big shadow."
- Swedish proverb

" You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do."
- Eleanor Roosevelt

Examine your fears. Where are they holding you back?

Hugs,
Gin

Thoughts

2007-08-13T20:15:00.001-04:00

"the state of the mind changes the state of the body by working through the central nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system. Peace of mind sends the body a "live" message, while depression, fear, and unresolved conflict give it a "die" message. Thus, all healing is scientific, even if science can't yet explain exactly how the unexpected "miracles" occur."
- excerpt from Love, Medicine and Miracles, by Dr. Bernie Siegel

Stubborn, strong-willed with perseverance, these are all good descriptive words for me. I used to function under the assumption that if my mind was strong enough, my body would follow and be strong also. In no way was I convinced that the cells of my body had ears and listened to my every thought. Since I am one of those recipients of the ball bat method of learning, I have now studied and attended numerous seminars which have enlightened me, and I have changed my ways.

If your mind has been in the gutter, thinking negative thoughts (I'm fat, I'm old, I screwed up, I'm scared...) STOP! Be grateful for everything you have! Make lists of what you are grateful for when you think negative thoughts...you created this habit of negativity...you can replace that negative habit with a positive one! See the good in others. See the beauty in nature. Take a walk, notice beautiful architecture - or if you live in a newer "villa" like I do - appreciate the carefully groomed lawns and blooming perennials. HA! Above all, begin somewhere - take positive action!

Hugs,
Gin

Hobby Therapy

2007-08-08T21:26:00.000-04:00

OK, what have I been doing instead of posting to this blog? Well, I call it "Hobby Therapy." Saturday morning, while listening to Harry Potter on my iPod, I ended up arranging part of the basement craft area looking for felt and embroidery floss to complete this bootie project for a friend of my daughter's who is due in December. It has been too long since I have been creative and I felt the strong need to complete a project. Luckily I had the presence of mind to tackle a small project. So how do I feel now? Great!!! There really is something soothing when I work with my hands...my mind gets a calming rest...I lose track of time (that's a good thing!)...and I find myself humming! Hmmm, a clue - I should partake in one of my hobbies on a regular basis!

So I'm reminding you to pick up one of your hobbies and create! It's refreshing!

Hugs,
Gin

Do your homework...

2007-08-06T21:10:00.000-04:00

Whether you are looking for a dentist, doctor, health food store, nutritionist, do your homework. Ask around and find the best in your area. An ecological dentist - one that doesn't use amalgam fillings, an MD with an alternative background - you get the idea. You will be rewarded for your researching perseverance. Your health is important - you want to see your children grow up, be at that special wedding...take care of yourself!

Hugs,
Gin

The summer of the kittens...

2007-08-04T19:55:00.000-04:00

Yes, the summer of the kittens has been a true adventure (details on how the mother cat and surprise kittens came to live with us, in a previous post). I just had to share this picture of Tux, the runt of the litter of kittens born on 5-8-07. He's sooooo cute here. Even at that young age the picture was difficult to capture - he was quite wiggly! Have a great weekend and enjoy your pets!

"We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals."
- Immanual Kant

"Dogs have owners, cats have staff."
- Anonymous

"If a dog jumps in your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because your lap is warmer."
- Alfred North Whitehead

"Dogs come when they're called; cats take a message and get back to you later."
- Mary Bly

"...he will be our friend for always and always and always."
- Rudyard Kipling

Hugs,
Gin

Laughing Dog!!!

2007-08-03T22:10:00.000-04:00

Laughter is inner jogging.
- Norman Cousins

OK, now I know I can place a picture two times in a row...fantastic!!! This is Swizzle, my chocolate lab. She looks like she is laughing - laughter is good for you, relaxing, and stress relieving, you need to laugh heartily every day! I hope this picture gets you started.

Hugs,
Gin

Pictures on my blog!

2007-08-02T20:47:00.000-04:00

YAY!!! This is my first experience putting pictures on my blog! All the text has been boring for me too - it just got to me...and this picture was just too cute not to share. This is Nutmeg, one of our kittens born on May 8, 2007. She is waking up from a nap and yawning. We presently feel like a zoo with 5 cats, 1 chocolate lab, 1 cockatiel, 1 fish, and 4 geckos! Studies prove that pets relax you...well I must be the most relaxed person around!

Hugs,
Gin

Lyfestyle Tips

2007-08-01T22:03:00.000-04:00

Try to incorporate some of these tips if you are not already...

