She's leaving me!!!

    My little sister is moving 10 hours away from me....and I'm miserable over it. I wish she would stay with me. I know that things are going to be alot better for her when she moves....but still...I'm so sad. I can't call her and ask her if she wants to do lunch...or go grocery shopping....or just a visit for no reason....That's all I have to say about this right now.

What Chaos can do to a perfectly Great Day!!!

     I got up around 7a.m. as usual...with my baby Riley...She's usually the first up every morning so I made her oatmeal with honey and flax seed and some mashed up banannas. I usually run my 2.2 miles around 10a.m. but my sister and I were hosting a Summer Brunch  at 2p.m. so I decided to go running early. My niece has been staying with me since school let out (about 3 1/2 weeks) and she had been running every day with me. I woke her up and we did our run. When I got back...I jumped in the shower and got dressed. A couple girlfriends of mine were coming over around 10 to help me get everything ready for my Brunch.
    After my friends arrived things started getting done. We set up 1 big table in our backyard to put all the food and drinks on. Anne, one of my Besties, brought over some really cute table cloths to put over the tables we had borrowed from the fire dept. We set up 2 smaller tables with chairs all around for everyone to sit around. We had invited 23 people....not including children. We filled over 400 water balloons for all the kids to play with and set out sidewalk chalk and crayons and coloring books.
    Well, around 1:00p.m. I started brunch. I had already made the dough for the biscuits earlier in the day and I had cut the biscuits out with a glass. I had everything planned and ready to go...but.....Murphy's Law...huh? I hear my friend say, "Erica, I think one of the babies needs their diaper changed." About that time..I smelled it....as did everyone else too. I found the culprit...my 3 yr.old Autistic son, Micah.Actually...I smelled him before I saw him, but when I saw him, I nearly flipped. He was covered with poop...Head to Toe!! I grabbed him and took him to the bathroom, where I stripped him and gave him a bath. After, I dried and dressed him...then took him into the playroom. When I returned to the kitchen to finish up, my niece, Audrey comes in and says that there is poop all over the kitchen chairs and table. I go into the dining room and sure enough there is poop all over the top of the table and on 2 of my chairs. I had to have my friends take over in the kitchen while I cleaned crap up all over the dining room. It was ground into the carpet...and n all the crevices of my chairs. It took me a good 20 minutes to clean it all up...When I finished...I had to return to the kitchen and finish brunch.
    I had partially frozen OJ,Coke, and Mtn.Dew for the drinks. The last thing I had to do was make the chocolate gravy and regular sausage gravy....so I finished up with that  and just about that time the last of our guests arrived. 17 of the 23 guests showed up....but with all the kids...we ended up with 36 mouths to feed. Even though it was alot of work...we had a blast and Alicia and I have decided to start an annual Summer Brunch. We're gonna do it every year around the first day of summer. This year the first day of summer starts June 21st...We had it 1 day early because of conflicting schedules and Micah's Occupational therapy.

    On a more somber note....After our brunch was over.....there wasn't too many "friends" that stayed to help clean up...Haha. Actually, the same people that came over early to help set up....stayed to clean up...so, I can't complain...My niece helped out too....so I had about 5 people helping me clean up, and that was more than enough. I know I say it alot, but I really do have some of the greatest friends ever, and I thank God for them every night...without them, my kids wouldn't have much of an extended family. These people treat us like we've always been a part of their families. They never forget my kids birthdays, X-mas,Easter, school and sports functions, etc. They are good people...much better than the family I come from. ie: Most of my DNA family haven't even met my last 2 children. God made sure that I wouldn't do without and he has sent me the greatest family possible!! Every day is a GREAT day when I'm with my family!!  I love you all....and sissy...I'm so glad that you and I are close again....maybe even closer than we ever have been. I have sooooooooooooo much to be thankful for!!

Tribute to a Wonderful Father!!

