Change Your Words - Change Your Life Today!

The power of our words, even if they are still just thoughts, are incredibly powerful.  What we think affects our choices, our attitudes and ultimately our actions.

Have you ever gone to an event convinced that you are having a bad hair day, feel fat or just don't believe you look attractive.  When someone approaches you and says that you look nice or they like your outfit, what do you think to yourself?  "They are just being nice, I don't really look good today."  Do you usually shift your thoughts and beliefs to include the information you received or do you default to your own beliefs?

In my own life, I often get what I expect.  In my dealings with people, if I expect a conflict, I usually get one.  If I expect a business prospect to turn me down, the prospect usually does.  It seems that without knowing it I am creating the reality that I believe will occur.

I have been keeping a journal with "words of truth" to help form my mind and create positive realities. I repeat these statements out loud at the beginning of each day.  Here are just a few of my entries:

"This will be a good day, a successful day and a day of growth and learning."

"God will use my gifts, talents, passion to change the world."

"I will attract many, many people to healthy living, and Young Living, by the person I am."

"God is working in my family and will bring about healing in all the relationships in my family."

Do these statements mean that I am already doing all of these things or have "arrived" at perfection? No.  But by repeating these and other statements to myself, I am creating a more positive mindset, the opportunity to make choices that align with this vision, and my trust in God and His blessings is reinforced.

I may have mentioned these resources before, but they are worth repeating.  Joyce Meyer's book, Change Your Words, Change Your Life, is inspirational and motivating.  Jim Rohn's book, The Art of Exceptional Living, is profound and entertaining.  Even Napolean Hill's, Think and Grow Rich, is based on this same principle of believing in what you want to happen.

God spoke, and the world was created.  He has created us in His image and our words can be used to create or destroy.  May your words today, whether spoken out loud or in your thoughts, bring you the blessings that God desires for you.

Remove the Chlorine Naturally

Over the past several years, I have learned more and more about the harmful effects of chlorine on our health.  Chlorine is damaging to the thyroid especially, but is also a source of allergies and asthma, bladder and rectal cancer, damage to airways and soft tissue, fluid in the lungs.  Chlorine is an skin and eye irritant, which is interesting since we use it to bath and wash our face.  It reduces the beneficial flora in the gut.

Interestingly, it isn't really the chlorine that is the main culprite, according to Dr. Mercola, but rather chlorine reacts with organic materials which already dissolve in water, forming chemicals (known as DBP's) that are over 100 times more toxic than chlorine.

•  According to the U.S. Council of Environmental Quality, the cancer risk to people who drink chlorinated water is 93 percent higher than among those whose water does not contain chlorine.
• The residents of a small town in Pennsylvania who ate diets rich in saturated animal fats and milk had no heart attacks – until they switched from mountain spring water to fluoridated water.
• Male smokers who drank chlorinated tap water for more than 40 years had double the risk of bladder cancer as smoking males who drank non-chlorinated water.
  

I have attempted to limit my exposure to chlorine by using a water filter for my drinking water, taking supplements to support my thyroid, and using a filter on my shower to remove the chlorine. Despite these efforts, there are times when I will travel and don't have access to filtered water. Now what do I do?

I have learned by searching the internet, that using a powdered or crystalized Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) will help to neutralize the chlorine. Just add 1/4 tsp Vitamin C powder to 100 gallons of water. For a bath tub, just sprinkle the Vitamin C powder under the faucet while filling and wait about 5 minutes. For drinking water, just add a pinch of Vitamin C to a gallon of water.

When I travel, I experience different water quality and sometimes my hair can seen to get thick and heavy from the chlorine. I found that if I add 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp baking soda to my shampoo for the first wash that my hair comes very clean and the chemical buildup is prevented.  

I hope these tips help you. Have you found a way to avoid chlorine? Please share your ideas here.

Raw Pumpkin Pie with Cinnamon Cranberry Pecan Crust

Are you looking for some healthy options for the upcoming holidays?  I have heard this raw pumpkin pie is fabulous.  I am eager to try it, but thought I would share it with all of you too.  It comes from Young Living's website blog.  Check out other great recipes at www.youngliving.com.

If you like what you see and want to order, just use my YL#1196107 to place your order.