- Positive thinking, positive emotions. We become what we think. We need to FEEL joy, gladness, excitement, anticipation, you know - the good stuff. Your body will respond, relax and heal.
- Sleep. Get 8 hours of sleep per night. Go to bed at the same time every night. The hours before midnight are worth two of the sleep hours after midnight.
- No more food 3 hours before bed (if you must, have a piece of fruit - it digests quickly) because your body is busy repairing itself while you sleep - if you have a full stomach...guess where the energy goes...YES, to digest the food, not to repairing your body and making you healthier!
- Upon rising, drink a glass of warm or room temperature water with the juice of 1/2 lemon...this helps support your liver. Love your liver, it has to filter all the toxins you put into your body.
- Dry brush your entire body (except your face) before you take a bath three times a week (or every day if you choose). Do this gently but thoroughly with a natural soft bristle brush. Use short strokes directed toward the heart. This will help with toxin removal, make skin tighten and glow, help eliminate wrinkles (yay!), remove lots of dead skin (so you can sweat more easily), and your skin can breathe better.
- Try to prepare your food with as many organically grown ingredients as you can.
- Water: Drink 1/2 your body weight in ounces of filtered or bottled water per day.
- Eliminate all artificial sweeteners from your diet.

These suggestions will help take the burden off your body. Be kind to your body. Love your body.

Hugs,
Gin

Praise Your Child - Part 2

2007-07-30T16:41:00.001-04:00

HIP, HIP HURRAY - BINGO - MAGNIFICENT - MARVELOUS - TERRIFIC - YOU'RE IMPORTANT - PHENOMENAL - YOU'RE SENSATIONAL - SUPER WORK - CREATIVE JOB - SUPER JOB - FANTASTIC JOB - EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE - YOU'RE A REAL TROOPER - YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE - YOU ARE EXCITING - YOU LEARNED IT RIGHT - WHAT AN IMAGINATION - WHAT A GOOD LISTENER - YOU ARE FUN - YOU'RE GROWING UP - YOU TRIED HARD - YOU CARE - BEAUTIFUL SHARING - OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE - YOU'RE A GOOD FRIEND - I TRUST YOU - YOU'RE IMPORTANT - YOU MEAN A LOT TO ME - YOU MAKE ME HAPPY - YOU BELONG - YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND - YOU MAKE ME LAUGH - YOU BRIGHTEN MY DAY - I RESPECT YOU - YOU MEAN THE WORLD TO ME - THAT'S CORRECT - YOU'RE PERFECT - AWESOME - A+ JOB - YOU'RE A-OK MY BUDDY - YOU MADE MY DAY - THAT'S THE BEST - A BIG HUG - A BIG KISS - I LOVE YOU!

Keep this list handy to review. I don't think the need to hear these phrases ever goes away - use them on your grown children too. When they feel better about themselves, they will pass that great feeling on to others too. Give of yourself, it will return ten fold.

Hugs,
Gin

Praise Your Child

2007-07-29T21:54:00.000-04:00

Tonight, as I was looking for a blueberry bread recipe, I came across a flyer of 101 ways to praise a child. I remember when my girls were young I would sometimes lose sight of their beauty, humor, gifts, just how wonderful they were. My focus was on the messes they were making or what they were doing wrong. It does take effort for a parent to be positive and raise positive children, but, with practice it does become easier. Begin with a smile, give them your undivided attention, and here are some phrases to use...

WOW - WAY TO GO - SUPER - YOU'RE SPECIAL - OUTSTANDING - EXCELLENT - GREAT - GOOD - NEAT - WELL DONE - REMARKABLE - I KNEW YOU COULD DO IT - I'M PROUD OF YOU - FANTASTIC - SUPER STAR - NICE WORK - LOOKING GOOD - YOU'RE ON TOP OF IT - BEAUTIFUL - NOW YOU'RE FLYING - YOU'RE CATCHING ON - NOW YOU'VE GOT IT - YOU'RE INCREDIBLE - BRAVO - YOU'RE FANTASTIC - HURRAY FOR YOU - YOU'RE ON TARGET - YOU'RE ON YOUR WAY - HOW NICE - HOW SMART - GOOD JOB - THAT'S INCREDIBLE - HOT DOG - DYNAMITE - YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL - YOU'RE UNIQUE - NOTHING CAN STOP YOU NOW - GOOD FOR YOU - I LIKE YOU - YOU'RE A WINNER - REMARKABLE JOB - BEAUTIFUL WORK - SPECTACULAR - YOU'RE SPECTACULAR - YOU'RE DARLING - YOU'RE PRECIOUS - GREAT DISCOVERY - YOU'VE DISCOVERED THE SECRET - YOU FIGURED IT OUT - FANTASTIC JOB...

Author Unknown

Try some new phrases and stay tuned for part two tomorrow...

Hugs,
Gin

Did You Know...

2007-07-28T22:42:00.000-04:00

When you exercise, toxins are excreted from your body through your respiration and sweat - and through urination. So, to maximize your health daily, or while exercising - drink your water to help facilitate this process!!! Help your body take care of itself. The same applies for losing weight - you lose weight the same way. We take in toxins daily through the air we breathe, the non-organic food we eat, the chemicals we are exposed to...so be sure you exercise daily and take in organic, nutritionally dense foods. Find an activity you love and move it!

