See Grandma, my eyes are really dark blue....not big brown ones like daddy

See Grandma, my eyes are really dark blue....not big brown ones like daddy

Ryan and friend

Ryan and friend
Mommy, Daddy, I'm saying Hi to Grandma?

This one is for you, Grandma!

Nathan

Nathan
soccer with determination and no airplane distractions

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Speaking our Minds

Today, like most days, I was out taking my morning stroll, the sun beckoning me from between the lofty, colorful branches of brilliantly painted leaves of gold and red, some falling gently in a twirled fashion. All the while, my head was spinning with ideas, and musical sounds, but mostly the thought of our Community Meal being held today in the church hall.

The continuing saga of this weekend's presentation, on "Restoring Living Icons" caused me to wonder, just how many would hearken to the call of brotherly love today in the feeding of the decidedly poor, working poor and elderly participants. Although, open to the public at large, my heart always goes out to the many who are without and have not found their way to the church hall, as yet.

Before I left the house, I put together a map with instructions on how to get to our church, the time and "FREE," just in case it would be needed. Going down the street, I saw an elderly man with signs, the election type, and I started small talk, learning that he had already been to Worcester and was preparing to "knock on doors." He asked me if I wanted material to distribute and of course, I declined. I asked him if he was aware that this town has a good amount of working poor and needy in it, that we are looking to feed once a month, and that he was also invited. He mentioned the Polish Church, and I said people who go there also attended our Community Meal. He asked if we received donations, and I said yes, but it is "free," telling him the time and what was being prepared. He was interested in attending. Then, at almost the same time, he sputtered "that it was about time that we get the Welfare Office out of this town". How does that feed our hungry children, I thought silently. Compassion anyone?

He left in his truck, his precedence was the election. Mine still being the hungry, lonely, shut-in and working poor in this community, I thought, if he could go door to door, then I can campaign also. I made a few phone calls to my own family, and then, after spotting my neighbor, gave her the map, explaining all the details. Happily, she was on her way into the house to call some people that she knew.

What would be your answer? Yes, you will always have the poor amongst you, and thank God for it. "Do not look a gift-horse in the face," as this may be your only opportunity to salvation. You cannot buy your way to heaven.

I think that it is rather interesting to see the result of meshing people together under one roof. The statistics we read about become "personal." Personal responsibility for one's neighbor, especially those who are not moving, but have learned to love it here just as we do. Friendships begin to take form and joy and laughter can be heard.

We learn the lesson of sharing and caring, because we are all brother's after all, aren't we? When we close our eyes tonight, it will be with the knowledge that we have helped to share in the burden of someone else. And that, my friend, is a great consolation to us both.

We are called to love our neighbor, our brother. Taken from the Orthodox Study Bible, 1Corinthians 13:3--"And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing."

Further instruction tell us that we know when we are acting with love by it's characteristics, such as: Long-suffering, patient, kind, gentle, especially with those who hurt.

Love is a decision.....

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

What is Your FOCUS?

Having a background in Graphic Design and Sales causes me to think differently than others who do not have a perspecive on what catches the eye and what sells.

Working previously for news media, I look for catchy words like, spellbound, bump in the night, spooky encounters and the like at this time of year--the FOCUS being on Halloween and harvest. We have to have our pumpkins, scarecrows and other money-raking items like costumes and candy. Like all our ever changing seasons we have something for each one.

There are storms coming up all around us, and although they are not winter storms, they gain our attention none the less. Weather is something we focus on daily and, a subject that we can share anywhere and anytime with anyone.

My husband and I just returned from our Maine get-away, which we endeavor to do several times a year. I love being at the ocean, and we hit all the towns and our favorite spots. While in Kennebunkport, I noticed someone planting mums in front of her store, as we all know, a beautiful atmosphere usually lore's people in, and aren't we all about raising sales quotas?

It keeps our focus where it should be on shopping, and dining. Focus also means to "zero in" becoming unaware of anything else, but our immediate surroundings.