Cinnamon Cranberry Pecan Crust

Makes 2 cups
2  cups pecans, soaked and dried

1 cup dried cranberries, fruit sweetened
1 Tablespoon grade B pure maple syrup
Pinch Himalayan salt
1 drop Young Living cinnamon bark essential oil

INSTRUCTIONS
Process pecans and cranberries in a food processor until meal texture. Add remaining ingredients and pulse chop. Do not overprocess to avoid turning the mixture into butter. Press mixture into a 10 inch spring form pan. Crust can go up on the sides in a rudimentary fashion. Keep thickness even throughout.Set aside or freeze until ready to fill with Nutmeg Pumpkin Pie Filling.

 Nutmeg Pumpkin Pie Filling

3 1/2 cups chopped pumpkin, small pie variety

2 packed cups young coconut meat

12 soft Medjoul dates, pitted

1 cup grade B pure maple syrup

1/2 cup raw virgin coconut oil

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/8 teaspoon Himalayan salt

3 drops Young Living nutmeg essential oil

2 drops Young Living cinnamon bark essential oil

1 drop Young Living ginger essential oil

INSTRUCTIONS
To avoid difficulty when blending large amounts, this recipe will be made in two batches.Blend half of the ingredients in a high-speed blender until creamy. Remove to a bowl. Repeat for second batch with remaining ingredients. Combine both halves and mix well. Pour into the Cinnamon Cranberry Pecan Crust and gently tap spring form pan several times to remove any air bubbles and to flatten the top of the pie. Cover and freeze to solidify. Remove from the freezer and spring form. Slice and serve with Lemon Cool Whip.

Lemon Cool Whip

Makes 2 cups

1 packed cup young coconut meat

1 cup soaked cashews

1/2 cup virgin coconut oil

1/4 cup grade B pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla

4 drops Young Living lemon essential oil

Pinch Himalayan salt

INSTRUCTIONS
Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until creamy. Freeze to firm. Top Nutmeg Pumpkin Pie when ready to serve.

The Gift of New Life

Today was an exciting day as we celebrated the baptism of my grandson, Philip, and his reception into the Catholic Church.  While he may not understand what happened to him, the grace that is available to him from a loving God, and to all of us, is truly amazing.  

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life."  John 3:16

Jesus also states in John 10:10, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."

God wants us to experience abundant life; a life of joy, peace, passion, service, love, and so much more.  

I am sure Philip will experience hardship and suffering at times, but today is a day that reminds us that God is always with us.  His Holy Spirit will embrace us, lead us, inspire us, renew us and heal us.  We can trust in Him and know He will always give love.  He will turn ever painful event into a blessing for our lives.  

I am personally learning more about trust and dependence.  As I transition from a full-time job with benefits to a home business sharing health and wellness and God's abundance with others, I am invited by my heavenly Father to start each day placing myself and my business in His care.  I strive to have His mind, to seek the divine appointments He has for me, to show compassion and concern for all who call or contact me with needs.  

I am challenged often to slide out of the driver's seat into the passenger's seat and relax my hold on the wheel, my anxious planning, my independence and self-reliance.  I am reminded to live in the present moment, preparing for the future without living there and looking at the past for lessons, without getting stuck there.  Today, being conscious of His Presence in the present, I can speak gratitude for everything that happens (even if I don't understand how it can be for my good), maintain a positive outlook, pray for those who are struggling, and place myself into the hands of a God who loved me so much that He gave everything for me.  

May you experience the love of a God who is crazy about you and wants to bless you abundantly today.  I pray you can receive His Love and relax in His Presence.

Help for Leaky Gut

What do celiac disease, candida, autism, thyroid disorder and many autoimmune diseases have in common? According to research and information shared by Gary Young at a recent conference, they all are linked to a “leaky gut”.

What is leaky gut? It is when increased intestinal permeability occurs which permits toxins, bacteria and undigested food proteins to seep through the GI barrier and into the blood stream. This happens when we eat too much processed foods and rancid fats' it is triggered by chronic stress, poor diet, inflammation, medications, yeast growth and a lack of zinc. Candida is one offender as it becomes like a tree in our intestines with roots that grow through the intestinal wall creating breaks in the “pipes”.