Hugs,
Gin

Humor

2007-07-27T16:13:00.000-04:00

How Smart is Your Right Foot?

This is so funny that it will boggle your mind. And, you will keep trying it at least 50 more times to see if you can outsmart your foot. But you can't!!!

1. While sitting at your desk, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles with it.
2. Now, while doing this, draw the number "6" in the air with your right hand...Your foot will change direction!!!

I told you so...And there is nothing you can do about it. Make sure you pass this on to your friends...They won't be able to believe it either!!!

Author unknown

Hugs,
Gin

Gratitude List - Cranked Up!

2007-07-24T22:03:00.001-04:00

Now that you have the powerful concept of a gratitude list under your belt, you may take it one step further to being thankful for things you want - as if they have already happened! Notice how you feel when you write your list. You should be feeling great and excited! Remember, the beauty is in the journey - not only in the end result.

Example:
Thank you for my healing.
I'm so grateful for that great score on my exam.
I'm so grateful for the 5 pounds I lost.
Thank you that I am eating more nutritionally dense foods.

Go wild being grateful!

Hugs,
Gin

Gratitude List

2007-07-23T22:12:00.000-04:00

One of the fastest ways to change negative energy to positive energy is to make a gratitude list. If you are able, write it down! If not, like when you are driving or working at your desk, just think or say out loud what you are grateful for. Your energy will definitely shift...only put on your list what you are grateful for - not what you should be grateful for. Be honest with yourself! Do a daily gratitude list, preferably in the morning because this helps you focus your day - you can even do a "gratitude run", a "gratitude walk" in the morning! When your feelings and energy improve...your life will too!

Hugs,
Gin

P.S. Example - Tonight I am grateful for the vet that helped our kitty, Chipotle for dinner, the funny TV show I watched earlier, my children who are compassionate to animals...you get the idea - go for it!

Gratitude...Appreciation...Thankful

2007-07-22T22:04:00.000-04:00

Whatever you call it - gratitude, appreciation, thankfulness...just participate! Be grateful for what you have, where you live, the wonderful people in your life, your car, your beautiful yard...keep the list going. When you have a spare moment in traffic, rather than getting upset and crabbing about traffic, be grateful for your car and what is around you, the sky, the trees, the beautiful music on your radio...you get the picture. Remember, what you give your attention to is what you attract. If you are constantly complaining and noticing the negative and lack in your life - guess what you are going to get more of...don't go there! Make sure your glass is half full, not half empty. So, this week when you are standing in line, on "hold", waiting for an appointment, take your thoughts into the gratitude gear and see what happens in the rest of your life!!!

Hugs,
Gin

Stress Relievers

2007-07-19T22:15:00.000-04:00

Last night, as I was preparing to write my blog, a storm blew up and our area was under a tornado warning --- which means a tornado has been sighted in the area. Well, as a child, I remember the "Palm Sunday" tornado which passed through a neighboring community and the widespread devastation in it's wake. So...since then I have become highly stress when these warnings, complete with air sirens blaring in our community, are issued. Luckily, some friends (who live in homes without a basement) stopped by to storm watch on TV and on the front and back porch. Only our geckos spent a couple of hours in the basement - the cat and her 4 kittens, and the dog remained upstairs with us and oblivious of the ominous storm.

What works for me in a stressful situation:

1. Breathe deeply. Next time you are stressed, take a moment to NOTICE if your breathing is shallow. Breathe in, through your nose for 5 counts, and hold that breath for 4 counts. Exhale through your mouth for 4 counts. Repeat 2-3 times and whenever you feel yourself breathing shallow and tensing up. (Try not to breathe in through your mouth because it activates the flight/fright reaction in your body.)

2. Monitor your thoughts. What exactly is going through your mind? Last night, was I thinking of Dorthy's house in the Wizard of Oz, my house spinning in the air...or being swept away by the tornado that was near? NO. Remind yourself to choose another thought. I decided not to let my thoughts spiral into the horrors of "what if." I decided to stay alert and aware of the weather conditions, review if I had done all I could to prepare, (ex. flashlights, radio) and then stay relaxed. All my worrying would have absolutely no effect on the weather outcome.

3. Be grateful for all you have, family, home, job, health - - - just keep going with all the things you can think of that you are grateful for, it is calming.

Good luck de-stressing! The breathing exercises are great every day - don't just wait for a tornado bearing down on your area to breathe and relax!

Hugs,
Gin

Move your body!