Last Saturday, St. Columba of Iona Orthodox Monastery, featured a guest speaker, Fr. Justin Matthews of FOCUS North America, with a presentation entitled, "Restoring Living Icons."
I have since had many days to reflect on this Christian Social Action Ministry, and want to share some of my thoughts, as we broaden our view, focusing on the needy around us.

The storms that the needy weather are encountered daily, through each and every season, while life continues for some "unaffected,"by those who are "unaware" of their plight. The fact is, we in America, are hungry. Some are hungry for food, shelter, and work. Other's need your friendship, direction, someone to care for them. What do you choose to see? Are you aware of "the needy" amongst us? A once-a-month feeding program is a good start, and if everyone did their share, it just may help someone who is desperately in need of food. I know some who fall short on the fifth week of the month, stretching the funds as far as they will go. Many questions arise as to are we really getting to those who have no transportation, or are unable to get to a feeding establishment? How do we help them? How do we get the word out to many who have not yet found us? Maybe they are shut-in and alone in this world.

What's spooky is that we do not have the answers. Where do those that grow cold in the night hide? Why have they become invisible to us? What keeps them from the help they need?

On the way back from Kennebunk, ME and the famous monastery, we saw a man on the side of the road holding in his hands a sign that read "I will work for food." He was leaning on a bicycle and was ragged. How many passed by this man and didn't stop, or, didn't even see him? We went down the road turned around and pulled up behind him. I told him I had no work for him but could he use some money? He weakly said yes, I told him I would pray for him as I handed him some cash. I noticed his eyes were cloudy, like one having cataracts, and he appeared ungroomed and very sad.

How many will we have to see before we understand that there is poverty in this country? This elderly man should be dear to someone, have a place to be clean and warm, and a meal that he doesn't have to beg for.

I saw many wonderful things these past few days, but he struck a place in my heart, and we wondered what will become of him? Can he even hold a job? FOCUS North America is helping people like him everyday. Please give them your support. Learn how you can make a difference in someone's life.

Go here to learn more.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

What would you do or give for someone you love

The answer to what I'd give to someone that I love is everything, that is everything within my control. A mature relationship demands no less. It makes me laugh when young women today have difficulty taking their husbands name. I'd say, that being the case, it is a good indicator that you may not be ready for marriage. True loves simply means that you are willing to see to the needs of the other person over and beyond yours. Honoring your spouse is a perfect way to start a good and lasting relationship in a marriage. Another example of a loving relationship, is of a newborn and its parents. The mother, especially, must be willing to sacrifice, for a time, her personal needs for her offspring. That can be a challenge that may run a course of years, yet, they will tirelessly provide for their children, with little complaint.

Relationships don't work because we live in the me, myself and I world. Where the focus is what can they do for me? It is a far cry from the self-less existence that I recall in my youth. My eldest son used to say to me, mommy when I grow up, I'm going to marry you. He always said such cute things. The point is ever before us, what will I do or become? It should be, how can I make a difference for someone in this world, daily. Or, are we here to just serve ourselves?

Yesterday, I posted a song that I heard on Saturday, "How He loves us." That is a song about relationship, ours and God. Yes, He is jealous for us. He is the bridegroom that created us for Himself, to live for Him as He gave His life for each one of us. Can one do any more than that? This song appeals to us because we all want to know so desperately, that we are adored by Him, despite the many errors we have made in our life.

A book written by Anthony Bloom, which I am reading while treading my indoor bicycle each day, says the following: "And you may find many other names. I am quite certain that if some day 'O Thou my Joy! or any other cry of this kind bursts out of you, it will be the moment when you will have discovered a relationship between Him and you which is your own, which is not a relationship that you share with many other people."

How is your relationship with God? Most of us know that He loves us? We need to hear that He does. But in order to be in a relationship, we need the sweet words and conversation that is intimate. And, yes in your stillness, you can encounter Him as the One you love beyond everything, even time. A relationship where you will find He is always there and there for you.

The author, goes on to say, "It is good if you can have a nickname by which you can call the Almighty God, a nickname that has all the depth of your heart, all the warmth you are capable of." Our names have been given to us, but He may call you something, personal. Since He created you, He may even call you by a different name. You don't have to change, as He loves you just as you are.

