Is it just me or doesChristmas seem to come around much quicker these years?
A couple of weeks ago, when the reality hit me that the Christmas season was fast approaching, I had a momentary feeling of wanting to just skip it ALL this year…that overwhelming feeling many of us are familiar with…I have so much to do in so little time, with so little money.
Then I did a little reminiscing and thankfully the Christmas spirit came upon me once again.
For those of you who need a little encouragement I invite you to come and reminisce with me. I’ll let the pictures do most of the talking.
Scenes from Christmas past spending time with family….
This nativity scene the kids and I made when they were little. They’re all grown up now, but we still haul these little characters made from spools and cloth out every Christmas.
Our tradition – on Christmas eve our family tells and acts out the Christmas story of Jesus birth. We each take a part and the characters to go with that part.
The parts about Mary soon to deliver her first child, and Joseph having to travel by donkey to Bethlehem for taxation. Caesar had ordered it and they must go… we tell of how there was no room in any inn because of this, but then they find the stable where they will be warm and safe. That night Jesus was born.
Then comes the part about the shepherds watching their sheep by night, and then the angel of the Lord showing up – suddenly in a brilliant flash of light, and how he tells them not to be afraid but to go and see the baby that was born, the son of God come to bring peace to all men – to save them from themselves and their own destructions…and the angel is joined by a host of angels singing and praising God. All of heaven is in a state of rejoicing.
We move to the Wise men and tell how they followed the star which led them many many miles, all the way to the stable where Jesus was born. They brought him most precious valuable gifts of Gold and Frankincense and Myrrh…
We light the final candle in the advent wreath…
And then… we open the gifts…
Christmas is complete once again. I sit silently in my comfy chair, alone now among the lights and the glow of the flickering candles, and I am thankful. My heart is calm and full of gratitude…for my family, my friends, and most of all my God who did the unthinkable – sent his only son Jesus to earth so that I, you, everyone, could have a relationship with Him. Now that is what it’s all about. And that is why I celebrate Christmas.
David Letterman, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Bernie Madoff, Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, ACORN, Michael Moore, Michael Vick, Barack Obama, Perez Hilton, Bill Maher
Then let the fun begin
Watch them get splattered.
Then do it again. And again. And again.
Tell your friends.
The Peckobel Canon is an arrangement of Pachelbel’s Canon in D and the Chicken Dance song.
NOTE: One of my husband’s productions. A fun and innovative way to express yourself in a safe and non-threatening way. Good for a few laughs. My part in this all…coming up with Major Chicken of course.
The tasty, nutritious asparagus falls under the category of super foods in my books.
Here’s what I learned about asparagus.
Asparagus is:
* Rich in proteins
* High in fibre low in carbohydrates and calories
* An excellent source of vitamin K, folate, vitamin C and A as well as many other minerals and B vitamins.
* Calcium and magnesium are found in the idea ratio of 2:1.
* Good for your heart
* Good for your gastrointestinal tract and colon
* Good food to help with depression
* Considered a diuretic
* Has anti-inflammatory effects
* Helps detoxify the body
* Good for nursing mothers – stimulates milk production
* Has anti-fungal and antiviral qualities
* Helps prevent bladder and urinary track infections
* Great for your capillaries – helps with preventing bruising and varicose veins
* Suppose to help stop hair loss
Almost too good to be true? That is an impressive list. And that’s not all I found. I left plenty of the supposed health benefits out – because it did sound just a bit too good to be true and would require that I spend a lot more time researching.
Having said that, I think we’ve got the picture.
How to best prepare asparagus. Lightly steamed is the most nutritious. This only takes a few minutes so don’t walk away from the stove. Use glass or stainless steel pots. When done, the stems should be a bright green color and still have a crispness to them. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt or Mrs. Dash and serve with a meal – or eat it all by itself as a snack.
Asparagus is a member of the lily family. Other vegetables in the lily family include leek, onions, and garlic.
I think you would agree that Asparagus is an excellent food to incorporate into your diet on a regular basis. Sometimes people avoid eating asparagus because of the smell excreted in the urine subsequent to ingestion. An amino acid called asparagine found in abundance in asparagus, is the reason behind this. Asparagine helps the body to cleanse itself of waste material.
This is the time for berry picking in British Columbia. Our personal favorite berries are Cherries, Blueberries, and Raspberries.
This year was an exceptional season for berries. In no time we filled our buckets to the brim with the berries – picking has never been such a pleasure.
This year topped it off with an abundance of cherries from just one tree, unlike any other year I can remember.
Eatin' and Pickin' them sweet cherries
What are some of the health benefits that these berries provide?