2007-07-17T22:10:00.000-04:00

Your body was designed to move...so find some activities you enjoy. Make a list of things you used to do as a kid - alone, with friends or family. Then, ask yourself why did I stop? Do you need reasons to resurrect your childlike love for movement? Exercise increases oxygen to your body and more importantly, your brain...uh, that's a good thing! Remember like the movie Legally Blonde, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. " It's true! It also takes care of stress hormones, helps release toxins through increased respiration and sweating. More important, if you have children, what are you teaching them? You need to set an example so they love movement. Dance to the stereo. Take dancing lessons. Walk, hike, walk a 5K with friends or if you are a seasoned walker - try the Avon 3 day walk and challenge some friends to do that with you. Love yourself enough to move your body, and be an inspiration for those you love.

Hugs,
Gin

Got Juice?

2007-07-16T22:07:00.000-04:00

When you are thinking of juice - think live vegetable juice. Fresh, raw juice is alive with nutrients and enzymes that your body can easily use. When you drink your veggies the nutrients reach the cellular level. The reason you want to drink live, raw vegetable juice vs. canned or processed juices is because the canned and processed juice has been pastuerized at high temperatures and all the live enzymes have been destroyed and the juice cannot properly nourish your body. If you are considering the purchase of a juicing machine, opt for the auger type juicer, not the centrifugal spinning type, as it introduces excess oxygen into the juice and promotes oxidation. With some of the auger type juicers, you will also be able to make wheat grass juice, and that would be a plus if you are in need of intense nutrition or healing. Your body is a wonderful machine, give it the nutrition it needs for optimum health and performance!

Hugs,
Gin

Healthy substitutions

2007-07-15T22:14:00.000-04:00

This week as you are writing your grocery list and checking your pantry, think if you can be substituting a healthier brand for that item. For example, I love Fig Newtons, but instead I buy Fig Newmans; if you need baking powder, make sure you replace it with aluminum free baking powder; if you need toothpaste, choose a non-flouride natural product. It is so much easier to replace products as you run out than discarding the contents of your pantry! Ouch! Don't forget to buy substitutes for your cleaning products too! I love Mrs. Meyer brand cleaning products. Good luck with your substitutions!

Hugs,
Gin

Make your "Someday" TODAY!

2007-07-14T22:32:00.001-04:00

Have you ever told yourself "Someday I will..." STOP! Everyday is a someday! Your "someday" is today - so make it count! Don't wait any longer to make a committment to better mental health! Let go of some of the perpetual chore guilt that accumulates. It is as if the guilt we carry is like our computer screen with minimized windows running at the bottom of our screen...the house isn't clean enough...there are more errands to run...I can't read every book I want to... Give yourself permission to close out those guilty thought windows in the computer of your mind. Clean out the garbage!! Make some tough decisions on what you can humanly do - then let the rest go! You will be amazed at how your stress level will go down. Now, that is a good thing!! When we have too many things going on in our head - we tend to lose signt of the people around us and just what is important in our lives. So make some difficult decisions and say "NO" more often. Love yourself and your family enough to just do it! What's really more important than your health? Without your health - you can't go after your dreams.

If you always say "someday..." that "someday" will never come.

Hugs,
Gin

Kids change everything

2007-07-13T23:04:00.000-04:00

After the birth of my second daughter, I took a trip to see my cousin and his wife, they also had a newborn. We were a crazy pair of women - two newborns and two other children about age 3. While visiting, my cousin had the framed poem Babies Don't Keep on the wall. At first reading, my life was changed. I went from being a bit obsessed about how neat and clean my house had to be - to relax, you now have children...it is a new phase of life. I realized, no matter what, I'll never have "enough" time - like before children, the house will never be pristine (with the freshly vacuumed carpet nap undisturbed). So in that moment I decided to go with the flow! I put my children high on my priority list and now we have treasured memories of time spent together doing everyday chores, crafts, reading, etc. - all the things they cherish today and talk about at length. The more secure, safe, and loving the early environment, the more confident and outgoing the children grow up to be. Your time and attention are priceless! Both need to be doled out as needed. Yes, the dust and cleaning will wait years until you (or your children) have (or make) the time to clean and organize - OR, you could catch up the crazy way I did and move two times in two years!!! (Purging "stuff" is liberating!) Here is the last paragraph of the poem...

The cleaning and scrubbing
can wait till tomorrow,
for children grow up,
as I've learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs.
Dust go to sleep.
I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep.

Hugs,
Gin

Love

2007-07-11T22:22:00.000-04:00

"Those who are the hardest to love, need it the most."
- Socrates, The Peaceful Warrior (2006)

Hugs,
Gin

Grocery shopping...yikes!