Many different diseases are linked to poor digestion and impaired intestinal function. A damaged gut cannot assimilate nutrients and minerals. Damaged villi cannot assimilate Vitamin B, Iron, Vitamin D & K, and Calcium. We cannot have normal hormone function, such as thyroid function, without these vitamins and minerals. Hypothyroidism contributes to many other disorders. For example, most people (some say 100%) with arthritis, rheumatism and allergies have a hypothyroid. A cycle of deteriorating health can occur leading to many complications or additional illnesses.

Did you know that there is a link between Celiac’s disease (an inability to process gluten) and autism? This was documented in a 1961 study. Celiac’s disease has increased 25 fold since 1980 from 1 in 250,000 to 1 in 50. There is also a correlation between the severity of autism and GI disturbances. We are simply eating foods our bodies cannot digest. Modern day wheat is one of these foods. Ancient wheat had 14 chromosones; modern wheat has 42. What happens in a person when there is an extra chromosome? There are harvest issues, germination issues, processing issues with wheat also. Gary stated emphatically, "Bread is poison." I don't know how many of us are willing to believe this, but I am really beginning to and have been considering trying out a wheat free diet.

A lack of enzymes plays a key role in the digestive struggle. Our foods are often void of enzymes; our bodies have a limited supply, so supplementing with a high quality, absorbable enzyme can make a world of difference. Young Living offers a host of enzymes from Essentialzyme-4, Essentialzymes, Detoxzymes, Allerzyme and even enzymes for kids called Mightyzymes. Incredible results have occurred for many, including me, using these products. I personally take enzymes every day, most meals (if I remember).

 Probiotics which contain high quality strains of acidophilus, Bifido, and others, (Young Living’s Life 5 is a high quality probiotic) are essential for maintaining high levels of helpful intestinal bacteria. This bacteria helps to keep yeast in balance and aids in normal bowel function, fighting disease and regulating the absorption of nutrients.

What can you do today to boost your intestinal health? You may be amazed by the health benefits that you experience by getting your "gut" cleaned out and replenished with healthy bacteria, enzymes and good nutrients.

For the love of Ginger

I love fresh ginger. Recently I purchased some low sugar crystalized ginger for a snack while traveling and I love it. It is a bit spicy, but refreshing. I decided to look up a few of the benefits of ginger and here is what I found.

Ginger root is sweet & spicy and is associated with oriental and Indian dishes. It is often used as a digestive aid and to settle an upset stomach. Ginger can be helpful for nausea associated with travel. Fresh ginger can be chopped or squeezed and added to hot water for a refreshing tea. 

Ginger is great for weight loss as it naturally boosts metabolism. It is helpful for coughs because it contains phenols and volatile (essential) oils which assist in detoxification.

Ginger assists circulation which can be especially beneficial for diabetics who struggle with circulation issues. Fresh ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory agent.

Researchers at the Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health in Aberdeen, Scotland, have conducted a trial investigating the effects of ginger on body weight. In the study, mice were given a specially designed diet that mimics the high fat content of a typical “Western” diet. Mice that received ginger supplements during the course of the study were found to be less likely to gain weight. Ginger is known for its energizing effects and is also commonly used to soothe, comfort, and balance digestive discomfort.
Young Living distills ginger essential oil and offers it in a 5 ml bottle.

Here is a smoothie recipe using fresh ginger from Martha Stewart:

Pineapple Ginger Smoothie Recipe

1 cup fresh or frozen pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt (or you could try milk Kefir, see 10/18 post)
1 cup pineapple juice
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup ice (if using fresh pineapple)

Blend all ingredients in a high speed blender and enjoy!

What's your favorite way to use ginger?

Two Key Obstacles to our Success

Think for a moment about the success that you would like to experience in your life. 

What would it look like?  What do you think you will need to do to achieve it?  Take a minute and write a few thoughts down.

Sometimes we believe that only big changes, heroic feats or radical steps will bring about the success we desire, whether it is financial freedom, weight loss or improved health, more intimate relationships or success with a hobby or skill.  But the reality is that small, consistent steps are much more productive and sustainable, and these small, seemingly insignificant moment to moment choices build momentum, create belief and confidence and lead to huge change.

I think there are two key obstacles to our success.  First, some of us may say we do not experience success because of adversity – we have bad genes, are unlucky, had a difficult upbringing or home life, or have had hard knocks, tragedy or disaster.  We can allow these things to create a negative focus or belief in us or we can see the adversity as an advantage.  Adversity builds muscle, creates character, and can strengthen us and propel us toward a goal. 

