Editor’s Corner We are heading full-steam ahead into summer. Children are beginning to get out of school for the long summer holidays and parents are scrambling to find different ways to keep their children entertained, and out of trouble. Publisher Leyla Hur Editor-in-Chief Leyla Hur Editor@MagnifyYou.com Assistant Editor Lana Westbrook Lanaw@MagnifyYou.com Managing Editor Benjamin Hur Regular Contributors Leyla Hur, Lisa Mae Brunson, Brett Baughman, Stuart Rosen, Dr. Jeanine Austin, Paul Lizak, Amy Wilcox Doebler, Chriss Barr, Michelle Viggiano, Shelley Smith, Bindi Shah, Primrose Williams, Crystal Dawn Morris, Justin Sachs, Aaron Huey, Ressa Kinnear, Pat Matson Additional Contributors Dr. Cindy Brown, Nicole Lanning, Jamie Siegel, Barbara Magnolfi, Mary Redford, Julia Hanson, Judith Acosta, Jake Wilson, Claire Carpenter, Lee Samson, Marita Reynolds, Marte Cliff, Lisa Azimi, Nathan Jaehnig, Stanley Lewis, Joseph Jackson, Christine Louise Hohlbaum, Tara Waechter, Margie Dettman, Ben Nystrom, H. Jeffrey Davis, Adam Carter, Steve H., David Reichman, Jack Colville, Kindal Guthrie, Susan Foley, James Brauers, James Drexler, D. Coleman, Ashoka Taavi, Roger Turner, Dan Patrick, John C. Martin Art Director Bubonic Media Media@MagnifyYou.com Graphic Designer Bubonic Media Advertising Executive Eric Braund Ericb@MagnifyYou.com National Advertising Office Bubonic Media 5024 South Ash Avenue Suite 104 Tempe, AZ 85282 USA 1-888-801-8316 Magnify You Magazine 7904 East Chaparral Road Suite A110-289 Scottsdale, AZ 85250 USA Magnify You is published by Leyla Hur. All editorial material, including editorial comments, opinions, and statements of fact appearing in this publication, represents the views of the respective authors and does not necessarily carry the endorsement of Leyla Hur or its officers. Information in Magnify You is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. The publication of any advertisements is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product or service offered unless it is specifically stated in the ad that there is such approval or endorsement. Products and Services advertised may not be available at the time of publication. All submitted articles, photos, and artwork (“Submissions”) become the property of the publisher (Leyla Hur). The publisher is under no obligation to return any Submissions. The publisher has the unrestricted right to print all or any portion of submissions, to edit, print, re-print, use, alter, or disregard all or any portion of said materials at its sole discretion, in any medium now or hereafter used by the publisher in connection with its business operations. This includes, but is not limited to magazines, books, calendars, catalogues, merchandise, advertisements, video, television, and Internet applications. The text of any and all photo captions is at the Publisher’s sole discretion, and may be fictitious. All Submissions must be exclusive to the Publisher (unless otherwise negotiated with Publisher) who will provide appropriate credit to the author, photographer, or artist of published works, and will indicate if the same has been excerpted from or materially changed from original content. Other terms of usage may apply if in writing and signed by the submitting party. Send to: Leyla Hur, Publisher at Magnify You Magazine, 7904 East Chaparral Road, Suite A110-289, Scottsdale, AZ 85250 USA. The Publisher is exempt from the record keeping requirements and disclosure statements mandated by 18 U.S. Code Section 2257(a) through (c) and the pertinent Regulations, 28 C.F.R. Ch.1, part 75 since all such materials fall within the definition of exempted material set forth in Section 75.7(a) (1-3) of the pertinent Regulations.
Akin to the end of a school year, and individuals moving on, Magnify You is losing a wonderful and very valued part of our team. Assistant Editor, Lisa Mae Brunson has moved on to a new part of her life’s journey to focus on various projects she has been working on. Lisa Mae will be dearly missed and was an integral part of the MY family. The lessons she has left all of us, who have worked with her, have been priceless. She is an amazing woman, a wonderful teacher, and we honour her and share with you our gratitude of her. This month, we bring you another jam-packed issue, filled with information and inspiration. This month, CSI Miami star, Sofia Milos sits down with M.Y. friend, and entertainment contributor-at-large; Italian actress Barbara Magnolfi, for a heart-to-heart discussion on the film industry, spirituality, and much more. Our special travel section this month focuses on the old family tradition of camping. In today’s economy, many individuals are looking for alternatives to summer vacation travelling. What better way to be economical, connect with nature, and re-live your childhood past than to go on a camping trip with your family. As we head full-scale into the wedding season, many women are searching frantically for that perfect dress that they are going to wear during one of the most important transformations of their lives. In today’s world, times have changed and there are more women who are pregnant on their wedding day. For many women who are pregnant and looking to find that perfect dress, they feel at a complete loss. Lee Samson gives some great advice for pregnant brides. As always, we welcome your letters and comments. Email them to mail@magnifyyou.com. Until next month, we continue to celebrate your magnificence. Leyla Hur Editor-in-Chief
Page Sofia Milos erupted onto the scene of American television with her captivating role of “Yelina Salas” on CSI: Miami in 2003. She sat down with Barbara Magnolfi to share her take on life, love, pursuing your dreams, and a little world peace
Table of Contents Features 16 FATHER'S DAY 2009 – TRIPS TO TAKE WITH DAD THIS YEAR
15 CRASH COURSE IN CRYSTAL HEALING BY NICOLE LANNING
45 REFLEXOLOGY – HEALTH BENEFITS FROM AN ANCIENT THERAPY BY MARITA REYNOLDS
BY JAMIE SEIGEL
18 CHANGE YOUR MINDSET CHANGE YOUR LIFE
25 HERE IS AN EASY BIRTHDAY CAKE TO MAKE GRANDMA!
BY DR. CINDY BROWN
BY MARY REDFOOT
27 LEAVING THE WILDERNESS ALIVE HOW TO SURVIVE WHEN ALL YOU HAVE IS YOU – PART ONE
26 EXPLORE FAMILY TREE SCRAPBOOKING - HOW TO PUT TOGETHER A LASTING LEGACY
BY JUDITH ACOSTA
67 ESTATE PLANNING FOR PETS AND DOMESTICATED ANIMALS BY JOHN C. MARTIN
Featured Topics 8 PANIC DISORDER? YOU CAN RECLAIM YOUR LIFE!
BY JULIA HANSON
38 DIFFICULTY CONCEIVING – 3 TOP TIPS FOR GETTING PREGNANT FAST!
47 OUT OF CASH? HOLD A RENT PARTY BY MARTE CLIFF
49 TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT THE WORLD BEYOND YOUR BACKYARD BY LISA AZIMI
47 INFLATABLE MOVIE NIGHT BY NATHAN JAEHNIG
BY CLAIRE CARPENTER
37 BABYMOON VACATION PACKAGES - HOT NEW TREND BY JAKE WILSON
50 WHILE YOU'RE CHASING YOUR DREAMS TO SUCCESS REMEMBER TO TAKE TIME FOR PLAY BY JOSEPH JACKSON
BY LISA MAE BRUNSON
10 A NATURAL WAY TO MANAGE PANIC ATTACKS BY PRIMROSE WILLIAMS
39 TOP 10 TIPS ON FINDING THE RIGHT MATERNITY WEDDING DRESS BY LEE SAMSON
51 5 WAYS TO A BETTER STAYCATION BY CHRISTINE LOUISE HOHLBAUM
53 ROAD FOOD, GLORIOUS ROAD FOOD! BY TARA WAECHTER
Special Travel Section ~ Camping 54 CAMPING – AN ECONOMICAL AND ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE FOR YOUR NEXT FAMILY VACATION
62 GLUTEN FREE CAMPING – THE SECRET TO HAVING GREAT GLUTEN FREE CAMPING TRIP
19 CREATE YOUR DREAMS!
BY JAMES DREXLER
20 FIVE MAIN STEPS TO HAVING THE BODY OF YOUR DREAMS
63 CAMPING WATER HEATER – HOW HELPFUL IT IS DURING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
BY PAT MATSON
BY D COLEMAN
22 THE FRESH SPLENDOR OF EXOTIC DESIGN
BY BRETT BAUGHMAN
BY MICHELLE VIGGIANO
64 CAMPING WATER FILTER SOLUTIONS BY ASHOKA TAAVI
23 REVITALIZE WITH THE USE OF HEALTHY HEALING HERBS AND ESSENTIAL OILS
65 FIVE FUN SONGS FOR KIDS TO SING AROUND A CAMPFIRE
BY AMY WILCOX DOEBLER
54 CAMPING 101 – SUPPLIES AND PREPARATION BY BEN NYSTROM
BY ROGER TURNER
55 CAMPING, HIKING AND BACKPACKING - MUST HAVE ESSENTIALS
67 CAMPING – WHAT A DIFFERENCE A GENERATION MAKES
BY H. JEFFREY DAVIS
BY DAN PATRICK
BY MARGIE DETTMAN
24 HERBS, GROWING – HARVESTING – USES BY SHELLEY SMITH
56 HOW TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE WHEN BUYING AN OUTDOOR TENT
Regular Columns
35 BREAKING FREE BY LEYLA HUR
37 MALWARE AND YOU: HOW TO BREAK IT OFF BY RESSA KINNEAR
BY ADAM CARTER
3 EDITOR’S CORNER 57 CHOOSING THE RIGHT SLEEPING BAG BY STEVE H.
57 TOP 10 - COUNTDOWN TO WHY YOU SHOULD GO CAMPING
BY LEYLA HUR
40 NATURAL SKIN CARE WITH ESSENTIAL OILS BY PRIMROSE WILLIAMS
5 TIGER BALM FOR THE SOUL BY LUAN MITCHELL
6 GETTING OUT OF OUR OWN WAY
46 A NEW ERA FOR ONTARIO WINES – A TIME TO BUY LOCAL BY PAUL LIZAK
BY DR. JEANINE AUSTIN
BY DAVID REICHMAN
58 FINDING A GREAT CAMPSITE
7 FACING YOUR FEARS
48 HOW TO HELP KIDS SLEEP IN THE SUMMER
BY AARON HUEY
BY STANLEY LEWIS
BY JACK COLVILLE
60 LEARN LUXURY CAMPING EQUIPMENT - BE COMFORTABLE WHILE CAMPING
12 CREATING YOUR SECOND WIND BY STUART ROSEN
14 A BRAND NEW YOU
BY KINDAL GUTHRIE
BY CHRISS BARR
61 IDEAS FOR CAMP COOKING
16 LOVE IS THE WAY
BY SUSAN FOLEY
BY CRYSTAL DAWN MORRIS
62 WHAT FOODS ARE BEST FOR TENT CAMPERS?
17 KEEPING YOUR TEENS SAFE ON SOCIAL NETWORKING
BY JAMES BRAUERS
BY JUSTIN SACHS
Cover by Christophe P. Petyt
Tiger Balm for the SOUL This is a “Dream Big” offering, it is a “working exercise,” for as we have heard, “faith without works is dead! You will need to massage it a little, but the “tiger balm,” will be effective when massaged in the right places, just try it and see! You will need to DO the exercises here as they are REAM listed one by one. It’s our first “Positive Vibration” together, and YES, there is a first time in every reader’s life!
“D
Write down a powerful dream you hold dear! What does it look like, GRRRRRREEEEEEEEAAAAAA AT! How does it feel to imagine living that dream? Even GRRRRREEEEEAAAAAAAT-er! Post that dream for yourself somewhere that you can reflect on it often – the bathroom mirror, or in your purse in a special spot you will look at often (side zipper,) or (little mirror pouch) or while you’re brushing your teeth. You can post it on the fridge so you can look at it while you’re preparing healthy meals or the inside of your front door so it’s the last thing you see when you start your day! Maybe the place is beside your cozy side of the bed for those great night time Diversify thoughts! Decide right NOW to be a person of action! Make a decision that you are going to make that call, or write that letter, or walk that extra mile! Now write down (in your own creative terminology) ten steps it will become a “step by step,” pattern, or formula for you to use: Focus on 10 proven, tried-andtrue strategies from mentors you have admired, study them and pick and design your own… then
stick them all together in any way you like, it does not have to be a collage, image board, although I use one of those also, I have done other alternate choices as well, these, “imaginings” that you will learn to depend and build on as you thrash your way through the “Jungle Gym” of life will serve you well.
the next? List three. Do it again, exactly the way you want to, with no reservations! Go on, break the rules – this is your take the “Tiger by the Tail,” coming out party, rub that tiger balm on thick, and massage away old negative patterns and habits.
Yo, landlubber, I “set sail” with mine. I wrote them (all ten) out in sailor terms on a piece of paper, photo copied them several times, and folded them into little paper boats. I made a IG O ON IT S BUBBLISHIOUS decision that I was never going to allow anyone to pirate me or Reap the Ultimate Harvest. In my right to a great life ever again! life’s journey, notice your actions, Then, I filled my bubble bath, and be kind and respectful to the Viola! I had a toast to my Land, people, help all life toward success, and I saw where I was their endangered dreams and be going for each of the steps along generous in giving back and in my way. I “came clean!” offering a helping hand and bring Do be sure to look into, and embrace every wisdom tidbit as you go.
B !G
… ’
Out your Inner WINNER, with pride. That means you are free to just be, get creative! That means you can, color, or stitch, or finger paint or whittle or even just photo copy, whatever – but make it yours, personalize the “top ten” your way. What actions do you need to take to get yourself from one step to
!”
DREAM BIG! GO ON… IT’S BUBBLISHIOUS! Winners need space – they are not always just condominium or apartment loving species, 24/7 they need to “get out a bit, to roam!” Sure, they can be loners, but not always… Go get EM tiger! If you study real tigers, you would find out that their beat may be anything from 50 to100 square miles of territory per tiger, so let
go of that tiger tail! It is this territory that is at risk of being taken over, you need to be set free. Deforestation has shrunk the habitat of tigers, do you see the metaphor here? The small villages and hamlets that exist on the periphery of forests have no mega designs on the forest – village folk do not normally venture into tiger land – if they do it is only to collect firewood or seasonal berries. It is the Big Boys who have their eyes on the trees and the poachers who entrap and ensnare villagers and tigers alike. It is estimated that at least one tiger is slaughtered every day. The IndoTibetan and Nepal-Tibetan borders are the ‘Poaching Trails’ from where the remains of this once mighty ‘Lord’ find their way into the list of active ingredients of Chinese medicines (China having wiped out its own tiger population). Do you wonder what their famous ‘Tiger Balm’ is made of!! Tiger Balm, Tiger POWER! Now it is my hope that you’ll think of this exercise as a technique designed to get you thinking tiger thoughts, “out with the old in with the new!” Give it a chance, please do join the Winning, and drop the whining! Go on, apply some “tiger by the tail,” principles, you have learned here, after all we are building “good habits” as we go, through our life jungles, and It only works if you work it, YOU are number one!. The “Tiger’s tail” you are holding back, may just be your own. It’s time to “Let Go,” Loosen Up!” Run Free, and just Chill Out! From America to Australia and Madrid to Mexico, inspired audiences are leaping to their feet after hearing LuAn Mitchell's message of genuine hope, unwavering faith and personal commitment to action. LuAn is a woman who has overcome adversity on every front, and she can teach you to do the same. Her life is a story of tragedy and triumph, emerging every time to reach the pinnacle of business, family and personal success. Contact LuAn at luanm@magnifyyou.com
Getting Out of Our Own Way My dad is an easy going and open minded man. It is funny for me to contemplate that he has a daughter with my temperament. I can see his face looking down at me as a young girl, perplexed by his daughter's inability to let anything go, even when it clearly didn't serve me to do so. As a child I could easily be described as intransigent, perfectionist, and stubborn. Unfortunately, many of these qualities followed me into adulthood. Looking back, I can see how my own tenacity caused me many troubles. I just couldn't seem to get out of my own way.
wonderful book, Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao, Dr. Wayne Dyer writes, "By staying in harmony on the path of the Tao [The Way], all the contentment you could ever dream of will begin to flow into your life-the right people, the means to finance where you're headed, and the necessary factors will come together." The Tao teaches us that there is always a gentle way, a gentle truth, that is available to those of us who choose it.
When we step into the flow inherent to The Tao we begin to get out of our own way. We can begin to do this by relaxing and trusting. We might start this process by slowing down and breathing deeply. I often find that tapping into my I now “The Tao teaches us that there is always intuition and understand noticing Divine a gentle way, a gentle truth, that is why I was guidance helps so rigid available to those of us who choose it…” me to access with my The Tao in my desire to control my life. My hard own life. driving ways were nearly constantly positively reinforced by As Marianne Williamson has said, everything and everyone around we needn't worry that God will me. If I worked hard enough I saw lose our file. If we take time to that I could achieve nearly reflect on our own lives we might anything I wished for in my little see how we were loved and world. Whether it was making the supported (sometimes despite cheerleading squad, getting our best efforts to muck things straight A’s or having the up!) by life itself many times in attentions of the most desirable our past. This insight may give us boys in school, I saw that striving the confidence to begin to trust would pay dividends. The and move with the Divine problem was that relying on my patterning in our life. own energies and overdriving everything in my life was Dr. Jeanine Austin is a doctor of life exhausting. By my teenage years coaching for women around the world. She is passionate about helping women I had burned myself out. In live a joyful and authentic life. Dr. Jeanine addition, I couldn't help but notice uses cutting edge tools and/or spiritual the things I pursued and attained perspectives which assist her clients in weren't offering me much living actualized lives. Contact Dr. Jeanine at drj@magnifyyou.com satisfaction. I knew there had to be another way. I have to admit that it hasn't been until recently, in my forties that I have begun to deeply understand what it means to trust the organic patterns of my life. In his
student. Without hesitation she asked her new teacher, "How did you do that?" "It's very simple little flower, I just closed my eyes." In our kids Warrior Camps, we speak a lot about fear. What are you afraid of? Our answers vary but most often we hear the same answer... The Dark. Kids are surprised to know that adults have the same fears as they do. Adults are afraid of the Dark too...but the adult Dark...the unknown, the void, the "nothing you know" or even worse the "thing you don't know".
Facing Your Fears A long time ago at Kyudo, a student searched Japan for the greatest archery teacher in all the land. She found a teacher in the city who could hit a tree from a remarkable distance. "Are you the best of all teachers? Will you teach me?" The master answered, "If you seek the best than you must find my master. He lives in the country." The student traveled to the country and found the Master's Master. He demonstrated his skill by hitting a leaf off a tree from a remarkable distance. "Are you the best of all teachers? Will you teach me?" She asked. The Master's Master answered, "If you seek the best than you must find my master. He lives in the mountains." The student traveled to the mountains and found the old, wise Grandmaster. By the time the student was able to speak with him, it was nighttime. She asked the old man, "Are you the best of all teachers? Will you teach me?" The Grandmaster quickly grabbed her bow from her and with a blur of motion, took one of her arrows from its sheath and fired into the pitch black. The student heard a "thunk" a remarkable distance away and journeyed into the night to find that the Grandmaster had pinned a falling leaf to the tree...
When was the last time you were rocked off your core, out of your center, completely ungrounded by a situation that didn't seem to match the current energetic flow of your day? When was the last time you were caught off guard or blindsided by an experience that shook your foundation? When was the last time you were plunged into the darkness of the unknown? Did you set up a camp fire there and pitch a tent? Did you curl up and go fetal, waiting for the monsters to come? Did you shout for help, only to hear the frightening silence the void provides? Did you search for the light? Even if you didn't find it, was it in vain? Or did you close your eyes and start dancing? What else is there to do in the Dark but dance anyway? Sitting down and wishing it was light won't get anything accomplished. Not just the external darkness created by events we may or may not have control over, but the internal darkness... Our dark side. Our Dark night of the soul. Can you dance that dance? Can you aim your arrow without your eyes into the darkness achieving what you know to be true despite the dark? To aim with your heart? Of course you can. So the real question is: Do you?
...in the dark. The student ran back to the Grandmaster and in a breathless voice from a deep bow, she said, "Onagashey-mas" (please teach me). The Grandmaster smiled and accepted her as a
Aaron Huey is an internationally known speaker, one of 5 facilitators of the world famous “Predicament”, owner of Fire Mountain Programs, and one of the creators of the rapidly growing coaching system “Experience the Leap”. An educator for 17 years he is nationally known as a leading empowerment coach for children, teens and families. Contact Aaron at aaronh@magnifyyou.com
Panic Disorder? You Can Reclaim Your Life!
In today’s economic crisis, many people are suffering from some form of anxiety or stress. With the rise and fall of the stock market, the crash and burning of the ‘Big Three’ and various other companies laying off thousands and going under, it’s no wonder thousands of people are experiencing panic in ways they’ve never imagined. It is estimated that one out of seventy-five people will experience some form of anxiety disorder. With the recent economic developments, that number could easily double or triple, leaving a sea of very distressed and worried individuals. But Anxiety and Panic disorder does not have to rule your life. There are several things you can do to relieve your symptoms and reclaim your life. As a longtime sufferer of Panic disorder, which escalated briefly into agoraphobia, (fear of leaving the house) I have spent countless
hours poring through every text book, news article, pamphlet, and encyclopedia in search of answers and some miracle cure that would take away the scary symptoms I experienced. Those with anxiety disorder often experience a multitude of symptoms, oftentimes frightening and in serious cases, debilitating. While each individual may have a different experience, there are several common factors that link each experience together.
Most people experience lightheadedness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, heart pounding, sweating in the extremities, hot flashes, abdominal discomfort, weakness, tingling, numbness that can take over all or several parts of the body, a sense of unreality or imminent doom, the fear of dying or going crazy, faint, choking or smothering sensations, chest pains which can mimic heart attack pain, hyperventilation, shakiness, and a bevy of other unpleasant symptoms and feelings.
Like snowflakes, no two panic attacks are the same. Often you may feel that ‘this one’ is going to be the ‘big one.’ You didn’t die the first time, but you’re sure to die this time. You didn’t go crazy or lose control the last time, but this time you’re bound to be missing a screw and committed to the loony bin. Sound familiar? Most ‘first timers’ will end up in the emergency room with tubes coming out of your arms, an EKG test performed on your heart, an oxygen mask strapped to your face, and a vat of blood drawn. A host of tests conducted will usually reveal: “There is nothing wrong with you. You’re absolutely healthy. You just experienced an anxiety attack. Nothing to worry about. Go home and get some rest and you’ll be just fine.” Except for the millions of people who suffer from Panic Disorder, there is no such thing as ‘fine.’ On the contrary—the worst has just begun…
solution to a healthy state of being. Educate Yourself. I bought every book I could find on Panic and Anxiety disorder and read, and re-read about the condition until I was ‘Panic Disorder Savvy’ and could challenge even my local psychiatrist to a quiz showdown. Internet articles also proved to be helpful, as well as pamphlets and other medical resources and periodicals. This really helped me to understand that I was not abnormal, or dying, or crazy.
the way you behave and revitalize your daily technique. I strongly recommend developing a support system. This can be made up of friends, family, co-workers, healthcare professionals—people you trust to get you back on track and thinking and behaving in a healthy manner while experiencing an attack. One of the most important things I ever did was develop a support system. People I would call or talk with during my panic attack episodes. This usually consisted of a sibling, friend, healthcare professional or coworker that I felt close to.
Look into alternative therapies. I do NOT recommend stopping any medication if you have already been prescribed medication for your disorder. Please discuss any changes you would like to make with your doctor, prior to making them. That said—I personally got rid of the prescriptions I was taking and began a natural therapeutic regimen that was healthier for my body.