2007-07-10T15:53:00.000-04:00

Before I knew better, I used to go up and down each aisle in the grocery store - then I knew I was done shopping and headed for the checkout. Now, I shop the perimeter of the store, where the FRESH food is located. OK, the liquor portion of my grocery store is on the perimeter too...anyway...trips to the grocery store don't always have to be a lengthy chore!

know where the organic products are located
keep meals simple
make a list - it is frustrating to forget an ingredient
don't shop hungry (especially with hungry children!!!)
know the ingredients you need
keep the shopping for the items located in the center of the store for a longer visit

My grocery store carries organic products. I know where most of them are located. I usually stock up on organic tomato sauce, organic garbanzo beans (for hummus, yum!), organic broth, and other staples on longer visits.

So the moral to this story - fresh food is better for you and your family. Learn to make those quick stops for an evening meal, or for enough fresh food for two days. Gone are the days of shopping once a week for food - you are eating mostly dead (no enzymes) and processed food all week. Shop the perimeter of the store - fresh organic fruits and veggies, grab a hunk of organic protein, and throw together a quick meal!

Love your body enough to eat FRESH FOODS!!!

Hugs,
Gin

What are you teaching?

2007-07-09T21:30:00.000-04:00

"A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops." - Henry Adams

Teachers are not only the ones employed in the teaching profession...we are all teachers...all the time. What are you choosing to teach others? With adults, we are able to teach not only by our actions, but also by what we say. With the younger ages it is pretty much "monkey see, monkey do." I can attest to this fact because of the results within my family...I felt the responsibility early. Take the time to teach someone, your children or your grandchildren to -

love life
laugh often
love their bodies
save money
help others
be compassionate
recycle
eat organic
manners
smile
enjoy music
appreciate art
create!
respect others
cook food from scratch
how to set a table
turn off the TV
play ball
sit in silence
knit or crochet
play board games
sew on a button
fish
read a map
count back change (without the answer appearing on a cash register!)
have great penmanship
read the classics

The gift of self is a gift that keeps on giving. Teach and enjoy being taught!

Hugs,
Gin

John Wooden, Basketball Coach

2007-07-08T21:53:00.000-04:00

Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable."
- John Wooden, Head Coach

My local radio station interviewed coach John Wooden, retired Basketball Coach. I remember watching him (on TV) coach while at UCLA, he was quite a winning machine, coaching greats like Kareem-Abdul-Jabbar and Bill Walton. I'm not sure how old he is now, but to me, he hasn't lost the ability to motivate. There I was in my car enthused by what he was saying about life and ready to be coached! What a guy. I looked him up on Wikipedia and he is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player (1961) and as a coach (1973). He is widely considered the greatest Basketball coach with an unsurpassed 10 NCAA National Championship wins while at UCLA.

This will keep life focused for you...This is John Wooden's Seven Point Creed, given to him by his father Joshua upon his graduation from grammar school:

Be true to yourself.
Make each day your masterpiece.
Help others.
Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.
Make friendship a fine art.
Build a shelter against a rainy day.
Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.

Hugs,
Gin

P.S. Keep your focus, don't get lost in the distractions!

Remember to eat your veggies!

2007-07-07T23:16:00.003-04:00

When you hear that phrase - who comes to mind? HA! We all have someone in our past who said to us "Eat your veggies!" Yes, eat them, but eat them as "living" foods rather than "dead" foods.

What's the difference you ask? A living food has not been cooked above 112 degrees and still has vital living enzymes intact that will help digest that food in your stomach and enzymes to nourish your body. Cooking food beyond that temperature devitalizes food and diminishes the nutrients still available. Ideally, 2/3 of your serving plate should contain "live" food whether it be 1/3 raw and 1/3 lightly steamed, then the other 1/3 could be a protein.

So, consider lightly steaming your organic veggies, and eating more organic raw salads. Your body will thank you.

Hugs,
Gin

P.S. Chew your food well...ahhh yes, that is another topic...

My frozen dinner...

2007-07-05T18:35:00.000-04:00

"Take good care of your future because that's where you're going to spend the rest of your life." - K. Kettering

When I need a quick dinner, I keep a couple of frozen dinners in my freezer. (I minimize my daily microwave oven usage and splurge using it on a frozen dinner.) So, as I was eating my dinner - I began to read the back of the box and recalled why I chose this product in the first place. On the back of my Amy's Cheese Lasagna it says No GMO's - NO Bioengineered Ingredients and almost every ingredient is organic. Oh yes, I think it tastes great too! YUM!!!

Read the labels on what you are buying. Be careful of what you are putting into your body...and what type of corporation you are supporting with your hard earned money! There are so many healthy products to substitute for the items we are accustomed to putting on our grocery list. One good place to start is your local health food store, they will be happy to give you information and suggestions - some stores even have food sampling days...mine does, and I ink that in my calendar each month!

Also, I don't want to hear any gripes about the cost of organic products either, you know the saying - garbage in, garbage out? You will pay now or pay later with poor health and doctor/hospital bills. Why are we so reluctant to pay a little more for a healthier product now, that is better for our bodies, better for the environment, and better for the future of the next generation? Beats me, because I am committed to making a positive difference in this world!