Blueberries…
…contain antioxidants that are thought to help our bodies fight free radicals. They also contain vitamins and a significant amount of fiber.
Studies on rats have found that blueberries slowed age-related loss in their mental capacity. The studies also showed blueberries to improved learning and memory.
Japanese researchers demonstrated the usefulness of blueberries in improving weak eyesight and lessening eye fatigue.
Cherries…
…are an effective and fast-acting for eliminating swelling and pain. Not to mention they are delicious to eat. Eating just a few cherries a day helps to the body to deal with uric acid levels, keeping them in check. Cherry juice is just as effective. (Note my previous blog on cherries - What do Exercise and Black Cherries have in common?)
Raspberries…
…are a good source of antioxidants and may even have 10 times more antioxidants than tomatoes or broccoli. Raspberries contain some very specific antioxidants that are found in few other sources.
So enjoy those rich nutrient filled, tasty berries while you can. You can always freeze some for those harsh winter months. We’ve got plenty in our freezer to hold us until spring.
You can find more information on these berries at:
Crabapples anyone? No, they are not a berry but since they are one of my husband’s favorite fruits, I’ll mention them. They are a good source of Dietary Fiber and Vitamin C - good for jellies and Jams, and for those who like a tart treat, they’re all yours.
Chuzzle’s Incredible Journey is written for ages pre-school to Grade Two. A Mother and daughter effort – written by Minde Wachsmann, illustrated by Carrie Wachsmann (myself).
Chuzzle, a young adventurous porcupine with many endearing qualities, embarks on a journey to find his dear friend Whuzzle. Chuzzle and Whuzzle used to play together everyday when they were neighbors.
Then Whuzzles and her family moved far away, past the Little Stream, through the Deep Forest, beyond the Green Blue Pond, and up the Giant Big Hill.
Chuzzle missed her very much. One day he decided he was now old enough to venture out on his own. Saying goodbye to his parents, Chuzzle packed his lunch and bravely embarked on his incredible journey to find his friend Whuzzle.
I sketched, then pencil crayoned the sketches. I scanned the sketches and detailed them using Photoshop and Wacom Tablet. Using my digital Nikoncamera, I took photographs and used them to create backgrounds.
Recently I got very interested in Xango’s Mangosteen Juice because of something that happened to a close family member.
This individual has suffered for his entire adult life with severe asthma attacks and related infections. These were particularly bad during the cold winter months. Some of these infections led to a miserable stay in the hospital.
After a couple of years of being encouraged by his spouse to try Xango Juice, this individual gave in and committed to regularly taking 1 0z per day.
Rightfully so, he was pretty skeptical that a “juice” could be the answer to his health problem.
This past winter for the first time,he did not have a single asthma attack!!
He also did not have a single infection.
Now, I was impressed!
I’ve had heard about Xango Juice, but I too was a skeptic – so – I missed out - until now.
Now I’m so impressed I’ve now got our whole family drinking Xango Juice.
Has it improved my personal health? Yes. I believe so. Specifics to follow.
Of course I did my own research.
What’s so impressive about XanGo® Juice?
XanGo® Juice uses the WHOLE mangosteen fruit.
As early as 600 AD, scribes in Southeast Asia recorded the use of the mangosteen as a general remedy and healing agent.
The mangosteen rind was sliced and dried, then ground to a powder and administered as an herbal preparation.
The mangosteen rind was steeped in water overnight and taken as a tea.
The mangosteen rind was made into an ointment and applied externally as a lotion.
It was through these popular uses that the benefits of mangosteen were passed down through history and several scientists and explorers took note.
When Europeans explored Southeast Asia, folklore related to the mangosteen first spread to Western culture.
Mangosteen fruit is known throughout the world as The Queen of Fruits.
“There is a legend about Queen Victoria offering a reward to anyone who could deliver to her the fabled fruit.” (Wikipedia)
One of the things I learned was that XanGo® uses every bit of the fruit.
Remember what your Mom said about the best part of the apple and the potato and the carrot being in the peel?
The best part of the mangosteen is found in the peel.
The peel of themangosteen is called the Pericarp.
This is where most of that good stuff is found.
That good stuff is called Xanthones.
What are these Xanthones?
In Short…Antioxidants.
Antioxidants protect the body from the deteriorating effects of free radicals.
In Long…. ” xanthones are a unique class of biologically active compounds that possess a number of bioactive capabilities—such asantioxidant properties.
Over 200 xanthones are currently known to exist in nature, and approximately 48 to date have been found in the whole mangosteen fruit.
