tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73036542130584890712024-03-05T19:18:40.104-08:00Exuberance In Living<b>As a people, we have become obsessed with Health. There is something fundamentally, radically unhealthy about all this. We do not seem to be seeking more exuberance in living as much as staving off failure, putting off dying. We have lost all confidence in the human body.</b> ~Lewis ThomasNicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-68241045816591076832014-02-08T14:09:00.003-08:002014-02-08T15:41:12.323-08:00Creating Your Life<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We Create the Tone and Circumstances of Our Own Lives</span><br />
<br />
This is the principle by which all things manifest (or don’t manifest) and it operates in every<br />
aspect of our lives, whether we’re aware of it or not. Becoming aware of it and living<br />
consciously can totally transform your life! <br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Everything is Energy</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkpjGmnrNUNr6oPpHCblGBF2aUutDQloVX73-9vU1fPtm8HQnBuxjwyx8JgzYV4vyLnn_8I4KHIgaxrqWidiwhw_NJ0Vv4ns2GdFD7_JsM1IPb4tEjx9rzGf6j4HA4GLNXMze3Ck9Wk88/s1600/5907497_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkpjGmnrNUNr6oPpHCblGBF2aUutDQloVX73-9vU1fPtm8HQnBuxjwyx8JgzYV4vyLnn_8I4KHIgaxrqWidiwhw_NJ0Vv4ns2GdFD7_JsM1IPb4tEjx9rzGf6j4HA4GLNXMze3Ck9Wk88/s1600/5907497_orig.jpg" height="198" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
Everything is energy, including us. This fact is discovered and confirmed by scientists, meditators,<br />
and philosophers. Plato, Newton, Carnegie, Beethoven, Shakespeare, Einstein and many<br />
spiritual masters have spoken of this fact.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The energy of the mind is the essence of life.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;">
~Aristotle</div>
</span><br />
<div>
<div class="wsite-multicol" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;">
<div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin: 0px -15px;">
<table class="wsite-multicol-table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 0px !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important; position: relative; table-layout: fixed; text-align: center; width: 890px;"><tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody">
<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"><td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="border: 0px !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px 15px; vertical-align: top; width: 415px;"><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Every living thing has a unique energy signature, a vibration. As humans, our vibration changes</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
by what we focus on. When you look at a beautiful sunset or watch a puppy playing</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
(or a happy puppy playing in a beautiful sunset) your vibrations will soften. If you pay</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
attention, you will feel a quality of openness and love.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Conversely, if you check in with yourself while watching the 5 o’clock news reporting</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
a robbery, you’ll probably notice that your vibrations will shift into a state of contraction,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
actually pulling away from the quality of love. In other words, you will feel negative feelings.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Strangely the subconscious mind cannot distinguish between an actual event and a</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
dramatization on TV. Even your own imagination can affectyour vibration.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Our Vibrations Change With Our Thoughts</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our vibrations change by the thoughts that we keep our attention on, especially by the</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
thoughts that hold our dominant attention. If your mind is predominantly filled with lack or</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
resistance, you will feel a negative energy pervade your being. On the other hand, if you</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
train yourself to focus on positive thoughts, you will feel yourself aligning with love and wellbeing.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Like Attracts Like</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Like attracts like -- something I wish worked with middle school crushes. In that case</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
it was more of "desperate obsession attracts horrified revulsion".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
However, the truth is, we are magnetic beings. Whatever vibration we hold within ourselves</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
magnetically draws to us more of the same. Ever noticed how when you’re in a wonderful</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
mood, people around you seem happier, more polite, and easy to be around? Or when</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
you’re in a funk, people cut you off on the freeway or treat you rudely in the grocery store?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That is your energy at work! If we arefocused on negative thoughts and feelings, we</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
attract to ourselves more of that very same energy.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-73333003126492994382013-05-29T09:55:00.000-07:002013-05-31T07:39:39.873-07:00The Alien Cat (aka Cornish Rex)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGNc-1F61MgkN01pTRIZy-h6Kwx_YbfEaSltkx2zVtbwDxsU3od_fLfhwtBYnlJ-cV8voa8xl0lowpwDsRn5_8QXfhr3u3vACdATgPposVOWKIHtqCmzLJ4y0TMxU-ziNAWX_jRZhBsM/s1600/photo+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGNc-1F61MgkN01pTRIZy-h6Kwx_YbfEaSltkx2zVtbwDxsU3od_fLfhwtBYnlJ-cV8voa8xl0lowpwDsRn5_8QXfhr3u3vACdATgPposVOWKIHtqCmzLJ4y0TMxU-ziNAWX_jRZhBsM/s1600/photo+%25284%2529.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nova - Cornish Rex Cat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>We live with two feline aliens. </strong></div>
Actually they are called Cornish Rexes and they are a unique breed of cat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My babies are Nova (male) and Nebula (female with impressive gray mustache). They are cats that act like dogs in their love of affection and need for contact. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have wanted a Cornish Rex for a long time after seeing their unusual looks. The more I studied them the more I fell in love with the breed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTpKiTPa9upQHJE1MT-4spBYBG2_PqBAMA4IbfnoRfy0bf_FFBUBxBk0O0eDZ8SRGhPkGLKZVFppAj4Oa-EhWRGno1xKQ49rBlD4fAJzfLg7cMQ2eJlkOkrc7LSE6-lsfUepOgxq83Yk/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTpKiTPa9upQHJE1MT-4spBYBG2_PqBAMA4IbfnoRfy0bf_FFBUBxBk0O0eDZ8SRGhPkGLKZVFppAj4Oa-EhWRGno1xKQ49rBlD4fAJzfLg7cMQ2eJlkOkrc7LSE6-lsfUepOgxq83Yk/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" height="215" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nova and Nebula</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