What is your difference going to be?

Hugs,
Gin

Today is a holiday

2007-07-04T22:30:00.000-04:00

Today is a holiday here...it's the 4th of July!!! Happy 4th!!!

Hugs,
Gin

See the big picture...

2007-07-03T22:08:00.000-04:00

We can learn to read the messages our bodies send us through aches, pain, and illness. Don't ignore these "messages!" They will only get louder and more serious as they progress. In your learning process you will discover that lifestyle changes also encompasses the physical, emotional, spiritual and social connections between disease, illness, and health. Nurture your curiosity to learn about your body to deal effectively with your current health challenges and achieve a new level of whole body wellness.

The main focus should always be placed on wellness and health, rather than disease and illness. (What you focus on will manifest.) Think of yourself as a whole and try to get to the root of the problem. Don't be satisfied only looking at symptoms, once symptoms appear the imbalance has been there for a length of time. Your body naturally wants to heal once balance is restored - help the rebalance move along by developing your own plan of self-care. Who knows you better than YOU! Empower yourself!

Life has a pattern. Illness also reveals a pattern - old patterns that are no longer working...well your body is calling for a change. Here is the place for that old saying - insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. Symptoms, disease, and life problems are a direct expression of how you are living your life. What is your path in life? Are you following your passion - or have you veered far off course? Isn't it time to lead a healthier more fulfilling life?

Ponder this - what are your life patterns that aren't working?

Hugs,
Gin

Listen to your body...

2007-07-02T22:07:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been physically tired...so tired that your brain doesn't want to work either? That's me, right now! I am going to listen to my body's cry for sleep. Listening to your body is a good thing. Good night. Hope you take time out to do the same for yourself.

Hugs,
Gin

Think...ORGANIC Lawn Service

2007-07-01T20:11:00.000-04:00

"Until man duplicates a blade of grass, nature can laugh at his co-called scientific knowledge."
- Thomas Edison

Lawns...if you think about it, lawns without weeds - - - not natural. Through chemical management, we have made them the 'norm'.

Anyway, you might want to re-think that chemical lawn service you have employed, and change to an organic lawn service.

Why?

the average lawn uses 6x the hazardous chemicals that a conventional farmer would use per acre of field- yikes!
if just 10% of us would go organic, over 1/2 billion pounds of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides would be kept from entering the environment
when the lawn is sprayed and your children then go play on that lawn, the neurotoxins enter their bodies - your children are not done developing yet - so this means they could have problems with the development of their brain or nervous system
organophosphates (like Diazanon insecticide) work by targeting and disrupting the nervous sytem - our system is not much different...
the Journal of National Cancer Institute reported in 1991 that with only one application of a chemical lawn treatment, dogs had a 130% increased risk for lymphoma! just think what that could do to humans!
just think what you are bringing into your home on your shoes...what then collects on your carpet...then the whole family lays on the carpet - HOW DISGUSTING!
it takes under 45 seconds for whatever is applied on your skin to be carried by the bloodstream and reach every major organ in your body (this would be great to do with your kids - take a slice from a clove of garlic and put it either between your toes or on the bottom of your foot and you will taste the garlic in your mouth, have a breath mint ready!)
your pet is also bringing in toxins on their feet to spread throughout the house, or jumping onto and walking on the family'l beds, not to mention what they ingest from licking their paws!
the neurotoxins in the lawn chemicals may be contributing to childhood learning disorders

If you are not already using an organic lawn service, give it some thought. Organic lawn services are safe for your children, pets, and are environmentally friendly!

When you know better, you do better.
- Maya Angelou

Hugs,
Gin

Joy...

2007-06-30T23:19:00.000-04:00

Joy - 1. a feeling of happiness that comes from success, good fortune, or a sense of well-being 2. a source of happiness

Do you know what brings you joy? Did you once know? Has life come between you and what brings you joy? Take the time to sit down where it is quiet, reconnect to your inner self, and make a list of "What brings me joy." It is so important to know what brings joy to your life in order to lead a well balanced life and not get stuck in an unhealthy "stress" mode. Take action - start your list NOW!

Hugs,
Gin

Pets...

2007-06-29T22:07:00.000-04:00

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened."
- Anatole France

Pets...to have them or not...one or more...well I was at the crossroads of "No more pets!" when my daughter brought her favorite outdoor cat home from her boyfriend's house. This event came about when the brother to that "favorite" cat was hit and killed by a car. My daughter just knew her cat was next. What do you say? Well, during the third week of her living with us, I realized the cat was pregnant. Fast forward...the 4 kittens are now 7 weeks old and I can personally agree with the experts who say -

pets reduce stress - yes they do, they are comical, they listen to you without complaining, their energy is always positive
pets get you out to exercise - that's if you have a dog...I surely can not take a walk with our cat on a leash!
pets actually help reduce blood pressure and their presence works better than drugs!
pets help fend off loneliness
pets give you unconditional love - no strings attached
pets help you make friends (like when you are out walking your dog) , or maybe even a date!