    I have not just a great Dad....but a cool Dad! Ok, maybe not so cool when I was a kid....but as a grown up...I see my Dad a little differently. I can actually tell him things I would have never told him when I was 10. I really like that!
    My Dad came into my life when I was about 3. He adopted me when I was about 6....and gave me a sister too. I have to say that I can't think of a single time that my Father has treated me second best to his biological daughter. He decided that when he adopted me that I would not just legally become his daughter....but rather I BECAME his daughter 100%. I see alot of men nowadays adopting their wives children from a previous marriage...and not because they truly love these kids...but because they are a "package deal" so to speak. It's sad! I was blessed to get a real Dad....and I wouldn't dream of ever calling him anything else besides Dad. Bruce doesn't naturally trip off my tongue for some reason. By the way, Bruce is his name.
    My Dad has had his fair share of bad times...yet he always seems to emerge with a smile. I love this man with all my heart...and am soooo blessed to have him. He doesn't live very close to me....so I can't run to him with all my problems....but I hope to one day bridge the distance a little. If I ever have to take care of my Dad...I'll move him in with me. I would be honored to take care of him. He took care of me and he didn't have to. I recently found out that my Dad actually paid off my biological Father to get me. I met my biological father a couple times....and I guess he forgot to mention that. I often wonder how he spent that money.... I wonder if my Dad thinks it was the best money he ever spent? I'm betting that he does...because that's the kind of guy he is.
    Happy Fathers Day Dad!!  I love you so much and I hope that you know you have been a huge inspiration to me....with everything that you have overcome. You could be sitting there collecting disability doing nothing much....but you still get up every day and go to work.....Good for you dad...and you deserve a happy and peaceful retirement, which I hope you will get one day when it's your time.
    I will always stand beside you no matter what....and if there is anything that I can ever do for you....I will do it. You're the greatest Dad and I hope you know how much you are loved by me..... I Love You!!!!  Below is a recent picture of me and my Dad...Bruce O. Meyers

                                                          Your Daughter...Erica Meyers Goodin

Droopy Diapers and Soured Milk: What is going on with my daughter?

Droopy Diapers and Soured Milk: What is going on with my daughter?: " I LOVE LOVE LOVE my baby girl....but if I were to be really and brutally honest with myself....I would have to admit that she runs my li..."

What is going on with my daughter?

    I LOVE LOVE LOVE my baby girl....but if I were to be really and brutally honest with myself....I would have to admit that she runs my life...not the other way around. I can't go pee without her tagging along. When I go out for my daily jog, whether it be with my niece or my friends, she throws her best tantrum possible. When she sees me putting on my joggiing outfit...she has actually went to the trouble of hiding my tennis shoes. Luckily, for me, I have a few pair of running shoes. By the time I get back to her...she has cried a river and has a completely red face and swollen lips. I feel so guilty. Everyone tells me that I deserve a break from her and that I need these running breaks...but I'm not so sure about that. I honestly feel like I'm traumatizing my girl. I've even resorted to taking her with me in the evenin in the worldg. She loves it when I take her running. I put her in her stroller and instead of running my usual 2.2 miles down 770... I opt for the 1.7 miles around the Amy North subdivision. I don't really enjoy that run as much since pushing her slows me down considerably.

    What is a mother to do? I don't want her to think that there is anything in this world more important to me than her and her brothers. I also don't want to end up in the psych ward from a nervous breakdown...which is where any mother will end up if she doesn't spend time outside of her home without her children. For the Love of God....I take my daughter to Salon 23 when I have my hair done.. I've got to start taking better care of my social life. I've got some of the greatest friends anyone could ever hope to have! I don't mean just friends that remember my birthday...I mean friends that not only remember my birthday...but that throw me birthday parties...and remember my kids birthdays'...and remember the anniversary of my 9 yr.old sons death..and his birthday too. Since my son passed away.....Every year on his birthday my girls get together and come to my house bearing food and candy. They don't let me cook and they kind of take over my family and let me go to the cemetary to visit. I Love these girls...I went to high school with just one of these girls. The others I met through working....and one is the ex girlfriend of my brother in law. I can't even begin to express how blessed I feel to have these girls in my life. Thank you Lord for my Family and Friends...without them....I wouldn't know what to do!!

Droopy Diapers and Soured Milk: The Bond between Sisters!!

Droopy Diapers and Soured Milk: The Bond between Sisters!!: "If you have a sister, as I do, then you know that the bond cannot be broken very easily. I love my sister, and although we have had our fair..."

The Bond between Sisters!!