Before creating your support list, first, ask each person if they are willing to be on the list, and then make sure you tell them beforehand (and if you have your wits about you at the time— during the panic attack,) that they should not freak out, no matter how you look or sound. Remind them that you cannot die from a panic attack (even though you may feel like it) and that you just need them to continue talking to you and have them keep you talking.
I was diagnosed with a severe form of panic disorder when I was fifteen years old. At “Anxiety and Panic disorder the time, I was under an extreme amount of stress, This will assist in regulating does not have to rule your life…” and in the middle of a bright your breathing which is the clear day, my heart just ‘went main cause of anxiety distress. I drank herbal teas made of crazy.’ Before I knew it, I was Hyperventilation cuts off the chamomile and peppermint, running down the street, oxygen in your body, which which both promote relaxation. I screaming at the top of my lungs creates lightheadedness and also added St. Johns Wort, a that I was going to die. I was sure dizziness. This sends your natural anti-depressant, to my of it. After spending several hours parasympathetic nervous system daily vitamin regimen, and in the emergency room, I was cut and endocrine system into increased my fruit and vegetable loose with a handful of pamphlets overdrive and causes your intake. For women, Evening detailing the ‘fight or flight senses to go haywire. Your body Primrose Oil is also ideal to take response’ and several releases adrenaline, which also for PMS and mood swings, which prescriptions for anti-anxiety and contributes to the heart racing, can trigger panic attacks. antidepressant medications. hands sweating, ‘I’ve got to get the hell out of here’ feeling. Aromatherapies are an excellent I experienced extreme side way to relax the senses and effects from my medication and Panic attacks are really a promote calm and tranquility. I was unable to continue with the stimulus and sensory overload. utilized aromatherapy and color treatment for very long. After The key is to stop them before it therapy on a regular basis to several years of being prisoner in gets out of hand. Recognize that create a peaceful environment my own body, suffering your body is simply gearing up for and to quiet my racing mind, embarrassing outbursts in public, a danger that isn’t there. This is a which was prone to run all over countless trips to the ER, cutting natural body defense and it was the place if I let it have its way. classes in school because I was designed for a great purpose. unable to sit still, experiencing a Yours (and mine for a while) are Incorporate behavioral brief stint of agoraphobia in which just out of whack. modification techniques. I was unable to leave my house, and essentially not being able to Keep talking to your friends until In order to change the way you nip my panic attacks in the bud, I you are able to calm down. think, and thus, the way your decided to come up with my own Repeat this process until it is body reacts, you have to change
natural for you to reach for the phone at first symptom. When talking doesn't help, try humming a song. It doesn’t matter what song, as long as you continue humming and regulating your breathing. Fourth: Focus. Focus. Focus. Train yourself to focus on something else. Pay attention to a shoe, or a leaf, or a pen on the table, and note every single little detail. What color, texture, or position is the pen in? It doesn't matter what you think about, what matters is that you have switched focus. Eventually you will also feel calmer. Educate friends and family. Communicate when you are not having a panic attack. Let your friends and family know what a panic attack feels like when you have them. Reassure them you are ok but that you really just need their support and understanding. Remember to let them know how much you appreciate their understanding. This process is usually not easy for all parties involved, so communication is vital in overcoming anxiety disorder.
Go to a park or somewhere in nature and take deep breaths. Take the time to be grateful for what you have. Every time something negative or scary pops into your head, counteract it with a good thought or feeling. This will become a habit and in time the despair you feel will disappear. There is hope for the future, and panic disorder can be gone forever. Reclaim the life that you deserve! Lisa Mae is a ‘Creative Visionary’ and ‘Painter with Words’, she captivates her readers and fans with her honesty and integrity. She has captivated thousands of hearts all over the world with her written words of inspiration. Lisa Mae is the founder of the Love, Hugs and Inspiration Campaign and author of Rose Colored Glasses. Contact Lisa Mae at lisamae@magnifyyou.com
A Natural Way to Manage Panic Attacks
Be Good To Yourself. Remember to take deep breaths whenever you are conscious of your breathing. Learn to slow your breathing. Even if you breathe fast, keep trying to slow it down. Tell yourself you are okay. Most importantly, don't get angry with yourself. Don't feel upset if you cannot control it. Sometimes it is best to let them happen and get it over with. It usually doesn’t last as long as when you fight the panic. Do what you can to alleviate stress. Do something you enjoy every week. What makes you happy? What makes you laugh? Spend some time doing that. Don't focus on Panic Disorder as the main character in your life. You are the main character and you can take control.
Panic attacks can strike without warning and without an obvious reason bringing with it uneasiness, paralyzing fear, heart pounding and terror.
kicks in at the wrong time. This is an involuntary physiological response when the body deals with an emergency or dangerous situation.
Although panic attacks happen to people suffering from other anxiety disorders, there is a difference between panic and anxiety. The actual difference is in the duration and intensity of the symptoms. Panic attacks last only for a short duration, whilst anxiety attacks occur gradually and are usually less intense but last for a longer period of time.
The stress causes the increase in adrenaline for the body to increase metabolism to produce quick energy. The muscles become tense, breathing and heartbeat increases and the blood composition changes slightly.
Panic attacks happen when the body’s ‘flight and fight’ reaction
The symptoms of panic attack reach the full intensity within a few seconds and fade away after a few minutes. These symptoms include pounding heart, shortness
of breath, trembling, hot or cold sweat, fainting, numbness, nausea and tightness in the solar plexus. Prescribed medication causes many physical side-effects like dry mouth, constipation, drowsiness, heart palpitations and sexual problems. These debilitating conditions can be helped by using holistic therapeutic treatments like hypnotherapy, counseling, relaxing herbal remedies, aromatherapy, meditation and yoga. As panic attacks are often followed by feelings of helplessness, depression and fear; and living in the fear of another attack causes stress – this is where aromatherapy can help. The following list of essential oils can assist in alleviating panic attacks. You can use them individually for their separate effects, or combine them to help manage attacks when they happen. The combination of Frankincense, Lavender, Neroli and Ylang Ylang can help you fight panic attacks naturally. Frankincense is a major essential oil that is involved with balancing, relaxing and soothing the mind and spirit. French Lavender is a powerful essential oil that soothes the mind, relaxes the spirit, and is a
mild antiseptic. Its soft mild scent has a flowery aura. It can help ease the sore aches and pains in the muscles and it can reduce the head tension. Neroli oil distilled from the flowers of the bitter orange tree. The fragrance relaxes the mind and restores energy levels. It can help relieve anger and irritability and it keeps you from allowing emotions to flare. Ylang Ylang is a sensual oil that can follow up from the other oils to help finalize your relaxation. Its exotic aroma uplifts the spirits and brings peace to the busy mind. Research has shown that ylang ylang essential oil lowers blood pressure and eases tachycardia (rapid heart beat), deepens breathing and has a calming effect on the central nervous system. It also eases stress and lifts depression, so this is an ideal oil to ease panic attacks. Other relaxing and calming essential oils are Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Roman Chamomile, Lavender, True Melissa, Neroli, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver and Ylang Ylang. Use these essential oils alone or in combination to manage and reduce the severity of panic attacks. Consult a qualified aromatherapist and medical practitioner – particularly if you are already on medication, to see if essential oils might assist you. Essential oils can be used in massage, bath, diffuser, and inhaled from a tissue. Aromatherapy, when used correctly, either alone or in conjunction with medical treatment, helps maintain a relaxed and calm state of mind in our daily lives which leads to better health. This can be helpful in keeping recurring panic attacks at bay. Inhale from a tissue Take a clean, soft facial tissue; fold it so you can easily inhale from it. Then add drops of
essential oil as per the recipes below: Choose ONE of the following: (1) 1 drop Rose, 4 drops Lavender EO; or (2) 1 drop Neroli, 4 drops Lavender EO; or (3) 1 drop Rose, 4 drops Frankincense EO Stress Buster for Panic Attack Fights fatigue, stress, tension and anxiety 3 drops bergamot EO 2 drops frankincense EO 3 drops cedar wood EO 1/2 pint, or, 300 ml of 70 percent alcohol or vodka or perfumers alcohol Pour alcohol into a spray glass bottle. Add the oils and shake well. Leave for 1 week in a cool, dry place (not the fridge) to mature before using. Close eyes if spraying near the face. Use this spray when you feel the symptoms of a panic attack coming on, or to maintain your calm. Another Stress Buster for Panic Attacks 20 drops lavender EO 10 drops Clary sage EO 5 drops sweet orange EO 1 oz distilled or floral water (lavender or orange flower water) Remember to shake well before spraying, as the oil and water separate almost immediately. Keep eyes closed while spraying. Again, use this spray when you feel the symptoms of a panic attack coming on, or to maintain your calm. *None of the above recipes are a substitute for medical treatment. You should always have a full discussion with your medical practitioner.
Primrose Williams has studied Aromatherapy and Reflexology in Hong Kong since 1993 and holds a number of certifications. She has a deep interest in both subjects and has given personal consultations by way of holistic advice and customized aromatic blends. To learn more about Aromatherapy, Reflexology, and Reiki, contact Primrose at primrose@magnifyyou.com
Creating Your Second Wind Success sure can take a lot out of you. You know, it’s just ‘so much work’ and sometimes, well, it’s just plain tedious. That’s why so many of us quit, because it’s just too much and we get tired or it’s just not as exciting as it looks on TV, so we get bored. Either way, we quit long before we can even see the finish line.
When the going gets tough, the tendency is to just stop doing it. After all, that ends whatever is causing the exhaustion. Unfortunately, since that also stops the progress towards success, stopping isn’t always the best option. One of my mentors had this great advice:
We don’t have to feel bad about it either, since half of all small businesses fail within the first five years. We can always meet up at the local coffee shop to swap war stories. They’ll understand. Of course, it sure would be nice to live like the other half… the ones who actually achieve their dreams and taste the full sweetness of success. If only there was some magical force that could help us reach that finish line. But wait! There is… Beyond the exhaustion and the boredom is that magic, called the “second wind.” Successful people not only wish for it, they rely on it to get stuff done. So what is the ‘Second Wind’ and what does that have to do with me? Well, the term ‘Second Wind’ is usually used in running and other high endurance exercises. It happens when a runner gets past the point of exhaustion and the body ‘shifts’ into a more balanced state of being. It basically adjusts itself to run more smoothly. For our purposes, we can use the same principles to reach our own state of enhanced balance. By keeping these simple principles in mind, your ‘Second Wind’ will be just around the corner: Keep Going
“There are two times when you need to keep going. When you want to, and when you don’t!” Remember, runners catch up to their Second Winds along the road… keep going until you find it. Don’t keep pushing so hard The second wind doesn’t always come after your first wind is gone. Sometimes it comes before, and sometimes not at all. Pushing yourself to exhaustion just results in exhaustion, so don’t force it. Keep the momentum going; just don’t burn so hot that you burn out. Don’t stop Don’t do the opposite and give up. It’s easy to confuse ‘not pushing so hard’ with ‘stopping’ since stopping sure feels like you’re not pushing so hard after all. However, take note, when a runner ‘stops’ to catch their breath, they always keep walking or moving their bodies. Regaining momentum is easier from a slowdown, than it is from a complete stop. Rest up This is the subtle difference between a pause and a stop. Everybody needs time to ‘recuperate’ whenever they’ve really become exhausted. Learn to use the power of recuperation by actively resting. In other words, keep the focus and intention moving in the
direction of your success, even when other parts are not in motion. Sometimes you need to give your second wind a chance to catch up to you. Do something relatively different Now if the problem is simply boredom, it could be that you’ve been stuck in one place for too long. Go do something different for a while. Get outside, go for a walk; move around and break up the monotony. If you can find some activity that is similar, yet different, it can open up your mind to new possibilities. Then, when you return to what you were doing, you’ll have a fresh perspective. Slight differences can make huge differences. Get help Thinking you have to go it alone is probably one of the most detrimental practices for failure. Yes, success takes time and effort, but who said it had to be yours? When others pitch in, they can add to your strength and/or ease the pressure on you. It takes a village, so build a village. Believe that you can make it We go where we face and we face wherever we think, so if we imagine ourselves exhausted and quitting, we’ll quit as soon as we get tired. If we believe we’re going to make it, we’ll still get tired, but we just won’t quit. There will be times when all you have is your belief in what you’re doing. Let that be your guide. One… More… Step… Finally, sometimes you just have to micromanage yourself. Don’t think about the long journey still ahead, or the obstacles that are on the road. Just think about the next step… just the next one… and after that, the next. Narrow your focus to the task at hand, pass it, and keep going. Sometimes the key to big results is thinking small. When in Doubt, Blow! And finally, when there are times when everything is still and no movement can be found anywhere, reach down into the deepest of your core, and blow! Don’t wait for the second wind—MAKE the second wind! You really can get much farther than you think you can. It takes believing in your goal, taking action on it and keeping the momentum towards it at all times. Your Second Wind is out there; all you have to do is get out there and catch it. Stuart "GuruStu" Rosen is a motivational author, speaker and cartoonist, whose work appears in "101 Great Ways to Improve Your Life" and "Walking With the Wise". He also co-hosts "Manifesting the Positive" Radio with the effervescent Leyla Hur. Contact Stuart at gurustu@magnifyyou.com
A Brand New You Do you ever feel like just wiping the slate clean? Starting over from scratch? If you do, then Feng shui (pronounced fung shway) is a fabulous place to start. Feng shui is often confused with interior decorating, and although many interior decorators use a western version of Feng shui, that’s not what this amazing Chinese art is all about. What it is about is creating a positive and harmonious flow of energy in your environment. Feng Shui is completely indifferent as to whether your couch matches your drapes. Because Feng shui consists of energy flow, the first thing you’ll want to do is start cleaning out the old, the broken and the unwanted things you have in your home and office. Take a look around and ask yourself a few questions. When was the last time you wore that pair of pants from 1988 or read that book titled ‘Will We Really Put a Man on the Moon?’ The more old items you have lying around, the easier it is to stay stuck in the past, which makes it difficult to move forward in life. An easy rule of thumb to follow is; if you haven’t worn it, read it or used it in the past twelve months, then you need to store it, give it away or throw it away. If you need to hire a professional organizer to help you with this process then take action because it will be worth your while. The next thing you need to do is make any repairs you’ve been putting off. Now is the time to mend the screens, tighten drawer handles, and grease up the doors. Broken items represent broken energy so if you have something that is beyond repair, replace it immediately. This is also a great time of the year to clean up the outside of your house. Get rid of old toys the kids have outgrown (including the swing set), piles of rotted wood, (this is a big energy drainer especially if it’s up against your house,) repair leaky hoses and remove dead plants. Your yard represents the strongest source of energy (known as chi in Feng shui – pronounced chee) coming into your home, so the healthier your yard is, the healthier the chi in your home will be.
major dose of new energy so she could really blossom again. After clearing the clutter, setting up her Feng shui and relandscaping the front of her home, things completely turned around for Carrie and her family. Her husband began spending more time at home and less time at work, Carrie found a job that fit with her children’s school hours and she was able to find someone to help take care of her mother for a few hours a week. Not only was she relieved; Carrie was a completely new person and looked ten years younger. Talk about blossoming!
When you set up Feng shui in your home it will be much easier to re-energize yourself and embark on your new life. The reason for this is that Feng shui, being an earth science, supports you in your efforts and makes it much easier to achieve your goals. A perfect example of Feng shui at work: My client, Carrie, had a nice home but it had a lot of stuff all over the place – school books, toys, papers, shoes, drawers so full you couldn’t even open them and a garage packed to the gills with baby furniture (her kids were in grade school at this point).
That’s the amazing thing about Feng shui. It is the catalyst that helps you finally achieve the results you’ve been pushing so hard to get. By utilizing the energy, or chi of Feng shui, anything you desire is possible. Hard work is great but it just isn’t enough. You need your home and work environment to support your hard work and when it does you’ll feel like a brand new person…guaranteed. Chriss Barr is a Feng Shui and Dowsing Expert as well as the author of 4 Easy Ways to Ignite Your Love Life and Fatten Up Your Wallet. You can contact Chriss to learn more about Feng Shui and Dowsing at chrissb@magnifyyou.com
Choosing a crystal for a specific reason, first focus on that reason and then allow your intuition to choose the right crystals. There are a lot of crystals to choose from for any particular reason. Such as crystals to attract finance abundance. There are the amazonite, aventurine, diamond, emerald, gold, peridot, green tourmaline, and many more. Focus on the intention and reason and let your intuition guide you to the right crystal for your purpose. When cleansing your crystals, there are various ways to perform this session. You can use the light and energy of the sun or moon, bury them in Mother Earth, visualization, smudging, or cleanse them with sea salt water baths. Work with the session that resonates best within you! Programming crystals can be done one of three ways. You can program them with the passive method, the active method or charging them with Reiki. All three ways are appropriate, but each crystal is different and unique so follow your intuition and work with each crystal individually. When healing with crystals, there are many techniques out there, such as crystal elixirs and baths, crystal grids, laying on of stones, chakra healing, aura healing, hands on healing, and many more. Each case is individual as well as their energy resonation with the crystals being used. This is where training in this type of field comes into your learning of crystal therapy. Crystals resonate by their color as well as their properties.
In addition, her yard had a big thorny cactus welcoming people to the front door and beyond the cactus there was just yards of dirt. It was a very drab and unfriendly environment. Carrie said she was unhappy in her marriage because her husband was always at work. She also felt stressed because she was looking for work and couldn’t find a job, and she was overwhelmed with her aging mother’s health problems. If that wasn’t enough to weigh her down, she was also struggling to take care of her two children while still finding time for herself. Needless to say, Carrie needed a
Crystal healing works with physical, emotional, mental and spiritual problems by removing the dis-ease and making you at ease with yourself.
Crash Course Basics In Crystal Healing Crystals are powerful and effective sources of energy which can be used as an aid to healing.
So please make sure you have aligned the correct crystals for each color as well as property when working with healing and crystals. And remember each person's individual session will be different as we all have different energy fields and levels and will
resonate differently with different crystals so have a variety to work with! I hope this helps you all in your own path of working with crystals. If you wish to know more please feel free to contact me! By Nicole Lanning: http://www.healingartforms.com/crystalthe rapyprogram.htm Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicole_L anning
~ Goose Hunting in Seymour, Texas - Located less than three hours from Dallas, you and Dad can get away for a bit and enjoy the outdoors without straying too far off the beaten path. Remember to bring your own equipment and get suited up in your camo gear, so you can be ready to blend in with your surroundings. This idea works best if you are both early risers, since hunts typically start between 4:30 and 8:30 am.
~ Rafting on the Colorado River Float down the Colorado River at the base of the Grand Canyon for a four hour scenic look at area rock formations and wildlife. The trip covers 15 miles of river and a float through Glen Canyon. You can even take a short hike out to see some Indian petroglyphs while you are there.
Father's Day 2009 Trips to Take With Dad This Year This year, instead of buying Dad that book that will collect dust or the shirt he may or may not ever wear, give him a memory he can cherish for years to come - a vacation with one of his closest loved ones...YOU! Finding that perfect destination to visit with Dad can be a challenge, but it is a lot easier if you know exactly where to look. Something involving physical activity is a pretty safe bet and should be considered whenever possible. With that in mind, the following are a few ideas to kick around, some of which you may have considered and others that you might not have otherwise thought of:
~ Fishing Excursion in Eagle River, Alaska - Spend a few days taking advantage of top notch spinning and fly fishing for rainbow trout, salmon, lake trout, and arctic grayling. King salmon, which weigh between 30 and 40 pounds, are found in unusually large quantities on these trips. Make sure to have your fishing license in hand, and you and Dad are in for a real treat. ~ Round of Golf in Orlando, Florida - Florida is known as the land of golf courses, and the Hunter's Creek Golf Club is one of the best. Golf Digest has rated this course in their top 75, and it is also one of the longest courses in Florida. You can book a package that includes a bucket of balls, clubs, lunch, cart use, and 18 holes of golf. If what you are planning to do is not on this list and you need some more ideas for how to spend Father's Day, visit www.Reserve123.com. Jamie Siegel is a travel writer originally from upstate New York. She currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia and is passionate about all things related to music, pop culture, and, of course, travel. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Si egel
Love is the Way
Tantra is a path of love. When we learn to love ourselves as we are, and life as it is, we shift from suffering to acceptance. Each moment is an opportunity to open and practice being Love. As we begin to accept ourselves, we learn to accept life with its many contradictions. Rather than fight against what is arising, we allow life to be as it is. We stop listening to the judging voice that chatters in our head. We see the world as a reflection of our own inner landscape and rather than focusing on fixing the problems “out there,� we recognize that the change we desire begins inside of us. We become the Love we want to see in the world. Take the Self-Love Inventory How loving are you? When are you unkind or unconscious? How does the way you love yourself inform your experience of life? How do you limit love in your life? The Self-Love Inventory: How do you love your body? Do you feed it healthy food? Do you give it enough exercise? Do you touch it in pleasurable ways? Do you wear clothes that feel good? Do you appreciate it? Is your body an instrument of love?
Are you kind to your mind? Do you recognize the mind’s addiction to thinking? Do repetitive critical thoughts haunt you? Are you able to witness them without believing in them? Do you meditate and create spaces between your thoughts? How often is your mind at peace?
Acceptance is a portal to freedom from guilt, shame and suffering. Learn from your mistakes and experiences. Appreciate the gifts you have received. Accept your life. If you don’t like what’s happening take responsibility for it and change it. If you are suffering over the past and are unable to find acceptance, then seek out professional help so you can heal, release and transform. Learn to Live in the Now Time is an illusion. There is really only this moment. How much energy have you wasted worrying over the past or planning for a future event that never manifested? Are you living for today or are you putting your life on hold for some imagined future? Is your life so busy you don’t even notice the beauty around you? How often do you connect intimately with the people you love? What would need to change for you to live each day fully present?
Do you appreciate the emotions that flow through you? When emotions arise do you accept and feel them fully? Do you find healthy ways to express both positive and negative emotions? Do you deny, judge or put limitations on certain feelings? In what ways do you honor your Essence? Do you have a spiritual practice? Do you have a spiritual community that supports you? Do you feel alone in the world? How do you connect with Source? Do you recognize your own Divinity? You can’t give to others what you are unable or unwilling to give to yourself. When you are able to fill your own cup, by loving all aspects of yourself and recognizing you are not separate from Source, you become Love and it naturally flows through you and into the world for the benefit of all. Let Go of the Past It is easy to blame yourself and others over what has happened in the past. Bad things happen. Mistakes happen. Life can be painful.
Value “Being,” Over “Doing” We live in a “doing” based culture. Most of us have a ‘To Do List’. When we meet someone for the first time we ask, “What do you do?” A common greeting is, “How are you doing?” Our personal sense of value comes from what we have accomplished. Once a goal is reached, we mentally check it off our list, feeling a momentary sense of accomplishment. Soon we have a new goal to strive for. If a goal remains elusive then “the judge” shows up and labels us as “failures.” Doing becomes an addiction. What happens if we stop? Is it really ok to just be? Four years ago, I took a mid-life break and decided to focus on being instead of doing. I was a master doer. I had no idea what a challenge the first six months would be. Each day I woke up and habitually asked, “what I am I going to do today?” It took conscious effort to let go of control and trust that the day could unfold on its own. Gradually, I learned to relax and instead of “to doing” myself, I authentically responded to what was arising. Eventually, I remembered what I had known as a child—life is about being open, curious and playful.