Summer has definitely arrived. This past week we’ve enjoyed 30-35 degreeweather. (85 – 95 degrees F) I say it’s too hot to be serious about working. Sitting in my little office with merely my fan for air conditioning, I’m thinking of everything but computer stuff.
Some of you may be having images of a nice cold beer right about now.
Actually, I’m still thinking about last weekend and our weekend retreat at beautifulStillwood Camp and Conference Centre.
Here, visual artists have the opportunity to tell the heart-wrenching and heart-warming stories of the American warrior.
Our experience began with a Red Carpet private screening of the MGM/UA major motion picture Valkyrie, staring Tom Cruise – the beginning of 4 days and evenings of fascinating and captivating story-telling.
I have had a beautiful purple flowering Lavender plant growing in my little garden. To my chagrin – the harsh winter killed most of it and I am left with but a small, although healthy looking shoot. I am nurturing it in hopes that it will have a speedy come back.
Here’s why.
Lavenderis not only pleasant to look at, it is soothing to the soul and healing to the body.
I use it as a natural perfume.
One drop of Lavender oil behind the ear is all it takes.
I use it as an air freshener.
A few drops of Lavender in a spritz bottle makes a great air freshener. I also have a little container of dried flowers in my house at all times. Just pinch a few in your fingers and inhale. You’ll feel your body relax.
Put flowers into a cotton pouch, add a little embroidery if you are so inclined, and squeeze and sniff.
2. Its soothing properties. I use a drop on the pillow at night.
Lavender is calming to the heart, relieves anxiety and soothes the nervous system. Soon, sleep comes sweetly.
3. Its culinary uses. I use it in tea and put it in salad.
Lavender makes a great addition to a cup of tea or even salad.
For a pot of tea use about 1 heaping Tbsp. of the Lavender flowers.
(fresh or dried)
For Salad, sprinkle as desired.
Lavender is has been used to aid the digestion since ancient times.
4. Its healing properties. I use it for healthy skin.
Add a few drops of Lavender oil to your bath. It will lift your spirit, calm the body and heal the skin.
Add a few drops of the oil to your all natural body lotion. From ancient times Lavender was used for it’s healing, antiseptic properties.
Lavender is often used to treat burns and wounds. Keep a spritz bottle of water with a few drops of Lavender oil added, in your beach bag. Spray lavishly onto skin after spending time in the sun. On hot days, I spritz to keep cool.
Here is MY “squeeze and sniff”Lavender pouch.
Notice the embroidery. No, I didn’t make this one. This was a gift from a friend. I make very good use of it.
My husband is hooked on Lavender too. Not to be outdone, he took a sock, filled it with dried flowers and put it into his car. Talk about smelly socks.
My husband's Lavender "squeeze and sniff" pouch
And… a few more interesting pieces of information:
Did you know that Lavender is known as a love potion?
Apparently, in Roman times “women hung Lavender next to their beds to incite the passions.”
Did you know that Lavender is mentioned in the Bible?
“Lavender is mentioned many times in the Bible. In ancient Greece, Lavender was called “nardus,” “nard,” or “spikenard” (named for the Syrian city of Naarda) and was used as a cure for everything from insomnia and aching backs to insanity.” http://www.auracacia.com/auracacia/aclearn/features/lavender.html
Several passages in the Christian Bible which mention Lavender (spikenard):
Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:12
“While the king is at his table, my spikenard sends forth its fragrance.”
Song of Solomon 4:13, 14
(King Solomon talking about the love of his life)
“Your plants are an orchard of pomegranates with pleasant fruits, fragrant henna and spikenard… spikenard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense, myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices.”
If you are a romantic at heart, the book of Song of Solomon is a must read book.
Mark 14:3 “…And being in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper as He (Jesus) sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly oil of spikenards. And she broke the flask and poured it on His head…”
(This woman is showing honor to Jesus by giving him her most costly possession)
John 12:3 “…Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil…”
(Here Mary gives the very best she has to Jesus, showing Him honor)
Here’s another good site to visit. Very nicely done.
Although we were sketching, not painting, we wereoutdoors and “in the open air’. The sketching lessons will lead us to the next step which is, painting outdoors in the open air.
Here are a couple of my sketches.
The smells of spring mixed with the smells of horse manure added to the enthusiasm and inspiration of the day.
After several hours of sketching, we were served coffee and dessert. What a treat that was. We basked in the warm sun, up on the deck off the loft of big red barn, and talked about our masterpieces.
Bee Propolis is the sticky resin-like substance found in the beehive. The bees gather resin from trees and plants. They use this mixture to stick the hive together, and seal it. This substance also protects them from bacteria and disease.