The most striking feature of the breed is their coat. It is very short, lies close to the body, and is incredibly soft to the touch, prompting comparisons to cut velvet, karakul lamb, rabbit fur, or silk. It is in a class of it's own and it is a pleasure to pet this breed--which is a win/win for cat and human.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4AHgQmfRTdx6RuvgVdxsKhVV3ErofcWXQenJiUXnFuUh9pzI-N86QJBP9o5ey9N3pkwGYrt0UusnF8kYy4Zra_2PLepM8C77k6mCcI1T_6yNUi9EEsIQwig75tckqu64JrqRcaOX_EQ/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4AHgQmfRTdx6RuvgVdxsKhVV3ErofcWXQenJiUXnFuUh9pzI-N86QJBP9o5ey9N3pkwGYrt0UusnF8kYy4Zra_2PLepM8C77k6mCcI1T_6yNUi9EEsIQwig75tckqu64JrqRcaOX_EQ/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nebula - take a look at that mustache!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In addition to the coat, the Cornish Rex has a distinct egg-shaped head with high cheekbones, hollow cheeks, a strongly bridged Roman nose, and large ears set high on the head. The body "has been compared to that of a Whippet, with its arched back, barrel chest, small waist, and very fine, long legs. In spite of their dainty appearance, these small to medium sized cats are extremely hard-bodied and muscular, using their well developed hips and long legs for fast starts and stops, quick turns, and high jumps." <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.cfainc.org/" target="_blank">Credit CFA</a></span> <br />
Because of their coat, some people mistakenly believe that they do not shed and are hypoallergenic. In fact, all cats shed but the Cornish Rex shedding is minimal and they tend to be more easily tolerated by people with cat allergies. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I have had cat allergies my entire life. I now share a bed with two soft kitties that like to sleep ON TOP of me. I still have to make certain I am careful not to touch my eyes after petting them but otherwise I am fine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Even though my babies look like aliens they actually originated in Cornwall, England, where one first appeared in a litter of barn cats in 1950. A cream-colored male, named Kallibunker, was covered in tight rows of tiny curls, giving him the appearance of a miniature lamb. He had a slender, fine-boned body standing on long legs, a narrow head, enormous “bat ears,” and a long, whippy tail. Kallibunker was a genuine mutation and was bred back to his mother to produce curly kittens. The curly coated cats were "bred with Burmese, Siamese, and British domestic shorthair cats, resulting in a broad genetic base for the Cornish Rex breed and the knowledge that the gene was recessive." <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.cfainc.org/" target="_blank">Credit CFA</a></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNem6jZ2ZBN7zOnn1pkgZILqXZfz07S1FAGXDDy4zVrK-ep9MsqOXQY6fxdfRumvQx1YMbvsZ6JHx-lKMmP1GDfN4o4ToDXHpiBxC_KKlq_1AFvHodvdtRhSNj3Nne5rYTpccyTnkcE8/s1600/aa56bdd63501d74fb926dc88c0542b06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNem6jZ2ZBN7zOnn1pkgZILqXZfz07S1FAGXDDy4zVrK-ep9MsqOXQY6fxdfRumvQx1YMbvsZ6JHx-lKMmP1GDfN4o4ToDXHpiBxC_KKlq_1AFvHodvdtRhSNj3Nne5rYTpccyTnkcE8/s1600/aa56bdd63501d74fb926dc88c0542b06.jpg" height="227" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nebula: "Stop talking about my mustache!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-77447454749332178092013-05-23T18:39:00.001-07:002013-05-23T18:40:16.985-07:00Oxidative Stress is a Killer<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhVxuu9SoD4p92-uYc74yFPCme031yLMmDcZjA4lOqSHRFjHtqpEdpSgdyBYRz41Zw9AQKJXKzeTmhoHSx1gqiQ_7dDyy00caFEFjWY3OM31qc63B83wMLrhCwpp7l7pogdQeRetHfIg/s1600/article-new_ehow_images_a07_h8_lq_science-projects-oxidation-800x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhVxuu9SoD4p92-uYc74yFPCme031yLMmDcZjA4lOqSHRFjHtqpEdpSgdyBYRz41Zw9AQKJXKzeTmhoHSx1gqiQ_7dDyy00caFEFjWY3OM31qc63B83wMLrhCwpp7l7pogdQeRetHfIg/s1600/article-new_ehow_images_a07_h8_lq_science-projects-oxidation-800x800.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oxidative Stress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We use and sell Protandim, an Nrf2 activator which reduces oxidative stress.<br />
<br />
Which is awesome, but what does it mean??<br />
<br />
<strong>OXIDATIVE STRESS</strong><br />
<br />
"Oxidation" is the chemist's term for the process of removing electrons from an atom or molecule. The result of this change can be destructive - rusting iron is a familiar result of oxidation. Here, oxygen is the responsible agent, but other oxidizing agents, such as chlorine, can be as harsh.<br />
<br />
Although we need oxygen to live, high concentrations of it are actually corrosive and toxic. We obtain energy by burning fuel with oxygen - that is, by combining digested food with oxygen from the air we breathe. This is a controlled metabolic process that, unfortunately, also generates dangerous byproducts. These include free radicals - electronically unstable atoms or molecules capable of stripping electrons from any other molecules they meet in an effort to achieve stability. In their wake they create even more unstable molecules that then attack their neighbors in domino-like chain reactions.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJzjaM54gQyFUJaU3G41TizIRlNGuV-y24LRjnNs7R1_H_q7P9Sefphyphenhyphen_VvoKVfxhvb2IJdv34dEfHQ856yaUEpdqMabV_mhBiiKyyodatxiNUwzDTJnzU-bH1rH5OkJ5E_xID_88xL0/s1600/photo_1264832018SO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJzjaM54gQyFUJaU3G41TizIRlNGuV-y24LRjnNs7R1_H_q7P9Sefphyphenhyphen_VvoKVfxhvb2IJdv34dEfHQ856yaUEpdqMabV_mhBiiKyyodatxiNUwzDTJnzU-bH1rH5OkJ5E_xID_88xL0/s1600/photo_1264832018SO.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the time a free radical chain fizzles out, it may have ripped through vital components of cells like a tornado, causing extensive damage, similar to that caused by ionizing radiation.<br />
<br />
Oxidative stress is the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke). credit: <a href="http://www.drweil.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Andrew Weil</a><br />
<br />
<strong>Nrf2 ACTIVATOR</strong><br />
Nrf2 is a powerful protein that is latent within each cell in the body, unable to move or operate until it is released by an Nrf2 activator. Once released it migrates into the cell nucleus and bonds to the DNA at the location of the Antioxidant Response Element (ARE) or also called hARE (Human Antioxidant Response Element) which is the master regulator of the total antioxidant system that is available in ALL human cells.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxjX8nkwsGxH2ha-gy1Zm6GS3BJzt4xpaOd1Apz3LgDt7yF_JzOtLyG-LiqFytHbYmbzdCchdnlohec0hr8ou51zY4xEgtyckDG9Xd4JYW77JQw3hGsA5TKcn5dgb1y4TniD_3Bhs_88/s1600/single-bottle-clip_124x252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxjX8nkwsGxH2ha-gy1Zm6GS3BJzt4xpaOd1Apz3LgDt7yF_JzOtLyG-LiqFytHbYmbzdCchdnlohec0hr8ou51zY4xEgtyckDG9Xd4JYW77JQw3hGsA5TKcn5dgb1y4TniD_3Bhs_88/s1600/single-bottle-clip_124x252.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong>PROTANDIM</strong><br />