Our True Nature is Love When we learn to surrender into the Now, we discover freedom. As we begin to live in the present moment we experience more peace and beauty in our lives. By filling our own cup with Love, Love flows through us. When we move beyond separation, we discover that Love is our true nature and the Source of all Being. By living as Love in each moment, we are creating a new world, one based on love instead of fear. Tantra teaches us to love ourselves, to love life, and to live in the moment. Crystal Dawn Morris, the founder of ‘Tantra for Awakening’, is a Certified Sky Dancing Tantra Teacher. Her classes, workshops and private coaching sessions give people practical tools for ecstatic living. For more information, contact Crystal at crystalm@magnifyyou.com
Keeping Your Teens Safe on Social Networking
Hundreds of teenagers will find themselves turned down from colleges and universities solely because of their Facebook and MySpace profiles. Others will find they are turned down when applying for jobs they would otherwise be accepted to. The reason is because of the images they’ve posted of themselves on their social networking sites holding beer cans and smoking marijuana. For some, it could be as simple as drinking from a red plastic cup. A recent study has shown that over 75% of teenagers have a profile on a social networking site like Facebook or Myspace, and over 50% of teens visit these sites everyday! The scary thing is that social networking is more than just a place to connect with friends. It’s now the place for job recruiters and college admittance staff to review a candidate’s social conduct.
Having an awareness of what’s on your teen’s social networking profile is critical to avoid the downfall of being turned down by colleges or losing out on jobs your teen would otherwise have. As with most things in the world, there are both positives and negatives to social networking. The key to success is to be smart about it. Be careful what your teen displays for the world to see, and be aware of your teen’s activity online. Beyond college acceptance and getting a job, having awareness of your teenager’s online presence is important to their overall safety. Recent studies show that over 50% of students use their social networking sites to make new friends not just in keeping connected to old friends. This is a quick way to get into trouble online. Your teenager needs to know it isn’t appropriate to accept friend requests from people they don’t know. It is critical that a teenager’s privacy settings are set to prevent people who aren’t their friends from seeing their profile. This will keep unwanted visitors from finding information about your teen.
“Social networking is more than just a place to connect with friends…”
aren’t posting inappropriate content. Lastly, and perhaps one of the most important steps is to set restrictive privacy settings that prevent unwanted users from visiting your child’s profiles. It is important for parents to remember that social networking has some wonderful benefits, like keeping in contact with friends and family who do not live nearby, to sharing photos and events with family and friends, to getting to know more about the people you connect with by reading their profiles. The development of technology has opened up enormous doors for people of all ages to connect, as long as it is used safely. Justin Sachs is a Teen Success Expert and the Bestselling Author of Your Mailbox Is Full. He coaches teenagers throughout the world to success and fulfillment in school and throughout life. Contact Justin: justins@magnifyyou.com
"Change Your Mindset, Change Your Life!"
In recent years, a new category of child predators has emerged. There are now social networking predators; people who create fake social networking profiles to trick other users into connecting with them. They may ask to meet in person, ask to chat via webcam, or ask for inappropriate pictures to be sent to them. What people don’t know is that these predators are often not who they say they are. They may even be opposite gender of that which they claim to be. Another problem with social networking is its impact on society’s ability for interpersonal communication. Studies are increasingly showing that teenagers are experiencing challenges with college interviews, job interviews, public speaking, etc. because they are used to hiding behind an email, a text message, or a comment online. This inhibits a teenager’s ability to speak powerfully in a one-on-one setting with adults and with other teens. So, what is acceptable usage of social networking and how do I ensure my teenagers safety? The first step to monitoring a teenager’s social networking page is to limit the amount of time they can spend online. My recommendation is 1-2 hours per night outside of homework. In addition, every parent should have a social networking site and should demand that their children be friends with them. This will keep inappropriate images from being posted on their page, as they don’t want their parents to see them either. The next step is for parents to begin monitoring the child’s social networking sites to ensure that they
We are living in an exciting time of great change; with the media spouting gloom and doom at us and many around us taking on and sharing in the fears and negative predictions, how do you stay in the excitement of new opportunities and possibilities, rather than in other’s negative projections? Here are a few strategies I have used successfully during this past year of change for me and some of the advice and coaching I provide my private clients. Focus on what your passion is: When you are focused on what you love, what you’re good at, and what you’re passionate about, you naturally exude an energy that is magnetic to others, which allows you to easily attract more opportunities and business. As a bonus, if you are focused, meaning you think specifically about what you want and love, you plan for
it and then you take action regarding having what you desire, you will most likely attract to you that which you focus on.
attract positive into your life and visa versa!
Know what makes you instantly happy, and do it Be grateful for what you have: often: Being happy is our “human Rather than complaining about, spirit’s” natural state of being, focusing on and noticing what you that’s why we all strive to feel that don’t have (then you’ll get more of way. Many of us have not taken what you don’t have), try having a the time to figure out what makes daily practice of beginning the us happy. My suggestion is to day with gratitude statements, or make a happy list and carry it writing what you are thankful for around with you to remind you in a gratitude journal. Remember what to do when you are what you unhappy. Make sure it is focus on you mostly made up of “When you have the get, when the activities that you can opportunity to receive, universe/God do by yourself, meaning make sure you understands you don’t have to gracefully receive!” that you are depend on anyone else thankful for for your happiness. what you have, the universe/God Some of mine include sitting by matches your energy and gives the pool and reading or writing, you more good. going to the beach, working out, and eating sushi. I suggest to my depressed clients that they do 1-3 See what’s in front of you and of these activities a day. I have an utilize it: Remember you are amazing success rate with surrounded by an abundance of depressed and anxious clients resources. Use what you have when they create and do their around you and be thankful, happy list activities along with my appreciative and grateful. What specially designed EMT can you use within your own technique. house or environment? Call upon your friends, or business colleagues for help, suggestions, These are just a few of the simple advice, recommendations, strategies I have used service or feedback and for hard successfully in my life that you resources they may have that can implement right now in order they can lend and give with or to Master a Mindset of Success, without payback. If you don’t ask, rather than Stress and Negativity. I practice these everyday and you don’t know if the now you can too! Go to universe/God/Source will work through those individuals and http://www.MasterThisMindsetGift .com for your Free Master This provide them the opportunity to Mindset™ Starter Kit give to you. When you have the opportunity to receive, make sure you gracefully receive! Remember: In order to be the person you have never been, In Let go of the past: Many of us order to have the Life and Relationships you have never allow our emotions to interfere had, You must do what you with our positive emotional have never done before! stability and energy. I recommend working with a coach to help you work through any negative energy By Dr. Cindy Brown: and feelings that may be blocking http://www.MasterThisMindsetGift you from manifesting and attracting to you what you desire. Remember you attract what you are, so if you are positive, you
Create your Dreams! Now is a better time than ever to live your dreams and create your own wealth. Take that passion or idea you have been burying away and put it to use. Entrepreneurialism can sound like a frightening word (and that's not just getting the spelling right!) The trouble is that many people assume that entrepreneurs are go-getters of the modern world, the high flying successes with bank balances bursting at the seams, and the Midas touch that turns ideas into gold overnight; they're the people whose bank managers call them up asking for a loan. The truth is very different. Ask any entrepreneur and they'll gladly put you right, and assure you that nothing could be further from the truth. Many of the common assumptions people associate with independent business owners, or sole traders, are woefully inaccurate, often gleaned from the media's obsession with personal individual success and the American Dream. Let's look at what being an entrepreneur really means, and who these people really are. Most entrepreneurs are ordinary people like you or me. They are very rarely the highflying successes, flung skywards through their success in the city. In fact, those who already have a successful city career, in what one might term a 'traditional' or 'normal' job are the least likely to step from behind the security of their desk, and brave the world alone. Generally those who do take the initiative are those who are either fed up with the
Krystal is our beautiful young blushing bride. She has long rich blonde ringlets which frame her beautiful innocent face. Her large luminous green eyes are startling and look solemn with anticipation. They are fringed with extraordinary eyelashes. She has a perfect little nose and rosebud mouth. Her double layer fine lace veil is dotted with tiny snowflakes and trimmed with more lace. She can wear it over face or all to the back. Something every girl dreams about.
also wears lace edged pantaloons, lace stockings and pink garters. Krystal is wearing matching white fabric slippers. She carries a matching bouquet to the flowers in her hair, which is framed in the same lace as her veil and accented with pink and white ribbons. She also wears two strands of pearls around her neck. Krystal is lovingly handcrafted and hand painted of the finest bisque porcelain. Her curls were specially done by an experienced hairdresser. Her arms are quite flexible and pose able.
Her dress with its puffed sleeves, which narrow down at her delicate wrists, and pearl encrusted bodice, with a three tier layered lace skirt is just dreamy. Under her skirt she wears a stiff petticoat to give body to the dress. She
She stands 17” tall and comes with her own stand. Numbered Certificate of Authenticity and is a Marlene’s Collection original – a true investment in the future.
Marlene's Collection | 56 Goulding Crescent, Kanata Lakes, Ontario, K2K2N9, Canada Tel: (613) 591-1701 | Fax: (613) 592-0070
monotony or sheer frustration which accompanies many jobs these days, or who have a burning personal desire or passion, a dream they feel compelled to follow. We all have dreams, hopes and ambitions. Entrepreneurs are simply those people who have gotten up from their comfortable office chair with lumbar support and arm rests, and stepped outside to do something about those dreams, ambitions and desires. They are passionate people, with self-belief and determination. But let's consider the next assumption that tends to walk into such a discussion: risk. Most people, at least, most people who have never tried, will happily tell you that starting out on your own, becoming your own boss, and starting up your own business idea is incredibly risky, and that it is likely to cost you a fortune, and that you'll see very little income for years—that is assuming you survive long enough to earn anything. Most of this scaremongering is meant well, but generally comes
from those who could never become entrepreneurs because they are lacking in self-belief. Too many of us package our dreams and ambition in a small box, and then lock it away in a filing cabinet in the basement of the office block where we have willingly become imprisoned, until we retire and are released back into society. This is not to say you have to become an entrepreneur, but only that it is your right and your obligation to decide your dreams and whether they are obtainable or not. You are in control of your destiny! There is risk in anything, as we can see today, with the stock market looking gloomy, traders panicking, businesses crashing, and an increasing number of people finding themselves out of work. There is no longer such a thing as job security, or a job for life—in any business. Entrepreneurialism is a way of protecting yourself, to a certain degree, by taking greater control over your finances, career and future. You become the boss, aware of all aspects of your business, and able to make sensible decisions both within your business and your personal life. You have full knowledge of the situation and all relevant factors. Who can honestly say that, while working for a company or business, your boss keeps you fully informed of every possible risk and problem occurring which could potentially jeopardize the future of your job, income or even the company? Very few!
Entrepreneurialism is not risk free—that would be absurd to suggest, but the risks are known, and manageable. You're in control, and that alone can make a world of difference to your peace of mind. Stress is largely down to a feeling that you are not in control; no matter how much needs doing, or whatever the pressure, stress only becomes an issue when we feel over burdened with worries and pressure, and unable to control where we are and what we are expected to do. If you have a business idea, a hobby you'd like to turn into a home business, a work from home opportunity you'd like to pursue, or a ground breaking product or service you'd like to launch, then running your own business may be for you. This provides you the opportunity to follow your dreams, lower stress, feel in control, and be positive about your future. All you need is a plan, a dream and of course, belief in yourself. Brett Baughman is the Author of “Strategies for Success”, he is a renowned speaker and success coach featured in the film I-ology. Brett specializes in transforming clients lives to produce extraordinary results. To learn more, contact Brett at brettb@magnifyyou.com
Five Main Steps to Having the Body of Your Dreams
The diet industry would not want you to know what I’m about to share with you, so let’s not tell them, okay? And put your wallet away - this one’s for free and this one’s on me. I’ve spent the last 67 years of my life thinking I was fat. I got so good at it that I turned it into obesity at one point. I cannot recall a single moment when I didn’t want this curse to go away, so I spent many of my waking moments searching for a cure. Boy, did I find one, and that’s what I want to share with you so that you can experience the hope that you can have the body of your dreams and you don’t have to diet and exercise to get it. In all of my searching for a solution for being fat and using obesity as a catalyst, I discovered the truth of life: this wonderful experience we all have in common is a mental experience. Everything that happens in your life (yes, folks, even the stuff we’ve been blaming on some Higher Power) has happened because you thought it first. Now this fact would require a whole book of explanation, but I want to give you some how-to’s to get you started, so could you please just trust me on this “it’s all mental” concept for right now, because I’m going to provide some tools for you to use so you can prove it to yourself as I did.
There are five main steps to having the body of your dreams: 1. Create a Mind Model 2. Think Your Mind Model Three Times Every Day 3. Set a Timer for 15 minutes 4. Congratulate Yourself Each Night & Renew Your Intention For The Next Day. 5. Persevere Create a Mind Model. A Mind Model is a list of ‘right’ thoughts you want to think about your new dream body. On a piece of paper, write down and answer the following questions. •
What is the main thing you want to accomplish? Write it down.
•
Next, think of five sub-ideas that feed into your main idea. Write them down.
•
Now, think of five sub-ideas for each of the five feeder subideas and write them down.
When you’re finished with the main idea, the sub ideas and their sub-subs, you’ll have 31 ideas centered on the ‘Main Idea’ you want to accomplish.
Type this up, print several copies to place in several areas, (your purse, your work area, by the chair where you watch TV, in front of the sink where you brush your teeth, post one where you wash dishes, and keep one in the car) to remind you and keep you on track. This is your Mind Model. This is what you are going to think about yourself specifically and with intention in Step Two. Remember, in this mental universe I mentioned, each one of the 31 ideas came from within your mind. Think Your Mind Model Three Times Every Day. Right thought requires someone to think it. You created 31 right thoughts about the body of your dreams in Step One and now you get to think it. As you are thinking each of the 31 right ideas you crafted, enjoy them as succulent pieces of the new you about to emerge. Sink into the gorgeousness of the You that crafted them and hold in mind that you are working toward a state of absolute conviction that those 31 right thoughts are true about you right now. Where do you go for validation? Your mirror? No, it’s not there yet. Go inside your mind where those 31 thoughts originated. That is where they are absolutely true, right now. If you know it’s true about you right now, it will manifest forth onto your body. Be on the lookout for doubt and fear. They cannot be tolerated as part
of this process or you will defeat what you want to accomplish. If you catch yourself thinking thoughts that are not on your Mind Model list, stop yourself from thinking them. It’s the old habit of how you currently think about yourself (and which caused your body to look as it currently does) that we are trying to replace with something fresh, new and more accurate. This old thought habit certainly hasn’t created something you are comfortable with, has it? You can revive your body with a new habit. Set a Timer for 15 Minutes. In the beginning, concentrating on only one set of right ideas might be challenging for you. This means turning off all outside influence: TV, cell phone, friends “Go inside your dropping by. You want to create an environment of peace and quiet so that you can focus on thinking into place what you want to accomplish. Take out a copy of your Mind Model and read through all the words you wrote carefully and with the passionate intention that they manifest on your body. Time yourself and see how long it takes. You might have to repeat it several times. Try not to let your mind wander. Work to keep your thought focused on only those ideas you wrote down. It sometimes helps to light a candle during this step so that you can focus on the flame and allow it to represent your intention. It might seem that 45 minutes a day is too much to stop doing all of your other activities and focus on your Mind Model. In a mental world where your thought is causative, the only way to activate that Cause is to think, so please indulge me and Just Do It, as Nike recommends. I have found that this discipline actually serves as a personal reminder of what I truly desire at other times throughout the day and that as I get better at this, I am “praying without ceasing” as instructed.
You can renew the way you think about your Self. Congratulate Yourself Each Night & Renew Your Intention For The Next Day. Recognition and Gratitude are a big part of success when working mentally. Each evening, take notice of what you accomplished during the day. Did you create a Mind Model? Do you have copies strategically posted? Did you accomplish three fifteen-minute think sessions? If not, can you do that tomorrow? Do you recognize the value of doing this mental work? If not, are you willing to persevere until you do? Did you experience doubt and fear that the process will or won’t work? What did you do to eliminate them? These will block your progress. Are you truly
mind… it will manifest forth onto grateful you discovered this new method so you can get off the diet and exercise yo-yo syndrome? If you don’t feel accomplished today, can you work to feel accomplished tomorrow? Please pat yourself on the back for the things you did accomplish today – maybe it was only one 15-minute session. Hooray! Celebrate that one. Look inside you. How did it make you feel while you were thinking it? Hopeful? Celebrate the good feeling. And what precisely and specifically are your plans for tomorrow? Good! Everyday is a new beginning. Now you can sleep well. Persevere. “Never, never, never quit.” – Winston Churchill. He also said “Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm.” So, in a mental universe, how long can you persevere with your intentions toward your dream body? Certainly you are worth all the effort it takes. So, never, never, never quit. Do these five steps until you see the results you want. The battlefield is being fought inside your own mind and you can win this fight.
I have persevered for so many years I have lost count. There have been a lot of bumps in the road. There have been many, many fears and doubts to dig out by the roots. There has been a lot of criticism for what appeared to be me doing nothing. (Well, how could they see that inside my mind I was working assiduously?) I have experienced rejection of men who needed that ‘armcandy-look’ to feel good about themselves. But I’ve never quit. And after utilizing my mind model, coupled with both action and perseverance, I am experiencing success. I am restoring myself to the real me that’s been locked inside for all these years. Nobody told me how specifically. Nobody else knew what to advise. But I’m so happy I can share what has your body…” worked for me, with you. Please share this with your friends who suffer with having a bodily expression that dissatisfies them. There’s hope, and now you have the tools to keep yourself fresh and on track when you are mentally re-shaping your body. Pat Matson uses the education she’s received, the experiences she’s enjoyed, the lessons Life has taught her along with a deep-seated sense of spirituality, and a passion to share her understanding to help women who struggle with bodily issues. To contact Pat and find out more about your own World of Within and to achieve self-love and self-acceptance through Pat’s tips and resources, email patm@magnifyyou.com
The Fresh Splendor of Exotic Design
The allure of borrowing design elements from other lands is instinctively appealing for many, yet for others it is an appreciation that develops more slowly. It is a road less traveled by some, yet for others it is a gateway, that once you traverse it, infuses your surroundings with indigenously inspired design and soulful expressiveness that surpasses all others.
These can be freely incorporated into a home sparingly on stair risers or gloriously on wainscoting in bathrooms, hallways, and dining rooms. Generally, few do it is as gracefully and splendidly as countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The list of treasures is endless, wall surfaces decorated with earth pigments in phantasmagorical patterns as well as classically restrained formats. Tortoise shelled bamboo and inlaid materials are applied onto objects that dazzle the eye…In these parts of the world creators see everything as
around you. I was rather challenged with this as a child as you will see: When I was a young child anything that was of an exotic, or to be more exact, of a Middle Eastern origin terrified me. Even, or should I say especially music of an Arab genre in a cartoon, which surprisingly there is quite a bit of, imparted a sense of entrapment and dread beyond reason.
Naturally, regions develop and coin design elements based on their collective geography, A glimpse of Middle Eastern history, cultural and spiritual script on a coffee label or signage affinities. Green design often left me running for safety with harks back to the seemingly sweaty palms and dilated pupils. simplistic straightforwardness of This is from a child that grew up “form follows function”. As in Los Angeles who at the age of beautiful as seven rode that train of public thought is, it transportation “My French mother and Italian father thought there must be some deranged does not buses gene in the opposing family lineage that brought on this absurd perception…” guarantee to throughout stir the heart. the vast city, their canvas, and no object just for fun without anyone whether it is from nature or man There is magic in the hand knowing. So “fearful” and made, is too humble to create a woven, individually hand dyed “retiring”, I wasn't. sensation for the eye and a patterns of ikat fabrics from these dedicated surface for the artist at parts of the world. The inlaid This singular fear based behavior heart. wooden furniture, the brilliant became a huge joke in my natural dyes used in opulent silks European born, well traveled Soetsu Yanagi says it best, “The and carpet designs, the humble family. chief characteristic of handcrafts tightly woven straw that looks is that they maintain by their very smashing upholstered on a One, because I was the only nature a direct link with the ceiling in an otherwise blue and member on both sides of my human heart, so that the work white room. parents to be born in the US; and always partakes of a human two, I was the only sibling in the quality. Machine made things are It’s hard to overlook the rustic and family that was born here. children of the brain; they are not refined clay and cement tiles very human.” which tell a story of the So you can imagine the wonderment of geometric designs xenophobic jokes, the past life When you deem everything or the lovingly depicted elements jokes, the "you've got to hand it to worthy of artistic attention, it is a from nature. her, she really reached to find a way of renewing your connection unique angle to get attention" and dedication to the world jokes.
And yes, for Halloween they all thought it was so funny to get me a belly dancing costume or some annoying get up that smacked of the dreaded region. My French mother and Italian father thought there must be some deranged gene in the opposing family lineage that brought on this absurd perception. But no luck, no breakthrough until I opened my eyes to some of the greatest art in the world. In my mother's wisdom, she took me to a Spring celebration at one of her colleague's home. Of course it was a Persian Spring Celebration – Noruz. How was I to know that I should flee before the door opened? I didn't have time; and in my family, one never created drama in public, under any circumstance; period. Full stop. I entered the house on top of the Hollywood Hills which had a view of the city. It was a gorgeous home with vast walls filled with exquisite contemporary art and huge, wondrous Oriental rugs on honey colored stone floors. For the Noruz celebration, which literally translates to "New Day"; there was a large green colored marble table filled with beautiful objects that were symbolic for the occasion. Pots of hyacinth, a mother of pearl mirror, a stunning pair of candlesticks, pomegranates, honey almonds, gold fish in a hand blown bowl, ancient gold coins, and more graced the table on a hand embroidered cloth of gold and cerise. I was starting to feel queasy at the music which was playing; but the compelling visuals and the flowing good will from everyone somewhat quelled it. I was distracted and stunned by the fresh splendor of it all and for the first time, my rather unusual family seemed quite staid in comparison.
My eyes were opened with spring freshness on the day that the sun was directly over the equator, and the north and south poles of the earth lie along the solar terminator. As the sunlight was evenly divided between the north and south hemispheres, I too became aligned with the spirit of spring. Get aligned with the spirit of expression, utilize your faculty of wonder and renew your personal environment. Here are few of my favorite sources I use when searching for the right balance for my clients. To your design adventure! Tile and Mosaics http://www.mosaichse.com Gorgeous collection of tiles and wooden screens for architectural detailing. These wooden screens make fabulous shutters or wainscoting and door surrounds. http://www.arttile.com They have some wonderful copper and blue tiles with a peacock motif
http://www.silkroadcollection.com Asian furniture, accessories and decorative arts. Textiles http://www.exoticindinart.com Don’t leave without checking this out in the fabric section - “The Eight Symbols of Good Fortune” is on page 3. Comes in several jewel like colors. Some exceptional fabrics for windows coverings, upholstery, bedding and wall hangings. http://www.uzbekalive.com Contemporary hand dyed and hand woven silk ikat fabric. http://www.fabricandart.com Fabrics and trim from all over the world. Beautiful and well priced beaded trim as well. Some of their beaded trims look great on simple flat roman shades. Michelle Viggiano is an entrepreneur juggling three diverse companies spanning the luxury goods arena to the environmental services sector. Contact Michelle with your household and environment friendly questions: michellev@magnifyyou.com
http://www.justmorocco.com Almost any of their glazed tiles would look fantastic and mysteriously refreshing lining a pool and it’s less expensive than resurfacing. Beautiful sinks and countertops. http://www.dezahra.com Refined tiles and finishes check out their mosaic medallions, gorgeous! Lighting and Furniture http://www.tazidesings.com Great exterior fixtures and indoor hanging lamps as well as other items http://www.wunderley.com Exquisite inlaid chests and vanities for bathrooms. http://www.charlesjacobsen.com Some of most beautiful Indian furniture and stone pieces in Los Angeles http://www.antiquetibet.com I frequently check their collections as there is always a hidden jewel
Revitalize with the use of Healthy Healing Herbs and Essential Oils Last Saturday when I was looking through the herb selection at the farmers market, I was considering what herbs I would plant this spring. As I was thinking, I pieced together a list of my favorite herbs that I like to add to dishes
because of the wonderful flavors they contribute and thought of the various medicinal properties of each one. The use of fresh herbs to revitalize and restore the human body has been a viable option for centuries. Therapeutic Grade essential oils are far more potent and highly regarded for their revitalizing and rejuvenating effect.