There is only one reason to pray, and that is to communicate with Your God, in your unique way, your words and feelings. The bible specifically says in Luke: 11-9 "ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." Taken from the Orthodox Study Bible

Many years ago, while I was in high school, my cousin became engaged and I asked her how she knew it was love. She replied that is is when it is two-sided, you both feel the same way.

Beginning To Pray, by Anthony Bloom, makes it clear that a relationship with God or anyone else cannot be any other way. The implication being that if you love someone you'll want to spend time with them, do things for them, and of course, thinking about them all the time, is normal. A relationship with God is as unique as you are, as He made us all different. Sometimes it is a quiet, "presence" a feeling of knowing that He is with you and you are not alone. It becomes personal when you feel that the beauty you see, He made for you.

We know God loves us. He died for us in order that we may live, and we see the beautiful things He does for us everyday. Do we live for Him? Don't be surprised, if one day, when your quietly resting, you hear Him say, "Do you love Me?" What will your answer be? And, how do you show Him how much you love Him?

Monday, October 18, 2010

Comdemnation

There is an old saying that goes something like this: "what goes around comes around." Condemnation means that you strictly disapprove of the actions of someone or something, leading you to take action against them. Recently, I saw where some young men kissed a person of the opposite sex, and they are now being subjected to punishment, condemning their action. Condemnation has to do with judgement. The bible teaches that whoever judges will be judged. Judgement is God's job.

Years ago, if a female became pregnant out of wedlock, she was condemned by society and even by her own family. The punishment was to banish her anywhere else but there. Or worse, force her to have an abortion, or to place her child up for adoption. The result of her crime, often snuffed out the life of the unborn, condemning the innocent.

Being condemned to death in some countries, is the sentence for serious offenses and sometimes even lesser crimes against people. Self-condemnation can be spiritually and physically damaging.

God loves the sinner and hates the sin. He did not stone the sinner caught in the act of adultery, therefore, not condemning her, but forgiving her. We should be imitating His example of mercy, not judgement or condemnation.

This is being prepared for the Carnival of Oct. 18th., should I have success in posting it.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

The Unexpected

"O, O, how He loves me", was what I was thinking about after having been so richly entertained at a Coffee House, sponsored by the Church of St. Michael , in Southbridge, last night. The young artist, Shawn, father of four, and band were "spectacular." I wish they could have played all night, but, I'm sure they were spent and, had a long trip back to the Boston area. They are expected to have their first CD soon, as they are in the process of its production.

The Church of St. Michael, is leading the way in providing community education, outreach and Christian entertainment, and services, and the Community Meal. Other October events include: our yard, food and bake sale, and the up-coming turkey party and spaghetti feed. We have two services a day, Vespers on Saturday and Liturgy on Sunday.

Once again, we found ourselves in a "harvest atmosphere" of pumpkins, corn stalks, and the like, being served, "free of charge," pizza and refreshments. The wind was superfluous in its effort to bring in a harvest frost on a very cold evening, but failed to leave the frosty stash behind. The coffee was a hit as usual. All this, followed our Saturday Vesperal Prayer Service, at five o'clock.

Every night, I have a routine, beginning with checking my face book page and e-mails to see what is going on with my family and friends. We sure missed Vic and Linda, and we're happy to see that they had arrived at their destination, a wedding, in Pennsylvania. It looks like they were having a good time, and after all their hard work, chairing the yard-sale wonderfully, they deserved it.

Next, it was time to remove make-up and wash, take vitamins and get ready for the appropriate night wear, which I usually place on the bed. So, there I was in the bathroom, without a stitch on and boom! I didn't know what it was, all I knew was, I was in the dark, as well as everyone else in the neighborhood. When God made starlight, it was good, that is, if you were not inside. If you can picture it, I felt my way to the bedroom from the bathroom, down the blackened hallway, and made it to the bed, in one piece. That is why I have a rule about not leaving anything on the floor in the way, in order not to trip over anything. That would have been cute, falling down in that condition, not able to get up, or even see where a phone was.