If you have a sister, as I do, then you know that the bond cannot be broken very easily. I love my sister, and although we have had our fair share of disputes and disagreements...I could never turn my back on her. I'm there for her and always will be. She aggravates me to no end...but here I still am....and here I will always be. The picture above is of our family....minus the kids. The two beauties to the right of the pic are of me and my sister. She has the white t-shirt on, I have the gray. The a**hole across from her is an idiot named Mike who she is currently dating. I am posting this publicly because I want to warn other women that he will soon be single and to WATCH OUT for him. He likes to bully the women he dates...and doesn't mind one bit to live off of other people...me included. I detest this man with a passion I have never known...and I'm sorry Alicia....but he isn't a good looking man. He's quite ugly actually. The meal we are eating, coincidentally, was paid for by my Father...I left the tip. Naturally....he left with a stomach full. He doesn't 'ALLOW' my sister to spend any alone time with me at all. We have to lie and sneak around...which I hate!!!! I told my sister yesterday that our grocery shopping trip was the last straw! He did not need to join us....but he did...and he followed us around from one aisle to the next. I completely ignored him...and I found out today that he took that out on my sister too.

    I am so completely devastated by this man's behavior towards my little sister. It kills me to see her so sad all of the time. Alicia and I "snuck" out this morning and went and hung out. I had a heart to heart with her and begged her to please come and stay with me...and I think I got through to her. She is supposed to come and stay with me tonight. I can only pray that she really does. I want so bad to hurt this man...or No, he's not a man...he's a little boy.  he's mommy's little baby boy who tries to act like a big bad man!!! It's funny almost.

    So, anyway, To all the single women out there...look out!!!  Stay away from this boy!!!!

   

Looking and Feeling Younger by Protecting our Telomeres!!!

Read the article I have attatched to the right to get a brief education on what telomeres are....and you'll understand what I'm talking about.
    Relaxing? It's actually harder to do than you think. Just because your body isn't in motion...does not mean it is relaxing. We have to find ways to cut our stress and one of those ways is to relax. Meditation...many people think it's a farce and way over rated. It works!!! I'm a true believer in Yoga which uses meditation as a foundation. Please give it a try....and don't expect to be a pro after one or two tries. For your own well being...really put some effort into learning how to meditate. It's a major part of my life now!!!
    Now, I realize that salads aren't on everyone's fave food lists...and I, too, didn't have them on my top ten...but there are literally sooo many ways to boost the flavor of salads in all kinds of healthy ways. I don't use salad dressing at all. I do, however, use a touch of extra virgin Olive oil. I add toasted pecans, berries, different kinds of fruit like kiwi and mango. I'm not a huge fan of beets...but after doing a little research on them...I had to add them to my salads. I cut them up very fine...and I actually like the flavor they add.
     I always...every single day, take a multi vitamin!! I have read so many proven studies on the benefits of a multi vitamin and I take one before I go to bed every night!!
    This article pumps the benefit of casual motion. Well, most of us with children don't have to worry about casual motion...cause we get more than just a casual work-out...right Ladies?
    Alot to do and think about? No, not really. If you care about yourself and family and want to live to your full potential....heed this advice!! You won't get any better advice than what I am giving you now!!

I Have Found the Greatest Body Scrub in the World!! Read on.....It costs about $.40

I literally happened upon this article on homemade body scrubs and tried it for the hell of it...I couldn't believe how soft my skin was....and it was just as soft the next night when I got back in the shower.....Not only that...but 4 days later and 4 showers later...It was STILL just as soft!! Please if you take any of my advice...Please try this one....You WILL thank me!!!!

Where Can We Get More Energy Girls? I did a little research for us....Read on....

This is true!! Taking a nap does make me feel more energized...I tried drinking a cup of coffee just before I took my nap..and when I woke up...Believe it or not...I did feel significantly more energized than I usually do. I love testing out these studies myself. I always go in with the mind set that it's not going to work...and most of the time...I am pleasantly surprised!!! It feels empowering to find new ways to get energized. I love it...Maybe now I can lay off the speed!! J/K!  I do NOT use speed!! I better not hear any rumors floating around about me doing speed either. Did you hear me oh wonderful family members that love to make up things about people that aren't true? Go suck an egg and find something productive to do with your life!!

I believe that my sister and I both are stronger psychologically and emotionally than our friends and family, who had,for the most part, a trouble free childhood.Should I thank my Mom and Dad for being irresponsible and immature? Well, No. Of course Not. But, trying to look to the positive....I have to agree with this article. I am definitely more able than most to deal with traumatic events. I've had more than my fair share of tragedy. They say God never gives you more than you can handle....I suppose I can handle more than most....Believe it. What do you think? I'd be very interested in others' opinions!!