University of Kiel researchers found that peppermint blocked headache pain. Oregano - Is often used in tomato sauces, with fried vegetables, and grilled meat. Together with basil, it contributes much to the distinctive character of many Italian dishes.
neutralizes carcinogens in cigarette smoke and is good for urinary tract infections and nerve stimulation. Parsley is also nutrient rich, containing betacarotene, folic acid, vitamin C and vitamin A. Rosemary is used frequently in traditional Mediterranean cuisine such as barbecue or grilled meats.
“The use of fresh herbs to revitalize and restore the human body has been a viable option for centuries…”
Dill – Use in Greek dishes, pickling, fish dishes & cheddar dill scones. Dill can be used to treat sleeplessness; dill is also good for the spleen. It may help with stomach ache, indigestion, flatulence and colic. Dill is high in lutein, a carotenoid phytochemical shown to be essential for eye health and preventing macular degeneration. The dill plant is mentioned in the Papyrus of Ebers from Egypt (1550 BC). Roman gladiators rubbed their skin with dill before each match.
Marjoram – It is included in the herb blend Herbes de Provence and Italian & Greek recipes. Marjoram is tremendous as an antioxidant. Marjoram oil is also an effective anti-microbial agent, helping to prevent food spoilage. Marjoram was known as the "herb of happiness" to the Romans and "joy of the mountains" to the Greeks. It was believed to increase longevity. Research shows the Medical Properties to include: Antibacterial, antifungal, vasodilator, lowers blood pressure, promotes intestinal peristalsis. Peppermint – Use this herb in tea, ice cream and dessert. It is said to be purifying and stimulating to the conscious mind. Dr. William N. Dember of the University of Cincinnati found that inhaling peppermint oil increased the mental accuracy by 28 percent. Alan Hirsch, M.D. researched peppermint's stimulation of the brain's satiety center to curb appetite.
Oregano is referred to as “nature's antibiotic”. Oil from the oregano plant has been shown to kill unwanted viruses, bacteria, yeast, fungus and parasites. Oregano also has powerful antioxidant capabilities, it is a natural antihistamine and helps to regenerate liver cells. Parsley is often used as a garnish. The fresh flavor of the green parsley goes extremely well with potato dishes, with rice dishes, with fish, fried chicken, lamb, steaks, meat or vegetable stews (like Beef Bourguignon, Goulash or Chicken paprikash). In Southern and Central Europe, parsley is part of bouquet-garni; which is a bundle of fresh herbs used to flavor stocks, soups, and sauces. Freshly chopped green parsley is used as a topping for soups like chicken soup, green salads or salads, on open sandwiches with cold cuts. Parsley is a key ingredient in several West Asian salads, for example tabbouleh. Persillade is a mixture of chopped garlic and chopped parsley in the French cuisine. Gremolata is a traditional accompaniment to the Italian veal stew, Ossobuco alla milanese, which is a mixture of parsley, garlic, and lemon zest. A potent cancer fighter, especially in its juiced form, parsley has been found in animal studies to inhibit tumor formation. It
Rosemary has antimicrobial, antioxidant, antispasmodic, astringent and carminative properties. A cup of rosemary tea has been found to be as effective as aspirin for headaches and other inflammatory symptoms. Rosemary has also been found to be protective against free radical damage caused by radiation; and keeping a rosemary plant indoors acts as a natural air freshener. Thyme is often used to flavor meats, soups and stews. It has a particular affinity to, and is often used as, a primary flavor with lamb, tomatoes and eggs. Thyme is a natural antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative and expectorant. It has been found in in-vitro studies to effectively eliminate aflatoxin, carcinogenic mold that grows on grains and peanuts that have been improperly stored. Herb Red Potato and Green Bean Salad • • • • • • • • • • • •
8 ounces green beans, trimmed, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces 3 pounds small red-skinned potatoes, unpeeled, halved 2 tablespoons dry vermouth 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1 large shallot, chopped 1 tablespoon coarse-grained Dijon mustard 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill 1 tablespoon chopped fresh marjoram 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Cook beans in a large saucepan of boiling salted water until crisp-
tender, 4 minutes. Drain. Transfer to bowl of ice water. Drain; pat dry with paper towels. Cook potatoes in a large pot of boiling salted water until just tender, about 12 minutes. Drain; transfer to large bowl. Sprinkle vermouth over hot potatoes; toss gently and let stand 5 minutes. Whisk vinegar, shallot, and mustard in small bowl. Gradually whisk in oil. Pour over potatoes and toss to coat. Cool completely. Mix in green beans and herb mixture. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.) Serve cold or at room temperature. Note: this information is only provided as a general reference and is not a replacement for professional health advice. As such, this information should only be used under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner. Amy Wilcox Doebler is the owner of Mia Cucina, a unique facility that will house & lease 5 health department approved kitchens, opening in the San Fernando Valley in 2009. Originally inspired by her mother’s great cooking skills and her father’s passion for food, she has over 10 years of professional experience as a personal chef, recipe developer, writer, and teacher. Contact Amy at amywd@magnifyyou.com
HERBS, GROWING – HARVESTING – USES Herbs can be used for a variety of things and are perfect to plant in the spring. These annual, perennial, and shrubby plants are chiefly grown for culinary uses, but are also used for its healing and aromatic properties. Generally, herbs need a light, fertile, well-drained soil and full sun. They can be grown in odd corners in the garden, adding depth and variety to your garden. Ideally, the site should be in a south-facing position and on a slight slope. Beds should be
planned to allow easy access to each group of plants, placing tallgrowing varieties at the back where they do not overshadow smaller ones. Keep herbs, which thrive in moist soil, at the base of the slope. Many herbs can also be grown in window boxes and placed in pots on a windowsill. The windowsill should face south or west so that the plants receive direct sunshine for the greater part of the day. The time of harvesting varies according to whether the herbs are being grown for their leaves, flowers, seeds, or stems. Plants grown for their leaves and stems should be gathered in the young
leafy stage before flowering begins. Harvest flower heads when in full bloom and seeds when the pods ripen and begin to turn yellow or brown. Choose a dry day for harvesting the herbs, and gather them early in the day before the sun becomes hot, but after the morning dew has vanished. Handle the sprigs of leafy shoots carefully to avoid bruising. Large leaves may be stripped off the stems before drying, but small leaves are better left on the sprigs. Spread the leaves and sprigs thinly in flat shallow containers, ideally on cheesecloth-covered frames which will allow air circulation.
herbs and flowers make pleasant mixtures. Fragrant mixtures include: lemon thyme with verbena; fragrant-leaved geranium with rosemary and a few cloves with a piece of orange or lemon verbena; and equal parts of peppermint, lemon verbena, lemon balm, rose geranium and rose petals. Some culinary herbs would include: basil, used fresh or dried in soups, omelettes, salads, fish dishes. Balm, lemon scented, used in fresh fruit salads, and iced tea. Chives, used fresh in salads, soups, egg and cheese dishes, and sauces. Rosemary, used in poultry stuffing and omelettes. Thyme, used in stuffings for rich meats, fish, as well as in casseroles. Other culinary herbs include: bay, borage, sage, tarragon, marjoram, fennel, dill, rue, hyssop, and garlic. Visit your local garden center nursery for herbs that grow best in your zone. Shelley Smith is a Horticulturist and Landscape Designer with well over 30 year’s experience. She owns a Landscape Design Company based in Gilbert, Arizona. Contact Shelley with your gardening questions at shelleys@magnifyyou.com
Place the containers in a dry, warm and airy place, out of the sunshine. Leave for at least four to five days, turning the herbs once a day. They are ready for storing when they have become brittle and rattle slightly when touched. The leaves should be completely dry before storing permanently. Check this by keeping them in a clear glass container for a week and check for signs of moisture. If moisture occurs, remove herbs from container and dry a few more days.
Here is an Easy Birthday Cake to Make Grandma!
When completely dry, largeleaved herbs should be stripped from the stems. Small-leaved, fine-stemmed herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, retain their flavor better when stored whole and crumbled before use.
O.K. Grandma's birthday is tomorrow and your child wants to help bake and decorate the cake. You want an easy birthday cake.
Discard as much chaff as possible and pack the leaves or sprigs into a small clear jar. Clear jars should be stored in a dark place.
This will be an easy birthday cake so don't worry.
The procedure for drying flower heads and seed pods is the same. Apart from their culinary uses, dried herbs may be used to make sachets and potpourris, which gives off a long-lasting fragrance in rooms, drawers and linen closets. Lavender sachets are quite popular, but many other
How about a 9 x 13 inch cake? Flour the pan and mix the cake mix. That part is easy enough. You can do that. Now bake it at 350 for about 25 minutes or so. You don't want to bake it too long as it will be dry.
When it is done take it out of the pan. Put it on an over sized piece of cardboard that you covered with foil. You will want to scrape the sides before doing this Put the cardboard on the pan then flip it. If it doesn't come out put a wet towel on the bottom of the pan which will now be on top. Put the cake in the freezer. Chill about 2 hours. Now you can ice it with bought icing. Get some M&Ms or other candies. Let your child make the HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMA in M & Ms. Use a toothpick to outline it and then let them place the M&Ms in the outline.
Mini M&Ms work really well but kids might not be able to hold those as well. If you want you can use other gum drops for borders or something else. Use whatever candy is Grandma's favorite or what you have. This is an easy birthday cake and we know Grandma will love it because it was made by one of her favorite people in the world. Making and decorating cakes can be fun and profitable. Saving money and making money are always good ideas. By Mary Redfoot: If you enjoy cake decorating visit our site for more information. You can watch a video on decorating a cake with chocolate too. http://www.squidoo.com/DecoratingBeautifulCakes. You can learn the art of cake decorating. It is fun, easy and can be profitable. http://www.squidoo.com/DecoratingBeautifulCakes Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Redfoot
Explore Family Tree Scrapbooking How to Put Together a Lasting Legacy
Letters or pieces of writing by your ancestors. This can include any and all letters written by your family members-- to their spouses, to children or to important personalities of the day. Any letters of appreciation received by your family members. Look for documents acknowledging distinction in civic service, appreciation for war time service, academic performance etc. Copies of census records which include references to your ancestors; copies of birth, death, and marriage certificates, church records and any other documents that define the social life of people in your family. Transcripts of interviews you've conducted with family members or accounts of interesting family stories you've heard from them. Some people come across scrapbook-worthy things in the course of researching their family tree; some simply have them lying around the house; others inherit them. Still others choose to search for them. If you haven't already done this, then the best way to start off is by contacting your relatives and collecting the items and information they possess. Ask for specific items that are of interest to you-- often, people either forget they have something or don't consider it valuable, so jog their memories and challenge their imaginations with your own suggestions. Make sure everything you collect is well organized and accurately labeled. That way you'll always be sure to include all the relevant information that helps put a particular item in its historical and personal context.
Ever wondered how you can keep all your family history artifacts alive, safe and well-organized? Ever wondered how to best present all the scattered bits and pieces that together form the patchwork of your family's past? Family tree scrapbooking is a great way to both present and preserve your ancestral memorabilia and family lore. It can work as a fulfilling hobby that will leave a legacy for the future generations. Here is what you need to know to successfully get started on this amazing journey. Family tree scrapbooking lets you unleash your creativity and imagination. There are few rules and lots of scope. Just about the only firm rule you should follow is: plan ahead! Determine how you are going to lay out your scrapbook-- chronologically, by family branches? Carefully plan your layout before you start, so that you can get that perfect scrapbook worthy of carrying your family memories to future generations. Here are some of the things you will definitely want to include: Photographs - both old and new ones. Try collecting family photographs through an organized family gettogether or during individual interviews with your relatives.
Keep scraps of paper and paper clips handy, so that you can remember who the original owner of the item is. People often want their original photographs returned to them-- that is fine, since scans or photocopies work great for family tree scrapbooking purposes. And don't forget to look on the back of photographs and jot down any notes that may exist there, identifying dates, people or places in the photograph. Make the whole scrapbook come alive through decorations and embellishments. Be free and imaginative and leave your own personal imprint: use fabric and ribbons (vintage ones are great), add colors, use stencils or calligraphy. Feel free to add historical significance by including items from the relevant era, like stamps and coins, even if they did not belong to your family per se. Your family tree scrapbook can take the people who are reading on an unforgettable odyssey through the ages, bringing documents and information to life. Done correctly and with joy and feeling, family tree scrapbooking is one of the most powerful ways we have of connecting to our past. Julia Hanson is a genealogy expert. For more great information on family tree scrapbooking visit http://www.Build-Family-Tree.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julia_Hanson
cooler filled with ice or skinny dipping in the lake back home. And hell, if it didn't work; I'm here. I never forgot that," he sat back. "This," he pointed to his head," was my greatest weapon of all. And it has served me ever since, no matter what or where the battle."
Leaving the Wilderness Alive How to survive when all you’ve got is you ~ (Part 1)
In this first of two part series, licensed psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and crisis counselor, Judith Acosta delves in to various situations which creates stress and anxiety. She explains how we can survive, and overcome, stressful times utilizing mind-over-matter techniques. Lt. Costello (name and place changed, but the story is true) sat behind a large, conspicuously clean desk at the Tarrytown Police Station in N.Y. He was cool, composed, and seemed as uncluttered mentally as he was physically. The awards on his book cases and certificates on the wall attested to a long, successful career. “I paid my dues�, he smiled as he scanned the room and the work it all represented. As he saw it, however, his career really started in Vietnam when he was only a teenager serving in the U.S. Army. It was there, assigned to an armored car division sent deep into the jungle, that he learned what it took to survive physically, mentally, and emotionally. He was on a mission in the Delta, it was summer and the temperature outside had reached upwards of 115 degrees Fahrenheit before noon. Inside the tank it was at best unbearable under normal conditions. On one particular day he still remembers with stunning clarity, it was lifethreatening.
"It must have been 130 or more inside. It was hot in a way I had never experienced before. I couldn't stop sweating, couldn't drink enough, couldn't just get up and go to the bathroom. I was burning up. I don't mean that metaphorically. I was literally burning up and I had to lower my body temperature somehow or I was going to die. Funny how it didn't scare me. It was just as clear to me as the coffee in front of me now. It was a fact. I had no air conditioning. I couldn't get out of the tank. There was nowhere to go except a POW camp, if I was lucky enough to get caught and not killed right away. I remember thinking that I should have been panicking. Instead, I was utterly, crystal clear. It was in the space of such a small moment that I realized it was completely up to me. Whether I survived or not was between me and my own mind." The lieutenant sat forward, his body compressed with the intensity of the experience, still vivid in him. "For some reason, I thought about something I'd heard about some monks in the Himalayas, how they went outside in subzero temperatures and howling winds to meditate and never suffered any ill effects. They raised their own thermostats. And I figured if they could do it that way, I could lower it. To this day I don't know exactly what I did or how I did it, but I imagined cool water inside me and around me, like I was dunking myself into a
Post-9/11 Sensibilities Since 9/11 the two ratingsbuilding spin words are survival and emergency. Today, Americans are fed a regular diet of security alerts, color-coded for those who need the visual aids, preparedness strategies, complete with thousands of products one can buy for only $49.95 plus shipping and handling, and countless medications courtesy of the pharmaceutical industry to help us all manage the resulting anxiety, depression, and despair. This is not all that different from the build-a-bunker-mentality of the anti-communist frenzy during the cold war and the subsequent pill-popping that ensued. We had to protect ourselves then no matter what it took. And we feel the same urgency now. But most of the people who are building bunkers today, anxiously watching the colors flip back and forth from orange to red alert status, packing enormous first aid kits when they go hiking on local trails, or getting into armored tanks that can put holes through mountains are prepared in almost every way except what scientists are now coming to believe is the most important way. And that is the way of the mind. The images we hold in our minds seem to be held in our bodies as well. What we think is what we are. What we feel determines how we heal. Dr. Larry Dossey, best-selling author and one of the foremost proponents of mind/body medicine, has written, "Images create bodily changes just as if the experience were really happening. For example, if you imagine yourself lying on a beach in the sun, you become relaxed, your peripheral blood vessels dilate, and your hands
become warm, as in the real thing." If this is even partially true, it is an astonishing statement. The case to definitively establish the link between mind and body was opened almost 1,500 years ago when Hippocrates wrote that a person might yet recover from his or her belief in the goodness of the physician. Belief, image, thought--these were all clinical givens long before the advent of modern technology. In 1912 one doctor reported that tuberculosis patients who had previously been on the mend, when given bad news (e.g., that a relative had passed away) took sudden turns for the worse and died. It was not called stress medicine or psychoneuroimmunology at that time, but the concepts were the same. And today the data supporting the connection between thoughts and health, indeed between mental images and survival, are mounting.
personally experienced the physiologic power of thought or imagery. In one study, moviegoers were monitored (via machines which record galvanic skin responses) and found to unconsciously mimic what was occurring on screen with micromuscle movements. When someone in the movie jumped, the muscles ordinarily responsible for jumping in the person watching the movie made similar movements. Brain scans have similarly shown that when we imagine an event, our thoughts light up the areas of the brain that are triggered during
saying the right words in the right way we are able to speak directly to the body, reduce an inflammatory response, help to slow down or stop bleeding, change the way an event is interpreted so that it is experienced differently IN the body. Thinking Past Illness The scientific community seems to be coming to this conclusion. "There is ample evidence that negative thoughts and feelings can be harmful to the body," says Lorenzo Cohen, director of the Integrative Medicine Program at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Stress is known to be a factor in heart disease, headaches, asthma and many other illnesses. Studies by Janice Kiecolt-Glaser and Ronald Glaser at Ohio State University show once again how even relatively minor stressors--a job interview or a speaking engagement, for example--can sufficiently compromise the immune system so as to predispose one to illness. The researchers found that a marital spat delays woundhealing and that the stress of caring for an Alzheimer's patient leaves the caregiver more vulnerable to illness even years later.
“The images we hold in our minds seem to be held in our bodies as well‌â€?
Images and Immunity "We now can measure changes in immune cells and the brain in ways that give us objective scientific proof of the connection between them," says Mary Jo Kreitzer, director of the Center for Spirituality & Healing at the University of Minnesota. In psychotherapy circles, it is now considered common knowledge that people under hypnosis can be given suggestions and make them manifest in their bodies immediately. For example, a person who is given the suggestion that he is being touched by a burning cigarette will produce a burn blister even though the object that was actually touching him was neither hot nor cold. People known to suffer from multiple personality disorders have even been documented with allergic responses when presenting in one personality but not in the others. Muscle movement is no different and, according to researchers, anyone who's ever watched a movie has
the actual event. Sports psychologists have been responsible for extensive work in this area. In one study, skiers were wired to EMG machines and monitored in a manner similar to the movie-goers except that they were being monitored for electrical impulses sent to the muscles as they mentally rehearsed their downhill runs. The skiers' brains sent the same instructions to their bodies whether they were doing a jump or just thinking about it. What does this mean for a person out in the mountains who suddenly finds himself stuck in a downpour and unable to get out before dark when the temperature is expected to fall nearly 40 degrees? How does this help someone with an asthma attack in the middle of a lake or a person with a broken leg one hour from the nearest ranger station? How does this help a rock scrambler or skier have the performance of a lifetime and keep themselves calm and healthy? What some people claim is that it can mean the difference between life and death. The simple notion is that the words we say (to ourselves and to one another) do matter, that they affect us both physically and mentally, there are ways to speak that make those words healing no matter what the situation. By
Next month, we bring you Part 2; Judith gives detailed explanation, and examples, how to utilize mind-over-matter during times of stress. Judith Acosta is a licensed psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and crisis counselor. She is the co-author of The Worst is Over, hailed as the "Bible of Crisis Communications." She has trained paramedics, fire fighters, police officers and medical professionals in Verbal First Aid around the U.S.. She has also given seminars on the healing power of animals, trauma and burnout, stress reduction, and intuition development to corporations and private groups. In private practice, she specializes in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and performance. She brings more than 20 years of successful experience to her clients. For more information, please go to http://www.wordsaremedicine.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judith_A costa
A Conversation with CSI Miami’s Sofia Milos Sofia Milos erupted onto the scene of American television with her captivating role of “Yelina Salas” on CSI: Miami in 2003. She has captivated audiences world-wide with her supermodel beauty and natural talent, which has made her an audience favorite. She lives each day by example, exuding the positivity she would like to see all attain. Sofia sat down with Barbara Magnolfi to share her take on life, love, pursuing your dreams, and a little world peace with MY readers. BM: How did you first decide to become an actress, and where were you when you made that decision? SM: I was actually in Los Angeles. I had decided to start a scene study class at the Beverly Hills playhouse under Milton Katselas at the time. I thought I would later return to Italy, but all I really knew was that I needed a change and I wanted to end my career as a model. I had been modeling since I was 15, and it had helped me through Business and economics in Switzerland and to travel to many different places.
Besides having talent, persistence and passion— timing, and strong representation play a big role in one’s success in Hollywood. In Italy, timing and strong representation are important too, but you can easily skip the first three requirements and replace them with good looks. So you need the same amount of qualifications, just of a different sort. I was better suited to start my career here, and I was fortunate to receive great opportunities that allowed me to make it as a working actor in International television. BM: On your way to success, did you encounter opposition and disappointment? How did you deal with it? SM: Of course I encounter opposition. It’s a game; and as in all games, it consists of oppositions, rules, barriers and freedom to play as good as you can!
I needed a change and as many young people with early challenges seek; I needed to find my self and my purpose. And so began my fun, crazy, and sometimes stressful, but mostly rewarding journey of adventure as an actress in Hollywood. BM: Do you find Hollywood different from the Italian movie industry, and if so, why? SM: I started working in the Italian movie industry later in my career; therefore I had already established working for American Television Networks as an actress in Hollywood. So it was a different experience for me than it would be for an actress just starting out there. I don't think I would have pursued acting in Italy given the ambiguous circumstances and compromises many deal with, also called the ‘infamous casting couch.’ I find Hollywood to be professional in that respect and many others.
be in the moment and in the truth of that moment or situation, and to be prepared to the point that you can afford to let yourself be surprised by the unexpected. Unfortunately, TV sometimes doesn't allow much of that, but this kind of training certainly helped me to appreciate intense, emotional and true scenes, and even to want them. In addition, there is a great opportunity to de-dramatize real life problems! BM: How important is it to develop a sense of spirituality when one gains success? SM: It is very important to have spirituality at any time in our life, and certainly when one gains success. With success come obstacles. This is all part of any game we play, and it can be easy to succumb to obstacles unless one has a spiritual awareness, is grounded, and knows how to keep his focus on his purpose with the utmost integrity. I believe it is a basic need to survive optimally. I've learned that in any game, whether career, personal or on a field, there is freedom, barriers and obstacles, and becoming more aware of one’s spirituality; it certainly increases ones freedom to play a better game in Life.