Comprised of natural plant ingredients, Protandim is a patented, science-based, research-backed formula that has been tested and validated by renowned universities and institutions. It is the only supplement clinically proven to reduce oxidative stress in humans by an average of 40 percent in 30 days.<br />
<br />
Protandim activates Nrf2, which communicates with cells, instructing them to do what they're already designed to do: up-regulate "survival genes," genes that enable cells to survive in the face of stress from free radicals and other oxidants, and down-regulates other genes to help the body function at an optimal level.<br />
<br />
<strong></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>IS PROTANDIM LEGIT?</strong><br />
<br />
LifeVantage is deeply rooted in science. Science is at the heart of everything we do. Our flagship product, Protandim®, the Nrf2 Synergizer®, has been validated by peer-reviewed studies conducted in the laboratories of respected universities such as The Ohio State University, LSU and the University of Colorado Denver. The results of these studies have been published in mainstream medical journals such as Free Radical Biology & Medicine and Enzyme Research.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvmOT9tdVp_WCFkfsNeDILiUubtxJdi1Xpjh8pSnLpmxfcX0_FkPFMWkyeHU6vYM6rvHpEhpZPMOrhhif6uHXo2r10lrIwOX2E7tpO2BQlk6VxFkIP9gk34y_845kvsL9KpnPWDsUuiQ/s1600/cashflow-300x263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvmOT9tdVp_WCFkfsNeDILiUubtxJdi1Xpjh8pSnLpmxfcX0_FkPFMWkyeHU6vYM6rvHpEhpZPMOrhhif6uHXo2r10lrIwOX2E7tpO2BQlk6VxFkIP9gk34y_845kvsL9KpnPWDsUuiQ/s1600/cashflow-300x263.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong>OPPORTUNITY</strong><br />
There has never been a better time to begin your LifeVantage business. Those who see the potential and act now will be the beneficiaries of our continued, imminent growth. <br />
<br />
But here is what makes LifeVantage different: distributors have the exclusive right to share Protandim, the Nrf2 Syngerizer, which is protected by patents and validated by peer-reviewed science.<br />
<br />
The strength of our business opportunity lies in the foundation of science behind our product: third-party and peer-reviewed studies. This academic scrutiny validates Protandim as a unique product in the marketplace. No other network marketing company offers that.<br />
<br />
LifeVantage has a compensation plan unlike any other because of the associated bonuses and payouts percentage. Distributors who take advantage of this compensation plan, along with the timing of company growth and the foundation of science, will change their lives and the lives of others for the better.<br />
<br />
Contact us at <a href="http://www.mylifevantage.com/boulder" target="_blank">LifeVantage Boulder</a>Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-48109795365094567302013-05-19T17:20:00.000-07:002013-05-31T07:42:25.482-07:00The Myth of Multitasking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bhqU4JpnuVx0sk-VhGBESByevEQbljpVMU45rMSUfp-rnqhRJMacvqatDQ5VE9oXl-X0MROnJEwSoni-2blXhGkapmnsL-jEa4TwjROLVtt4hJPbCQB1d2J5dkbdL8FakZsxKyYoJg4/s1600/multitasking-woman-300x204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bhqU4JpnuVx0sk-VhGBESByevEQbljpVMU45rMSUfp-rnqhRJMacvqatDQ5VE9oXl-X0MROnJEwSoni-2blXhGkapmnsL-jEa4TwjROLVtt4hJPbCQB1d2J5dkbdL8FakZsxKyYoJg4/s1600/multitasking-woman-300x204.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong>MULTITASKING</strong><br />
<br />
"Human multitasking is the best performance by an individual of appearing to handle more than one task at the same time. The term is derived from computer multitasking. An example of multitasking is taking phone calls while typing an email." -Wikipedia<br />
<br />
Does anyone else remember when multitasking was considered the <strong>holy grail</strong> of the business world? More recent studies, however, have shown that multitasking actually reduces productivity and can cause more errors in our work. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaf4VCbX1Tt1uCnMNIGzVa3JO-FF_ICXQNKO6cHQJYbRFW8N-kIKCmiJ-UBtWFc8JcTpwp3Cd1S9_4q1lNHKf771IHcL3x2HF-3dysX2oymb85ASGY4Wh2Q5dGd5fFVH9vdMMVgZv58ws/s1600/Distracted.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaf4VCbX1Tt1uCnMNIGzVa3JO-FF_ICXQNKO6cHQJYbRFW8N-kIKCmiJ-UBtWFc8JcTpwp3Cd1S9_4q1lNHKf771IHcL3x2HF-3dysX2oymb85ASGY4Wh2Q5dGd5fFVH9vdMMVgZv58ws/s1600/Distracted.gif" height="200" width="195" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
It is bad to make mistakes when working for a boss--when you work for yourself it can be fatal! <br />
<br />
As we mentioned in our last post the key to productivity is not 'more time' but instead 'more space'. Multitasking may create the illusion of more time but it's eating up our psychic bandwidth and creating less mental 'space'.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrj0DP4ByeQgnAHw2aIhQGrTs0MefLbgHBvdR3SyWXJLyK0pbSn9HVG6IPVgUGPHXPuA0or9DnQsit95KbELa79PNW5TtPxmBtBQpzZMdFDmJybD1gQGl7tJBMTGt9L-PRDc6NkTVIz3E/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrj0DP4ByeQgnAHw2aIhQGrTs0MefLbgHBvdR3SyWXJLyK0pbSn9HVG6IPVgUGPHXPuA0or9DnQsit95KbELa79PNW5TtPxmBtBQpzZMdFDmJybD1gQGl7tJBMTGt9L-PRDc6NkTVIz3E/s1600/untitled.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rapid Refocus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>RAPID REFOCUS</strong><br />
<br />
How do we make more space in the mind and still do everything we need to make our business(es) successful?<br />
<br />
Then trick is "rapid refocus". A martial artist can fight four opponents at one time by fighting one opponent at a time, one right after the other. He doesn’t let the last (or the next) fight interfere with the present one. By focusing on the moment, his concentration defeats all. (credit Zentivity)<br />
<br />
In business we need to think like the martial artist and tackle each project with full concentrated focus in order to get the best, most positive results.<br />
<br />
Guard your creativity and don't let the myth of multitasking drain your resources. Be the business Ninja focusing your energy on the problem or project at hand and then rapidly refocusing as the next issue arises.<br />
<br />
<br />