Watch out my Friends...Here's another Computer Virus to watch out for!!

Read the following Article! This is just the newest virus that we have to watch out for! It's getting to the point where I'm afraid to open anything!!
Do you Ever wonder who these people are that do this? I do....I have a mental picture of a "Loser" who happens to be computer savvy, sitting around in his/her Parents Basement working on a new virus. Obviously these people have too much free time...so I'm betting they aren't productive citizens. Most likely, they are unemployed, with a scarce to non-existent social life. I can see him/her finishing up their latest virus... and clapping their hands together giggling like a first grader. I'm betting my description is dead on!!

Attention Liars, Thieves, Users, Abusers, and so called Christians...

    Ever since my son, Devon, passed away...I've been seeing a Grief Counselor. Well, to be exact, She's a Psychologist, who specializes in PTSD, and grief. I've been seeing her for 4 years now and I owe her my sanity. Thank you Dr. Hoyt!! I tell her everything....including how my family treated my son when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Terminal Cancer. She suggested that I write about it...and so I am doing that. It's taken me a long time to get to this point where I'm willing to share with everyone My experience...but here goes!!
    To say I've been hurt by my "Family" is an understatement. I don't claim to know God's will or intent,... but in my heart of hearts (Way deep down in the nucleus of my soul) I know (somehow I just Know) that God is NOT happy with these people. I know I'm a good person..I have a clear and clean conscience on that subject. Of course I've made my mistakes...who hasn't? But believe me, The Lord and I are square on that. I've repented for my past mistakes...and I've paid for my wrong doings. Who are these people to judge me? I mean really? I have 2 relatives who have "blocked me on Facebook," and it's laughable at best. I, No kidding, had to laugh when I found out....It's so high school...It's so....just like both of them. I'd bet it all that they are close friends with eachother as well. Yep...High School.  Gotta say...Never wanted to be a part of that clique!! So that there's no misunderstanding....I DO LOVE both individuals... I don't like them...and I don't want to be around either one...But, I love them both. They are my family, and I would stand up for them, no matter how wrong they are. That's another big difference between the three of us. No matter how crappy they treated me and my child, I wouldn't wish what I went through on my worst enemy. If either of them found themselves pushing their child in a wheel chair into the Med room at St Judes's for high dose Chemo...you can bank on the fact that they would receive words of encouragement from me...their child would receive cards from me...and No...not because I've went through it with my own son...I would have given them the same treatment before my son got sick...I mean...wouldn't most people?
    I had to let go of my anger, disappointment, and frankly...shock towards these people a while back. Before I go any further, the two afformentioned people are not the focus of my subject...they are definitely included...but they were not alone. I have a big family...and besides my sister and father, there were exactly (3) three "Blood relations" to call me and/or my son during his sickness. 2 of those people called me one time in the entire 2 1/2 years that we battled my son's Cancer. It's nothing short of pathetic!! These are not nice people. This is not a judgement on my part either...It's plain and simply Fact!!
    Wow! She's right!! I do feel kind of good, maybe unburdened is a better word. Nothing about this makes me feel good. I am saddened that I feel this way about my "family."
    I am living proof that DNA does not make a "Family." My children have More Grandma's and Grandpa's than most children, as well as Aunts and Uncles. These people may not carry the same DNA as we do, but they are NOTHING short of MY "Family!!" Devon had more than enough people rallying around him when he was sick. I just had an amazing thought...I can't even count (SERIOUSLY) how many people made the 11 hour (One way) drive to Memphis to see Devon. We used to get reprimanded by the staff at Target House for having so many visitors. These people...My friends...No, my Family, put smile after smile on my baby's face. I could live a thousand years...and I still wouldn't be able to thank these wonderful people enough!!
    Will I always wonder why my Biological family didn't make an effort to let my baby know he was loved by them?  Well, Yes, I don't think it's avoidable. It's natural to want to know that answer...but after all this time...I realize there isn't any answer they could give me that would excuse their behavior.
    Before I go to bed each night...I say 2 prayers...One with my children, and then one between me and God alone. I feel closer to God now more than ever..and maybe it is because my baby Devon is up there with him...I don't know. I just know that I have to keep my faith and live a good life and teach my children to always hold the Lord's hand in their lives.... I am truly blessed in my life with Amazing people walking right beside me. I'd love to name each of you personally, but I don't have enough space left...so, To all my Friends (My real Family) I love you all...each and e very one of you..and know that I will always be right beside you...just as you all have for me and Devon!! God has truly, truly smiled upon me...and you!! For all of you who have never met Devon...here he is......