There are many examples of greatness from those who could easily have given up due to hardship. 

Beethoven was one of the world’s greatest composers and composed some of his most famous pieces after he lost his hearing at age 26.

Oprah Winfrey was born to a teenage single mother in impoverished rural Mississippi.  She gave birth to a son at age 14 who died in infancy.   She has become a famous talk show host and an advocate for many causes.

Richard Branson performed poorly on tests in school and struggled with dyslexia. He experienced massive business failures. He is currently the fourth richest person in the United Kingdom with many well known brands and businesses. 

Mother Theresa went to India to minister to the poor and dying alone with no money.  Today her order, The Sisters of Charity, is a large, thriving order and Mother Theresa is recognized by many as a Saint.

The difference between us and these people are the choices made on a daily basis.  Some say, “I think I can, I think I can…” others accept defeat.  Some refuse to settle for less than their best, while others say, “That’s good enough.”  Some continue to learn and become a valuable resource, while others settle for watching life go by. 

A second obstacle to reaching our goals is indifference or disbelief.  “Things are OK the way they are; it’s not so bad.”  “Things will never change for me; it's hopeless.”  We just don’t get around to making the changes we would like to see.  We know some of the steps to better health, we’ve read ideas for improving relationships, we believe that going back to school or reading that book would enhance our marketability, but we just don’t get around to it. 

What do you dream of accomplishing?  What legacy do you want to leave the world? How would you like to feel and look this Christmas?  When would you like greater intimacy to begin in your marriage?  Let's stop blaming our lack of progress on adversity and get up off our couches to grab hold of life and live it to the full.   Success is not just about what you know; it’s about what you DO with what you know.  

So what small step will you take today to activate compounding momentum in your life?

Gluten Free, Grainless Primal Pancakes

I enjoyed an interesting breakfast this morning and thought I would share this recipe with all of you.  The pancakes have no yeast, no flour or grains, and were delicious.  Barbara Ann, who has a blog at http://primalyum.blogspot.com was the cook today.  She has other recipes on her blog that you might want to check out.

1 banana mashed
1 egg, beat
1 Tbsp of almond butter

Optional:  cinnamon powder or 1 drop YL cinnamon bark oil, nutmeg powder, walnuts chopped finely, cacao nibs or other additions.

Mix all ingredients together and add to a hot griddle that has had coconut oil or other oil added.  Cook until light brown, flip, cook until light brown and remove to plate.  Add sweetener, if desired (although it really is not necessary) and enjoy.

Have you found an interesting grainless recipe that you can share?  Please share it below.

World Mission Sunday - a Personal Call

I had the privilege of attending the first Proclaim conference in Lafayette, Louisiana, this weekend.  The conference focused on our call as Christians to proclaim the good news of God's love through Jesus Christ to the world and to meet the material needs of those all over the world who do not have enough to eat or drink, clothes to wear, or a decent home to live in.

I was challenged to consider how I could live my life differently, more simply, and to share what I have been given with those in need.  

I leave this conference with the desire to ask God where my mission field is, how I can help those in need in very practical ways, and how I can simplify my life, my stuff and even my choices for spending money so I will have more to share with those who are without.  

I live a very comfortable life and complain when I am inconvenienced - the hot water runs out, I don't have a great selection of food options in my frig, I don't know what to wear today or have anything new to wear. I give lip service to helping those who suffer and share minimally of my time or resources.  I am ashamed.

Hearing stories of the poor in Mexico, the Philippines, Ecuador, China, makes me realize  how selfish I am most of the time and how self absorbed I can be.  I protect myself from having to see or relate to the poor by living in my middle class home, shopping in the nicer sections of town and staying away from the poor areas or streets.

The New Testament tells us over and over to care for those in need, to love my neighbor as myself, to "go out to all the world and share the Good News".  "Whatever you do for the least of these, you do unto me."

On this World Mission Sunday, I challenge you to imagine what it would be like if you suddenly had to trade places with someone in poverty.  If you knew that you would be trading places, do you think you would make different choices today with the resources you've been blessed to have?

Pope Francis is challenging the Catholic church to be more committed to caring for the poor.  I want to embrace that challenge as well.  I hope you'll consider joining me.