____________Join me at <a href="http://nicolekann.joinxpress.com/index.html" target="_blank">Xpress Healthcare</a>Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-47770607539722468952013-05-19T12:01:00.000-07:002013-05-19T12:01:35.187-07:00Crisis Evokes Serenity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTeXAJ-gc4J2-kUC6nfUhAIJfvo7S9w8yShfzohhJ6Xlxs7EQJVNhBMPINOUUfBgEyxQFwGF_jXtBXEcF_hqe-SFrBedRqRcketpLrlb7I-ep-OsrBrrxQ3iQ8dM7LXVblWLYGAOQ5Fw/s1600/James-Marsden-as-Scott-Summers-a_k_a_-Cyclops-in-20th-Century-Foxs-X-Men-2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTeXAJ-gc4J2-kUC6nfUhAIJfvo7S9w8yShfzohhJ6Xlxs7EQJVNhBMPINOUUfBgEyxQFwGF_jXtBXEcF_hqe-SFrBedRqRcketpLrlb7I-ep-OsrBrrxQ3iQ8dM7LXVblWLYGAOQ5Fw/s1600/James-Marsden-as-Scott-Summers-a_k_a_-Cyclops-in-20th-Century-Foxs-X-Men-2000.jpg" height="171" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Have you noticed that during the times of your life when you were facing a crisis or other incident that took 100% of your brain power your mind focuses to a pinpoint and you have sudden and amazing clarity in the situation? <br /><br />Of course you probably didn't think about it at the time. You were probably nailing plywood to your windows or administering CPR or swerving to avoid an accident. It all went by so fast you didn't stop to pay attention to the way your brain handled the moment.<br /><br />Most of our time is spent far away from crisis. We hit the snooze button a couple of times, shower, drink that first blessed cup of coffee, drive to work barely noticing the world around us. The rest of the day, week, month, year goes pretty much the same. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQHiPDXcI2WDM8VFjaE2vV51fmkM6rXlJ4Y2brd6IhTtc6KYSA2vYV52Fiml7p7YhqeE6Y9QRsSNjf_Kt0N-HWf-jD8PJLBBCrhrU_2RjogG-qJJVU-o6fS75oNlewFw7_gFV9HLX9f_s/s1600/distracted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQHiPDXcI2WDM8VFjaE2vV51fmkM6rXlJ4Y2brd6IhTtc6KYSA2vYV52Fiml7p7YhqeE6Y9QRsSNjf_Kt0N-HWf-jD8PJLBBCrhrU_2RjogG-qJJVU-o6fS75oNlewFw7_gFV9HLX9f_s/s1600/distracted.jpg" height="320" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highly Distracted</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />And while we do not want to live a life of constant crisis, we should always strive for a degree of that true clarity.<br />
<br /><br /><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNd9wq_Mw3TXE-Fj6TJIRfNSFB0w1maWBynHADSqeqa_x7W2P6ag_1PEfA1Fh7-P4didpzHATcu8LXa9tJutmWqJk7o45P-7-6EnDTDSX7-R2XLulTX6tn2UlyoXKrx5fqI_ASJgFrcU/s1600/3615643951_the_thinker_answer_2_xlarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNd9wq_Mw3TXE-Fj6TJIRfNSFB0w1maWBynHADSqeqa_x7W2P6ag_1PEfA1Fh7-P4didpzHATcu8LXa9tJutmWqJk7o45P-7-6EnDTDSX7-R2XLulTX6tn2UlyoXKrx5fqI_ASJgFrcU/s1600/3615643951_the_thinker_answer_2_xlarge.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;">What is on your mind?</span></strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>THE SECRET OF INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY</strong><br /><br />Who hasn't said "If I only had more time...?"<br /><br />But the secret is simply this: it is not about time, it is about SPACE.<br /><br />We only have a certain, finite amount of psychic bandwidth and if our creative energy is being used to fix every little problem that has popped into our head or is buzzing around us like bees we will have nothing but wasted energy.<br /><br />Save your creativity. Get in your 'zone'. Be ready for change.<br /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Zen Buddhists use the term "mind like water". Bruce Lee said, "Empty your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water. If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle and it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot it becomes the teapot. Now, water can flow or it can crash. Be water my friend."<br />
<br />
Strive for flexibility, not perfection. Clear your mind and give yourself SPACE to think, to create, to grow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVN9s-KWFqPBchtvnACrstA02JjbMyV0Vfi4nqpI5EekLg2UjvRmQca5cozaABV7TgPKlE_1ZGVSHzvAs6la4xTv5nOXRTt2dQ4uaZ3SELwED0fDRrdtCwGTB1bKMl8h75RSJoF-sPn5o/s1600/bruce_lee_vavel_javier_robles_431816112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVN9s-KWFqPBchtvnACrstA02JjbMyV0Vfi4nqpI5EekLg2UjvRmQca5cozaABV7TgPKlE_1ZGVSHzvAs6la4xTv5nOXRTt2dQ4uaZ3SELwED0fDRrdtCwGTB1bKMl8h75RSJoF-sPn5o/s1600/bruce_lee_vavel_javier_robles_431816112.jpg" height="361" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />(Credit: David Allen - CFA Leadercast...based on my own notes)<br /><br />________________<br />Nicole Kann's Xpress Healthcare<br /><a href="http://nicolekann.joinxpress.com/index.html" target="_new"><img border="0" src="http://www.ibosocial.com/images/linkarrow.gif" /> nicolekann.joinxpress.com/index.html </a>Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-42131966325461301462013-05-16T11:32:00.000-07:002013-05-16T11:32:06.576-07:00Ammo Against Health Care Reform?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhauTNPTok8jv3j1IHyeznp1b5scl1IPz7lgZgvV4aoe3ajbuvu7-wfAZnjOKDabQ057-IglWXmLMMlW0o1txgF4LYQNxkJvwarrzwQNELQwHhmaNN5vr4qC2dsv4E26Fr_6J3a0mjP5X4/s1600/robcares-obamacare1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhauTNPTok8jv3j1IHyeznp1b5scl1IPz7lgZgvV4aoe3ajbuvu7-wfAZnjOKDabQ057-IglWXmLMMlW0o1txgF4LYQNxkJvwarrzwQNELQwHhmaNN5vr4qC2dsv4E26Fr_6J3a0mjP5X4/s1600/robcares-obamacare1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;">I wanted to share an article from Life Health Pro which is an insurance industry publication. My 'day job' is Benefits Consultant - a fancy term for insurance agent. I spend most of my week selling health insurance, maintaining my client base, and explaining health care reform! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituj_A8RPyYvdro6mgLgo640bZwwWyqtmY7-3X10Ooke1Ik9c6PKPOp9rXG8ac4AXaLbGLVH4FYgklBHkrwyRdBXbKNFeNJxOB8SMW4-cWTIO9hKW_PfWH9syHts0FjMHzdfklnJMAF9E/s1600/Office-Stress2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituj_A8RPyYvdro6mgLgo640bZwwWyqtmY7-3X10Ooke1Ik9c6PKPOp9rXG8ac4AXaLbGLVH4FYgklBHkrwyRdBXbKNFeNJxOB8SMW4-cWTIO9hKW_PfWH9syHts0FjMHzdfklnJMAF9E/s1600/Office-Stress2.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;">As an insider in the insurance industry I believe that <strong>we are going to see an increased need for medical discount memberships like <a href="http://nicolekann.joinxpress.com/index.html" target="_blank">Xpress Healthcare</a>.</strong> </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoZwgukoJQtsKkZfZ2jCkDh-74zJc3dpHu4pTPUlhqvLzle5M1-yz_xeU5gbTBpf-2O5af-xZ5dVbu1JCqGPofBA6O3rG9vm58c7yWuswsVSeqwWR-kIpU7Ch-78dcDyNL_OTWasVZtg/s1600/broke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoZwgukoJQtsKkZfZ2jCkDh-74zJc3dpHu4pTPUlhqvLzle5M1-yz_xeU5gbTBpf-2O5af-xZ5dVbu1JCqGPofBA6O3rG9vm58c7yWuswsVSeqwWR-kIpU7Ch-78dcDyNL_OTWasVZtg/s1600/broke.jpg" height="200" width="169" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;">PPACA is going to require that all Americans purchase health insurance in 2014. We may see an increase of premiums for individual coverage and even group coverage especially for people under 40! </span><br /><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;">If a company must provide affordable health insurance to their employees, many people will see a reduction of ancillary benefits offered by employers. These ancillary benefits include dental, vision, life and disability, critical illness, etc. </span><br /><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><strong><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;">The market for discount healthcare programs like <a href="http://nicolekann.joinxpress.com/index.html" target="_blank">Xpress Healthcare</a> will likely be <u>booming</u> as 2014 looms.</span><br /><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span></strong><br /><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;">I wanted to simply share this information with you and hope that you will share it with others. </span><br />