Hello Friends!!!
    As some of you already know...I have a 3 year old with Autism. I've heard all kinds of crazy rumors about the cause of Autism, as I'm sure you have too. I've been going over all the studies that have been recently finished as of last month....and I came across some useful info....atleast I thought it was useful. Vaccines are not a factor in the cause of Autism. I've heard stories about how vaccines can cause Autism, so naturally I've been on the fence regarding vaccines. As a matter of fact, I've been taking my time getting my 2 year old daughter vaccinated for fear that she too might become Autistic like her brother.

     I'm releived that this study had found no connection between the two. I'm posting the pic of the article I found in Womans World.....confirming what I read,

Lose Something? Find it Fast!! (6) of (6)

Miscellaneous Information:

   Looking for Lyrics to a song? Lyrics.net and Lyrics.com provide FREE access to more than 250,000 lyrics by more than 15,000 artists and bands. Browse the Lyrics database or search for a specific song or Artist.

   Looking for Bible quotes or text? BibleGateway.com lets you look up passages using keywords; Choose which Edition of the Bible you want.

   Celebrity birthdates: LeannesBirthdays.com posts more than 30,000 birthdays of famous people!

Lose Something? Find it Fast!! (5) of (6)

Lost Fido? I guess if he's really a part of the family...then you'll need to find him fast. Don't Panic!! We make the most mistakes not keeping a calm head in situations of stress.
   You know to ask Neighbors, Check shelters, and put up signs.
   But, There's more you can do!! Sign up for FREE  atFidoFinder.com or Pets911.com Both keep databases of Lost and Found Pets arranged by area. Also, Post a FREE dog alert in the classified section at PetFinder.com , then check the site's "found dog" section. And, for a fee, you can register at PetAmberAlert.com (Yes it's for Real) or LostMyDoggie.com , which make and distribute posters- complete with your pet's pic and information to local Veterinarians and Animal Shelters. For an additional fee, they'll even call thousands of your neighbors to alert them of your missing pet.
   Do they go to this much trouble for missing people?

Lose Something? Find it fast!! (4) of (6)

Looking for Old Friends? Can't find them on Facebook or MySpace?
  
   You already know how to Google them, dial 411 in the City where they live, and naturally Facebook and other Social Medias were of no help to you. So, What to do?
   Well, alot of people aren't familiar with another social site called LinkedIn.com Try this first. Then, if you still come up empty, try a FREE online directory like 411.com or ZabaSearch.com Type in the person's name and the last state you know that he/she lived in. Still No luck? Try PeopleSearch.com or PublicRecords.com Both sites list possible matches for FREE, then charge a small fee for an address or phone number.

Lose something? Find it Fast (3) of (6)

Lose your cell phone...and actually want it back? 

   Well, Let's first use common sense..If you think you've lost it nearby, then pick up someone else's phone and call it...duh!! Okay, Okay...just a joke. What if you don't have another cell phone handy to call it? Then, you can go to www.Wheresmycellphone.com and enter your number, and they will call it for you for free!!
   What if you've lost it in a cab, restaurant, or don't remember where u lost it?
   First, Alert your provider so they can prevent anyone else from using it, then register it in the database of lost phones at www.MissingPhones.org  Simply enter your phones serial number, which u can get from your service provider or off the packaging that your phone came in when u bought it, and you will be contacted if someone finds it.
   To prevent ALOT of trouble, Subscribe to your carrier's "phone locator" service BEFORE it gets lost, and they'll find your phone using GPS technology- But, this only works if u do it BEFORE it goes missing. 

Lose something? Find it Fast!! (2) of (6)

Lost your old Yearbook? Want to take a walk down memory lane once more? Okay then...Let's Go Sister!!
   Go to www.MemoryLane.com , which has more than 70,000 digitalized yearbooks from schools across the country from the past 60 years. Enter your School and year, and you can flip through the pages and reminisce online for FREE!!www.MemoryLane.com

This may be the most HELPFUL Post ever written!! (1) of (6)

Lose Something? Find it Fast!!!
   With today's technology...there shouldn't be any waiting around, or endless hours on hands and knees looking for that LOST something or another.

   Missing Owners Manual?