This I know is true...pets surely are not for everyone. But, the benefits definitely outweigh the extra work.

Hugs,
Gin

Journal!

2007-06-28T21:29:00.000-04:00

A quick look at journaling...have you ever felt you cannot have a complete thought? OR your body is not tired, but your mind is? How will you ever be able to listen to your own intuition and thoughts if your mind is crammed full of "stuff". This "stuff" may be your hopes, dreams, troubled thoughts, worries...whatever. Stop! Take care of your mind! Clear your mind! A great way to clear your mind is to journal your thoughts. Grab a notebook or buy a special journal and a pen of your choice. I just love fine point gel writers - they flow and glide easily, like your thoughts spilling onto the paper. I also feel that I get more benefits from hand writing my journal rather than keeping it on a computer. The convenience is mobility, and when I only have a few minutes in my day, I just grab my journal and write! I've also used my journaling to blow off some steam when feeling emotions of anger, disappointment, sadness, guilt, etc. Also, I have taken a single sheet of paper and written down my rants! Naturally, (I didn't want to say the hurtful rants to the specific person's face) so I shredded the sheet(s) of paper rather than leaving it around to be discovered. Another plus to shredding the paper is that you have the opportunity to witness your feelings being disposed of. A small weight lifted off of your shoulders. I know that personally I certainly felt much better for having gotten those feelings out with this method. The benefit: you now have mental room to experience more of life! How can you have more if your mind is cluttered with old "stuff". Remember, like Meg Ryan says in the movie French Kiss, "...fester, fester, fester, rot, rot, rot..." not good!

Hugs,
Gin

Just Say NO

2007-06-27T20:34:00.000-04:00

It doesn't matter how old you are or where you live - - - we have all had that moment with ourselves..."Why did I say yes" to that project or whatever it is that overloads our schedule. There are only so many hours in the day, and we are equipped with the ability to make healthy decisions. Practice the following ways of saying "NO", so if you need one of these phrases, you are ready!

I'd love to help, but I have another committment
I can't, but I would be glad to help out with another task
I wish I could help, I'm sure you will do a great job on your own
I am not comfortable with that
I am sorry but I have had some things come up that I need to deal with first
Thanks for asking me, but I am not the most qualified person for the job
I can't right now, but I would be glad to do it later
I wish I could help you, but I don't have any experience with that
I am not taking on any new projects
I can't right now, I just don't have any room on my calendar
I am focusing more on my personal/career/family right now
NO.

Practice, practice!

Hugs,
Gin

Love or Fear?

2007-06-26T21:53:00.000-04:00

Fear is only as deep as the mind allows.
- Japanese proverb

Ponder this. Our actions are motivated by either love or fear. Love is fantastic, but let's focus on fear. Fear can freeze our dreams and delay goals. You know, not that fear with real physical danger involved...I mean the imagined fear of doing a task outside your comfort zone. I want to encourage you to just plow ahead and do it! You will learn and grow from your experience.

You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.
- Eleanor Roosevelt

Only when we are no longer afraid do we begin to live.
- Dorothy Thompson

Hugs,
Gin

Monitor your words!

2007-06-25T21:37:00.000-04:00

Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
- Mahatma Gandi

Step 2 - Monitor your words.

Every cell in your body has ears. Not only does your body hear your every thought - it hears what you say. EVERY WORD! Become aware of what you say.

Is your customary dialogue like this:
I hope I don't catch that cold...
I don't want...
I'm so fat...
I will never...

STOP IT! Change what you say to:
I am healthy and won't catch that cold...
What I want is...
I know I can...
I will always...

Monitor your words. Do not criticize or hate your body in your thoughts or words. Just think how wonderful your body is...taking you everywhere on your legs...digesting what you eat...coping with all your stress...soldering on when you do not get enough rest...making do with the junk food you eat...taking general abuse on a daily basis. Thank your body out loud. "Thank you body for being there for me - I love every part of you!" Appreciate your body. Treat it like royalty. Your cells communicate minute-by-minute and are worthy and deserving of your deep appreciation.

Hugs,
Gin

P.S. Especially when clothing shopping...stop the critical comments and make them positive.

Rather than "I look fat in this outfit"

Say "This doesn't quite fit, I need to search for an outfit that fits my body better."

Eat Organic!