Kefir, a Natural Probiotic

Well, I just watched my first Kefir demonstration, drank my first glass of lemon flavored Kefir, and tomorrow will pour the liquid from the water Kefir grains to make my own first batch of Kefir.  Did I mention this was fascinating?  

I have wanted to learn this process as I am aware that fermented foods or drinks have many health benefits.  

So, what is Kefir?  I'm glad you asked!  Kefir, according to Wikipedia, "is a fermented milk drink made with kefir grains and has its origins in the north Caucasus Mountains around 3,000 BC.  It is prepared by inoculating cow, goat, or sheep milk with kefir grains." Kefir grains are not really a grain, like wheat, rice or barley, but Kefir grains are a "combination of bacteria and yeasts in a matrix of proteins, lipids, and sugars, and this symbiotic matrix forms "grains" that resemble cauliflower."

Kefir is rich in helpful bacteria and live microflora that are beneficial to the intestines and digestion.  Milk kefir is like thin yogurt and is rich in probiotics.  Many with a lactose intolerance find they can tolerate Kefir.

Kefir can also be made by using unchlorinated water, sugar and kefir grains. Water Kefir can be flavored with fresh fruit, such as lemons, oranges, berries or fruit juice concentrate, and fermented for an extra day.  It then becomes almost a natural "soda" with the flavor of the fruit.  

Fermented foods, such as Kefir, Kombucha, Sauerkraut and others, are especially helpful for colon health and can improve the terrain of the body, boosting immunity, as the body is able to better absorb nutrients and rid the body of toxins more effectively.  

You can learn more about Kefir on Dr. Mercola's website or by watching this YouTube video. 

Instructions for making Kefir can be found online, and Kefir grains can be purchased at www.culturesforhealth.com. 

Have you ever tried making fermented foods?  What tips can you share?

Be an Avid Learner

Listening to the Jim Rohn audio, The Art of Exceptional Living, I was once again inspired to embrace the adventure of learning. Jim challenges his audience to learn something new every day, to engage life and to be interested in all that is around us.  Be inquisitive.  Learn from people with different experiences, different perspectives, different expertise.

I am a bit of a book addict and love to browse second hand bookstores or visit the library.  Whether it is reading a few pages of a book on gardening or the wisdom of St. Theresa the Little Flower, or listening to personal development or healthy living CDs in my car, there is always something new to be learned.

The most interesting people I know are those who are excited about life, about learning and who have insights to share in most any conversation.  They engage in living fully and appreciate the variety and richness of life.

My grandfather Bacon was one of these people.  He loved to read about history, gardening, business,
politics, and more. He found people to be fascinating and could strike up a conversation anywhere. He had stacks of National Geographic magazines and Wall Street Journals in his apartment. He loved to watch documentaries and nature programs. His appetite for learning always impressed me.

I believe I received this love of learning from my grandfather and have hopefully passed it on to my own children.  My oldest son studied history, theology and Spanish in college, and would take 18 credits each semester in college because he could not pass up a class on something that interested him. He has not been afraid to learn new skills such as photography, web design, and gardening and he is always eager to add to his library and loves to read.

Did you know that only 3% of the population has a library card?  Did you also know that there seems to be a direct correlation between vocabulary development and behavior problems (and later criminal activity). The more limited the vocabulary, the greater the incidence of poor behavior choices.

Our lives are so busy that it might seem like a chore to add a chapter of a book or 30 minutes of an audio presentation to the day. Yet we often spend an hour or more watching TV shows, the news or a sitcom.  I believe that the valuable ideas and inspirations gained from reading or listening to inspirational talks would be well worth the time invested.  Reading to our children is a great practice as well and helps to germinate a love of learning.  Maybe turning off the TV to encourage thought, reflection and new ideas would be a valuable trade.  Why not give it a try, if you aren't already, and let me know how it works for you.

Microwave Oven - Blessing or Curse?

Microwaves are found in 90% of all American homes. But did you know they were banned in 1976 in Russia after much research was conducted. While the ban has since been lifted, the concerns and research were never refuted.  As I have learned more about what happens to the food that is heated in the microwave, I have personally chosen not to use one and to avoid their use on my food whenever possible. This may sound extreme.  After all, the FDA would not allow ... remember, this same FDA is allowing harmful toxins and chemicals in our food, our personal care products or our cleaners. The FDA is about labeling products properly, so consumers can decide for themselves, not keeping all dangers out of the market.