   Okay, we've all done it...misplaced that irreplaceable manual on our GPS, or Washing Machine,etc., but not to worry. I've done the leg work for you. It's taken me about 20 hours of researching and compiling lists, but it's worth it. Even if noone ever reads this, it was well worth it for me just to have the info. that I have!!
   Many company websites including www.whirlpool.com , www.GEAppliances.com , www.Canon.com , www.Ford.com , www.MyMazda.com , www.Dell.com allow you to download their user manuals and instruction booklets for free. Yes, I too, wish this list were longer.
   Now, If you can't find what you're looking for there, then head to www.SafeManual.com , where you can find more than 2 MILLION user manuals for all kinds of products from appliances and electronics to cars. Just type in the item and manufacturer you're looking for , and u can download it for FREE!!
   People, Feel free to thank me for this information anytime. I could use the pat on the back...since I get no "Thank you's" for researching all this information in my Blog.

Feel Good Food? You tell me!!

   I did a little research on my own this past month on foods that made me feel better...and this is what I found out:
   Pinto Beans- Not my favorite bean...but definitely worth eating if you want an energy boost. Everytime I've ever ate these, I always start feeling a little more get up and go about 30 minutes after I've ingested them. My personal study proven dose: One to two (1 cup) servings. Credit goes to the protein, I'm sure.
   Orange Juice- When you're drinking O.J., Can't you just feel the goodness going into you? I can! I know I'm getting a credible amount of Vitamin C...and that's Oh soooo good for your body. Be careful though...O.J. can be too filling. My study proven dose: (1) cup (8oz.) Try this first...and if u still want more, try an additional 4oz. For me personally, becoming over-full on O.J. makes me feel bloated and it no longer stands up for me as a feel good source.
   Green Beans- I know...Not the greatest taste, but drizzle a tiny bit of extra virgin olive oil on them and Presto....Yummy! I always feel great after I eat these beans. Try using the xtra virgin olive oil before salting them for taste, I think you'll see that the salt can't come close to providing the taste that the oil does. Read the benefits of Xtra virgin olive oil on a previous post that I wrote about it.
   I have an endless supply of feel good foods and their benefits...and if you want a complete list...please feel free to e-mail me requesting it at darthbrand@adelphia.net
   Before I close, I want to stress the importance of Emotional well being for a sec. If anyone needs a support group for ANYTHING, Please check out the following website: www.SupportGroups.com  This site deals with everything: Phobias, Smoking, losing weight, eating healthier, literally dozens of support groups!!

Can't Sleep? Soak your Feet!!

   Your body temperature dips at night, helping to induce drowsiness. So, soaking your feet in warm water for a few minutes then letting them air dry speeds up that process.   How?  It triggers a drop  in temperature that's enough to send you to dreamland.
   I put this technique to the test last night...and let me tell you....in a matter of 10 minutes, I was Gone ...gone...gone!


*** If you wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom....Don't Flip on the light switch! Keep a night light on throughout the house. Turning on lights stimulates the area in the brain that controls wakefulness.

Anti-Agers Add 20 years to your life!! (7) of (7)

Replacing Strict dieting with a little extra Activity!!

   Exercising 20 minutes daily improves insulin sensitivity so your pancreas has to produce  only a smidgen of this hormone to keep your blood sugar trickling steadily into the cells that need it. And, That's the key: The Groundbreaking Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging shows that using exercise to keep your insulin levels low reaps the same longevity benefits as sticking to a strict , bland, ultra low calorie diet! YESSS!!!!

Anti-Agers Add 20 years to your life!! (6) of (7)

Rejuvenatingcancer cells Brain Cells with Black Eyed Peas!! (No Lie!!) 1/2 cup


   They're packed with Phyates (Age defying nutrients that European research shows kill cancer cells, strengthen immunity, and revearse aging inside body and brain cells!)
   Study Proven Dose: One to Two 1 cup servings daily.


***Other Options: Brown Rice (1 cup)
                               Bran Flakes or Cream of Wheat
                               Almonds (1oz)

Anti-Agers Add 20 years to your life!! (5) of (7)

Getting double the Antioxidant power from food!!

   Eating specific foods together dramatically increases the benefits of certain antioxidants, reveals Ohio State research. For example, sulforaphane (the Cancer fighting compound in broccoli) destroys troublesome cells even more effectively if it's eaten with selenium rich seafood or poultry. Similarly, pairing avocados with tomatoes unleashes up to 4 times more stroke stopping lycopene, say researchers-and you'll absorb twice as much fat-soluble vitamin E from spinach if you saute the veggie in butter, olive oil, or other fat.