2007-06-24T21:29:00.000-04:00

Eating as much organic food as possible equals a higher level of nutrition received and reduces the burden on your body, especially your liver, to detoxify all the possible additives, preservatives and toxins you are most likely consuming. Eating healthy means making better choices, not deprevation or denial. Even those mid-afternoon cravings for something chocolate, well...make it healthy...know the ingredients! Other healthy snacks will be addressed later, but today I am sharing a chocolate frosted brownie recipe that freezes soooooo well. Bake the recipe and freeze the remainder in individual servings for lunches, afternoon snacks, or simply pull a brownie out of the freezer - warm it up and put a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, - purely divine! So plan your snacks so you are not at the vending machine grabbing just anything. Know what you are eating, know what your kids are eating. You will feel better for it!

Chocolate Frosted Brownies

Cake:
2 cups organic all purpose flour
2 cups organic granulated sugar
1 cup organic butter
1 cup strong brewed coffee or water
1/4 cup dark, unsweetened organic cocoa
1/2 cup organic buttermilk*
2 organic eggs
1 t. baking soda
1 t. organic pure vanilla extract

Frosting:
1/2 cup organic butter
2 T. organic dark cocoa
1/4 cup organic milk
3 1/2 cups organic unsifted powdered sugar
1 t. organic pure vanilla extract

Mix the flour and sugar in a large bowl.
In a heavy saucepan, mix butter, coffee or water, and cocoa. Stir and heat to boiling.
Pour the boiling mixture over the flour and sugar in the mixing bowl. Then add the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda and vanilla.
Mix well with a wooden spoon or a mixer on high speed.
Pour into a well buttered 17 x11 inch jelly roll pan.
Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until the center of the brownies tests done with a toothpick.
Prepare the frosting while the brownies bake. Combine the butter, cocoa and milk in a saucepan and heat to boiling, stirring often.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until the frosting is smooth.
Pour warm frosting over the browinies as soon as you take them out of the oven. Cool.
Cut into bars, enjoy and freeze the rest!

*No buttermilk? Add 2 t. either vinegar or lemon juice into the 1/2 cup of milk. Let sit for a couple of minutes and it's ready!

I know these brownies are a family favorite at my house. Let me know how you and your family like this recipe!

Hugs,
Gin

Montessori teacher says - Think Green!!!

2007-06-23T21:52:00.000-04:00

Cloth Napkins...

Reduce disposables. When you throw things "away" - where is "AWAY"? The landfill! What are we teaching the next generation? Nothing good for the environment!!! Here is a great project. Cloth napkins to make with your kids, grandkids, teenagers, or for yourself. Use these napkins at home and pack one daily in your lunch box for work. Check out what the fabric store has to offer. Make napkins for each holiday, or choose special caracters on the fabric for the kids. These are great for gifts too!

Supplies

Fabric - cotton
Thread in a coordinating or contrasting color OR if sewing by hand with a running stitch, use embroidery floss (if using floss, you decide how many strands, 2-4, to use based on the fabric and effect you want to create)
Poster board to cut the desired napkin size for easy tracing (cut pattern 1" larger than finished napkin size)

Get started!

Prewash fabric, dry
Press fabric (much easier to mark and cut)
Cut poster board pattern (make pattern 1" larger to allow for hem, 12" finished napkin size = 13" pattern square)
Trace napkins on fabric
Cut out napkins
Press hem under 1/4" on all sides
Press that edge under again
Top stitch the hem into place - either machine stitch or hand stitch
Enjoy!

Tips

Christmas napkins - make 4 green and 4 red
Great housewarming gifts, teacher gifts, wedding gifts, extended family favors
Sewing increases manual dexterity
This sewing project fosters creativity and curiosity, which spills over into all learning areas

Think Green! This week, notice how you could reduce disposables and recycle.

Hugs,
Gin

You create your life!

2007-06-20T13:39:00.000-04:00

"If you think you can do a thing or think you can't do a thing, you're right."
- Henry Ford

Life isn't random...you create your life! The object is to change your mind in a positive way and you will change your life. It is that simple. We become entrenched in the idea that life must be a struggle, things just happen to us, well - I'm here to tell you that you have the power to create what you want by changing the way you think to get the results you want. Remember:

"ah ha" moments = change = personal growth (and that's good!)

Who wants to be trapped in time? Not me!

Step 1 - Positive thoughts and images.

Whether you want to lose weight or have an illness, THINK POSITIVE! When you have a negative thought about yourself (or anyone else!) STOP and choose again to change it into a positive thought. Thoughts are things. Thoughts become things. Thoughts attract things. (Example: like the same type of guys that are attracted to you. Ugh! Change your mind and you will attract a different type of guy!) So for the person wanting to lose weight, the thought shift would be - I am healthy, fit, and slim. For the person with an illness, the thought shift would be - I am healthy, vibrant and energized. Focus on the positive, for what we think about most is what we manifest.

Hugs,
Gin