Microwaves heat food by causing water molecules in it to resonate at very high frequencies and eventually turn to steam which heats your food. While this can rapidly heat your food, what most people fail to realize is that it also causes a change in your food's chemical structure.  Microwaves deplete the nutrients in our foods, killing enzymes, vitamins and minerals.  Some believe that what remains is virtually unrecognizable by the body and worse than useless.  

Besides uneven heating, which causes hotspots that can cause serious burns, foods that are microwaved continue to "heat" or resonate even after being removed from the microwave and appear to be cooling.  A friend of mine has scars in her throat from burns which the doctor attributes to her regular use of the microwave and eating food that is still molecularly "hot". He stated that this condition was not uncommon.  

Another problem with microwave ovens is that heating in plastic and paper can cause carcinogenic toxins to leach out into your food. Also, microwaving distorts and deforms the molecules of whatever food or other substance you subject to it. It is then not recognizable to the body or other living thing.  

Two examples of microwave disasters:  1) In 1991, there was a woman who needed a blood transfusion and the blood that was to be used was not warm enough so someone warmed it in a microwave.  The woman died from receiving this blood transfusion.  If the body could no longer use this blood, how does the body view microwaved food? 2) Plant studies were conducted in which water that was microwaved was used on plants for nine days.  The plants receiving purified water were thriving while the plants that received the microwaved water were dead.  So, if you think, "I'm just heating water, not cooking food...", you may want to rethink this.

There are so many examples and research articles on the internet, that I don't want to repeat all the research here, but I encourage you to do you own research and make wise choices for  your health. Dr. Mercola has collected a good bit of research on microwaves.

Do you want to be healthier?  Do you want to get the most nutrition and enzymes from your food?  Is the benefit in time savings really so significant that it is worth losing the health benefits of the food being heated?  What foods are you heating in the microwave?  Freezer meals that have been heated, frozen, then reheated really have no nutritional value left.  It takes only a few minutes to heat water, soup, or reheat leftovers on the stove or in the oven.

Think fresh!  Think green!  Think healthy!  Eat more raw fruits and veggies and your body will thank you.

Green Smoothie Testimonies

I have introduced many people to green smoothies through presentations, one on one conversations and classes.  I have heard many testimonies from those who have received significant benefit from adding this one simple habit to their lives.

I personally began my journey to a largely vegetarian, whole food diet by simply drinking a green smoothie each morning for breakfast.  By adding a green smoothie, I eliminated the morning coffee, donut, bagel and many other unhealthy choices without really giving it much thought.  I found my craving for unhealthy foods diminished and I became more interested in fruits and veggies later in the day.  I dropped 20 pounds in the first year as a result of compounding this small, seemingly insignificant change on a daily basis.  I reaped the results of this change in greater energy, less inflammation in my body, significant weight loss and clearer skin.  

My son and daughter-in-law have been drinking green smoothies and giving them to my 18 month old grandson since he was one, and he absolutely loves them.  He does not have any preconceived ideas that this should be "gross" (which it really isn't) or that drinks should not be bright green.  He has been extremely healthy, is energetic and inquisitive, learns quickly, and communicates well.  People comment all the time at how "advanced" he seems for his age.  I believe that flooding his body with great nutrition is a key to his health and growth.  

I have heard many other testimonies of healing: clearing of psoriasis, lowering of blood sugar in diabetics, reversing of cancer, healing of cataracts, improved blood pressure and sleep, lifelong anemia and depression gone.  You can read some of these accounts on the Raw Families website at  http://www.rawfamily.com/testimonials or in their book Green For Life.  

You are being offered one very simple, inexpensive and effective way to add great nutrition and creativity to your day.  What do you have to lose?  Why not give green smoothies a try?  If you have already tried them on a regular basis, can you share your success with us?  

Raw Blueberry Tart

I really enjoy finding recipes that are raw, easy to prepare and delicious. On this journey of increasing my nutritional intake without breaking the budget, I am finding some creative and fun ways to dazzle my palette, yet still nourish my body.  

This is a crowd pleaser and can be made in a blink of an eye.  The blueberries thicken and gel naturally.  The dates give it sweetness.  You can try this recipe with other berries or even try making an apple tart with apples, apple juice, and cinnamon. Experiment and have fun.