As my dentist friend once said – “You don’t see any Kleenex flying out of a bee hive, do you?” No colds or viruses in that bee hive.
Bee Healthy - Bee Happy
Propolis is well known to have a natural antibacterial effect. More specifically, Propolis has antibiotic, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties to promote helpful bacteria, and kill harmful bacteria.
Propolis is dark in color, and is a rich source of minerals, amino acids, fats, trace minerals and bioflavonoids.
“…It is high in B-complex and contains vitamins C,E and Provitamin A. It is rich in amino acids, fats, and is a source of trace minerals such as zinc, manganese, copper and iron.
A rich variety of flavonoids are present in propolis. Research has shown that flavonoids are responsible for the major antibacterial effects of propolis“.
I’ve been using Bee Propolis for years now. Our natural medicine cabinet is never without a supply of Propolis.
I started using Propolis when the kids were little. Our daughter had so many ear infections. That stopped entirely. When I had a cold, it would last for weeks. Never again. I have had a cold or two since but they lasted for a few short days.
Propolis has no known side effects (apart from some cases of allergic reactions to bee products)
Propolis can also be used in conjunction with antibiotics.
More Good News:
Bacteria and viruses do not develop a resistance to Propolis.
Propolis has been found to help:
“Fight many diseases
Regulate blood cells that clump together
May help reduce strokes
Control free radicals
Prevent damage caused by heavy metals (lead, mercury, caladium)
Enhance immune system
Promote healing
Reduce pain, inflammation, and fever
Act as an antibiotic without side effects
Speed cell growth
Stimulate cells that destroy invading organisms
Skin irritations
Cuts and burns
Psoriasis and eczema
Acne
Absorption of certain nutrients”
The most interesting of memories would be the ones connected to 30 below weather, dead of winter, 8:30PM and it’s very dark outside.
My siblings and I pack on our warm parkas, wool mittens and fur lined high-top boots. Our little legs make their way down the snow-packed narrow path to… you guessed it… the outhouse.
This was the bedtime ritual.
As you can imagine, not something I particularly looked forward to.
I am certain you can imagine what the worst part of that memory would be!
Try sitting on a block of ice with your little bare bum!!
Another interesting outhouse memory is connected to Halloween. Halloween in the country had it’s own terror. The naughty boys of the town would rampage the neighboring farms and tip over all their outhouses.
All except for ours. My Dad was very proud of his outhouse construction. It was the one outhouse in town left standing.
In the country, outhouses remained the toilet of the house, long after city folks hooked up to the modern indoor flush toilet system.
In fact, today I can go to my friend’s farm, and if I have the hankering, I can use one of her outhouses – she has a couple handy.
Outhouse #1. One of the prettiest outhouses I’ve known. Brightly painted with a lace curtain to cover a small window. I step inside and notice the decor. It’s been touched by the hand of creativity.
The little red outhouse
outhouse decor
And when I am finished, I step back outside and there, beside this little outhouse is a container of water, a basin, soap and a towel. Now how convenient is that?
This little outhouse has been the source of healing from those past chilling memories of years gone by.
Outhouse #2.
And when any of my other friends come to visit this quaint little farm, I’m sure to introduce them to the two little red outhouses.
This is more like it. We took this while on one of our trips into the interior of British Columbia. This one’s seen some interesting times I’m sure.
Cabin fever refers to the reaction that takes place when a person is shut in, for an extended period.
Symptoms include restlessness, irritability, forgetfulness, laughter, and excessive sleeping. (Wikipeda)
I figure it’s time to announceSPRING. I’m sitting snug in my little office, listening to the wind howling, recalling the snow and rain earlier today, and wondering what will the weather be like tomorrow.
Regardless of what tomorrow will be like, I have decided to announce Spring.
To quote a church bulletin board.“Faith is – the Robin that sings before the dawn.”
My announcement of Spring comes with a new “theme” for Nuggets of Gold blog. The Sunflower theme.
One winter I was starving for sunshine. I sat down and painted these sunflowers.
I did a little research on colors and how they effect us.
I found that Yellow captures the joy of sunshine and communicates happiness. (among other things)
Orange evokes excitement, enthusiasm and is an energetic color. (among other things)
So, until Spring opens its doors to deliver us from what we call Cabin Fever, put an orange on your desk. Or you can drop in and visit my blog whenever you need a “color” fix.
You can learn more about how colors effect our mood at:
The Rush’s farm is a sanctuary for these large magnificent draft horses. There is little use for these horses in our day and age, and so they are often left unattended in the farmer’s fields. Lack of care and attention results in a very powerful, wild and unmanageable animal.