John had to come upstairs in the dark, a real challenge at best. At least, he had his clothes on, and was watching television. What was the explosion all about that left me (us) in the dark? Remembering the sixties, and the blackout, we could have easily panicked. Keeping a sound mind, while thoughts raced through like --where is my nightgown, is extremely important at a time like that. It was said that there were many pregnancies in the last outage, boredom was blamed for one of the reasons. I also thought about people stuck on trains, escalators, and moving stairs and well as elevators, having lived the city life. How frightening that had to be. My first thought then, was how extensive is this? We looked down the street, once I adorned my nightwear, which was where I thought it would be, slipping it on. We opened the front door and saw street lights down below, as we sit on a hill. Then, I thought about candles for light, but couldn't remember where the matches were. Thoughts of 9-11 caused me to remember my cell phone, and within a moment, there was light.

These events cause you to learn about emergencies and preparedness, if nothing else. Looking outside at my neighbors house, who initially, I thought had lights, did not. There were interestingly enough, lights outdoors which are illuminated by the help daily of the sun. What a great idea to have if you need to vacate your home suddenly and unexpectedly, as they light up your stairwell and part of your property.

Help arrived in a second, a flash. We didn't know who made the call. The electric company provided their largest truck, at least that's what it looked like to me. What entertainment, as we both peered out of the door, and how all our neighbors, (except for one that came down the street carring a flashlight), slept through that, I'll never know. Lights, encircled the street from the onset of the police cars arrival. Apparently, no foul play, but the serviceman had his hands full, determining the cause. Decked in a white hard hat and flashlight, he examined the telephone poll, which was directly across the street from our residence.

With all the excitement, I couldn't remember if I had placed the eye drops in my eyes or not, as I usually did before bedtime. I brushed my teeth in the dark, and was thankful that I had already taken my pills, was out of the shower, and could see what I was in fact, taking.

What did I learn from this experience? We are never alone when Jesus is with us. He is the only light that we need. We may stumble in the darkness if we do not ready ourselves for the unexpected.

You cannot put eye drops in your eyes in the dark. Life is full of challenges. I must have fallen asleep the instant I went to bed. Pitch black is the best way to find rest, when you have a sense of being "secure". The only thing better, would have been to hear the sound of the rain, which we had recently experienced. Two-and a half hours later, the furnace was working like crazy trying to catch up, but I was completely oblivious to it. Maybe, when I take a shower from now on, I should light up one of those nice scented candles, just in case....

There is some wisdom to be gained here called preparedness.

Friday, October 15, 2010

The Perfect Slogan

This time of the year, when the subject of voting comes around, I get overwhelmed by all the phone calls and dialogue about the candidates. They all are going to make a difference for us, the citizens of this great Country.

Sometimes, I grit my teeth at the comments that I hear, like "throw the bums out"! That statement does not go unnoticed, it gets all the attention that it was intended to arouse, but is it necessary?

I'm one of the many, who ignore the political calls by screening the traffic, utilizing voice mail. You would think that the callers "would get the hint," but unfortunately, they don't. Caller I.D. allows me to view all hang-ups, (those who only will speak directly, knowing that messages get erased). What is your objective, our money...?

I'm getting frustrated on my dime. It gets pretty tiring to constantly hear other well-meaning individuals speak in a demeaning way about candidates and the issues at hand. Frankly, it does not bring out the best in us, especially when we are called to "love our brother".

Can we agree to disagree? If you haven't noticed that you become a "different" person, we have. Obviously, we do not share the same opinion, politically, must we walk on egg-shells?

We need to do something about taxes, not a new subject, it was and has been the problem since the beginning of time. It is time to get new blood in the congress. Some have been there for over twenty years and have become stale, and self-seeking.

Slogans like RepealNeal are being spread throughout this state. The issues are still the same, jobs, jobs, jobs! Reducing spending and our debt, and no more taxes. We are maxed out! What about responsible spending? How about keeping our citizens safe?