Blueberry Pie or Tart

Walnut Crust:

2 cups raw walnuts

1 cup unsweetened shredded dried coconut

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup pitted medjool dates

Place the walnuts, coconut, and salt in a food processor fitted with the S blade and process until coarsely ground.  Add the dates and process until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and begins to stick together.  Don't over process. Scoop the crust into a pie plate or tart pan.  Use a light circular motion with your palm and fingers to distribute the crumbs uniformly 

along the bottom and up the sides of the pan.  There should be a 3/4 inch lip of crumbs along the sides.  After the crumbs are evenly distributed, press the crust down on the bottom of the pan using your fingers and palm.  Be sure to press especially firmly where the bottom 

of the pan joins the sides.  Then press the crust against the pan's sides, shaping it so that its edges are flush with the it.  Place in the freezer for 15 minutes.

Note:  Stored in a sealed container, Walnut Crust will keep for one month in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer, so make extra while you've got the food processor dirty

Blueberry Filling:

4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries {thaw and drain well, if frozen}

3/4 cup pitted medjool dates, soaked

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Place 1 1/2 cups of the blueberries along with the dates and lemon juice in a blender, and process until smooth.  Transfer to a mixing bowl, add the remaining blueberries and mix well. Remove the crust from the freezer.  Pour the blueberry filling into it and press down with a rubber spatula.

Bring to room temperature or warm in a slow oven or dehydrator.  

Store covered with a plastic wrap in the refrigerator.  Blueberry Pie or 

Tart will keep for three days.

This recipe would be delicious with the addition of Pear Cashew Cream (see "Pears with a Twist" post).

Yield: one 9-inch pie or tart, 8 servings

Find Your Motivation

Sometimes on this journey to better health, we need to be reminded of our motivation.  Making changes to my diet, routine, mindset, can all be hard work. I might find myself feeling discouraged, disgusted or just wanting to go back to what seems comfortable.

Spending three weeks in Louisiana with my oldest son, his wife and my two grandsons, helps me to refocus my attention on what is most important to me and why I want to be healthier. Suddenly, healthy choices seem easier.

I do understand that we are all going to die.  No matter how many healthy choices I make, there is no escaping this reality. Yet, I can choose whether I want to spend a lot of time in hospitals, sitting on the couch or heavily medicated, or whether I want to be able to have adventures with my family and make a difference in my community.

I truly believe that God wants His children to know that He loves them and that He desires each of us to be whole, to have life and live it to the full.  Scripture is filled with these promises.

So why do you want to be healthier?  What do you have to live for?  What would you do if you were not tired, achy, sick? Identify your motivation and then choose one small step to implement consistently over the next week to get you closer to that goal.  It is an exciting journey!  Thanks for walking it with me.

Cinnamon - The Spice of Autumn

I love cinnamon and the smell of it makes me think of Christmas. Cinnamon buns, spiced cider, and red hot candies are some of my memories from days gone by. I still use cinnamon in my oatmeal, in my "Best Chocolate Shake Ever!" and as a protection against viruses and flu.

Cinnamon is a great example of a spice that has been around for thousands of years, has tremendous health benefits and has been manipulated by the food industry for a profit. Let's examine these statements one at a time.

Cinnamon has been used since 2000 BC in Ancient Egypt and was considered the spice of the wealthy. It was used in medieval times by doctors to treat coughs, arthritis and sore throats. Cinnamon oil was in a blend used by a band of thieves during the middle ages to protect themselves as they stole goods from the dead and dying.  Young Living uses this same recipe, with cinnamon oil as a main ingredient, and has named this blend "Thieves".

Currently, cinnamon is used to treat muscle spasms, vomiting, diarrhea, infections, the common cold, loss of appetite and maybe even erectile dysfunction. I would not go a winter without Young Living's Thieves oil as it is documented to be anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and more. A professor here at the local University has been studying cinnamon oil with his students against MRSA and other forms of bacterial infection and discovered that it was more effective then many of the antibiotics used by hospitals to treat these conditions.

There are two main types of cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia or Chinese cinnamon. Each type has its own advantages, but generally cinnamon has been known to assist in lowering blood sugar in people with type 1 or 2 diabetes by improving glucose and lipids levels. Cinnamon may be instrumental in Alzheimer's prevention, effective against HIV, may stop the destructive process of multiple sclerosis (MS), and can reduce fasting blood sugar levels. It is thought to relieve pain from arthritis, boost the immune system, prevent the formation of blood clots, and relieve indigestion. So what are we waiting for?