Mel is a true horse whisperer.He rescues the Percherons from their ultimate demise, and takes on the challenge of taming these powerful beasts. With both patience and love they become useful and gentle creatures.
Each time I visit the Rush’s Percheron farm I have an opportunity to go for a sleigh ride drawn by two of these powerful work horses. The first time it was Silver and Dollar who were hitched to the sleigh.
That day Mel told me of the latest acquired young adult Percheron named Diamond. Diamond had spent his entire life out in some farmer’s field. He was wild and tough and full of fire. No one could touch him. Without attention his life would be a short one. With great difficulty they were able to catch him and have him transported to the Rush’s farm.
When I first saw Diamond, he was running free and wild in the fields at his new home. Mel stated that at this time, all attempts at getting near to the horse were futile. He had been with them for several months.
A year passed and I once again visit the farm. Mel had just hitched up two beautiful black Percherons to the sleigh and we were ready for another ride through the acres of snow and bush. He handed me the reins. I took them and felt the thrill of the ride in a whole new way.
Mel tells me that the horse on the left is Diamond.
Diamond and Silver
Diamond! I was astonished. This horse was gentle and intelligent, attentive and eager to work and loving every minute of pulling the load behind him. Diamond had been transformed.
“How did you do it?” I asked.
Mel told me how they had finally lassoed Diamond and then wrapped the end of the rope around a significantly large tree trunk. (About a foot in diameter). Seemingly effortlessly, Diamond pulled the tree from it’s roots and dragged it around the field until he was exhausted.
Only then were they were able to bridle him and bring him to the barn. The battle of the wills had been won. Diamond’s natural gentle nature and love of companionship rose to the surface under the kind and expert hand of The Horse Whisperer, Mel.
I’m talking about a place where the smells and sounds, the feel of the place draws you back time and time again. A place that makes you feel like you’ve escaped from whatever it is you need to escape from.
I figure it’s not just about a great cup of coffee…it’s about connecting, about stopping to smell the roses… or the coffee in this case. That’s what it’s all about.
AT LAST…. The Children’s Story – THE RYDER is now an E-book.
The Children's Story - THE RYDER
Several months ago I embarked on a new journey, the journey of blogging and internet marketing. This journey has taken me onto many unknown paths, as well as opened up many new and exciting doors.
The journey has just begun.
The Children’s Story site is meant to be my Children’s Story Library, where I will be continuing to add new and adventurous stories for “the young at heart” to experience and enjoy.
I want to make you laugh, I want to make you cry, I want to make you seek and to find, and I want to stir your soul to embark on your own adventurous journey.
Writing, painting and film are my passion. I want to share my stories with others, in as many ways as possible.
I was driving down the street, focused on my destination, when I noticed someone in the vehicle behind me trying desperately to get my attention. I checked my rear view mirror to make sure that the trunk wasn’t open, and my doors were closed properly. My tires seemed to be rolling just fine. I figured it couldn’t be me that this driver was so frantically waving at.
The car closed in on me and continued to honk and wave. Now I could clearly see that it was a woman in the driver’s seat.
I decided I’d better pull over to the side of the road and see what this woman wanted from me. She stopped behind me and jumped out of her vehicle. “There’s something on your car!” she exclaimed, looking both frightened and confused at the same time. She was pointing to something latched on the side of my teal blue Pontiac Convertible.
I gasped and jumped back. I saw what appeared to be a slithering black and pink snake sticking to the side of my rear bumper!
The next second, I burst out into laughter. The pink and black slithering snake was my magnetic necklace.
Do I look like a necklace??!!
It had come off from around my neck when I removed my sweater and tossed it into the back seat of the car, before getting into the driver’s seat.
I tried to explain the necklace and the magnetic thing – but alas the poor dear still had the look of horror on her face as I calmly placed the necklace back around my neck, and drove away.
Ginger Root, used as an ancient remedy for upset stomach, indigestion, and motion sickness, is more than just any spice.
When used for motion sickness, I have found it to be every bit as effective as Gravol, without leaving me groggy, wanting to sleep the day away.
I discovered that every Cruise Ship Kitchen has fresh Ginger available for those who don’t have their sea legs.
Ginger is also a wonderful food additive. A little Ginger spice goes well with chicken or stir fry, makes a great, rich tasting cookie, and a zesty cup of tea.
To make the zesty cup of tea, I take a Tbsp. of fresh shredded Ginger, add to boiling water, and add a little honey. Sometimes I add juice from a real lemon. (great if you’re fighting a cold)
I think everyone agrees – there’s nothing like freshly home baked cookies.