Anti-Agers Add 20 years to your life!! (4) of (7)

Revving your Immune System by Sleeping!

   A study of the World's oldest people shows that the thing they have most in common is sleep..fitting in atleast 7 1/2 hours nightly!
   Sleep is the body's prime time for repairing damaged tissues, slowing cellular aging and super charging the immune system, says Walter Gaman,M.D., Author of Stay Young . So, making time to snooze can prevent dozens of health hassles, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes- plus it adds three years to your life!!

Anti-Agers Add 20 years to your life!! (3) of (7)

Enjoy Age Defying Produce!!

   Apples,bananas,pears....eating atleast one cup of fresh or frozen fruit or two cups of vegetables daily ensures you take in hundreds of natures finest disease-fighting compounds.
   Loma Linda University research suggests that this single step  helps neutralize up to 75% of the aging toxins that enter your body, adding 2 years to your life and cutting your risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, and cataracts as much as 40%.

***Like Red Meat?  People who dine on leaner cuts and avoid the fattier nitrate-laden types like bacon and sausage tend to live up to 9 years longer!

Anti-Agers Add 20 years to your life!! (2) of (7)

Fighting Aging by forgoing the Carbs!!
   A surprising new Harvard study proves that just cutting back on refined carbohydrates- like those in cakes, crackers, and sodas- boosts your thyroids production of anti-aging hormones by 6%, plus cuts levels of insulin ( a hormone that can prematurely age the brain, heart, and arteries)by 48%.

Anti-Agers...Add an extra 20 years to your life!! (1) of (7)

We've all heard it before...Think young to stay young!! But, It's true! A study shows that feeling young at heart slows the aging process, keeping your body and brain up to 12 years younger than the calendar says.
The Key: Nurturing your friendships. People with active social lives not only feel younger and are more energetic, they're 22% less likely to develop serious illnesses.  Sharing fun and laughter cuts stress hormone production 25%, reduces blood pressure, and improves immunity, all of which slow aging...explains University of Pittsburgh Neurosurgeon Joseph C. Maroon,M.D.

Strange but True...Ways to cut Cancer

ASPIRIN lowers Cancer risk. How? Regularly taking 75mg. of aspirin reduces the risk of many cancers (including colon and prostate) by as much as 34% in people over 40, a new study reveals!!

GREEN TEA cuts Cancer risk by as much as 40% reveals a study of more than 40,000 adults.
                        Study proven Dose: 5 or more cups daily of the fresh brew

BLACK or OOLONG TEA can cut your Cancer risk as well. According to Swedish research, black,oolong,and green tea can cut your Cancer risk as much as 46% if drank daily. 

                       Why? Tea's polyphenols get the credit, says Daniel Cosgrove, M.D.,of California's WellMax Center for Preventative Medicine. He says that these antioxidants mop up ovary-damaging free radicals, plus they help block the formation and spread of cancerous cells.

Harvard Scientists say eating 4 carrot sticks a day  could cut yourrisk of ovarian Cancer in half. Carrots contain hundreds of carotenoids, and these antioxidants destroy ovary-damaging environmental pollutants

The Olive Oil That Keeps You Young...For real? Yes!!

   Everyone has heard of the wonders of Olive Oil, and the good old folks in Tuscany use the healthiest version of all: Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, which contains Oleic acid, a compound that blocks a key gene linked to cancer.
   It also has the greatest amount of nutrients and fatty acids. In fact, one Italian study found women who consumed Extra Virgin Olive Oil had markedly lower rates of age related cell damage than their non-olive oil counterparts, and were even 30% healthier than women who consumed regular olive oil!

   Makes you think!!