Not so fast! There is one little problem with much of the cinnamon on the market today. For example, the New York Board of Health studied 12 ground cinnamon specimens and do you know what they found? Sawdust! That's right. Only three contained any cinnamon at all and the others were almost entirely sawdust, starch and cinnamon flavored oil. Add heavy irradiation to extend shelf life and you have something that is void of any health benefit.

So, with that being said, do your homework. If you buy cinnamon powder, choose a company that you can prove is trustworthy (not just a name you always thought you could trust). If you are using a cinnamon oil, be sure it is processed at low temperatures/low pressure and is void of all chemicals or fillers.

Cinnamon is a smell that speaks of warmth and wealth, and now can also bring better health. Happy Autumn everyone.

Put a Positive Spin on it

Someone shared a thought with me recently that has stayed with me.  Often when we are trying to lose weight or move to better health, we focus on what we can't have, on what we are denied or on how slowly the changes are taking place. The suggestion that was shared was to focus on adding something positive, rather than eliminating something. It is a subtle shift in thinking.  

If I decide I will add more greens to my diet (an excellent choice) then it stands to reason that something else will probably have to be eliminated without my really having to focus on it, just because there won't be room in my diet for both. If I add positive thinking to my day, or gratitude, then I have eliminated negative thinking for at least a portion of my day.  

Being positive with myself can go a long way too to making healthy changes. Give yourself a compliment, enjoy a chapter of a good book, or treat yourself to a conversation with a friend.

As we move into fall, colder temperatures and less sunlight, I can sometimes struggle with a negative focus. I continually comment on the cold or on how much I dislike these darker days. This puts me into a negative frame of mind and I feel a bit gloomy and can sometimes struggle with depression.  

To counter this, I am going to try adding positive comments to my day, looking for the good in this season: the chance to take out a new set of clothes, enjoy beautiful leaves and color, and be reminded that death & dying is always followed by new life and resurrection.  

I will also look for ways to enjoy something that can give me a lift:  

1. Lighting some candles or diffusing a favorite oil to lift my spirits
2. Adding fresh fruits to my diet like citrus, blueberries, or a pomegranate (you haven't tried one...oh, what you're missing!)
3. Getting some exercise with a friend
4. Using my YL lemon essential oil to lift my mood.  Just smelling it clears the darkness.  *Lemon oil has been proven to help overcome depression, increase productivity and retention and for me is "sunshine in a bottle".
5. Clean out a closet or room that has been needing attention. Do some of those projects that seem to wait for "rainy" days.

By adding one positive thing, consistently, to our life, we are, maybe unknowingly, eliminating one negative thing.  Whether it is adding a healthy food, a happy thought, or a pampering action, this choice can create momentum for good.  

It has been said that it takes 21 days to create a new habit, so what is one positive choice that you will make over the next month?  Are you brave enough to share it with us?  We'd love to celebrate your success next month.

Raw Tomato Soup

As the days get cooler and the harvest of the garden starts to slow down, it is a great time to enjoy some raw soups and even freeze some for later.  One of my favorite soups is the tomato soup that I make regularly.  Served with a side salad with tuna or a baked sweet potato, it is a delicious dinner.  

Tomato Soup

 10-11 tomatoes chopped (I like romas or pear tomatoes as they are less watery)

1/2 red or sugar onion sliced

2-3 cloves of garlic peeled & chopped                               

fresh basil to taste (6-10 big leaves)                                      

crushed dill to taste                                                        

2 Tbsp lemon juice                                                          

1 tsp celtic sea salt                                                               

2 Tbsp olive oil

1/8-1/4 cup raisins

1-2 red bell peppers

1/4 jalepeno pepper

1/4 cup sundried tomatoes

1/4 C. water (can be omitted for thicker soup)

Dash (or more) cayenne pepper

Blend all ingredients above until smooth.

Add any of the suggestions below and enjoy!

Options:

1 avocado cubed

1 ear of corn cut from the cob

1/2 sweet yellow pepper

Can warm slightly if preferred, but keeping the temperature below 110 will mean all the enzymes and vitamins will still be fully present.  This gives your body a nutritional feast.