My mother used to make this Ginger Cookie recipe.
If you've been at that computer for more than 3 hours, you need to take a break! Maybe go bake some cookies.
_
Ginger has been used to cleanse the body of toxins. One way it will do this is by expelling toxins through the skin, so… if you find yourself breaking out in a light sweat after drinking your zesty tea, that’s a good thing.
If you are PMS-ing and have one of those headaches try a cup of Gingertea. This has worked for me many a time. Add to that a neck and shoulder massage, and the chances are you will soon be feeling much better.
Some studies suggest that Ginger is effective as an alternative therapy for Osteoarthritis.
AND...Ginger is also used as an aphrodisiac. There’s more…
You might find these sites helpful (information includes recommended dosages and restrictions)
When you exercise, your muscles will inevitably become sore.
Black Cherries, used as a remedy for sore muscles and inflammation, are an age-old remedy.
I’m discovering that Grandma’s remedies are proving to be more than just folklore.
Some years ago a grandmotherly friend of mine put me onto Black Cherries when I complained to her about sore muscles after exercising.
It worked then and works for me today!
Black Cherries contain powerful antioxidants and anthocyanins (anthocyanins are found in red/purplish fruits and vegetables)
Weapon of Choice - Black Cherries
Diets rich in Cherries:
• help the body get rid inflammation and sore muscles
• help with cholesterol health
• help with weight management
• are good for the heart
During my research, I discovered that February is both American Heart Month and National Cherry Month – that should say something about this Super Fruit.
In the months of the year when Black Cherries are unavailable, the best source is Black Cherry Concentrate. (can be found in your local health store)
Ways to enjoy the benefits of Black Cherries:
• On a cold winter day, I add 1 tbsp of Black Cherryconcentrate to a cup of herbal tea.
• On hot summer days, I mix 1 tbsp of Black Cherry concentrate with water, add a tbsp of fresh squeezed lemon juice and a couple of ice cubes.
• Or I might just sit out in the sun and help myself to a bowl of them sweet cherries.
So, no more excuses. If sore muscles are holding you back from exercising, give this simple, 100% naturalSuper Fruit a try. It just might work for you too.
disclaimer: The content on this post is meant for informational purposes only, and is not intended for use as official health consultation
Right about this time of year, pretty much everyone I know is longing for the sun. Some of you are blessed enough to be able to escape to warm and tropical climes.
I’m certain you won’t be reading this.
This is for those of us who have to endure the long dreary winter months of rain and gray skies.
What did my research tell me?
Vitamin D is the SUNSHINE Vitamin
With the aid of sunlight, vitamin D is made from cholesterol in the skin, liver and kidneys.
* Studies are showing that Vitamin D deficiency may be a possible cause for SAD, or may be associated with feeling tired and depressed.
* Getting adequate amounts of Vitamin D often increases one’s sense of well-being, and sleep patterns improve.
* Studies also show an association between adequate Vitamin D and weight loss. It is proving to be helpful in the battle of the bulge.
“Excess body fat absorbs and holds onto vitamin D, making it unavailable to the body. The absence of vitamin D creates interference with the functioning of a hormone called leptin, which signals to the brain that you are full and should stop eating. In addition, overweight people tend to spend more time indoors. This also deprives them from further D as the ultraviolet rays of the sun spur the production of D.”
(I’ve been told that most people put on a few lbs. during the winter months. I thought it was nature’s way of keeping you warm!)
* Vitamin D is an anti-inflammatory hormone
* Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption
During winter months my Naturopath recommends 2000 IU or more per day, depending on individual needs. (Always check with your health practitioner before starting on a new health regimen). He told me that on any given day spent in the sunshine, one can take in up to 20,000 IU!
This winter, the blues remain with the weather. I personally am in good spirits – yes, I still long for the sun, but I’m not obsessed about it.
Quote:
“As a clinical regimen, I recommend taking 1000 to 3000 IUs daily Monday through Fridays and taking a “hormone holiday” each week on Saturday and Sunday.” – Diana Schwarzbein – www.Life-With-Confidence.com
Here you will find one of the best articles, in my opinion, on Vitamin D written by Catherine Pratt
The article is calledBenefit of Vitamin D
disclaimer: The content on this post is meant for informational purposes only, and is not intended for use as official health consultation
MSM is part of the Amino Acid Chain and is necessary to produce the correct enzymes the body needs to maintain health.
MSM is a natural form of organic sulfur found in all living organisms.
It is found in our body fluids and tissues.
Fresh raw foods, including such as vegetables, fruit, meat, fish, a fresh blade of grass, all contain MSM.