If you love to play soccer, you know you can win some games and you can lose others. Does that mean you are not going to play anymore because you lost a game or several? Of course not! You keep playing "soccer" with the same goal: To win! To score for your team! To have fun! You play to exercise your mind and your body and your spirit, and to proceed towards your goal. If one can’t have fun playing "soccer "anymore, then one needs to change his game. There’s nothing wrong with that either. Perhaps he'll win in basketball, or fencing, or cooking, but there is always a game one loves to play no matter the disappointments and the oppositions. It wouldn't be a game without them after all. It would be pretty boring. BM: When you look at the world, with all the news of violence, pain, suffering, how do you feel that we can create positive and peaceful change? SM: Everyone can make a difference and affect another. Every single person adds up to the group we are and to what we can create as a group. Taking care of ourselves is fundamental to how valuable we can be to our family and group to start with. BM: When faced with an emotionally difficult scene did you ever doubt yourself? SM: No. I could go on for a while with this answer but I am just going to say that I studied theatre many years with Milton Katselas, and others for 10 years. One of the first things you learn is to trust yourself and
BM: Do you consider yourself spiritual or religious, and how do you explain the difference? SM: I consider myself both, as it is partially the same depending on one’s considerations. Any philosophical practice that acknowledges a person as a spiritual Being and study of such is considered a religion. BM: What do you do to meditate? SM: I extrovert. I go for a walk. Look at things, and touch things until I feel relaxed. In other words, I try to stay out of my head and put my focus into communicating with the outside world. Or I may listen to soothing, relaxing sounds and music and allow myself to be carried to new dreams and hopes. I also do Pilates and Yoga exercises to oxygenate, stretch and strengthen my body, several times a week. I find this very beneficial on many levels.
BM: Are you finding that there is a defined shift towards spirituality, especially in the "Hollywood crowd", and why do you think this is?
BM: There has been a lot of popularity with books like The Secret, and books written by motivational gurus like Wayne Dyer, Deepak Chopra, etc; have you read any of these books, and what would you recommend?
SM: Hollywood is full of amazing artists and aesthetics, and where there are artists; there are people who want to suppress them out of their own insecurities and deterioration.
SM: I have read many books, from The Secret, to books by Deepak Chopra, and L. Ron Hubbard.
Hollywood is amazing for all its opportunities and Hollywood can be a trap with all its opportunities, which can attract opposing forces, if one isn't aware. It’s like a train, you need to know how to ride it and not be crushed by it.
At certain times of my life I was ready and willing to hear motivational messages, and I have found each of them inspiring and true, as ultimately they all aim to the basic YOU and promote positive thinking. But because we also have a lot of personal aberration to deal with, which can be crippling at times, it can be difficult to assimilate the messages. Before I could even start to understand the messages and apply these wisdoms to my life, I first needed to better understand certain things about myself and handle them before I could successfully apply certain truths and receive Life changing results from them. I do believe a philosophy has to be applied for it to work, and I do believe we don’t always know how. Just because you recognize all the cooking ingredients in a recipe, that doesn’t make you a chef. But you could easily become one if you study the methods.
In this past decade there have been some wake up calls, and I do think people have begun to understand that there is a definite need for change and a need for increased awareness and responsibility of our purpose; otherwise we'll end up seeing deterioration of many shapes and forms. It’s not just in Hollywood, it's everywhere, but certainly in "Hollywood" you have a tremendously attractive and glamorously deceiving mask that at anytime can cover problematic underlying issues. So it’s even more important to remind ourselves of who we are and where we're going. What’s important to us? What will provide expansion? What is the best survival and route to happiness and what is ultimately not? BM: Do you feel that meditation and having a defined sense of spirituality is an important factor in living a balanced life? SM: I definitely think it is very important to ground ourselves in ways that are true to ourselves and our beliefs. Whichever way or religion that may be. I don’t think without it one could live a "balanced" Life, as she could hardly perceive or handle it all. BM: If a personal friend came to you wanting to live a more spiritually based life, what advice would you give and in what direction would you steer them? SM: I would ask them what is true for them? I would certainly not steer them away from what they believe is true. This will allow them to be more of who they are, whatever that might be; all bias set aside.
A great book I have recently re-read is Fundamentals of Thought. "A culture is only as great as its dreams and its dreams are dreamed by artists." - L.Ron Hubbard BM: Any new projects in the pipeline? If you could choose who you’d like to work with, who would that be? SM: I am continuing working on CSI Miami as my character, Yelina Salas. I have been on CSI Miami for seven seasons now. Three years as a regular and four years as a recurring character. I am doing a couple of episodes through the end of season seven.
I am thrilled that The Border has been bought for USA television. It will air on ION (formerly PAX ) in January 2010. There are a couple of projects in the works. I would definitely love to do more feature films and collaborate with strong actors I admire and respect for their talent, whether it is a thriller, a drama or a comedy. I’d like to work with actors, and directors who will challenge me to be better via their input and vision, and allow me to be surprised, moved, and exited and fuel my passion for what I do.
SM: Well for instance when I received The Artistic Achievement Award at the international Television Festival in Banff last year; that was great! It was an acknowledgment for my roles in CSI Miami, The Border, and especially the Sopranos. I am also grateful for having reached a personal goal of 210 hours of TV airtime at an international level doing the work that I love. This year I had a fun time during the Montecarlo Int. TV Festival on June 11th 2009, where I was nominated for "outstanding actress in a drama series" in The Border. BM: In the grand scheme of things, what are your goals? What do you want to achieve and see in this world? SM: Besides world peace and a heightened level of living, loving and awareness for all? Okay, let’s take it a few steps back. I would love to continue doing what I do, only more of it, and continue to make a difference and affect people positively. I want to move them, entertain them, and create a positive effect in all facets I entertain, on a larger scheme. I also want to get married and have a family. In short; I would like to EXPAND in all I do and continue to flourish and prosper as an actor, as a person and as a woman. That’s what makes me happy. BM: What is your ideal state of bliss?
BM: After a hard day’s work with intense storylines, what is the best recipe to brush off the tension and relax? SM: A nice walk is the best recipe! I like to look around and notice things. Basically extroverting, realizing that I have finished another day doing what I love doing and feeling grateful to have the chance to create characters the whole world sees and appreciates and that people are entertained by something I bring to them. This is all possible with shows like CSI Miami or The Border, which is now played in 23 countries. I am truly proud. When I am not working I spend quality time with my friends. We hardly ever talk about work, and instead focus on subjects like food, fashion, new shoes or films. There’s also lots of talk about travel! BM: What is the latest goal or dream you achieved in the professional or personal area?
SM: Creating and dreaming –whether with eyes open or closed. Creating all I mentioned above. I can be blissfully happy at home, with my boyfriend having a candlelit dinner, listening to beautiful music, or doing nothing but talking or a taking a walk on the beach with a girlfriend and enjoying the vast space. Or being spontaneous, enjoying late hours and fast pace on a set, or a fun party with my friends, or cuddling with my mother on the couch and allowing her to be my ‘mamma.’ BM: If you had a final word that you would like to give to our readers, something to inspire or encourage them, what would it be? SM: Follow your dreams. Take steps towards making them a reality each day. Persevere. Don't give up. And always do more than what you think is the best you can do. Never pray for it to be easier; pray to be stronger! Make yourself stronger through studying, learning, understanding and taking responsibility. Work hard and allow yourself to succeed and you will! Barbara Magnolfi is an Italian actress who gained increasing success in Italy. She displayed an amazing spirit and determination in handling a life that dealt many adversities; and throughout, she has maintained a spiritual nature that has been magical and a true inspiration to many. Barbara resides in Los Angeles where she owns a film Production Company and is working on her first project. Learn more about Barbara at www.barbaramagnolfi.com
Breaking Free Have you ever been surrounded by people who seem to be sucking the very life out of you? I have. It used to happen to me quite often, and it was really draining on me. We often refer to such people as psychic vampires because they literally suck the life force out of you. I have had people whom I surrounded myself with that were very adept at having a “pity party”. They seem to always have something happen to them, and they are the first ones to blame others for all the woe in their lives. Maybe you have someone who is a drain on you financially. That too can suck the life out of you, especially if you are very willing and happy to help them out. I know that when I was in a place where I was ready to move forward on the path of success, I began to read books that motivated me, watch motivational movies, and attended seminars
that were sure to put me on the path to my success. I affirmed that now I was on the path to the successful life I was born to live. But no matter how much I tried to manifest, I simply could not break out of the box that I was in. It got to the point where even manifesting a cup of tea became near impossible. I really did not understand, I mean I was applying all the principles I’d learned in these books, and on the CDs, movies, and seminars. As I was still focused on what I wanted to achieve and where I wanted to go, one day I was sitting in my living room listening to a friend of mine who was visiting me. As I listened to her, something clicked in me and I had a MAJOR “A-ha” moment. This friend was talking about all the problems in her life, and gossiping about all the people we knew. As I listened to her, I
realized that I was suddenly very tired. The energy I had had before she turned up had dilapidated and all I wanted was for her to leave so I could take a “power nap”. After she left, I began to analyze the friends that I had and how I preferred to visit them rather than having them come over and visit
me. Most of the time when my friends visited me, I was anxious for them to leave soon after they arrived. I liked these people, but I could not understand why I did not really want them around me. What was wrong with me? The more I pondered what was wrong with me, the more I realized that there was nothing really wrong with me, only that I was changing… evolving, and I was growing in a different direction from where my friends were at.
becoming. I began to withdraw and started to go within myself. A large part of me wanted to give up and just accept this life; I mean how difficult was it really to simply “coast”? Weren’t my friend’s right? Was I simply fooling myself? Falling into the hype that these motivators were teaching? While there was a large part of me that was trying to conform to what my friends… my peers… were telling me, there was a small voice inside of me that would not simply accept this. It fought hard
It did not take me long to start filling up the void. I began to meet people at some of the seminars, and allowed myself to contact them away from the seminar. It was a bit daunting at first because I was not sure if we really had much in common. Some people came into my life for a little while, and then we too grew in different directions, but each person has brought me a learning experience, a way to expand myself.
And even those whom I had to leave behind, I always send them Most of my friends love and light and were quite happy hope that they are “I could not simply allow myself to be cast into a mold that others where they were happy in their life were creating for me. I had to break free and I had to do it now.” at; they were wherever they comfortable with are. to break free of the chains that their low paying jobs, complaining held me back. It was literally about their bills, and gossiping Sometimes, it is important for us kicking and screaming inside of about what everyone else was up to do some “spring cleaning”. me, pushing me to my next to. When I told them about my That not only involves cleaning action. plans, my hopes, my dreams; out our homes, getting rid of the they actually told me that “it’d never happen”, and to “Stop dreaming and start accepting”. The more energized and excited I was about something, the more they tried to “bring me back down to earth”.
I remember this moment clearly, it was like something snapped inside of me. I had literally had enough. I guess I had to get to that point to create the change I needed to create.
Soon, I started to feel claustrophobic around these people; I began to feel depressed, and there was a part of me that started to say “Who are you fooling? You can never accomplish what you are projecting. Stop dreaming and start facing reality”.
It did not take me long when I made my decision, the friends that I had surrounded myself with were no longer my “peers”, they were simply people I just knew. The only way I was able to move forward within myself was to walk away from these individuals who were working very hard to hold me back, and keep me down.
The more I told myself these things, the smaller I was
It was not really their fault; my sudden change and wanting to move into a new direction made them uncomfortable. I understood this. But I also understood that I could not simply allow myself to be cast into a mold that others were creating for me. I had to break free and I had to do it now. While I walked away from those individuals who had been my friends, I did it with love. Many were very angry and some spoke out against me. It was a painful and scary time because I was suddenly alone; but I knew that in taking these steps, I was opening myself up to something new.
clutter; but also letting go of those individuals we have surrounded ourselves with who are not giving us the room to expand and grow in our success. As soon as I created that change in my life, and surrounded myself with more like-minded individuals, the easier things were for me in creating my path of success. The things which I worked on manifesting began to unfold for me in such an easy manner that I could literally proclaim what I desired, and then receive it in a relatively short time. You see, when it comes down to it, we are the creators of our path and our destiny, and so we are the only ones who can create positive change in our lives. We are still in Spring time, maybe you would like to look at your life as it is right now and see what changes you can make in your life to open yourself to live the life you were born to live. Always remember this; you are here at this specific place in time to be all that you can be. You deserve only the best in life. You deserve success in all its forms. You are worth it! By Leyla Hur - Editor
So if this happens to you, don’t despair. Run the MalwarebytesAntiMalware and rid yourself of the Malware. If you made the mistake of paying for it, then contact the company and let them know you know it’s Malware and you want a refund. Threaten them with turning them over to the FBI. If they don’t refund your money, report the company to the FBI using this website: http://www.ic3.gov/complaint/defa ult.aspx. Remember: don’t be afraid of the computer. It is our friend.
Malware and You: How to break it off!
Ressa Kinnear is a self taught PC Technician. In her determination to crash and then reload as many computers as needed, she learned all she could about what makes computers work. Contact Ressa with your computer-related questions at ressak@magnifyyou.com
There is a nasty thing lurking on the Internet called Malware. It should be called ‘Sabotage Your Computer-ware.’ Or, ‘Steal Your Money-ware.’ There are a few vicious programs I have dealt with recently that I want to reveal, so that you are not taken advantage of. What Malware does, is install itself on your computer without your consent or knowledge. Out of the blue, you will notice a new icon down by your clock, nothing you’ve ever seen before. Then you will get a pop up saying that viruses have been detected, and then a program window pops up asking if you want to scan. You think to yourself, “Wow, what an awesome thing, how considerate this program is of my needs.” Not knowing any better, you hit ‘scan’ and then after it’s done loading, it tells you that for $50 (or whatever) you can buy this awesome program and it will help guard you against all evilness towards your computer. I want to personally punch the people who created this nasty software/malware. I knew someone who actually believed this scam, paid the $50 and tried to use the program. Her computer completely slowed to a stand still. Then she called me, begging for help. It took me forever to get rid of it, (there are now better tools to assist with this process), and then I asked her to contact the company who offered the program, (there is no phone number to call them, mind you), and demand her money back. I ended up writing the e-mail for her, and expressed that “I” was going to turn them into the FBI, etc. if they did not refund the money. She got a refund within fifteen minutes. They didn’t even bother to respond to the email we sent, they just sent the money back promptly. Needless to say, there are no steps that I know of besides submitting to the FBI to stop these people from launching this scam. But be aware that it exists. One thing these types of programs does, is when you uninstall it, it reinstalls again when you reboot. You have to surgically go in, hunt for all the files and remove all the folders pertaining to the program. That is a pain if you don’t know what you are doing. There is also a product called MalwarebytesAntiMalware that will rid it for you. They may ask for a donation, but you can use it for free.
Babymoon Vacation Packages Hot New Trend One of the newest and hottest vacation trends on the market is babymoons. What is a babymoon you say? It's an all inclusive vacation package planned out for the expectant mother and her spouse that allows them to experience true relaxation, away from the home, that pampers the parents-to-be before the chaos of raising a child begins. Having a child is one of the most beautiful and special days of a woman's life. Unfortunately, once the child is born your free time and relaxation time disappears. For these reasons, consider going on a babymoon vacation that will give you that one last chance to enjoy a tropical
destination before the baby arrives. A babymoon vacation is one that has very special needs. It's important to accommodate the mother with any specific needs she may have and to make sure she is well taken care of for the entire trip. You won't find many travel companies that offer trips only designed for women who are pregnant. An expectant mother might be limited on the activities she can participate in but she shouldn't be limited on where she can go. With the right help, she can enjoy some relaxing time on the beach with a virgin margarita or maybe a cabin in the snow to enjoy hot tea by the fireplace and spa treatments. Snuggling up to your loved one enjoying peace and quiet is what a good babymoon is all about. It's surprising that such an original concept hasn't caught on quicker but considering that the 9 months of a pregnancy come at you fast and there's a lot of planning to do for when the baby arrives, it's no wonder that people seem to think they can't find the time for a vacation before the baby is born. The invention of the babymoon has already proven to be popular as more and more women each day are realizing the value of a bit of relaxation before the newborn arrives. A baby is a positive addition to anyone's life and it will not only be a happy day, but a busy day, and many busy days following that. Rewarding yourself towards the end of a long pregnancy of back pain and sleepless nights will better prepare you and put you at ease on the day you give birth. Treat yourself to a vacation that you've been deserving for 9 months. It's not easy carrying a child around that long and that's why Romance Travel Concierge has created their babymoon vacations that are a wonderful romantic getaway for the expecting couple. Don't hesitate as once the baby arrives your life will be a busy one! By Jake Wilson: Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Wilson
Difficulty Conceiving –
3 Top Tips for Getting Pregnant Fast! 1. ENSURE YOUR BODY IS AS FIT AND HEALTHY AS IT CAN POSSIBLY BE. If you are thinking about getting pregnant or you have been having trouble conceiving you would do well to get your body in the best shape possible. This does not mean that you have to spend all day in the gym, but it does mean that you need to take good care of your body. The human body is highly complex and finely balanced, and everything that we do or put into our bodies will have an impact. You would be amazed at what an enormous difference a few positive changes to your lifestyle can make.
The most important thing to consider here is that you are eating a well balanced, healthy diet to give your body the best nourishment that you can. That means eating food from all the food groups, plenty of fruit and vegetables, lean protein, complex carbohydrates, fibre and essential fats. Keep well hydrated with at least two litres of fluid, preferably mineral water, a day. It means exercising a little every day. And it means avoiding things which are harmful to your body, such as nicotine, alcohol and caffeine. 2. STAY RELAXED AND POSITIVE If you have been trying to get pregnant for a while and are having difficulty conceiving it can be a major cause of stress for you and your partner. Add to this the stresses of every-day life and it is easy to see how stress levels can skyrocket. The problem here is that prolonged levels of stress in itself can be harmful for the body and will almost certainly have an adverse effect on fertility. It is important for your overall health to remain as relaxed and positive as possible. Try to enjoy life and avoid focusing on the fact that you have not yet got pregnant. There are many pleasurable ways in which you can relax. Practice deep breathing, have a massage, use aromatherapy or try meditating.
Make sure you sleep well. Lack of sleep can harm the immune system and can also lead to a decreased sex drive. This will not help you in your goal to conceive! Try to think positively. Do not focus on negative thoughts. If you feel yourself getting down, try saying things to yourself like "I'm doing everything I can to try to get pregnant." 3. HAVE REGULAR INTERCOURSE - TIMING IS NOT EVERYTHING! It may seem a rather obvious point, but if you want to get pregnant it is important to have regular intercourse with your partner. It is much better to have intercourse several times spread throughout the week rather than several times on a Saturday night and nothing else for the rest of the week! Try not to focus too much on finding the "perfect" time of the month. Try to relax and enjoy it. By becoming too preoccupied by finding the perfect time for conception you are putting pressure on yourself and your relationship. Be as loving and supportive to each other as you can - this will mean that you are more relaxed and more likely to conceive. Remember that it is normal not to become pregnant immediately. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after a full 12 months of regular unprotected sex. Remember too that the term infertility does not mean that you will never conceive. Have a healthy body, remain relaxed and positive, and have regular, loving intercourse with your partner and you will maximize your chances of becoming pregnant. By Claire Carpenter: If you would like to greatly improve your fertility and learn how to get pregnant quickly then please visit http://www.howtogetpregnant.biz Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Claire_C arpenter
Top 10 Tips on Finding the Right Maternity Wedding Dress If you are getting married and fall pregnant or are pregnant and want to get married because of it you will face a dilemma! Do I go for a standard wedding dress that might look like a tent or not fit me by the time I go down the aisle? OR Do I look for a special dress made for me and my bump? Here are my top 10 tips on finding the right wedding dress for you! 1. DEFINITELY go for a maternity wedding dress. They are cut specially to accommodate your bump no matter what the size and will look more flattering.
2. Search Google (or any other search engine) for Maternity Wedding Dress and you'll find there are 4 or 5 specialist companies that can cater for you. 3. ALWAYS try them on if at all possible. Some look a little more like tents than dresses and you'll probably buy a completely different dress to the one you thought you would when you leave the shop. 4. Go for an empire line dress. These are cut to fit under your bust so there is plenty of growth room for your belly. You have no idea how big you will be when you get married so make sure there is lots of room! 5. Make sure it fits around your bust. Measure your bust as this is the most important measurement and is where your dress will fit. Get professionally measured if you can to get this right. 6. Try not to buy on-line. You should try on as many dresses as you can. If you have to buy on-line make sure they have a good returns policy and make sure you have whittled your selection down before you buy.
yourself with a bigger bump. It's always good to have another pair of eyes! 9. Try on your dress with a maternity bump. Ask the shop you are going to if they have a maternity bump you can use. These strap onto your front to give the illusion you are more pregnant than you are. Great for seeing what you will look like in a few months time when you get married. 10. Always try to get your dress 3 months before you get married. The maternity wedding dresses have plenty of room and can always be altered so get the dress out of the way in plenty of time. Some need to be specially made so will require time anyway. By Lee Samson: Mama Bridal http://www.mamabridal.com are one of the largest online retailers of Maternity wedding Dresses in the U.K. and sell worldwide. If you are in the U.K. and are local you can also make an appointment to try the dresses on in their Sussex based showroom. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Sa mson
The sebaceous glands in the skin produce a protective, oily substance called sebum. Essential oils are easily absorbed through the skin's sebaceous glands. As essential oils penetrate the skin they help to naturally stimulate and regenerate healthy cells. This will help to repair skin damage or injury. Essential oils can help reduce bacterial and fungal infections and soothe sensitive, inflamed skin. You need to match the essential oil to your skin type and condition to be rewarded with its benefits. Lavender, Geranium, Rose, and Ylang Ylang help keep the correct skin balance and can be used on several different types of skin— oily, dry, aging and combination skin. The essential oil provides a soothing anti-inflammatory action for your skin to return to a healing and nutritive state. Dry & Sensitive Skin Dry skin becomes wrinkled more easily than greasy skin and needs to be moisturized regularly, especially when exposed to the effects of central heating or too much sun.
7. Accessorize! Yes you can still wear a beautiful jacket (bolero style) or other accessory with your maternity wedding dress. It is still a wedding dress and you should not feel any different to any other bride. 8. Enjoy the experience. This is not an ordinary wedding dress hunt but is still a wedding dress hunt so take your Mum, Sister or friend with you for advice. You'll look in the mirror and try to picture
and taut, and in severe emotional states such as bereavement—it may even become seriously dehydrated. Hormonal changes can produce spots and blemishes. Cigarette smoke and pollution can age skin by making it grey and producing premature wrinkles and lines. It also needs protection from the sun and wind to prevent it from drying.