This election will probably produce the necessary change, the change that says to our growing government, keep your promises and above all. when our soldier's fight to secure the right to vote for other countries, make sure that we still have a say in ours. We do not want or need to be controlled.

You are there to do the will of the people, and we do not expect change without being consulted, have time to digest potential change, and vote in our choice by communicating with our representative. And finally, people do not work to pay taxes. Companies, and Investor's will move away and then, how will we, as a country, benefit?

We do not want more of the same broken promises, we want result and are optimistic that we will find our way, as we always have in the past, when we are committed, and work together.

It's time to get it right.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Misunderstanding

Today, I struggled to think of a topic to write about. Upon receiving an anonymous comment, which I did not publish, I thought I'd set the record straight. Frankly, the email address and comment took me by surprise. I didn't know my marriage was in trouble? But, I appreciate your concern. Perhaps, you sent this in error, whoever you are, I'm appreciative of your being helped. I am entirely baffled as to who you are. I cannot believe you meant any harm. Those that know us, know that we are inseparables. This had to come from an outsider, no doubt.

I probably should have saved the comment to share with my husband, who after a long day's work could use a chuckle. Never mind, he just called from work, as he does every morning at this time, and we both had a good laugh.

Probably, it was spam. Like all garbage, I threw it out. Thanks anyway.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

The Tea Party

A gathering was held in Sturbridge, this past Saturday afternoon. It was a nice sunny afternoon and the peaceful crowd stood to listen to several speakers, who shared political goings on both here, in this state, and in the Capital.

It never occurred to the opposing party that we are entitled to express our beliefs and whether or not you concur, matter not. We are just as firm in our thought process as you are in yours. Apparently, some are angered that we just can't accept their sordid point of view. Too bad you couldn't keep it to yourself. Simply, I am what I am, and I believe what I believe. And furthermore, it is my right to do so. In time, history will substantiate our claim. Not left nor right, but American people, who love this country and want to preserve our rights.

Simply, go your way and I'll go mine. My friends do not live to intimidate me, politically. I am at an end of putting up with your insults? We are many, and collectively we will effect change.

Ultimately, we shall right the wrong and our representation will know our power by our numbers, who are no longer waiting in the wings of apathy, but strong and moving forward. Our voices will be heard.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Managing Junk, beautifully

Managing Junk is what most people would call a Yard Sale. While other's will note that someone else's junk just may be your treasure. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What you need is vision. I picked up a flower arrangement, removed the flowers and added a cute scarecrow to it's center and a black ribbon, and it's nice enough to place on my front door.

We have gifted people, who turned the entire place into a pre-Halloween/harvest atmosphere, both indoors and out with skillfully placed pumpkins, colorful arrangements complete with harvest flowers and bright signs, most of which can be utilized for the many upcoming events through November. Complete with free lollipops and give-away stuffed animals for children, the event had something for all.

Cleverly arranged on segregated eight-foot-tables clad in yellow with brown checked country linens, goods were placed according to their likeness. There was a book section, jewelry section, Christmas section, pictures, wood items, children's toy section, and of course, dishes, and finery's such as glass ware and all sort of knick-knacks. Such an array of items, that the entire large hall was almost filled to capacity.

If that wasn't enough, a complete lunch could be had for as little as $5.00. The aroma of those meal ball grinders filled the air, seducing many a shopper, while occupying one small section of the hall, set-up with round tables, donning white covers and a holiday arrangement. I am told that kept Fr. Peter quite busy in its preparation, while the president of the council helped serve the tables.

If that wasn't enough, a large, long table filled with cookies, breads and pasties of all type, loured you to a place of culinary heaven. How could you just have coffee without inviting the temptuous fare which has your name on it? I purchased a spinach pie for dinner tonight. It was out of this world, good. The layout, sectioned off in the center of the hall, was beautifully done, with centerpieces and white table covers, where people conversed at the round table setting, eating and exchanging, ideas, news and smiles.

This was not your "simple" yard sale, where someones junk was being managed, but a shopper's delight. Everyone found something, even friendship. How could you not like it? It is an event we look forward to each year, because it brings out the best in our little community of church people. Who, as in years past, open the door of welcome to all our neighbors.