<span><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is truly the time to join with a
health care discount program such as </span></strong><a href="https://www.blogger.com/.%20%20http://nicolekann.joinxpress.com/index.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Xpress Healthcare</span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. </span></span><br />
<span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2c8rU-CJ7vVWpopeWtHlJmokV98e6s9P7HyMEzFR7qtW40fKbrv1pi90TaWIxShELXlAmol_mkBgAOmVnRIkdI2etf5Z-s8pD-BKyDzyd8uczoWHCTRd-iM6E_ZDWBYoasDt_T8fdLH0/s1600/imagesCAJJR56P.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2c8rU-CJ7vVWpopeWtHlJmokV98e6s9P7HyMEzFR7qtW40fKbrv1pi90TaWIxShELXlAmol_mkBgAOmVnRIkdI2etf5Z-s8pD-BKyDzyd8uczoWHCTRd-iM6E_ZDWBYoasDt_T8fdLH0/s1600/imagesCAJJR56P.jpg" /></a></div>
<span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The time to provide a necessary service and
product is NOW! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The time to offer a solution to the fear that
Americans feel about reform is NOW!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span><span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The time to make
money by helping others is NOW! </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana;">Read the full article here:</span><br /><span style="color: #009e9e; font-family: Verdana;"><strong><a href="http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2013/05/14/ammo-against-ppaca-medical-discount-cards?t=employee-benefits" target="_blank">Ammo Against PPACA? Medical Discount Cards</a></strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span>Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-41020055784661023362013-05-13T17:04:00.002-07:002013-05-13T17:06:04.134-07:00Simply Lead<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJGW-wmsrT1KUIXiMgqpL6RjEyECtkS0holtl_laueKlX89PIv_VcPPWhm9IzyU5GH-gytwegUqfSYMSAEl_8GqF1ExdHT-_l3QfGpKoHuHDKABJtMPYXx3OeV9mt3gZXwG2IcHfAEDV8/s1600/Ramsey-Purchase-Tickets-timthumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJGW-wmsrT1KUIXiMgqpL6RjEyECtkS0holtl_laueKlX89PIv_VcPPWhm9IzyU5GH-gytwegUqfSYMSAEl_8GqF1ExdHT-_l3QfGpKoHuHDKABJtMPYXx3OeV9mt3gZXwG2IcHfAEDV8/s1600/Ramsey-Purchase-Tickets-timthumb.jpg" height="185" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chick-fil-a Leadercast: Simply Lead</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was privileged to attend the Chick-Fil-A Leadercast on Friday, May 10th broadcast from Atlanta to Colorado.<br />
<br />
The speakers were impressive but I was coming down with a flu bug and not exactly looking forward listening to someone talk all day long. I was glad I attended, however, and I learned some important and vital truths about business and leadership.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlaJ6JtyhGuI8ueN22JyUW5YSikEKSiks7pXRKEJqpBwf9y4b0jkYT3HfEUBcVAeUJyoVEnnk7kj5KdAd_F2McqiGt1qsfFN1C98FDB1foJeyjXij7RPMkOq8GTQawbaYk9jgQAiIbbg/s1600/Andy_Stanley1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlaJ6JtyhGuI8ueN22JyUW5YSikEKSiks7pXRKEJqpBwf9y4b0jkYT3HfEUBcVAeUJyoVEnnk7kj5KdAd_F2McqiGt1qsfFN1C98FDB1foJeyjXij7RPMkOq8GTQawbaYk9jgQAiIbbg/s1600/Andy_Stanley1.jpg" height="200" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andy Stanley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I want to start with <a href="http://andystanley.com/" target="_blank">Andy Stanley</a> who said: "Wherever there is growth there is complexity. Complexity is the enemy of CLARITY"<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
CLARITY:<br />
<br />
When in any business situation you must ask yourself: <br />
<br />
1) What are we doing?<br />
2) Why are we doing it?<br />
3) Where do I fit in?<br />
<br />
If you don't know EXACTLY what you are doing you will certainly have a difficult time reaching your goals Determine what you are doing, this is your mission statement.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFIYmwxvWmxpxIswTNUjmyj-YuYFPKK71iAQ_c9UbO-VXDmrsVnI-PQDx0n5c-fn9-vculwR3_0H7WG0DGp-ZjKCsx5dPE74BjwkNvH7TyM3-vMtPxsEfz99ifisYJGNzlBsiVdJHX4c/s1600/jan09_cartoon.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFIYmwxvWmxpxIswTNUjmyj-YuYFPKK71iAQ_c9UbO-VXDmrsVnI-PQDx0n5c-fn9-vculwR3_0H7WG0DGp-ZjKCsx5dPE74BjwkNvH7TyM3-vMtPxsEfz99ifisYJGNzlBsiVdJHX4c/s1600/jan09_cartoon.gif" /></a><br />
When it comes to "why?" ask yourself: "What would happen if I didn't do this thing that I am doing?" Where would your world, your community, your network or your family be if you never started XYZ Business? That is your "WHY"<br />
<br />
Knowing where you fit in tends to be more applicable in a larger company, perhaps one that you don't own yourself...but it can be a handy question if you work with a spouse, partner, friend, etc in your home business. In this case you can ask yourself: "What is my unique contribution?" <br />
In our business, my husband is the salesman and I am the back office. We do help with all aspects of our network marketing businesses but our unique contributions and core responsibilities are different and work well together.<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
SIMPLICITY:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnVjqbnuSsdg2RPV-tL8F0Y29FGPmfwccCWqH1euZIwXu3LR0hk-ksFcd4JuLFk5NE_30NHqQX1r5SN_A0hg2EVPjZfpaGeJAGiuPVZQxXJLV3m_93-hJud_BfvEQBZQZl6jWjwMgimg/s1600/girl_chaos_typing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnVjqbnuSsdg2RPV-tL8F0Y29FGPmfwccCWqH1euZIwXu3LR0hk-ksFcd4JuLFk5NE_30NHqQX1r5SN_A0hg2EVPjZfpaGeJAGiuPVZQxXJLV3m_93-hJud_BfvEQBZQZl6jWjwMgimg/s1600/girl_chaos_typing.jpg" height="161" width="320" /></a>Don't ever forget that <strong>growth creates complexity</strong>. When your business is getting out of hand and there seems to be chaos at every turn do not automatically think that you are doing something wrong. You may be doing everything exactly right but now it is time to remind yourself the complexity requires simplicity. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
When the chaos gets overwhelming remember these three vital steps:</div>
<ul>
<li>Simplify the situation.</li>
<li>Cloister yourself somewhere private and quiet.</li>
<li>Re-center yourself, your mind, your goals, your mission.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinamoMWiexRn3roIUkscVnxAArsegyCcJfQNQI3vzzYHN9uSNi4Ab5jnYuWtR-oR7bz2bRE0URzd9Zp7Ccfk1PPB-FfFobTssNhxVPDTbrtKeSD2zVlENYfOyCyjXIu6DbY3pjS2EBVXI/s1600/411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinamoMWiexRn3roIUkscVnxAArsegyCcJfQNQI3vzzYHN9uSNi4Ab5jnYuWtR-oR7bz2bRE0URzd9Zp7Ccfk1PPB-FfFobTssNhxVPDTbrtKeSD2zVlENYfOyCyjXIu6DbY3pjS2EBVXI/s1600/411.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