Natural Skin Care with Essential Oils The skin is a sensitive organ, and just like other vital parts of the body, it responds to our diet, lifestyle and emotions. If we are under stress, it becomes very dry
For a moisturizing treatment for dry skin, add a total of 9 drops of Sandalwood, Geranium, or YlangYlang (or a combination of these) to 1 tablespoon of jojoba or apricot kernel oil with 1 teaspoon of a rich oil (avocado, borage, evening primrose, or wheat germ oil) and apply daily. Blot excess oil with a tissue. Adding 5 drops each of Lavender, Geranium, and Palmarosa to 50 ml rosewater makes a good
cleanser/ toner for dry skin. Let it sit for a week before filtering. Then add 25 ml of vegetable glycerine and shake well. Use twice daily. Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Avoid all possible irritants and use only the gentlest essences— German and Roman Chamomile, Lavender, Jasmine, Neroli and Rose. Add 5 drops of any of the above oils to 1 tablespoon of jojoba, apricot or peach kernel oil or to unscented cream or lotion for daily use. An excellent purifying and rejuvenating face mask for dry and sensitive skin can be made by mixing 50g green clay, 2 tablespoon cornflower hydrosol, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon evening primrose oil (or other rich vegetable oil) with 1 drop each of Geranium and Rose. Leave on the skin for 15 minutes, and then rinse off with cool water. Combination & Greasy Skin With the Combination skin, the chin, nose and forehead form the oily ‘T’ zone on the face. The skin around the eyes, cheeks and necks can be dry. Greasy skin is prone to spots and blackheads. Careful attention should be given to hygiene but do not strip the skin of its protective mantle which maintains the natural pH balance. An ideal synergy blend for combination skin can be made using 1 drop Geranium (balances the sebum that keeps the skin supple), 2 drops Lavender (promotes growth of new cells and exerts a balancing action on sebum) and 1 drop Ylang Ylang (balancing action on sebumeffective on both oily and dry skins). Blend the above oils in 20ml apricot or peach kernel, 15 drops jojoba oil and 5 drops camellia oil. Add 2 drops of the above synergy blend and 1 level teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to a small bowl of warm water. Soak strips of cotton wool in the water and place on the oily ‘T’ zone of the face. This will bring out the
impurities along the greasy ‘T’ zone but not dry out the areas of the face that are already dry. Add 3 drops each of Lavender, Bergamot (bergaptene-free), and Sandalwood to 1 tablespoon of grape seed or sweet almond oil and massage into the skin before retiring for the night. A teaspoon of a nourishing carrier oil, (hazelnut, peach kernel, carrot, evening primrose or borage) may also be included. Remove excess by blotting with a tissue. For a good cleanser/ toner, mix 5 drops each of Petitgrain, Lavender, and Geranium with 25 ml witch hazel and 75 ml orange flower hydrosol. Let stand for a week then filter. Apply twice daily. A basic purifying and rejuvenating mask for greasy/ combination skin is made by mixing 50g green clay, 2 teaspoon cornflower hydrosol, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon evening primrose oil with 1 drop each of Rosemary and Lavender. Leave on the skin for 15 minutes, and then rinse off with cool water. For facial steam, add 2- 3 drops in total of any or a combination of the following – Lemon, Palmarosa, Grapefruit, Rosewood, Bergamot, Petit grain, or Geranium. Steam clean the face with essential oils once a week, either by filling a bowl with warm water and placing a towel over your head to trap the steam, or by using an electric facial steamer. Always finish the treatment by splashing the face with cold water to tone and refresh the skin. Caution –Avoid towel steaming if you suffer from asthma, since the steam may trigger an attack. Aging Skin, Wrinkles and Thread Veins Aging is inevitable but essential oils can do much to slow down the effects. They encourage regeneration of healthy cells and help to keep the skin supple and elastic. General lifestyle is also very important, since smoking, drugs, poor diet, too much sun, central heating
and stress can all speed up the aging process. The regular use of facial oils containing oils that stimulate new cell growth and prevent wrinkles is vital. They are Lavender, Neroli, Frankincense, Carrot Seed, and Patchouli. Add 3 drops of any of these oils to 1 teaspoon wheat germ oil, for gentle application, especially to the area around the eyes, before retiring. To make a good basic blend for face and neck –Mix 1 tablespoon of jojoba or almond oil, 1 teaspoon wheat germ oil, 6 drops Lavender, 3 drops Neroli, and 2 drops Frankincense, and an extra teaspoon of extra rich carrier oil (apricot kernel, avocado, hazel nut, evening primrose, or peach kernel). Thread veins and broken capillaries are best treated using facial oil – 3 drops German Chamomile or Rose in 1 teaspoon jojoba oil. *None of the above recipes are a substitute for medical treatment. You should always have a full discussion with your medical practitioner.
Primrose Williams has studied Aromatherapy and Reflexology in Hong Kong since 1993 and holds a number of certifications. She has a deep interest in both subjects and has given personal consultations by way of holistic advice and customized aromatic blends. To learn more about Aromatherapy, Reflexology, and Reiki, contact Primrose at primrose@magnifyyou.com
Renewing every day, the Ayurveda way! Ayurveda is the ancient art of healing which originated from India. A wonderful part of it is Dinachariya, which is Sanskrit for “a daily routine” ; it is a daily routine to renew oneself every day. The first step, according to the ancient scriptures, is to wake up during ‘brahma murta’ or the hours before dawn, specifically 36am.
Awakening at this time is excellent for experiencing the day before it is ‘born’. It is the ideal time of the day for meditation as the mind is at its most relaxed and calm. The external environment is also calm at this time of day, especially for those who live in big cities, with less traffic and noise. Dinachariya explains a cleansing of the sense organs for the new day ahead. The first organ to be renewed is the eyes with a process called Anjana, or “purification of the eyes”.
Anjana is done with a few drops of specially formulated Ayurvedic oil into each eye. This draws out dirt which has accumulated, thus helping the person see clearer. The next restoration process is called Nasya or “nasal drops”. Here, a medicated Ayurvedic oil is put into each nostril and inhaled deeply. The oil scrapes any excess mucus from the sinus region and this is then eliminated through the mouth. This process is good to strengthen the head and neck and improves the complexion.
The next cleansing step is called Gandusha or “gargling”. Oil is gargled in the mouth and allowed to flow between the gums and teeth; when the oil is eliminated through the mouth it takes excess mucus from the throat and mouth region with it. This procedure is ideal for strengthening the teeth, gums, throat and voice. The final purification of the sense organs is Dhoomapana or “medicated smoke”. A wick which has been made of medicated herbs is lit; the smoke is then inhaled through the nose, and then exhaled through the mouth. This process is good to prevent colds, headaches and throat problems. After these purification techniques, the mind should be clearer; this creates a perfect time for contemplating, meditation, or even study. Morning meditation is a great way to start any day and will help the mind focus for the day ahead. An simple meditation technique is to become aware of your breath; then gently start taking deep abdominal breaths, which helps enhance the life force in the body. The scriptures then go on to state the next parts of the renewal process. Abhyanga or oil application is a daily full body oil massage where oil is applied to the body to rejuvenate. This may not be possible to do on a daily basis due to time constraints. Ayurveda states there are different constitutions or types of person; Vata is a person with more of the air element about them; Pitta constitution has more fire and water; and Kapha consists of earth and water. Abhyanga is more beneficial for a Vata constitution where the person’s body has a drying tendency. For other constitutions of the body, it will be more
appropriate for an oil application once a week or fortnight. Oil should particularly be applied to the head to strengthen the head and sense organs; to the ears to prevent ear problems and to the soles of the feet for dryness and eyesight. Vyayama or exercise is the next part of the restoration process. According to the scriptures, exercise should not be done to exhaustion; there should be a slight breathlessness and the body should start to perspire. Hatha Yoga is recommended for most people, although people with sedentary lives may need to add a bit more cardio-vascular exercise to their routine. Again exercising daily may not be attainable for most people and also the constitution of the person should be taken into account, with Kapha people needing more exercise than Vata. Powder massage or Udwartana, is a vigorous rubbing massage which removes the oil from the Abhyanga oil application. It is also great for removing excess Kapha and medus (fat) from the body. The final part of the whole process is bathing. The scriptures again set out that warm water should be used and hot water never used on the head as this reduces the strength of the hair and eyes. The whole dinachariya process may seem a lot to do before the work day begins, but the beauty of Ayurveda is that even if you take a few small steps, you will start seeing huge differences to your life almost immediately. It is better to do one or two things with awareness, and do them properly, than to rush through the whole routine quickly just to get it finished. Starting out by doing one of the sense organ purification techniques it will be beneficial; or start a meditation or exercise routine. The main thing here is,
doing a little of something rather than nothing, is incredibly beneficial. The renewal process can be used at the change of the seasons or at the New Year as a way of embracing a new start. The meditation part of the process can then be done for new beginnings and goals. In conclusion, the Ayurveda dinachariya process provides a daily routine which renews the mind and body on a daily basis. It is not necessary to do all the parts immediately, and it is always better to start with small steps then gradually increasing the parts of the process. Above all, cleansing and renewal should be a joy not a chore!
Send comments and questions to bindis@magnifyyou.com. I’d love to hear from you! Bindi Shah is an inspirational life coach who runs meditation courses and workshops from Saltdean, England. She created the ‘Live The Life You Dream Of…’ programme which combines her background in Ayurveda, Life Coaching, and Meditation to help people achieve their dreams and desires while enhancing their physical and emotional well-being. Contact Bindi at bindis@magnifyyou.com
body will feel unbalanced and disease may occur.
on a daily basis it makes sense to provide them with a little TLC.
Reflexology can help to bring the body back into balance by helping to reduce stress, improve circulation and boost lymphatic
The benefits of Reflexology are now becoming more widely known within the community. For people with diabetes, those who
“Reflexology is a non-invasive, holistic therapy…”
Reflexology –
Health Benefits From an Ancient Therapy Reflexology is a form of massage conducted primarily on the feet and hands. Reflexology dates back as far as 2330BC to ancient Egypt where Egyptian hieroglyphics have been discovered showing physicians working on the peoples feet and hands. Reflexology is still practiced today. Modern reflexology dates back to 1917 when a medical doctor, Dr William Fitzgerald developed Zone Therapy, where the body is sectioned into ten zones with each zone representing particular organs or body systems. Dr Fitzgerald made the discovery when he worked on patient’s hands and feet, and found that it helped to relieve pain in the related organ of the body. Today a growing number of people are able to feel the benefits of reflexology and see their own health improve. Reflexology is a non-invasive, holistic therapy that complements all forms of medicine and alternative therapies. We can view the body as a finely tuned instrument and if everything is functioning properly the body remains in a healthy wellbalanced state. However, if certain organs or body systems are not functioning properly the
function. There are thousands of nerve endings in the feet and these are interconnected to other body systems via the spinal cord and brain. A reflex is actually a reflection of an organ or body system located at a specific region on the foot or hand. During a foot reflexology session the practitioner incorporates gentle stretching techniques to relax and loosen the foot and then works the entire body systems using their thumb and fingers, gently massaging over each reflex area to stimulate the point. By stimulating the reflex the aim is to improve energy circulation and blood flow to the organ or body system represented on the foot. This process also assists in providing the body with a gentle, yet effective detoxification. Sessions are usually one hour in duration. Following treatment, clients usually comment that their feet feel lighter and freer. With our hands and feet working overtime
have had a stroke or those experiencing difficulties with menopausal symptoms or any circulatory issues, these people may find reflexology beneficial. It can assist in helping to improve a variety of conditions. Whereas one visit will provide the client with a general feeling of relaxation, it is recommended that the client allow at least 3-6 visits to fully assess the effects reflexology has on their condition. It is very interesting to see ancient healing therapies like reflexology, acupuncture and massage still offering health benefits to us in the 21st century. It is as though we have rediscovered ancient wisdom that was lost somewhere along the way. Marita Reynolds is a practising Reflexologist in Melbourne, Australia. For further information on the health benefits of Reflexology please visit http://soleresponse.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marita_R eynolds Copyright 2009. Marita Reynolds
A New Era for Ontario Wines – A Time to Buy Local Ontario is finally experiencing a long awaited and hard fought opportunity to stand among the top wine regions around the world. After over a century of trying to establish its wine industry, the evolution and establishment of fine wineries producing quality product is now a reality. Defined as a New World wine region, Canada continues to experience an exciting momentum. More and more wineries and vineyards are established on an ongoing basis throughout the nation’s largest wine regions in the province of Ontario. A reason for Ontario’s success lies on the fact that their vineyards are in the centre of the worlds wine belt, 41degrees – 44 degrees North Latitude the same as regions like France, Italy and California. Today the wine regions of Ontario are setting new standards in
regards to New World wine styles.
showcase the season of splendor.
Given the number of regions in the world that now produce premium wines; it is noteworthy that Ontario wine maintains a unique status as a young and booming industry. Now more than ever we need to start buying “local”. Ontario wineries have built their industry on pride and passion and Ontarians need to respond by drinking more VQA wines not just because they are great but it helps us all.
A Canadian wine which encompasses summer fun is Cattail Creek Estate Winery’s 2007 Sauvignon Blanc.
VQA a symbol for 100% Ontario grape content but also the quality and origin they come from. Legends Estates Winery is one of many Ontario wineries establishing their presence on the world stage with an impressive portfolio of signature wines. Last month I had provided food pairing for Ontario’s only 100% Semillon. Being a time for summer sunshine we will again
Fresh and fruity, with all the characteristics of a classic Sauvignon Blanc, this crisp, dry white wine is ideal for sipping on the back patio on the first summer days of June. When dinnertime rolls around, keep the patio and pair this dry white with your favourite fresh fish dish. Due to the light, lively body of this wine, a lighter fish such as sole or halibut will hit a perfect balance. Try a lemon dill sauce with a side of local grilled asparagus to highlight the green and grassy notes of the Sauvignon Blanc. Is your mouth watering yet…?
The world of Ontario wine continues to grow amid ongoing challenges put forth. Never failing to deliver another exciting year of fine quality Ontario wine, and we thank you! Suggestions for wine and food pairings are a great place to start, but always try to have fun and experiment on your own as well. For the wines suggested in this section please visit Canadianwineshop.com for purchases delivered right to your doorstep.
Enjoy summer sipping!! Paul Lizak is the President of awardwinning, third generation Legends Estates Winery. His passions include wine, world travel, great food, and more wine! His experience as a professional speaker, columnist and brand director for Red Diamond Wave and other global companies allow Paul to bring new insights and unique qualities to the many facets of business. Contact Paul at paull@magnifyyou.com
Out of Cash? Hold a Rent Party Neighbors helping neighbors was once a way of life in America. Then we all got busy, families got scattered, and soon people didn't
During the 1920's in Harlem, rents were high and many were struggling, so neighbors got together for rent parties and all pitched in a few dollars to help keep a roof over each other's heads.
has been hosting parties twice monthly for more than a year. At first the proceeds were going to charity, but now that he has lost his job and been diagnosed with a serious illness, they go to support him.
Some young adults in New York are now employing the same methods. Many of them, employed in bars, restaurants, and upscale boutiques, where tips and commissions make up the bulk of their incomes, have seen their paychecks shrink as consumers tighten their belts.
Could rent parties - and the struggle to remain solvent - turn into television's next series of reality shows? One young New York entrepreneur is working on developing that idea, so you might be watching these parties on TV in the future.
Now financially unable to join their friends in spending weekend evenings socializing at dance clubs, concerts, cocktail lounges, and bars, they're bringing the parties home, and charging admission. Cover charges at these parties vary with what is offered. If the party-giver supplies live music, booze and food, the fee is higher. Some charge a minimum, and tell their guests that it's strictly bring your own bottle. For their friends, the cover charge at a house party may be less than that charged at a favorite night club, and the drinks are far less expensive, too. They get to socialize with friends and save money on entertainment at the same time. Most are more than willing to attend and help out although the numbers who are facing the same strain is increasing. Generally, party-givers reap between $250 and $400 for their evening's efforts - but some parties bring in much more. When you have friends in the music industry who will donate their
“Party-givers reap between $250 and $400 for their evening's efforts - but some parties bring in much more‌â€? even know their neighbors. But that seems to be changing.
efforts, revenues can rise into the thousands.
If neighbors aren't helping neighbors, at least friends are helping friends.
For some, the rent party has become a regular event. The New York Times recently reported on one gentleman who
Marte Cliff is a Freelance Copywriter and former Realtor. After helping hundreds of customers obtain home loans over the years, she fully understands the importance of protecting and building credit. The recent surge in identity theft led her to research the subject and learn ways that consumers can protect themselves. Her new website: http://www.allcreditscoresnow.com offers articles and advice, as well as access to a free credit report with FICO scores. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marte_Cl iff
Inflatable Movie Night Outdoor movies are a great American pastime. They have gone by the wayside in the day and age of the internet, HDTV, and movies on demand. Why not bring back the nostalgia of having an outdoor movie with an inflatable movie screen in your backyard, poolside, or park? Inflatable movie screens are great for parties. They bring everyone together around a central spot to watch a great flick for the evening. Throw down some blankets in front of your huge screen, grab a bag of popcorn and enjoy the fresh air
as you watch your favorite new release. You can have a movie night anywhere there is enough space to have one. It is great to have a movie night next to the pool or in a nicely mowed lawn in someone's backyard. There is no specific place that works best. Pick a movie night that has pleasant weather without a lot of wind, as the movie screens tend to be like giant kites when the wind starts blowing on the screen. Also, people enjoy pleasant evenings by the movie screen, sitting on the lawn with their favorite someone. You can rent inflatable movie screens from your local party rental company. All you need to do is make sure that you get a screen that is big enough for your audience size. Also make sure that the speaker set up is big enough so that all of your movie goers can enjoy the sounds of the movie without straining to hear what is being said. The size of the sound needs to match the size of the screen. Enjoy your next evening party with an inflatable movie screen. You and your guests will be glad you did! By Nathan Jaehnig: AZBouncePro.com is a party rental company in Phoenix, AZ. They do outdoor movie screen rentals in Phoenix. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathan_Jaehnig
during the school year. Kids who have a full day usually fall asleep with ease, sometimes they need a little help and what worked last year might need to be revamped. A few of these tips are based on ages, younger children need a little help falling asleep and older children try to fight sleep by playing video games or computer games before bedtime. It is best not to stimulate their minds too close to bedtime; it takes a child a while to slow down their brains so they can sleep without interruption. One tip is to make sure that a scheduled bedtime is kept, if bedtime is 8:30pm, make sure that you stick to it. Kids go by what adults request and if their internal clocks are set to start winding down at a certain time you can almost set your watch them falling asleep. The summers do allow them to play more during the day and since the sun doesn't set until later kids tend to want to stay up since it's still light outside. When you put your child to sleep make sure its where they will fall asleep, don't let them fall asleep on the couch and then move them, you might have a child whose body thinks that it was a nap they just took and now they are up for a long time after that. Once they are in bed make sure they stay there, being consistent at bedtime is crucial. If you let them get the upper hand you will find yourself at odds with their will to play and not go to sleep. Make sure that their day is full of games, trips to the park, and lots of exercise and running. Physical activity is great for them anyway and when their body begins to slow down and want for rest you can avoid all the fighting. Reading them bedtime stories or working on a puzzle is a good way to slow down their thought process and put their brains in a sleep state.
How to Help Kids Sleep in the Summer Summer is a welcomed time for kids who are in public, private and home school settings. They are usually counting down the days to summer as much as their friends and teachers are, and when the last day for required learning yields the next day of summer fun, it's hard not to want to stay up and soak up all the hours of a day. Unfortunately parents are used to the schedule of early risers and non combative bed times
If you ask them about their day, let them tell you even if it’s in sometimes exhausting detail, this gives them the chance to involve you in their day. If they are having trouble sleeping you can rub their back or their feet. This will help to relax them so they can go to sleep easier. It's important to know their sleep positions too, make sure they get nestled in and know that its bedtime and not play time. A code word is a great indicator to them that it is time to rest for the evening. "Good night" or "Sleep Tight" are cue words they will know as signals that it’s time to go to bed. Original Article By Stanley Lewis For The Kids Window, A Kids Online department Store Based In The UK Selling Stompa Beds Brand and much more. www.thekidswindow.co.uk/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stanley_Lewis
the laughter and spirit of other children I never had. It wasn't long before we became friends with their parents, Julie and Lindsay and the oldest son, Brice. They brought with them an open heart and an open mind which I found truly refreshing. Their strong faith in God had an uplifting effect on my somewhat latent spirituality.
Teaching Your Children about the World beyond Your Backyard It was during a hot, humid Canadian summer that my daughter told me the news. "A boy and a girl moved into a house in the circle and they play outside a lot. They're really nice, but they talk funny." "The circle" was what the neighborhood kids called the culde-sac at the bottom of our street, and as I later learned, "talking funny" meant they had an accent. A southern accent. They were from South Carolina, a long way from our home in Ontario, Canada.
They had come into our life at a time when I needed companionship and a different perspective on what was important in life. It taught me that we all have gaps in our life that need to be filled. It also taught me how important it was to teach my young daughter about others in the world, and the differences in cultures, beliefs, languages and even accents. CHILDREN LEARN BY TALKING WITH FRIENDS: Through her growing friendship with Max and Madison, she quickly learned about South Carolina and the U.S., the schools, religion, weather, even about the President. Carlie had many questions for me that needed answers. On the other side, Max and Madison learned about Ontario and Canada, and
opened their hearts to change, but never let go of their values. A valuable learning experience for my daughter. CHILDREN LEARN BY PARTICIPATING: Carlie was to learn still more about the world through the experiences of their eldest son, Brice, when he truly ventured "beyond his backyard" and chose to become part of a charitable organization called Teen Missions International. This organization encourages teenagers from all over the world to receive missionary training and go out into the world, using that training, on a summer mission to help others. After much deliberation he chose a team that went to Pucallpa, Peru. The team traveled from Toronto to Florida first, spending two weeks in what is affectionately known as "boot camp". There they underwent the training they needed in order to do the work and prepare them mentally for what lay ahead. Their mission - to convert an old chicken house in Pucallpa into a missionary guest house. Their journey to Pucallpa, Peru was full of delays but they eventually arrived, tired but excited to be there and eager to get started. Although the project had already been started, there was still much work to do in the one month that this team would be there. The first thing they had to do was tear down the old thatched roof. They dug trenches and poured the footer, laid brick, poured concrete columns and a slab floor, and finally finished the tin roofing. Needless to say, this was very grueling work at times in the Peruvian heat. But, along with building the guest house a local radio station allowed them to sing songs through a translator. They worshiped with the church on Sundays and led Children's Church every week. A group of 25 children loved to sing songs, play Pato, Pato, Ganso (duck,
“They had opened their hearts to change, but never let go of their values.�
CHILDREN LEARN BY ACCEPTING OTHERS: Although it was some time before I actually met the rest of the family, when I met Max, who was nine, and Madison, who was eleven, I knew right away that we would become friends. They were caring, fun-loving, respectful kids, addressing me as "Ma'am" or "Miss Lisa" in their lovely southern drawl. For my daughter, Carlie, who is an only child, it was like having a brother and sister, and for me it filled the house with
about our way of life. It's a way of learning that doesn't come out of a textbook; a way of learning through living and experiencing it. CHILDREN LEARN BY WATCHING OTHERS: The parents had raised their children with a strong sense of faith, family and community, as well as a desire to help others. This soon caught the attention of our little neighborhood. Homecooked meals were sent to anyone that was ill, they helped build decks, and took kids tobogganing. They opened their home to children or pets that needed looking after. They had
duck, goose) and Ring Around The Rosie.
about Southern hospitality...and life beyond our backyard.
"We had a lot of fun talking to the people, even when we couldn't really understand them," Brice explains. "We really reached out to a lot of people."