Linda, who is the chairperson for the yard-sale portion, outdid herself as usual. She is a pleasure to work with and has earned both the recognition and respect from all for her effort.

Sandra, who is the ladies president, and chairperson of the baked goods section, left us with fond memories of the day, special treats to enjoy later, and our tastebuds watering for the next event.

Those who know father Peter, will agree that he brings more than food to the hungry, but a hunger to know more about the church of St. Michael, it's people and a desire to have you come and see!

Maybe we'll see you there next year?

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Brokenness

It sometimes surprises me what comes out of the mouth, unintentionally, from someone. This week I put together some baby furniture, as I had the time before Ryan came to the house to visit for the first time. While I was rejoicing in my efforts, thinking this a wise decision, other's were looking at it as their failure. Failure to do the job, even though plenty of time and opportunity had passed to get it done. My intention was not to show anyone up, place blame or make any unkind statement about the job not being done, but to see to our new grandsons comfort. It was good that Bill checked it over, tightening everything to be sure it was done correctly. I did not take offense to that, and he did find one screw that needed adjustment.

The old expression, "your damned if you do and damned if you don't" applies. It was easier when woman sat in their pretty dresses and let their man do everything for them, so he could be complimented on his abilities, as we see from the old movies on television.

Understanding your boundaries, can often improve the relationship between a husband and wife. Even though a woman can do much of what a man can do today, in this society, and that goes both ways, is it wise? Men are competent in the kitchen, with children, and also do laundry. So whats the big deal? Much! A man has "the conditioning" or need to want to be the strong one, while they "expect" a woman to be the weaker sex, when it comes to tools. It doesn't always work that way. While a man needs to boast of his strength, woman are acknowledged today as equal counterparts.

The Epistle Reading of today, made a lot of sense. (2Cor. 11:31-12:9 St. Paul to the Corinthians). 12:5 "yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities. For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, least anyone should think of me about what he sees me to be or hears from me."

Paul reveals that he is given a "thorn in the flesh." This was given by a messenger of Satan to "buffet me," lest he should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations.

Sometimes, what you say and do is not well received by others, unknowingly. It seems we are always at odds with something or another, stumbling, suffering and realizing our shortcomings and weaknesses. The question is how will we respond? Turning it over to God, we find the answer.

(Vs.9 2Cor 12)"And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Paul continues, (11)"Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (10) Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

(Philippians 2:13) "for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure."

Your "weakness", may be a plan of opportunity to help yourself and others. We are weak but He is strong. No matter what the need, healing from sickness, or even death, Jesus is the only answer. We must learn to humble ourselves and seek Him for the answer. Weak is good! Let go and let God, His will not ours.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Nate Plays Soccer

I don't believe it! Yet, I knew that this day would come, Nate is playing soccer, and that makes Angie a soccer mom. Pretty funny how history repeats itself. It seems like yesterday that Steve, his uncle and my youngest son, played soccer. Then it was Matthew, who is now a sophmore in high school. The three of them, all played at the same field in Charlton.

So how did our big boy do? Just "a typical 4-year-old" said his coach, Jean. But being his grandmother, I saw more. I saw him sit down on the field while the game was being played, only to be reminded to get up by another assistant coach. At times, totally unaware that the game was being played while he sat on the ground in their midst.

He was playing defense at one point, and ran all around the field, forgetting or not knowing what he was supposed to be doing. It was so cute. All the time, he just wanted to get his kicking in, as part of the team. He had some real good kicks, and was very proud of himself, telling me all about it. He was wearing a yellow shirt with the number three, -- with the name of an area sponsor.

Several times, he took the sideline at which time, his mother tried to explain what was going on in the game. It's going to take time and patience, as is all good things in life. Other kids his age, I was told, just cry, apparently they are not ready to engage in sports. The older kids on the team, like little John, I think his name was, or number 1, knew exactly what was going on and capitolized on the inefficiency of those who wanted to play, but had a different understanding of playing soccer on a team. This is how it all begins. They are there to participate in little ways, while developing their skills and confidence. Nate looked up everytime he heard an airplane. We anticipated this, as that is his great love. Mom said, something about "a no-fly zone". We all noticed it, even his uncle Carlos, who asked him how many planes he saw. Immediately, he said three. Then, he added, he also saw "helicopters". We knew that!