**Tips to buying Olive Oil:

(1) Choose a small bottle made of tinted glass- Small bottle limits oxygen that enters as u pour.
                                                                            Tinted glass filters UV light
      ( these are 2 ways to slow the oxidation process that triggers the deterioration of healthy
      compounds)

(2) Store Olive Oil in cabinet where the temp. is between 68 and 77 degrees F

Premature Aging from stress....and a couple proven fixes

As silly as it may sound, you can reclaim a part of your youth bt dancing! That's right...DANCING!!
   Stress causes wrinkles and gray hair, making u look years older than u really are.
   Why? It shortens your telomeres...which are the tiny strips of genetic material on the ends of your cells. Luckily for most of us, lengthening your telomeres is as easy as doing a 10 minute daily burst of activity...such as DANCING. Of course, if you don't like to dance, then you can climb stairs or anything else that gets your heart pumping reveals this study.
   DANCING'S secret power: Any kind of exercise -even short spurts- blunts the effects of stress!!
   Add 10 years by popping this: Women who take a multivitamin have longer telomeres, indicating they're biologically 10 years younger than women who skip them.

NASA's Energy Enhancing Trick

   NASA Scientists swear by it! In their study, Military pilots and Astronauts who took a 40 minute nap increased their energy by an AMAZING 100% and improved their performance on high level tasks by 34%!! What's more? The benefits take effect immediately upon waking and last for several hours.
   Why? Closing your eyes gives the brain a chance to organize new information, sorting out the unnecessary bits from the important details. When u wake up...the clutter is cleared, so to speak, and your mind feels fresh and rejuvenated!!

Can't fit in 40 minutes of shut eye? Studies show that even as little as 10 minutes spent sitting quietly with your eyes closed  is enough to help replenish brain function so you feel a refreshing difference in thinking.  Cool huh?

Energy Boosting Sunlight...Sunlight, Sunlight!!

Listen to this:
   In another study early last year..Employees given desks near windows worked more quickly and lasted longer without needing a break.  Why..You ask? Well, exposure to sunlight activates the hypothalamus, the brains "control switch" for wakefulness. Plus, a study done at the University of Alabama concluded that the more sunlight you soak up, the more you activate the brain area responsible for suppressing the sleep inducing hormone..melatonin.

   ALTERNATIVE: If u aren't able to get more sunshine during the day, try using a lamp with a full spectrum daylight bulb to enjoy an awakening brain benefit. One to try: Ecolume Full Spectrum Compact Flourescent, $19.95 at TrueSun.com

** Interesting Tid Bit: A recent Independant study of college students found that those who took a test near a window scored 20% higher than those sitting away from natural light.

Get Your Energy Fix

Kick start your focus by drinking more H2O!
   Downing a glass of water will dramatically increase alertness, attention span, and concentration within an hour... British Neuroscientists found!  Even more interesting, people who drank 40oz. of water before performing an attention test did 30% better compared to those who didn't drink water..This according to the Journal of Appetite.
   Scientists say that mild dehydration-even shorting yourself by 2%, or 1.3oz. of the recommended 64oz. daily - hinders the flow of energizing oxygen to cells throughout the brain and body....leaving you feeling groggy.

Kids Benefit Too!!
   In a recent study, Children- who are more prone to dehydration than adults- given just 1 cup of water before visual and memory tests scored better and had longer attention spans.
   Afetr reading this, I made sure to have my children drink a cup of water before school...especially during the CAT testing this week.

Tricks for EASY Energy:
                                        This is kind of silly...but very TRUE. UCLA researchers found that the combination of the crunch,salt, and vinegar of pickles wakes up your senses  and boosts brain function in 60 seconds.
                                        Not only that, but Beef Jerky is a source of concentrated protein, which almost instantly increases brain levels of the ENERGY-lifting neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
                                        If you don't like either one of the above..then here's another tip: Rubbing the webbed area between your toes can amp energy levels by 50% for up to 2 hours!! Research shows the area contains important acupressure points that increase blood flow to the brain...Interesting, don't you think?

What Am I Doing...And...Why?

Welcome to my Blog and thank you for visiting. I am very excited to get started, so let me start by Introducing myself. My name Is Erica Goodin and for the past 19 years I have been researching and investigating studies that have been, and are being done at Colleges/Universities..and Independantly.
 There isn't one area of interest that I research, However, Health, Beauty, and Fitness are my main areas of expertise. I enjoy finding alternatives to the expensive products/treatments on the market today.
 Although I have particular areas of interest...I will post anything that I find informative and beneficial to my readers/followers.
 I sincerely hope that you will visit my blog every day. I will be updating it atleast once a day..if not more.
 So, If you are interested in making healthy choices (that you can live with) and finding new and fun ways to make life happier (Emotionally & Physically) I suggest that you return here as much as possible. If you have any questions...Please feel free to post them, as I will be reading all posts, questions, and comments.
 Thank you once again and please visit us again....