When we process our foods with heat or drying, most of the MSM that is vital to our well being is lost. Food begins to lose the MSM after it is harvested.
MSM…. what is it good for?
1. helps our bodies utilize the vitamins that we take
2. helps the body detoxify
3. is good for circulation
4. helps the body get rid of inflammation
5. is a free radical scavenger
6. helps to relieve allergies
7. controls acidity in the stomach, and coats the intestinal tract making it difficult for parasites to make their home there. (take note dog owners)
8. is significant in the maintenance of connective tissue
Some people find it very helpful. Others don’t. If you have allergies to Sulfur drugs – check with your Dr., Naturopath or Compounding Pharmacist first. You still may be able to take this as MSM is the nutritional form of Sulpher. Foods like egg yolks, wheat germ, fish, freshly picked broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and other cruciferous vegetables are some of the foods rich in MSM.
My Compounding Pharmacist tells me that MSM is no more toxic than water. I use it for inflammation and it does make a difference for me. I also take Vitamin C – my research pointed to the fact that Vit. C increased the benefits. As for amounts, I go by the dosage suggested by my Compounding Pharmacist.
If you want more information check out this site. I found it helpful.
For the last three years, we, my husband Win and I, have been working on creating and producing a TV pilot for the History Channel in the US.
Called Military Miracles, this story chronicles the amazing adventures of the 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment in their battle for Baghdad in the first 21 days of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.
The stories of how the Marines were protected are amazing. Of the 1300 Marines in the Battalion, they only lost 2 during the advance into Iraq in April 2003.
Here’s the 3 minute trailer:
Here’s a link to the trailer if you have trouble seeing this screen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5VMdi76wvs
Elderberry Does the Job When it Comes to the Cold or Flu.
Are you fighting the flu bug? Dealing with bronchial congestion, sore throat and cough?
Check out Elderberry Concentrate.
The extract taken from wild grown Elder Flowers (Sambucus nigra) is known to help the body resist infection.
and here’s the interesting part…………
the berries have been found to “interrupt the ability of some viruses to replicate”!. Or said in another way, “Elderberries contain Sambucus nigra agglutinins (SNAs), which helps prevent some types of flu from infecting healthy cells.” Now that’s information worth knowing.
One winter a member of our family got bronchitis and was unable to shake it. My research seemed to point to the Elderberry so we gave Sambu® Elderberry Concentrate a try. “Elderberry is one of the most effective herbs for preventing and treating upper respiratory infections” was what I was told.
Within the week the bronchitis was under control.
Another delicious alternative is the Elderberry and Zinc lozenges (NOW brand) I keep these in my herbal medicinal cabinet. I usually find my Elderberry concentrate or lozenges at the local health store.
CAUTION****** Do NOT use FRESH– as all parts of the plant in the fresh state can cause poisoning. So if you’ve got an Elderberry bush in your back yard like I do, you best leave the berries for the birds.
Having said that, properly prepared, the Elderberry carries significant healing power and the juice is delicious. This is one medicine anyone can swallow.
Don’t forget, to add a Merry Heart to the mix. “A merry heart does good like a medicine.”
disclaimer: The content on this post is meant for informational purposes only, and is not intended for use as official health consultation.
The weather this past week reminds me of the things that I don’t like about long, cold, icy, prairie winters. I thought this winter was suppose to be a mild winter, at least according to the Farmer’s Almanac. In my estimation this prediction is more than slightly off course.
I grew up in Southern Manitoba and I am very familiar with cold harsh winters. That is why I now live in BC. Snow does, however, inspire me to paint. I love to look at fresh fallen snow – and even venture out for a walk in memory lane if the temperature does not drop lower than 5 degrees below zero range.
Last Christmas we (our family) spent a week in Manitoba. It was a week of the perfect Winter Wonderland.
5 – 10 degrees below at the most. Large snowflakes lightly falling to the ground, softly landing on my warm fur lined hood. Hoarfrost hanging on the trees, sleigh bells ringing as we took to the horse and sleigh and out into the frosty forest. Ah, yes if only winters were always that picturesque.
Because they most always are not… I prefer to paint my winters. One of the pieces I particularly enjoyed painting is called “Carefree”. This piece is inspired by my love of horses and my adventurous spirit. To create the shiny Satin look for the Percheron I used Prussian Blue, Gumbacher “Max” oil paint.
Chapter 1and 2 of my children’s fantasy can now be found on the STORY TELLING page.
A little about the book: David and Jessica have just arrived at their grandparent’s farm in the Cariboo. Previously, they welcomed these visits with great enthusiasm, but this time is different. Things have changed.