Support, from a loving family is what Nate has. He will be a champion, and already is in the eyes and hearts of all who were there to watch him run around the field with all the other's on a perfect sunny, Saturday morning. There was grampy, and mommy, and his new brother, Ryan who was sound asleep in his baby carriage. Uncle Carlos, and aunt Julie and Kaylieanna were also present. Aunt Jean, who is the coach, her husband Sean, Colleen, who was on the team with him, his cousin Sean, cousin Hannah and me..

It was always said, that it's not if you win or lose, but how you play the game. He thinks he did great and, so did we. It's not who you are, but who you think you are.

Come to think of it, I was a soccer mom too!

Friday, October 1, 2010

Are You Soaking Your Nuts?

Last week while on face book, someone had a wonderful thought about doing something good for someone else that day. So here is the solution for your nuts. You can do everything right, but the one thing you forget to do, will cancel the good benefits, and cause your body distress.

Much has been written about what and when to eat something. How to benefit fully from what your eating, is another matter. Did you know that eating fruit in the morning facilitates the body's natural elimination, because it has the most energy around noon each day, unloading the body of excess weight and acid. You probably knew that. But did you know that your body needs four times as much alkaline food (about 75% more) than acidic foods. A book that came out in 1939, by Jethro Kloss (Back to Eden), recommended "75 to 85 percent alkaline foods should be used in the everyday diet." "When your sick, 90% alkaline-forming foods." Preventing "acidosis" is an important key to enjoying homeostasis and a balanced body chemistry. Acidifying your blood puts off weight loss. (Resource: Fitonics For Life)

There are coatings which naturally protect all nuts and legumes which must be removed by soaking. This process of soaking for at least 30 minutes, will change the chemistry of the product, and lighten the digestive burden on your body. ("Dr. Hay explained, we develop a condition of self-poisoning.)" This results in acidity, a subsequent lowering of the body's alkaline reserves, will dramatically decline the state of your health ." Did you know that cancer cells thrive in an acidic environment, while normal cells decline? Dr. Paavo Airola, Natural Health pioneer and world-famous nutritionist, believed that "acidosis (an acidic bloodstream) is the basic cause of all disease." What are some of the signs of having too much acid in your blood? Dark circles under the eyes. Wrinkles, bloating, acid reflux and acid indigestion. (Resource: Fitonics For Life)

There is a need to soak your grains, seeds and nuts. This pre-digestion method is simple, requiring little effort, for the benefit. This was not something my mom did, but I do recall my grandmother doing it, when she baked. This technique should to be brought back into practice.

Nuts and grains are essential to the diet, for fiber and overall health. Almonds are also a good source of Vitamin E, which may help thwart the common cold, and because it is an antioxidant, it prevents cells from damage. It may also lower the risk of Parkinson's disease, according to a 2002 "Harvard University study, looking at more than 76,000 women and 47,000 men."

We all need more fiber. Accordingly most women (93%) and men (86%) fall below the recommended amount of about 50% per day. "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition gives fiber most of the credit, at least for cardiovascular protection."

Dr. James W. Anderson, a professor of medicine and clinical nutrition at the University of Kentucky, said "High fiber intake, from cereals and beans, was linked to increased life span, lowering your risk of heart disease by 30%. "

The Joslin Diabetes Center recommendation of 50G per day is nearly double the 25 to 30G advocated by groups like the American Heart Association. "The more fiber you eat, the better your blood sugar control, " according to the study.

Now take a deep breath, it will help you avoid alkaline deficiency. "Deep breathing will balance your chemistry as it alkalinizes your blood by removing carbon dioxide from your body". (Resource: Fitonics For Life)I hear my mother-in-law say that all the time, "take a deep breath" --and at ninety she ought to know.