___________<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Learn more about becoming an Affiliate Business Owner with Xpress Healthcare. <br /><br />"Our mission is to bring a new sense of comfort to both our customers, as well as our Affiliate Business Owners. We will bring this comfort through health savings and financial gain. We look to revolutionize the discount healthcare industry as a whole, while at the same time bringing financial freedom to families across the nation. As we continue to grow and offer benefits to our members and ABO’s, Xpress Healthcare™ will be a recognized brand that brings hope and success to millions."<br />~Xpress Healthcare</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-39261684233355606072013-05-06T09:17:00.000-07:002013-05-06T09:17:41.036-07:00Cheat Sheet: Success<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6a5ufU-L4MHw44X-JgzVgFpDeSf84Av2jzs-SQ4kiYHyXwaXiC9fDMNts9trLbRUNy3FgK-67ss_FrBQN3gca3AsfnUgxpC2Hj5nyuzGsnRmRgfZVfXtc0yI2isrfOGMYI_4QMGLGf0/s1600/success.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6a5ufU-L4MHw44X-JgzVgFpDeSf84Av2jzs-SQ4kiYHyXwaXiC9fDMNts9trLbRUNy3FgK-67ss_FrBQN3gca3AsfnUgxpC2Hj5nyuzGsnRmRgfZVfXtc0yI2isrfOGMYI_4QMGLGf0/s1600/success.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">"Formula for success: rise early, work hard, strike oil."</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ J. Paul Getty</span> <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZf-ZFldzSts1T0wfj-U-Mg2ENFvHCTedL8wtrmCUJnjYEz-cSsAyYQdmqgjw8xAmJBEE9_h9n1OPibTP2g4oeaix03xZFP8wVdKuBoUTo912kx5LtsMxnvZIFBjoPfpm3hRb4AUMkcy4/s1600/Women-jumping-out-of-bed-Compressed1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZf-ZFldzSts1T0wfj-U-Mg2ENFvHCTedL8wtrmCUJnjYEz-cSsAyYQdmqgjw8xAmJBEE9_h9n1OPibTP2g4oeaix03xZFP8wVdKuBoUTo912kx5LtsMxnvZIFBjoPfpm3hRb4AUMkcy4/s1600/Women-jumping-out-of-bed-Compressed1.jpg" height="200" width="159" /></a>We aren't all going to strike oil in our lifetimes but we all have hopes and dreams pinned to one or more home businesses that we are working at making successful.<br />
<br />
Have you achieved your desired level of success? If not, there may be some wisdom to the term "fake it 'till you make it"<br />
<br />
Successful people wake up each morning planning for success, work towards success through the day, reflect on that success in the evening, and then plan for the next days success. <br />
<br />
Although not every successful person lives exactly the same as the last there are some strong similarities in how they work for their success.<br />
<br />
1. Successful people get out of bed each morning ready to accomplish something. It's easier to stay in bed for a couple of rounds of snooze button smash but getting up with a positive and determined attitude will go far in making you a success. That ten minutes you just wasted could have been spent sending emails or marketing your business on a forum.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrUPd4GM0J45c0a5o-3GLpuTPehC-EqcBZUXUGrSVtBKHHVQAN5nswsoG5SH4n8vzRQQ1Psqnp4SC-tv_nrJk8k2WTyUnyK8sNhjZaNFUwaTX8WUaZJZyUCz0UkJMaYcAgxi6OkppSIo/s1600/11-Ways-to-Network-Like-Successful-Women-Do-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrUPd4GM0J45c0a5o-3GLpuTPehC-EqcBZUXUGrSVtBKHHVQAN5nswsoG5SH4n8vzRQQ1Psqnp4SC-tv_nrJk8k2WTyUnyK8sNhjZaNFUwaTX8WUaZJZyUCz0UkJMaYcAgxi6OkppSIo/s1600/11-Ways-to-Network-Like-Successful-Women-Do-7.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>2. Successful people never stop learning. The world is changing, successful people know that to get left behind is fatal. We see this by the way that the world wide web has changed network marketing. If you don't evolve you cannot be successful. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT4K2lt2oLRLoRH9S3mUrZs_vLkPs1FYh0QitaI7JYQZEQ-9MO4RfW67avzf-unxZf9etGWG9J7y_xCCDQicOEyZnZnqz7DjlKNdL8pLJTR-NvFZaPeGIDqMHB6De0hjS8FBaIMuX8q4M/s1600/67521_10151600091275792_551136871_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT4K2lt2oLRLoRH9S3mUrZs_vLkPs1FYh0QitaI7JYQZEQ-9MO4RfW67avzf-unxZf9etGWG9J7y_xCCDQicOEyZnZnqz7DjlKNdL8pLJTR-NvFZaPeGIDqMHB6De0hjS8FBaIMuX8q4M/s1600/67521_10151600091275792_551136871_n.jpg" height="138" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
3. Successful people expect more of themselves. Every day brings new challenges and possibilities. Successful people embrace them and face them head on. Are you happy with your home business only supplementing your 9-5 job? If you want more you can't be content with mediocrity. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeE8kluxmpVBvfsEH-1tm0BHxoW7SRsroLzxbnYyOTtHqLzB08MN6-T6S0IVFH1AHn72eDSWn0xNIixs5d204-8NR_EbYHKPn3ypiC6dNtQ6YYyaV7yOaOAajeuqomZZMWh99DbCgw9Q/s1600/skd278296sdc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeE8kluxmpVBvfsEH-1tm0BHxoW7SRsroLzxbnYyOTtHqLzB08MN6-T6S0IVFH1AHn72eDSWn0xNIixs5d204-8NR_EbYHKPn3ypiC6dNtQ6YYyaV7yOaOAajeuqomZZMWh99DbCgw9Q/s1600/skd278296sdc.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
4. Successful people exercise. They move, they get fit, they understand you have to feel good and look good to succeed. Exercise boosts brain power, puts you in a better mood and makes you look great. Plus you can meet a new group of prospects at the gym or running in the park. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGqn5XyQDmVC2kIy5i5Hc1ZDkYxRB1jcYuH_e7SDaH4NTvha8VTEy8bGUcZoGVMYbXuXMW6_LxXdzIZqiLiKuSRNw8lkYlxl5IKj77JnUvRY6zcPtj1guBraD3U5hYrpa9akrREff1Gbc/s1600/girl-turning-off-tv%25202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGqn5XyQDmVC2kIy5i5Hc1ZDkYxRB1jcYuH_e7SDaH4NTvha8VTEy8bGUcZoGVMYbXuXMW6_LxXdzIZqiLiKuSRNw8lkYlxl5IKj77JnUvRY6zcPtj1guBraD3U5hYrpa9akrREff1Gbc/s1600/girl-turning-off-tv%25202.jpg" height="200" width="132" /></a>5. Successful people have little time for television. It's called a boob tube for a reason. The more time spent in front of the idiot box is less time spent reading, exercising, learning and achieving. After you are done working for the day allow yourself to 'veg out' and unwind, but don't let TV steal your time. Time is money. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
6. Successful people compliment others. They realize that they didn't get to where they are without help. They appreciate and acknowledge that help. In turn they will value and nurture others. James D. Miles famously said: "You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him." A successful person knows that there is potential gain everywhere and from everyone. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_DFLSBwhIZp-LSaMh5gv8XaRZN9IfknbRD-f19t0-Xz-jqlbRojFYDh7UYGwYpDlfBqEcVG5oIwD5UEekaUGtAZONsYYp1eQo_A6JzUTNoeHmTMAicGNiB3PCVs-SoARCNlKJUzyhA4/s1600/Shhh----Don--t-Say-A-Thing--Just-Listen--Don--t-Talk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_DFLSBwhIZp-LSaMh5gv8XaRZN9IfknbRD-f19t0-Xz-jqlbRojFYDh7UYGwYpDlfBqEcVG5oIwD5UEekaUGtAZONsYYp1eQo_A6JzUTNoeHmTMAicGNiB3PCVs-SoARCNlKJUzyhA4/s1600/Shhh----Don--t-Say-A-Thing--Just-Listen--Don--t-Talk.jpg" height="174" width="320" /></a>7. Successful people listen. When you spend your time talking it's much more difficult to listen. To the untrained eye, sales is all about talking. However, the successful salesperson knows that sales is 99% listening. Successful people know their audience and the way to learn about your consumer is to listen louder than you talk.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPSS4te_XlaUmC6c7xWKsCIlN9U3oqxG-26n0lmpqH_FgnDEeiND_5KggKfGOl3aE0pcLW5VZ-1oTS7Dff2uQNLTuCKM-o4RJVkxEJ2VHhElWT-_SkqXKirfwtpebAlhcSLyS-EJH6vc/s1600/bad_planning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPSS4te_XlaUmC6c7xWKsCIlN9U3oqxG-26n0lmpqH_FgnDEeiND_5KggKfGOl3aE0pcLW5VZ-1oTS7Dff2uQNLTuCKM-o4RJVkxEJ2VHhElWT-_SkqXKirfwtpebAlhcSLyS-EJH6vc/s1600/bad_planning.jpg" height="200" width="188" /></a>8. Successful people plan. They look at what they want to do, decide if it can be done, and then outline the steps to accomplish it. Setting goals and planning your steps will take your business to a whole new level of success.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