Then without warning, through a series of bizarre events, they find themselves involved in a most unusual and exciting adventure in the land of Antoch; a land where dreams do come true, and life is never what you expect.
Will Jessica escape from the lion’s den? What will happen to David, trapped high up on the treacherous mountain, alone face to face with the huge mountain cat? What about the Ryder? Who is this mysterious person who effects everything he touches and everyone he meets?
God has blessed me with many artist friends and family, who inspire, encourage and motive me. That alone makes me a “Wealthy Artist.”
One of my very talented and creative friends is a writer (among many other things, some of which include film maker and producer). Lately he wrote a book entitled “To My Beloved Eve, Letters from Adam to his wife”. by Francis Testa
I totally enjoyed the book. It was touching and a wonderful read. I immediately went to my Bible and read chapters 1 and 2 of Genesis. I’ve read them many times before but this time I read it with a different pair of eyes. There is so much in those chapters I hadn’t really noticed before!
Adam views Eve like every woman would like to be seen by her man. Priceless and like a precious jewel. Despite all the pain and strife in the relationship, love prevails and the depth of the relationship continues to grow to the very end. It gives hope
Francis portrays Adam’s relationship with God in a way both men and women can relate to. I appreciate the way he makes Adam work through all his issues with God. Adam doesn’t get away with anything.
I probably caught your attention with “The Wealthy Artist” title .
You’re wondering right now if I am really wealthy, and, just how wealthy I am, or if it’s wishful thinking. God has blessed me with many artist friends and family, who inspire, encourage and motive me. That alone makes me a “Wealthy Artist.”
To the right – Jed’s Jam in Mill Lake park (Abbotsford) this summer during Art in the Park days. I enjoyed the absolutely perfect day, sketching and listening to bluegrass all afternoon.
Some of my artist friends are writers, some are musicians and some are painters, some create in the kitchen, some are photographers, and others tell stories.
To the right, my piece called “Salsa” -created for the “Something Red” show.
I have decided that laughter is something precious. Although the scripture verse found in the Christian Bible, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine”, is a verse I have been familiar with for many years, I haven’t always actually taken it to heart – the exception perhaps on the days that I didn’t feel so well. Now I am beginning to realize how “preventative” this merry heart can be.
I always wished for a sense of humor. I sometimes even felt envy towards someone with a quick whit, great one liners, and smart comebacks.
Then the Lord showed me that a sense of humor is something we can cultivate. Yes, some come by it naturally but for those of us who need to practice humor, take heart.
The first thing I learned is that it stems from a happy heart, a heart that sees the good in things and is not easily offended. Offense is probably the most likely thing that will keep me from seeing the “funny side” of things. Now that seems to me that I’m mostly thinking about me. Ahh – another key to happiness. Less of me.
The second thing I learned is that cultivating a good sense of humor takes work. Some days it comes easy, and I even surprise myself with a little bit of spontaneous wit. But most of the time I have to stop and ask myself what possible humor is there is this situation. I want to laugh more, to live in the moment and love it. Not because it’s necessarily an extraordinary wonderful moment, but because it’s mine and I’m living it, and there is so much more to get out of that moment than I often realize.
To quote author Barbara Johnson, “After a lifetime of straining to be “the perfect perky ideal,” finally your breasts can relax”. Ah yes, that says it all doesn’t it. I just wish I had thought of that one.
Be assured, I am coming up with my own precious laughter moments and am intending to share them with who ever will listen.
One of my heritage oil paintings titled "Mennonite Milkmaid" in it's unfinished state.
Treasures are found in simple things
This is the first day of my very new and exciting blog.
“Nuggets of Gold” is intended to pass on treasures of information that I or others have gleaned along life’s journey.
Like the unfinished canvas to the right, one has to start somewhere to get where you want to go.
Like a good old favorite pair of blue jeans, a goldennugget of truth and wisdom, wears well.
My Nugget for today comes from Hugh McLeod, advertising guru and cartoonist. http://www.gapingvoid.com
Here are a few of Hugh’s helpful tips on “How to be Creative”:
“1. Everyone has their own private Mt. Everest they were put on this earth to climb.
2. You are responsible for your own experience.
3. Never compare your insides with somebody else’s outside.
4. Merit can be bought. Passion can’t.
5. Avoid the watercooler gang.
6. Sing in your own voice.
7. Write from the heart.
8. The best way to get approval is not to need it.
9. Power is never given. Power is taken.
10. Don’t worry about finding inspiration. It comes eventually.
11. The hardest part about being creative is getting used to it.
Chuzzle leaves home – Carrie ©