Lisa Azimi is a Canadian writer living in Ontario. She and her husband are raising one daughter and one Golden Retriever. Lisa's articles have been published in magazines in Canada and the US. You can email Lisa at lazimi@rogers.com or go to http://www.lisaazimi.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Azi mi
This mission proved to be one of many that this young teen would experience. TEENS LEARN FROM OTHER TEEENS: Brice's next trip took him to Siberia where their team ran the first Siberian Boot Camp in Yekaterinburg, Russia. There, they taught other teens about helping others in their country. They accomplished this through the use of music, puppets and construction classes. Their work enables Siberian youth to reach out to their country for positive change. Brice continues to learn about the world, experiencing trips to distant lands like South Africa, but also helped in his "own backyard" by travelling to Louisiana, where he helped with reconstruction from the devastation left by hurricane Katrina in August of 2005. This is what real life stuff is made of. It takes courage to uproot your family to live in another country. It takes courage for kids to fit into new schools and make new friends, and it takes courage to travel to another continent, just to help others. That's what this family has taught us. The courage to do what you think is right and to make a difference. Our friends have since returned to the U.S. and have made their home in Charlotte, North Carolina. We have visited them in the Carolinas and visited other surrounding states, experiencing firsthand the pride and warmth of the people there. Although we miss them, I know we will remain friends for life. I feel thankful for the time we had together while they were in Canada, and for teaching my daughter (and us)
While You're Chasing Your Dreams to Success Remember to Take Time for Play Yesterday evening I sat at my campsite watching the kids having a good time on the playground across the way, and a familiar thought jumped into my mind. It's an idea that I must remind myself of rather often. That idea is, "Success in life requires working hard toward your goals, but along the way remember you need time to play." When you enjoy what you do for your living, especially so much that you don't even think of it as "work," you get so involved in the day to day tasks that you forget to take recreational breaks. Even when you like what you do if you don't break away now and then you'll face failure due to exhaustion and burn "out." I'm spending Memorial Day week at Outpost Campground in Salt Lick, Kentucky, and decided I'll spend most of the week in lazy relaxation. Since I haven't taken a real break since Thanksgiving, I guess it's about time I did. Outpost Campground is much like many private campgrounds, boasting a small full-time community of campers who leave their RVs parked here year-
around. Some live here all year, while others spend only weekend and vacation time at their campsites. The facility offers a pleasant opportunity for a relaxing get away, with well maintained grassy campsite areas, a swimming pool, and a club house (rebuilt in 2008). The roads are gravel and do make for dusty conditions on hot, dry days. Still the atmosphere is friendly. Outpost is always full on holiday weekends, all spots reserved well ahead of time, but sites are normally available any other time. This weekend I didn't see any open spaces, but today (Memorial Day) many of the campers pulled out, and as I look around I see quite a few empty sites. That gives me the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of that relaxation time I'm more than ready for. The last couple of days the campground was busy and noisy with corn hole tournaments and cookouts, and kids riding the golf carts and bicycles. Now peace and quiet dominates the place. The sudden change puts me in the mood to meditate for new articles and reports that I'll create in the near future. I'll allow those ideas into my thoughts, and I'll capture them in my ideas log too. But this week isn't about work. Nope. This week is all about permitting my mind and body to mellow out, refresh, and renew. Joseph Jackson retired at the early age of 46, and now travels in his recreational vehicle, hitting scuba, camping, and kayaking destinations for playtime. He enjoys writing reports and books to pass on his experience and knowledge to help others succeed. He also searches for, and makes available, products that improve the enjoyment of his playtime activities. Find more of Joe's thoughts on successful living at www.livelifeofsuccess.com. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Jacks on
5 Ways to a Better Staycation More people than ever are opting to stay home for vacation rather than travelling far and wide. That doesn't mean you should spend your time off cleaning out your closets or filing away papers from your home office desk. If you take a vacation from home, allow yourself to get away from it all
*Have a spa day at home. Take a bath with a hint of rose oil. Light a few candles and do your nails. Use that hair conditioner that requires you to rinse after fifteen minutes. Give yourself the gift of time by pampering yourself completely.
computer from the wall and putting away your gadgets for the extent of your staycation. *Invite friends. The best motivation can often come from visitors who are interested in exploring new places with you. Especially if they are from out of
“Allow yourself to get away from it all while staying put…” while staying put. Discover the mysteries of your local area, take day trips, and enjoy a bit of relaxation from the comfort of your own home. The point of a staycation for many is to save money. But that doesn't mean you have to scrimp on the fun. *Grab a community paper. You would be amazed at the offerings in your very own hometown. Instead of going to an expensive art exhibit, consider that arts and crafts fair near your house. Pick up a few creative ideas and try out a few yourself.
*Develop gadget-free zones. Let your phone go to voicemail. If people know you are there, you might be tempted to fall back into your normal routine or sneak in an hour or two of work. Saying 'no' to others while saying 'yes' to yourself can be habit-forming. What better time to practice the power of 'no' than on vacation? *Unplug. It might be tempting to check emails, send that company fax, or follow up on a few business phone calls. Resist the urge by unplugging your
town, your friends can give you the proper impetus to enjoy an excursion beyond your own walls. Some of the best things in life are free. A staycation may not match the joys (or rigors) of a Caribbean cruise, but it sure can help you realize there's no place like home. Christine Louise Hohlbaum, author of 'The Power of Slow: 101 Ways to Save Time in Our 24/7 World', writes about mindful living and how to slow down to live it up. Visit her at http://PowerofSlow.org for more slow news. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christine _Hohlbaum
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should see the battles that go on over crab cakes, Philly cheese steaks, and barbeque in this country! Road Food Tip #2 Ask the locals - Once you're on the road, forget the internet and start talking to people. Ask everyone you come in contact with - from the people working the front desk at your hotel to the guy in the gas station where you fill up - where to find the best grub.
Road Food, Glorious Road Food! Road food - or food of any kind - is a passionate subject for most people, and an essential part of road trip planning. What captures a place more wonderfully than a road food featuring that area's regional specialty? Sit down to a delicious plate of Texas barbeque or some Wisconsin kringle with a scoop of ice cream and you've just tasted that state! Whenever I plan a road trip, I always include a plan for every meal and try to incorporate as much regional road food as I can. You, too, can relish all that every state has to offer using these three top tips: Road Food Tip #1 Plan ahead - Although I'm a big fan of serendipity, some road trip planning will be necessary for you to make sure you get some good road food. Try to use online reviews, forums, and message boards to find a great place to eat every day of your road trip (any meal is fine).
My husband and I found the best restaurant of our road trip through the Florida Keys just by asking around. One of the bartenders at the tiki bar next to the pool at our hotel in Key Largo recommended a place - Calypso's. He explained that it wasn't easy to find, and he wasn't kidding - we drove right past it! Once we doubled back, though, and walked through the nondescript entrance we found ourselves in a colorful restaurant with lots of fish décor and a Caribbean feeling. The seafood was wonderful and fresh and the daughters of the owners were highly entertaining whenever they stopped by our table to chat (twin 13 year olds). Now a word of warning - just because a local recommends something, doesn't mean you'll like it. But, and this is the most
“You won't feel like you've truly gotten away if all you're eating is what you eat at home…” Don't trust every review or ranking from more official sources like Zagat and guidebooks - many of these sources have stopped being reliable. Yes, you can use them, but take every recommendation and get online to find out what the general consensus is about it. I spent hours researching every recommendation I made in the road food section on my site using both online and offline opinions. No, there is no restaurant in the world that 100% of people love - but an 80-90% approval rate is possible and it's what you're looking for. Don't have the time for all that research? Just go to any travel forum and post the question of what to eat in the area you're visiting (and where to get it). You'll get a ton of great suggestions. You'll also witness a bloodbath if people are really passionate about that particular type of road food - you
important, if a local enthusiastically (don't bother with lukewarm recommendations) recommends a place, you most likely will like it! Road Food Tip #3 Try something local or unique to the area you're visiting - You won't feel like you've truly gotten away if all you're eating is what you eat at home. Break your Mickey-D's habit and go for it!
I'll never forget the first time I tried grits in the South. I was convinced that I wouldn't like them - they sounded yucky to me and they looked bland. Boy, was I wrong! Grits have turned into one of my favorite foods. Now, if I hadn't been willing to at least try them, I'd be missing out on so much! What if you're terrified of ordering it - it sounds gross or weird - what should you do? Just order the smallest portion available and have everyone at the table try it. Order the things you know and love for the rest of the meal and make the weird/unusual thing your "appetizer". This works even better when the item in question already comes portioned as an appetizer (like conch fritters). Road Food - One Last Pointer Using these great road food tips, your road trip experience will enhanced dramatically. One final note - dine as often as possible in places that reek of the region you're in. Go down to the bayou for some great shrimp, eat in a saloon in the Wild West, and find a mountain-top restaurant in the Rockies for some fresh air with your fresh trout! A lot of the pleasure of dining out is in the place as much as it's in the food. Tara Waechter owns http://www.planningfun-road-trips.com - a website that covers every aspect of road trip planning including mapping tips, packing lists, road trip games and songs, trip ideas, recipes, tools, and in-depth articles. Tools offered include a road trip budget calculator and a printable checklist of to-do's to handle before you depart on your trip. Her new section on road food http://www.planning-fun-roadtrips.com/road-food.html - has each state's signature food as well as a wellresearched recommendation on where to get it. Tara has traveled extensively in the United States as well as abroad, and has learned the knowledge she passes on in her website through the "School of Hard Knocks". She is also an office manager and meeting and event planner. She resides in Cary, North Carolina with her husband, Ash. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tara_Wa echter
Camping 101 - Supplies and Preparation The first step in a successful camping season is getting your hands on the right camping gear. Use the checklist below to find out what essential gear you need for camping- and why. - Tent. Not only do tents provide protection from the elements (which no one can change or accurately predict 100% of the time), they also protect against annoying bugs and critters. - Sleeping bag. Especially at high altitudes, temperatures can drop drastically at night, and you'll be glad you've got a warm and cozy bed to combat them. - LED lanterns. LED lanterns are simply the best tool for lighting up the night because they are energy efficient, long-lasting, and brighter than most other lights you'll find. - LED flashlight/headlamp. Trips to the restroom or late night snacks can be burdensome without a proper light. Lanterns and other lights can be big and bulky. A reliable LED camping flashlight is perfect to accomplish your late night task. - First-Aid kit. You never know when an accident could happen, minor or serious. Always be prepared to handle any situation with a well-stocked first-aid kit. - Food storage. Unless you plan on foraging for berries and edible plants all week long, you'll need some reliable containers to store your food. These containers should be durable enough to keep out animals. Finally, don't overlook the fact that you might need containers suited to keep foods cold. - Cooking equipment. Whether you're cooking meals over a campfire or using a camping stove, think carefully through all the equipment you'll need to prepare your food. - Entertainment. Sometimes we focus so much on just getting there that we forget to prepare for the destination itself. Packing games, activities, music, and other forms of entertainment will help make your experience a memorable one.
Once you've got your hands on the right camping gear, you'll need to know how and why to prepare your camping supplies for optimal success. Below is a checklist of everything you should do before you leave. - Set up your tent. Don't neglect to do this, especially if your tent is rarely used or brand new. The last thing you want to discover is a leak, broken pole, or other malfunction upon arrival at your destination. - Stock your first aid kit. In addition to medical supplies, be sure to include matches, a whistle, multi-tool, an emergency blanket, and poncho. Voila! A basic survival kit. - Test your lights. Batteries die and bulbs burn out. Don't get caught in the middle of the night with a weak light. This is why I recommend LED lights. Since they consume less energy, LED battery and bulb life are markedly longer than conventional camping flashlights. - Test any miscellaneous equipment. Cooking stoves, electric coolers, air mattresses, and anything else necessary for a successful trip should be tested several days before your departure. - Look through storage bins and containers. Look through all your storage containers to ensure all your camping supplies are accounted for and functioning properly. Make it your goal to get ready for the camping season, and use the checklists above to guide you through the process. Take advantage of everything nature has to offer you this summer. Happy camping! Ben Nystrom ~ Get what you need for your next Oregon camping trip, including LED camping lanterns and flashlights at www.lightsandknives.com. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_Nys trom
Camping, Hiking and Backpacking – Must Have Essentials Many of us take to the great outdoors to escape the tediousness of our daily lives. It's a great place to get away from the stresses of our daily routines and can be quite therapeutic under the right circumstances. Under the wrong circumstances, however, the camping and hiking adventure can quickly become a nightmare. Here are a few pointers and suggestions that will keep your outdoor adventure enjoyable and worry-free. Before setting out on a camping or hiking trip do your homework. Know the area you intend to travel to, become familiar with area maps and if possible learn to use a compass. Plan your trip, thoroughly, let others know where you are going and when you plan to return. Never travel alone, there is safety in numbers, travel with companions. Next the list of necessary supplies needed to safely proceed with our trip into the wilderness. Every trip into the outdoors requires us to carry a basic group of items that must be included in every backpack on the trail. These include water, extra food, a compass and maps, first aid kit, flashlight,
pocket knife or multi-tool, waterproof matches and lighter, space blanket, twine or fishing line, and extra clothing and rain gear. These items are for surviving the outing and should be carried every time you go into the wilderness. What I'm trying to say is even though you may not use these items, having them and not needing them is much better than needing them and not having them. The smart move when hiking and camping is to be safe in all things. Additional comfort items you might consider are insect repellent, whistle for summoning help, cell phone or some other communication device is a great addition for safety's sake and last but not least a big bag of common sense. With these basics you will be prepared for the unexpected while on your camping trip and they could potentially save your life. Now that you don't have to worry about being prepared for the unexpected you can pause and enjoy the beauty that Mother Nature has for you. Enjoy! H. Jeffrey Davis authored this article. I have always has been an outdoor enthusiast. Given the stressfull demands of our modern lifestyle hiking and camping in the great outdoors is a great way to relax. This fact hasn't gone unnoticed by myself and I take great pleasure in sharing pointers and suggestions with my readers. If you're looking for top quality camping and hiking gear I recommend http://www.campoutcity.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=H_Jeffrey_Davis
How to Make the Right Choice When Buying an Outdoor Tent The option of camping is more appealing because of the current economic downturn. The campsite has become less inconvenient making family camping more comfortable. Campsites will soon find themselves booked up with caravans and tents alike. The beauty of your outdoors tent is that is relatively quick to put up. Of course, this time frame depends on how much knowledge you have in putting up your tent, but generally the new designs are made easier to set up. The only essential part of erecting a good outdoors tent, besides making sure you put down the pegs and a sufficient number of them too, so you aren't blown away in a gale - not something to experience when you are in a tent - one needs to ensure that the inner walls and the fly sheet are not touching. This may not matter if there is little or no chance of rainfall, but even dew is likely to cause more moisture in the tent. When purchasing a tent, it would be a good idea to consider a few points mentioned below. The more specific you are about your tent, the less likely you are to buy one that is unsuitable. How many people will this tent sleep? How many "rooms" do you want in this tent? Is this an all weather tent? Tents are sold in different sizes. The smallest outdoor camping tent would be the one-person tent. If you are buying an outdoor tent and wish to use it for storage and sleeping, then you need to consider buying a bigger sized tent. Tent sizes are made specifically for the number of people sleeping unless you are going for the family tents, which already have storage areas. The family outdoor tent is a clever design. With these designs, privacy for the parents or the children is still possible. These tents are broken into two sleeping areas (usually at either end of the tent), and the middle area is for storage of seats and camping equipment. When purchasing your tent, it
would be best to decide if you will need this middle space - it may make setting up more difficult. Because the need for tents is becoming more specialized, there are more choices to be made, and with a great range of suppliers and types, there is less likelihood of buying a tent that does not cover your needs. If you are climbing mountains and need camping equipment for cold environments, then your more professional camping shops will have suitable outdoors tents in stock. The option of camping is more appealing because of the current economic downturn. The campsite has become less inconvenient making family camping more comfortable. By Adam Carter: http://www.campingtentguide.com will help you in making the correct decisions regarding camping equipment. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_C arter
Choosing the Right Sleeping Bag So, you've bought a backpack, a tent, some other gear. Now you need a sleeping bag. There are about as many sleeping bags to choose from as there are backpacks or tents, but it's an essential piece of gear for backpacking in the wilderness or even somewhere locally. Choosing a sleeping bag can be time consuming, much the same as buying a pack or a tent, but here's some info that may help you in your decision. When looking at sleeping bags, you'll find that there are two types of bags, down & synthetic. Down is the lightest & warmest of the two, hands down. Down is considered the best between the two types. Yet it should be noted that over the last several years, synthetic sleeping bags have come a long way. Down is generally more money than synthetic. It's lighter & compacts smaller than synthetic bags of the same temperature
rating. However, down bags do not do well in wet weather. Once down becomes wet, it loses its loft & its thermal characteristics. The time required to dry a down bag can be several hours to over a day. Therefore, many backpackers & campers in New England, as well as other wet climates, do not rely on down sleeping bags. In extreme cold temperatures, down is the choice for most people.
Weight is something that should be considered when shopping for a sleeping bag. For backpacking, especially long-distance hikes, it's wise to carry a bag that's under three pounds. Bags that are over three pounds generally fall in the category of 0 degrees and lower temperatures. Many lightweight bags are 1-1 ½ pounds. This makes a big difference when hauling pack weight over several days of hiking.
Both types of sleeping bags are beneficial, so which one should you buy? First of all, ask yourself where you'll be backpacking or camping. This will help determine what type of bag you should be considering.
Keep in mind also, a sleeping bag liner can help add warmth to your sleeping accoutrement. It'll also help prevent the bag from getting dirty too quickly, and minimize the normal wear & tear over time.
If you'll be located in a hot & dry climate, but with temps that fall quite low at night, then you may be best to go with a down sleeping bag. If you'll be sleeping in warm temps, a lightweight synthetic bag will be more beneficial. If the climate is wet & humid, I'd suggest bringing a synthetic sleeping bag. Synthetic bags dry quickly once they've become wet. Many people want to buy one sleeping bag that will work year round. This is possible, provided you camp in temperatures & climates that fall within a similar range. Yet many enjoy backpacking & camping in all 4 seasons, so one bag will not likely fill every application. Everyone is different. Some people sleep colder than others, requiring say, a 15 degree sleeping bag when temps are in the twenties or warmer. Some people, myself included, have used a 30 degree bag on nights that dropped to the low twenties or colder. For a bag that will work for 3-season backpacking & camping, I'd suggest going with a 25-30 degree bag. On cooler nights, you can layer clothes & wear an extra pair of socks for warmth. On warmer nights, wearing less clothes while unzipping the sleeping bag part way can help keep you from overheating.
This article hasn't been a very thorough analysis of the process involved in choosing the right sleeping bag to buy by any means. Yet hopefully, one or two points here can help you in narrowing down the choices you have when walking into an outfitter. Remember, you don't need a $300 sleeping bag when a $100 or less bag will do just as well. Do a little research, read some reviews, ask lots of questions. By Steve H.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_H.
Top 10 Countdown to Why You Should Go Camping Sit back as Tripwiser.com editor, Ingrid McCleary (a veteran camper) extols the virtues of camping. No. 10--You get hands-on experience with your state's symbols. In California, for example, you could spot the valley quail perched in a redwood
tree while you hike through a field of golden poppies. You could also find evidence that a grizzly bear has visited your campsite: There's the smashed windshield of your car (you left sunflower seeds on the front seat) and the demolished ice chest (you didn't realize bears weren't deterred by flimsy storage locks). An article in the Yosemite Guide newsletter mentioned that backpackers could protect their food from black bears by renting a bear-proof food canister instead of hanging their food from a tree. This canister could hold a threeday supply of food and yet weighed only 2 1/2 pounds. I told my husband I couldn't imagine how such a lightweight item could keep bears from getting to the food. "The canister probably includes a big roll of cellophane wrap," Bill replied. "You wrap your food in it, and the bear goes nuts trying to find the edges."
be inconvenienced because 1) your musty tent is suddenly a safe haven, 2) you've already got all your food on ice and 3) you have a portable radio and a lantern, so you won't miss what most people miss after an earthquake--electricity. No. 5--You get to have barbecue for every night for dinner. And every morning for breakfast. And every afternoon for lunch. In fact, you can reach your barbecue quota for the entire summer in just one campout. No. 4--You get to see just how many pores you have on your face. This is a good time to play connect-the-dots or mimic the Orion constellation on your left cheek. It's also the perfect
No. 2--You get to exercise. This can range from trying to reach that mosquito bite in the middle of your back to chasing the raccoon that's absconded with your favorite bag of chips to consenting to a hike because the sign says it's only two miles long (but neglects to tell you that it's two miles straight uphill). And the No. 1 reason why you should go camping? It's cheaper than staying in a hotel. By David Reichman: www.Tripwiser.com is a fun place to visit! Our free social trip planning service leverages the collective wisdom of travelers worldwide and makes road trip planning interactive and enjoyable. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_R _Reichman
No. 9--You get to wear all your grungy clothes. You know the ones; those faded T-shirts, torn shorts and baggy jeans that are so comfortable you just can't throw them out yet...even though your spouse has tried on a number of occasions to bury them in the bottom of the household rag bin. No. 8--Your kids don't have to wash up before dinner. What's the point? Between the bathroom and the campsite are 100 yards of Grade A Magnetic dirt. Speaking of bathrooms... No. 7--You appreciate the overlooked luxuries of home. Like having a toilet that flushes. Or taking a shower that doesn't cost a quarter for every five minutes. Once, during a 10-Day California to Colorado Road Trip, Bill and I had only two quarters between us. I finished in time; Bill didn't. He stood there, covered in suds, while I dressed and ran out to try to find someone with change for a $20 bill. The suds nearly dried on him. No. 6--You're prepared for an emergency. If a moderate earthquake should hit California while you're camping, you won't
opportunity to have your palm read by a fortuneteller, since all the lines in your hands stand out in stark relief. No. 3--You get to commune with nature. Blue jays and squirrels infiltrate your campground to clean up your crumbs. At dusk, bats fly overhead. Do you really trust their sonar? Are you sure they won't get tangled in your hair? At Cherry Lake campground, there are the twoinch bomber pine beetles; these, I can tell you from personal experience, DO get tangled in your hair(I almost toppled into the fire in a frenzied effort to get the bug out!).