9. Successful people expect more of you. Successful people have a difficult time understanding mediocrity, even more difficulty understanding why others settle for it. Surround yourself with achievers and you when you are feeling low they will lift you up.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1k9sXf6k-7Oa4Yec8iQghcRtfOlM_e9gcbKU4SQgS4279kcPH5bW9OvJQ5uW_7X3PdV4IgweDeEnBnUtoP5TfTYyaoDbAFJBM91TgMSlr0UuiMMCqLiPWcpcIA_hIv1xUrRhYeXyuxlo/s1600/womenacademicsfivestrategies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1k9sXf6k-7Oa4Yec8iQghcRtfOlM_e9gcbKU4SQgS4279kcPH5bW9OvJQ5uW_7X3PdV4IgweDeEnBnUtoP5TfTYyaoDbAFJBM91TgMSlr0UuiMMCqLiPWcpcIA_hIv1xUrRhYeXyuxlo/s1600/womenacademicsfivestrategies.jpg" height="178" width="320" /></a><br />
10. Successful people make the effort and sacrifice to get what they want. It's easy to dream but much harder to give up the two hours of TV each night or sleeping ten extra minutes. Starting your own home business can be the most difficult and rewarding challenge you ever face (next to raising children) Be ready to sacrifice your time, your money, your comfort to make your vision a reality.<br />
<br />
<br />
Your dreams of success ARE achievable with hard work and dedication. There is no such thing as 'get rich quick'. There are no 'secrets to make you fabulously wealthy'. It's all common sense, hard work, and the ironclad will to succeed. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXlhAkb7QzfOS1F1PgshcG6SSdylxl1K07mtjiQYLBIMWerMThG9maPoThAZ37rnk5-erUCSwTjFO7pAsN18VKpWD4qGWeZmVulvsZ9OBi99_NvMyZEHct2klpDVirdE-DlMw8KRzjlc/s1600/7-Steps-To-Blogging-Success.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXlhAkb7QzfOS1F1PgshcG6SSdylxl1K07mtjiQYLBIMWerMThG9maPoThAZ37rnk5-erUCSwTjFO7pAsN18VKpWD4qGWeZmVulvsZ9OBi99_NvMyZEHct2klpDVirdE-DlMw8KRzjlc/s1600/7-Steps-To-Blogging-Success.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-40642220608464850092013-05-05T13:19:00.000-07:002013-05-05T13:27:19.176-07:00Getting Started In Network Marketing<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXcj4AkCNOEBJHeNGu1SpoIQkgUZ0qSzM9gfwMKd2Hhcbtp4dKHvesAk8WsSPv6TVqYPzoo82y9Rv_5ie7Eaz1eFKBkJ6kEdqVoHQlIbRaVgtLnz5gQadYweEl9RLyzQBJrD4uOf-K6UM/s1600/Confused-Woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXcj4AkCNOEBJHeNGu1SpoIQkgUZ0qSzM9gfwMKd2Hhcbtp4dKHvesAk8WsSPv6TVqYPzoo82y9Rv_5ie7Eaz1eFKBkJ6kEdqVoHQlIbRaVgtLnz5gQadYweEl9RLyzQBJrD4uOf-K6UM/s1600/Confused-Woman.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Choosing a home network marketing business can be a scary and confusing endeavor. If you don’t choose the right company you could be missing out on a lucrative business. Worse, if you choose the wrong company you could waste resources (time, money, credibility, etc.).</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I want to put YOU in control of your future so I am going to share with you some quick criteria for evaluating an MLM company.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>1. Is the company going to last long term?</strong></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgcUbTZZRLaLOpwuLZqF180OeyGrqjz_xNrW_XMiTkze0LsuVOPtMkFb5sVPm1v-tuoRYoAlO1eeAIRSLlDJUW4D1QqfXW-_JggcKjml6i3buW_Jr3vLmW3WAPYEhc-gGZUhark28UPQ/s1600/great%2520sphinx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgcUbTZZRLaLOpwuLZqF180OeyGrqjz_xNrW_XMiTkze0LsuVOPtMkFb5sVPm1v-tuoRYoAlO1eeAIRSLlDJUW4D1QqfXW-_JggcKjml6i3buW_Jr3vLmW3WAPYEhc-gGZUhark28UPQ/s1600/great%2520sphinx.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Ask how the company got started and who started it. Is the originator still involved?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Is the company solvent? (meeting financial obligations)</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Is the company growing? If the company is private (not publicly traded on a stock exchange) this may be more difficult to find, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the company is hiding anything. If there hasn’t been growth since the previous year it doesn’t automatically mean that the company isn’t great, but increasing sales is a plus for the distributors.</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>If the company is over 10 years old, does it regularly ‘reinvent’ itself?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>2. Does (or could) the product sell outside the network?</strong></div>
<div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwCtM0usqwjjEykb6EgbXh7sFRSslid8l4brXvPa_2OBOCDCr9MtlkDP2W1DfDYE-_9XVlTHTfvccq7YEspaQ2Au6M7JGuLfPo8M9CAQYbv20PUVJPZEucgGpiok_gdkVI9b2AOliMl0/s1600/ID-10067179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwCtM0usqwjjEykb6EgbXh7sFRSslid8l4brXvPa_2OBOCDCr9MtlkDP2W1DfDYE-_9XVlTHTfvccq7YEspaQ2Au6M7JGuLfPo8M9CAQYbv20PUVJPZEucgGpiok_gdkVI9b2AOliMl0/s1600/ID-10067179.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Are there consumers who will buy the product even if they are not also distributors? In addition is the product so exciting to consumers that they will want to become distributors?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Is the product low quality and/or overpriced or is it a valuable product to consumers? Does it perform as advertised?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Can the exact product be purchased from another MLM or through retail? For instance, you can purchase Vitamin B cheaply or expensively. If you are selling an expensive yet high quality Vitamin B supplement can you explain the value and thereby justify the expense? </li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Is there a market for the product? Where? Is this sales niche a place in which you want to be?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Have you used the product and do you like it?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>3. Will I be rewarded for my efforts?</strong></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigW9AJSd0b4YYP1RUO33Qswmz93yUw25Cl9XPpDE4bffMbYWNULZzCjGEu-ch55SjUPG4m6-AJuE9r4hNuYjZroap6DMyzWZe__495Bu_pA9rwueO6OIRtNb2Mr7dnwbmjRAjuoepa6Oo/s1600/reward1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigW9AJSd0b4YYP1RUO33Qswmz93yUw25Cl9XPpDE4bffMbYWNULZzCjGEu-ch55SjUPG4m6-AJuE9r4hNuYjZroap6DMyzWZe__495Bu_pA9rwueO6OIRtNb2Mr7dnwbmjRAjuoepa6Oo/s1600/reward1.jpg" height="200" width="140" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>What is the company’s commission or compensation plan?