Finding a Great Campsite One of the most important things to consider when going camping is where you're going to place your campsite. Since you'll be spending a good amount of time there - cooking, eating, sleeping, and relaxing, at the least - it's important to choose a good spot to set up camp. But what makes a good spot for a campsite? What sort of things should you look for? The first thing to look for in a camping spot is a large area of reasonably clear, level ground. The size of your campsite will
depend on several factors - how many people are camping with you, the thickness of the trees and growth in the area, the terrain you're camping in, etc - but you want to find clear spot that is at least 10 to 15 yards square. Reasonably clear means as little growth, rocks and trees as possible. You'll probably never find a spot that is completely clear, but look around a bit until you find something good. You also want the spot to be level you don't want your tent mate to be laying on top of you all night because you both keep sliding down to the low end of the tent. One way to find a good camp spot is to keep an eye out for existing fire rings. If someone has already built a fire ring, then chances are good that they were able to set up camp there and you should be able to as well. In addition, using existing fire rings and campsites reduces the amount of work you'll have to do in setting up, and minimizes the impact you'll have on the area. Another thing to consider in a campsite is the weather forecast for the days you'll be camping. If it is going to be windy or rain heavily, you'll want keep that in mind. Having some trees or a large hill near your campsite can help shelter from wind, and if the rainfall is going to be significant, then looking for high ground will definitely be beneficial. You don't want to camp on low ground and get flooded in the middle of the night. The last thing to look for in selecting a campsite is evidence of animals or insects. You don't want to set your tent up on top of a wasp or snakes' nest or near a bear cave. In most national parks, chances of anything really dangerous occurring are small, but give the area a thorough inspection before you start setting up your tent. By Jack Colville: For more information on camping and camping gear, check out our website at Buy Camping Chairs.com. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Col ville
Learn Luxury Camping Equipment – Be Comfortable While Camping The idea of camping is always ideal... birds singing, waking up to a crisp morning with the sun coming up over the horizon, spending the day fishing, hiking or whatever your idea of fun is. But for many the real camping trip does not match up to the dream. You get out to the camp site (which took two hours more than expected because you were lost), then after 2 hours of fighting with your new tent you finally get that up... with barely enough time to set up the rest of the camp site. Then of course you wake up in the morning and are frustrated that you have to find a decent "relieving spot" and taking a shower is out of the question... But camping doesn't have to mean turning caveman. You can have all the luxuries of the modern world AND still have your ideal camping trip. You just have to have the right supplies. The Top 5 Luxury Camping Equipment: 1. Cabin Tent: The cabin tents are designed for spacious camping. These tents are often 2-3 rooms, one being a screened room. With multiple entrances and the rooms you won't be fighting for space or find the claustrophobic feeling that comes with other tents. High vertical walls give these tents oven more space. 2. Satellite TV Antenna: That's right, just because you're out in the wild doesn't mean you have to miss your favorite shows. These work by simply putting it where there is a view of the southern sky, connect it to the receiver and you'll get a signal! No other cables and some are powered by the satellite! Talking about innovative... this is not a cheap camping equipment buy, but it is great for camping, tailgating, fishing trips, cookouts and more! 3. Handheld GPS: Yes this is a luxury but it today's society it’s also a must have. If you're planning a camping trip off the beaten path, chances are you won't have a cell phone signal and you don't want to use the old fashion map and compass. Save time and worry by using handheld GPS systems. They are very reasonably priced (you can get a good one for under $100). 4. Bug Zappers: Don't load your skin with bug spray, making your feel dirty and smell even dirtier. Bug zappers are great for campers to fight off moths,
mosquitoes, wasps, gnats and more. They don't leave a smell, there is no chemicals and it’s easy. 5. Portable Camping Shower and Toilet: This is the BEST camping equipment luxury. Don't fight over who gets to go behind which tree for bathroom breaks with lightweight, easy to clean and portable toilets... and of course who does not love the idea of being about to take a nice warm shower in the morning? These are the top 5 camping luxuries... do not let your fear of camping over take your dream to camp. Gone are the days when all you camp with is a beat up old tent and a pot for cooking! Kindal Guthrie, an avid outdoorswoman and the owner of The Camping Equipment Store loves to share her adventures and outdoor knowledge. It's all about learning a deeper appreciation for the life that is around. Get everything you need for your camping trips by heading to http://www.thecampingequipmentstore.com today. Article source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kindal_Guthrie
Pancakes Combine 1 cup self raising flour with a pinch of salt and 1 egg. Gradually add 1 cup milk and beat until mixture is smooth. Heat frying pan over fire and add a little butter. Pour in enough mixture to cover pan and cook until bubbles appear. Flip pancake over and cook the other side. Serve with butter, golden syrup, jam or whatever you like. Damper Mix 2 cups self raising flour, pinch of salt and 1/2 cup milk or water and work into a firm dough. Shape and dust the outside with flour. Cover with foil and place in hot coals. Cook for about 25-35 minutes. If you have a camp oven the dough can be placed directly into it and covered with the lid and placed on the hot coals with more coals on the lid. Check after 25 minutes. It is cooked when it has a golden crust and an inserted skewer comes out clean. Serve with butter, golden syrup, jam etc. Beer Damper can be made using beer, instead of the milk, and a tablespoon of butter. Jaffles Place a piece of bread in the jaffle iron. Add tinned spaghetti, an egg, leftover stew or anything else you may desire onto the center of the bread (do not overfill). Place another slice of bread on top, close jaffle iron and place amongst the hot coals. Check after 3-4 minutes. It is cooked when the bread is a toasty colour. Roasted Marshmallows These are an all time favorite with kids and adults alike.
Ideas for Camp Cooking Camp cooking should be easy are fun to do. A lot of camp cooking is based around a fire, so having a good camp fire, especially one that can produce some good hot coals, is very important. It is a good idea to always have a billy on the boil for your cups of tea, coffee or instant cup of soup. Billy Tea can easily be made by adding the desired amount of tea leaves to a billy of boiling water and swinging the billy in a wide arc with your arm 3 to 4 times, by which time the tea should have infused into the water to make the perfect cup.
Find a long stick and form a pointed tip on one end. Place marshmallow firmly on the end of the stick and place over hot coals, turning stick constantly. Marshmallow is cooked when turns a light golden color, although some people like it on the darker side, which can happen if flames get onto the marshmallow, in which case you just blow out the flames and eat it. By Susan Foley: For more ideas on camp cooking and a camping checklist feel free to visit http://www.gocampingpopupcamperreview.blogspot.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Foley Editor’s Note: A “billy” is simply a tin kettle that has a secure, tight lid and can safely be put over the flames. Billy tea usually includes fresh eucalyptus leaves picked off of gum trees. While this article is relative to Australia, most of the recipes can be used by anyone anywhere in the world. Eucalyptus trees are found outside of Australia in California and Arizona in the United States. Please ensure to use caution when using leaves from trees. Ensure that the trees are not sprayed with pesticide or insecticides, or other potentially harmful chemicals before ever using them.
Do yourself a favor and try a few of these things. These camping foods tend to please the family and friends because they are not something you do on a routine basis (a treat so to speak), they are easy to carry, again they are quick to fix or use and they leave very little trash. Hey, they are even easier on whoever does the cooking. Don't forget the s'mores-graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows. Every camp has to serve those at least once an outing! By James Brauers: http://www.begreenandhealthynaturally.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Brauers
What Foods Are Best For Tent Campers? We want to make your camping adventures enjoyable. We don't want camping to sound like it's too much work because it absolutely is not. Please don't turn it into a chore. Below are some ideas for meals at the camp ground and more specifically for Tent Camping Adventures to keep things easy for you. 1. Drinks: It is best to choose non-liquid beverages. Choose powders of your favorite choice. If you have packed your water purifier, you will have an abundance of water to use to make the drink of your choice whenever you want it. Powders are much lighter to pack & save space too. 2. Boxed Foods: Mac & cheese, noodles, rice and the multitude of other wonderful tasting items that come in a box today are wonderful choices. They are fast, easy and their remains are easily disposed of when cleaning up afterwards. 3. Canned Foods: While they are heavier to pack, they do serve a purpose as well. They are also fast, easy and the cans are wonderful for storing other items in around your campsite. If you are into target practice, they are a good target as well. 4. Breads of Choice: This is a good multi-purpose food. You can make hot & cold sandwiches, pizza, dessert pies and more. Of course, don't forget the staples to make these things with. 5. Breakfast Food: Unless you want to build a fire and cook every day, breakfast bars or meal bars come in a multitude of choices and flavors. These are quick & easy so you can hit the activity of your choice nice and early. Trail mixes can fall into this category as well so you don't have to stop for lunch either.
Gluten Free Camping – The Secret to Having Great Gluten Free Camping Trip If you have celiac disease and love the outdoors, you might think it is challenging to combine the two and enjoy a fantastic camping trip while keeping a close eye on your diet. The truth of the matter is that if you have the right stuff and the right mindset, you can easily make camping an important part of r life.
Here are the important steps for a fantastic Gluten free camp experience. Overpack on Food - Sometimes you get caught up in the wilderness and feel compelled to stay an extra night or two. But if that happens and you start to run short on food, you probably won't be able to pick up some flax crackers to snack on at the nearest trading post. It's always smarter to pack a just a little bit more than you have to when going gluten free camping. Pack Your Food Well - How you store you food is just as important as what foods you choose. Make certain to store you foods tightly in a protective cooler that can easily survive rough weather. To make things a lot easier on your camping trip, you can get some fantastic pre made gluten free food packs. Get Plenty of Snacks - A big mistake when gluten free camping is to just plan for the big meals, and ignore the fact that you will probably be hungry for snacks to recharge from those long hiking trips. Great options include eggs, fruit, potato chips, cheese wedges, nuts and dried fruit, and beef jerky. Beef jerky is especially great because it gives you a shot of protein, it stores well, and it is completely gluten free. Remember to keep a couple snacks on your person whenever you leave the main camp for any reason, just in case. Don't Forget Great Recipes - Half the fun of camping is cooking under an open sky. For breakfast, you could cook up some rice cakes with sunflower seed butter, for lunch, you could have some cheesy grits and bacon, and for dinner you might try something a little more hardy and filling, such as gluten free grilled pork loin and sweet potatoes. If you add a little ginger and garlic to the pork, it can be a delicious and filling meal for your gluten free camping trip. There are plenty of great gluten free camping recipes to be found if you look for them. Think About Tents - Which tent you get will depend upon what season you are camping, how many people are camping, and what the weather conditions are like at the camp site. It is best to educate yourself about the variety of tents available before you head off. If you just grab that dusty old tent that you might have stored over in the attic, you might just find yourself shivering and cramped throughout your entire camping trip. http://www.goodfuncamping.com is the web's top resource for gluten free campers. You can choose among a huge selection of great camping stoves, tents, and gluten free pre packed food. Including the variety of cool gluten free recipes, this is the last camping resource you'll ever need. By James Drexler: Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Drexler
Camping Water Heater – How Helpful it is During Outdoor Activities There are people who are into outdoor activities such as camping (may either be RV or backyard) or road tripping. Either way, these people look for the same comfort they have in their home. There are some equipment available in the market that will provide the same satisfying feeling. One good example of this equipment is the water heater. We all know the usefulness of it. We even use it at home on some occasions necessary. Because of this need, portable water heater was developed. Now we have something to use when we go experience fun outdoors. Here is the list of the things we can do when we have a water heater, especially a camping water heater. *Because it is portable, you can easily carry it anywhere with you. Thus, you can be assured to use something that will make this outdoor activity just wonderful. * It can be used for cooking. You need at least warm water to cook, especially when it is freezing outside. *You need not boil water to have some hot coffee. You can directly have it from the heater itself, especially if the water is potable.
*You can also wash the dishes. There are times when the only reason we cannot do this chore is because of the freezing water. * You can take a hot shower- one of the best things about water heaters. No longer will the coldness of the water prevent you from cleaning up yourself especially if you've undergone some major activities. Sometimes, taking a hot shower is therapeutic. * You can also wash your dogs or horses, especially if these animals already needed cleaning. * You can wash your car, truck or boat especially when it snows or it is terribly cold. There are water heaters which can add pressure when cleaning. In this case, dirt is easily removed. Those are just some of the little things camping water heater can help us with. Though it adds up to the weight we carry, it is better to include it in our To-bring list, rather than feeling sorry we did not. Some are battery operated. Some are made of stainless steel. It is very easy to use it anyway. Just connect the hose to the water heater itself. There are some heaters that will make you select which temperature you wanted. Then wait for a few seconds or minutes depending on what the manual says. Then, dispense! Now you can enjoy all the hot water you need. Camping water heaters are most likely used in base camps, cabins and horse trailers. These have several important functions you cannot just disregard. Also, it is preferable for all types of weather. During natural disasters like ice storms and hurricanes, you will feel blessed if you have this kind of equipment. Outdoor activities can sometimes be best enjoyed if you have the possible gadget necessary to make the trip enjoyable. By D Coleman: For more tips and information about camping water heaters, check out: http://www.summitcampinggear.com/cole manheaters.html Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=D_Cole man
Camping Water Filter Solutions Keeping your hydration at a high level is important when tackling the great outdoors. The loss of concentration, disorientation and false judgment are all risks that you're exposed to if you don't take special care to provide your organism with regular supply of fresh clean water. The direct use of bottled water isn't always a good solution. The water stagnates, especially in long and far away camping destinations, thus using a camping water filter is a much better alternative. Depending on the size of your group there are different types of filters available. The plethora of models offered by numerous brands often tends to be confusing when you're trying to choose your portable water filter. There are a few things you should know in order to avoid making the mistake of buying a low quality system that may be unreliable and cause potential harm to yourself or fellow campers. For large groups of people that are often found at base camps and relief organizations, there are some very good expedition filters like the Katadyn KFT, made of hardened stainless steel and big enough to cope with the demand of the group. Advanced removal systems help you keep your water clean, fresh and tasty by filtering out particles, parasites and other organic substances, and providing silver treated ceramic element that takes care of bacterial growth at a micro-level.
Pumping capacity and weight are important factors here and for reference, the Katadyn model offers a rate of 4L per minute, weighting around 5 kg. A smaller water filter is very suitable for a more private usage, but that doesn't mean you should make compromises on the quality of the service it provides. Using the excellent Katadyn Pocket Water Filter model as a guide, we're looking at a very comfortable unit, with a shock absorbing pump handle and attachable outlet hose to make filling up bottles with filtered water a much easier task. Using the same technologies as its bigger brother, this light portable filter, weighting just half a kilo, takes out even the very small bacteria’s and protozoa’s from the water, at the rate of 1L per minute. Guaranteed to last up to 50 thousand liters if used correctly, such a filter system can serve you for many years. If you are an active camper or a camping group, make sure to take care of yours and everyone else's health, and safety, by accommodating a filter unit in your backpack. Once you taste the fresh purified water and feel the benefits first-hand, you won't think of going out without your camping water filter ever again. By Ashoka Taavi: If you want to learn more about water dispensers, please visit WaterDispensers.co.cc and read about hot and cold water dispenser systems, water dispenser filters, tips on what to look for when purchasing a water purifier system, reviews of top water dispensers machine manufacturers, bottle water pump devices, the best water purifier units, 5 gallon water dispenser, and more. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ashoka_ Taavi
Five Fun Songs for Kids to Sing Around a Campfire For a really good campfire experience, be sure to plan ahead by choosing fun songs for kids. Children can have a great time; an experience they will always remember, singing around the campfire. Here, I have picked five songs that I have found most kids like to sing around a campfire. If you are going to sing fun songs for kids, the best advice for you is to have fun and get silly; in fact the sillier, the better! Young children seem to have more energy than anybody I know. They are just bursting at the seams. It takes patience, determination and a love of children to be able to keep kids attention while singing around a campfire. We could make a fortune if there were some way to bottle that energy! If you can get the kids moving while they are singing, you will have won half the battle. Just because they are singing doesn't mean they have to sit still with their arms folded without moving a muscle. Here are a few fun songs for kids that should work for you: McGregor: This is one of those songs with easy to learn lyrics. However, the tongue tends to get tied as you sing this. I like to sing it faster each time, until it's just impossible to sing! You may feel like Jerry Lewis, when he said, "My tongue got in front of my eyeteeth, and I couldn't see what I was saying!" This is sung to the tune of "The Irish Washerwoman." O, McGregor was dead and his brother didn't know it, and his brother was dead and McGregor didn't know it, and both of 'ems dead and in the same bed, and neither one knew that the other was dead.
John Jacob Jingleheimerschmidt: Like the previous song, this is fun to sing faster and faster. This is also fun to sing at normal volume, or even softer each time, except for the last line, which should be sung loud. If You're Happy and You Know It: When you're ready for some movement, this is fun to do. In the Great American Campfire Songbook, I have written three verses for you to sing, but you can come up with more on your own. If you can't think of any, the kids can probably help you out. BINGO: With this one you can have everyone sing the first verse. Then on the next verse, leave out the B, and clap once in its place. For the third verse, leave out the B and the I, and clap in each of their places. Continue through all the verses until you are not spelling out the word, but just clapping. Clementine: This is one of those old time classic campfire songs that everyone should learn. It's been around for over 150 years. The forty-niners of the California gold rush sang this song. Choosing fun songs for kids to sing is the first step toward having a great campfire experience. Good luck and have fun on your next campout. Roger Turner is a campfire song enthusiast. For more great tips and advice on fun songs for kids visit http://www.bestcampingsongs.com He is also the editor of The Great American Campfire Songbook You can find over 80 campfire songs, including the ones in this article in The Great American Campfire Songbook. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_L _Turner
Camping – What a Difference a Generation Makes My camping memories are from my late teens and twenties, when I was just beginning to have real obligations. As I look back, camping for me then was as much about what wasn't there on a camping trip as what was. There wasn't a phone, though that's getting tough to pull off, but more importantly, there wasn't a context of obligation. When you are camping, you have only a few things to worry about, like the food you're about to eat and whether you have enough sunscreen or the right number of layers - depending on the season. That's it. If you're doing it properly, cell phone coverage isn't an issue, nor are tax returns, registering your kid for kindergarten, fixing the dog scratches on the cabinet or worst of all - cleaning. In fact, the only types of cleaning that you might find yourself needing to do when camping, in order of preference, are: cleaning fish (not all that fun but it does mean you've been fishing and that you caught something worthwhile), brushing the dirt and dead bugs out of your tent, and rinsing that one pan that everything gets cooked in. You probably won't be clean yourself - it is camping. Now that I'm older, comparing life in my thirties to life in my twenties, the obligations are much, MUCH greater now. My house, though I like it and appreciate it, is an omnidirectional, ever-present reminder of things that I need to do, fix, buy, sell, donate, or worst of all, clean. So, I find myself with the desire to escape to the woods and call it camping. With two young sons, I also think about the experience they'll have and what they will remember and I am constantly thinking the thoughts of how can life improve for my kids vs. my life. I think of family relationships, money, self-confidence, education - all the things that I want them to have a good perspective on and whatever activity is at hand. In this case, camping. I decided that their camping views needn't be the escapist trips that mine were, and set out to see what else might be better. A proactively sought outdoor adventure vs. an escape.
First, we would need to see more - I always camped in the same kinds of places on the weekends when everyone with a tent was out also. Second, combine it with an active activity vs. 'just camping'. Third, go big and teach my children to think big and prosperous vacations versus weekendcramming, penny pinching jaunts to a campground. So I am replacing a hurried weekend jaunt to a campground with a proper outdoors vacation to a new place, we're going to take trips in huge Land Rovers (a.k.a. Super Jeeps) over wild terrain, and third... we're going to do it on a volcano island it the Atlantic. Yeah, that's not my past camping experience at all. It's a big outdoor adventure. We're up for it. Think of how different my kids perspective on outdoor trips will be! If you are considering a trip and deciding where to go, check out something new. Iceland tours with Iceland Rovers - travel in rugged and luxurious Land Rovers and other specially equipped SUVs over lava, glaciers, and otherworldly terrain. We're going on a longer Super Jeep Tour but there is quite a variety of tours to suit you depending on the time you have to spend and the type of experience you're looking for. - Patrick Sullivan By Dan Patrick: Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Patrick
Estate Planning For Pets and Domesticated Animals Companionship animals play an important role in the lives of humans. Cats keep us company on the couch. Dogs play Frisbee with us at the park. Pets can even prolong a person's life, lowering the risk of heart attack and rates of depression. Despite these beneficial effects in the lives of humans, more than 500,000 pets are euthanized in animal shelters throughout the United States annually because of the death or disability of the owner. How can pet owners prevent such a disaster from occurring? In this article, the author explores three ways to provide for financial support and care for your pet when you no longer can. 1st Solution: Give your Pet to a Friend or Relative Under California Probate Code, Section 6102, an outright gift to an animal is void. However, you can give your pet to a close friend or relative, along with funds to provide for their care. An attorney can help you draft language in your will or trust so
that the gift will be valid. There are many downsides to giving your pet to a friend or relative. First, the friend or relative may not want to take care of your pet. Even if they express a desire today, your friend or relative may move away or face new life circumstances, making them unable or unwilling to provide proper care and support for your pet. Second, once your friend takes legal ownership of your pet, there is no guarantee that they will fulfill your desires, whether expressed orally or in a will. A worst-case scenario is an immediate euthanization of the pet upon a change of ownership, regardless of your best intentions. 2nd Solution: Give your Pet to an Animal Protection Organization The second solution is to give your pet to an animal protection organization. Many organizations exist throughout California, which provide either permanent care or adoption services. A lawyer can help you add language to your will or trust to legally give your pet to an organization like the San Francisco SPCA or Pets in Need of Redwood City. Many of these organizations may also enable you to specify the type of home that would be suitable for your pet. Others require a planned gift to be made along with your pet. Organizations include the SPCA, the Humane Society, the National Cat Protection Society, Pet Pride, Pets in Need, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, and the California Feline Foundation. A gift to an organization like the SPCA is an excellent solution for many pet owners. Yet, for many, such a gift may not be sufficiently personal. Moreover, it cannot be guaranteed exactly how money for long term financial support will be provided and whether proper placement of the pet can be achieved. 3rd Solution: Pet Trusts The third solution is to provide for your pet under a pet trust. Under Section 15212 of the California Probate Code, trusts for pets are allowed for an animal's lifetime. A pet trust is the best way to provide for one's pets, offering greater certainty and provision than an outright gift to a friend or
charitable organization. First, you can provide specific instructions on how your pet should be cared for. The trust may nominate potential caretakers, giving the trustee discretion to provide a suitable guardian and home. The trust can delineate how medical expenses, pet care, pet visits, and other duties are handled. Second, the Probate Code's requirement that principal and income be paid out only for the pet's benefit provides added certainty that money will go only for the pet. Third, the pet trust is more easily enforced than an outright gift. A regular accounting of expenses can be required, whereby a person designated in the trust, or a beneficiary, ensures that principal and income are paid for a pet's benefit. Finally, a pet trust prevents your pet from falling through the cracks. Under the probate code, any nonprofit charitable organization that cares for animals, or a beneficiary or person designated by the trust,
may make reasonable inspections to ensure that the pt, the books and records of the trust, and where the pet is living are proper. Pet trusts are not for everyone. Unfortunately, a pet trust that leaves a remainder to charity is not eligible for an estate tax charitable deduction. Moreover, the expenses associated with administering a pet trust may rule out their use unless they are funded with a relatively large amount of money. Finally, while enforcement mechanisms under a pet trust are better than the alternatives, there is still no guarantee that the trustee will act completely in the pet's interest. This article is intended to provide general information about estate planning strategies and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney. Treasury regulations require a disclaimer that to the extent this article concerns tax matters, it is not intended to be
used and cannot be used by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. John C. Martin is a California-licensed attorney concentrating in wills, trusts, estates, and the creation of business entities. A native of San Mateo, California, he holds degrees from Boston College Law School, UCLA, Sciences Po Paris and Woodside Priory. John founded the Law Offices of John C. Martin in 2008, guided by a vision of providing legal services that are highly personalized, cost-effective, and of excellent quality. While at law school, John was on the board of editors of the school's international law review, and won multiple awards in oral advocacy. He is an active member of the Silicon Valley Bar Association, the San Mateo County Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. He has spent considerable time in France and Brazil and is fluent in French. Before founding the Law Offices of John C. Martin, John worked with a global top 50 firm. He has served as a legal clerk for a not-for-profit legal clinic. Prior to law school, John worked in the financial services industry. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_C. _Martin
Manifesting the Positive Radio Show June-July Schedule Join Leyla Hur and Stuart Rosen every Thursday night on their inspirational and informational show, “Manifesting the Positive”. Each week, Leyla and Stuart bring you the best of the best guests in the motivational, inspirational, spiritual world and then some. Tune in Thursday nights at 8PM PST / 11PM EST (USA & Canada) Friday 3AM UTC (Coordinated Universal Time - the international basis for other time zones. Same time as for GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
This Month June 18th 2009 – Dr Rita Louise Body, Mind, and Soul Healer Lines will be open; Call in to receive a free intuitive reading th
June 25 2009 – Justin Sachs and Tami Walsh Teen Success Coach and Teen Girls Life Coach July 2nd 2009 – Aaron Huey Facilitator of Fire Mountain Programs For children, teens, and families th
July 9 2009 – Marcy Morrison Author, Speaker, and Consultant; Marcy gives careers and life wings
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