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Does the company only reward recruiting new distributors? Or will you get paid commission on products sold? Ideally you want a company that rewards distributors for selling product and rewards developing leaders.</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Does the company pay too much commission to its distributors? This could be setting up for bankruptcy.</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Is company growth due to earning a higher position or can it be purchased? If distributors can buy commissions rather than earning them the training will not focus on developing leaders. This will eventually destroy a company.</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Is the commission plan difficult to achieve but achievable? Hype aside, any business takes hard work. You want a business that pays you well for that time and effort. </li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>4. How is the training?</strong></div>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Does the training produce effective distributors? Does the company training create success?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBINFR7WvpRAulZksjpAPZEFfnQZn7BgjIBHFO0WtWygGJWo1R7ur63g7Qt7JZuOCnPCWZwdADF8raEDnYaO0ahqWPCcbLiSdWnLtaPoqAjl2AqfkbFhXhEAYaWP_5LIRgA_dUuMmqHr4/s1600/Bad-Personal-Trainer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBINFR7WvpRAulZksjpAPZEFfnQZn7BgjIBHFO0WtWygGJWo1R7ur63g7Qt7JZuOCnPCWZwdADF8raEDnYaO0ahqWPCcbLiSdWnLtaPoqAjl2AqfkbFhXhEAYaWP_5LIRgA_dUuMmqHr4/s1600/Bad-Personal-Trainer.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a>
<li>Is the training specific to the company and its products?</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>3) Do you have a team of distributors involved and invested in your success? </li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>4) Can you contact someone in your ‘up line’ for support when needed? Your team should return your phone calls and emails within 24-48 hours. They should work with you to determine your needs and help you through them.</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Signs to watch for:</strong></div>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2mRsrPBKo5psYvSG17IjUrKMcDewo3uh4tJxLw44sJKULsQi_VC7PdCnjKYDJLjnhnGzOS-QVIXGi8X8hXWwu2cd4j2M1_J9WvKnO26Jk0rXuIiitTVo5oGLy_W6vDunQgxV1zsMgnKM/s1600/mr-moneybags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2mRsrPBKo5psYvSG17IjUrKMcDewo3uh4tJxLw44sJKULsQi_VC7PdCnjKYDJLjnhnGzOS-QVIXGi8X8hXWwu2cd4j2M1_J9WvKnO26Jk0rXuIiitTVo5oGLy_W6vDunQgxV1zsMgnKM/s1600/mr-moneybags.jpg" /></a>
<li>Does the company promise fabulous amounts of money for little to no effort? You want a company that will be honest with you about your earning potential. Many MLMs have enormous earning potential but as mentioned before, this comes after hard work and serious dedication.</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iV8k9RKdu8Cx3Iz9Unvc-3nJQ45pXXWkwViorc12nt7kwzYt4rVYrz3HlxPQzukX5q73kYcyy61ZvbfTk936ojguMUZoD7VpvKJcatx_92qWbmrKuq_VtsnJ1O75xDEausCngGTY3tU/s1600/tumblr_lwxt4t3Mjs1qi4yijo1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iV8k9RKdu8Cx3Iz9Unvc-3nJQ45pXXWkwViorc12nt7kwzYt4rVYrz3HlxPQzukX5q73kYcyy61ZvbfTk936ojguMUZoD7VpvKJcatx_92qWbmrKuq_VtsnJ1O75xDEausCngGTY3tU/s1600/tumblr_lwxt4t3Mjs1qi4yijo1_400.jpg" height="200" width="176" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Does the company present a “miracle product”? Does it claim to cure cancer? Is it the ‘fountain of youth?’ Does it end world hunger, disease, and all natural disasters? You want honesty. If the product has some extraordinary claims it should have non-biased scientific research to back that up. If there is no research then the claims should be believable and achievable.
</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlTW4VvopkxjXA9q_0_i-JahxbzOt87l7UA4IWZUAz7sphpBYffh7798fZgpKxICPaVCGzr5qc3v0rmZDjOFNPd84dq4TyAV0FsBMb6o4cvMdpiBXh3sJqbJiodVxi9W3F80JiFcb53k/s1600/tumblr_m39nzbwyAQ1r92jy6o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlTW4VvopkxjXA9q_0_i-JahxbzOt87l7UA4IWZUAz7sphpBYffh7798fZgpKxICPaVCGzr5qc3v0rmZDjOFNPd84dq4TyAV0FsBMb6o4cvMdpiBXh3sJqbJiodVxi9W3F80JiFcb53k/s1600/tumblr_m39nzbwyAQ1r92jy6o1_500.jpg" height="173" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Does the company treat you as a ‘cog in their wheel’? Are you just another ‘down line’ distributor who was signed quickly and forgotten? You should be a vital member of a team of people that love their product. </li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In conclusion, be diligent in researching your prospective network marketing company. Find a company whose owners are committed to the products that actually enrich people’s lives, a company whose owners value their distributors as their most important asset. Make certain that the compensation plan pays its leadership very well and that there are actually leaders who have reached the top level. Finally, choose a company and product that you can feel pride in representing.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"At LifeVantage, we are here to support you every step of the way as you work to create and live the life you've always dreamed.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
We are here with you as you build your LifeVantage business and embark on your journey of personal development helping yourself and others find financial freedom."</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.mylifevantage.com/boulder" target="_blank">~LifeVantage Boulder</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjheKyfcDoj00KGgqjhjQc0fou3-fkyG95NDEGzh4sh4T9jUQyyvRKCQ7xtFdzBpj9pDuisQOq7EnHrOiDrZ9kZkF9yDQwkpCPY1PNxEHqh02dDVsxQ13dUzHgmkpTDD0pEs0X8wZHGCNk/s1600/527391_104214723072593_1469113997_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjheKyfcDoj00KGgqjhjQc0fou3-fkyG95NDEGzh4sh4T9jUQyyvRKCQ7xtFdzBpj9pDuisQOq7EnHrOiDrZ9kZkF9yDQwkpCPY1PNxEHqh02dDVsxQ13dUzHgmkpTDD0pEs0X8wZHGCNk/s1600/527391_104214723072593_1469113997_n.jpg" height="182" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-31681226242069958922013-05-05T12:44:00.000-07:002013-05-05T12:44:23.848-07:00PROS of Network Marketing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkQTRaCdY4f7olRNkNdxEmvog8TBOtMxsY5eeJGRZoN0tHGNHLeh0NQo4cjIYB4Q2576D3H2iyoKXllceRT-EaeNVG7qjO9VSOMUhr-cT1jvOI0gVCFWLEhOpf9NVPUVbej-6TRQdRWWU/s1600/banner_woman_laptop-small5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkQTRaCdY4f7olRNkNdxEmvog8TBOtMxsY5eeJGRZoN0tHGNHLeh0NQo4cjIYB4Q2576D3H2iyoKXllceRT-EaeNVG7qjO9VSOMUhr-cT1jvOI0gVCFWLEhOpf9NVPUVbej-6TRQdRWWU/s1600/banner_woman_laptop-small5.jpg" height="163" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong>PROS of network marketing.</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUR36igmJ6NzU6gwG9MPC0e71bumW34bfUWlbhMA-8LzMVUgu7ziAj9xem_1Z-LdPEXzeyhCkhOQrHy_CRNGM7YlFBeU0GRYwqDRAoahAlaZ0D8UnwLJoPZkC4jwOrfKP6rmZdh57rZ9M/s1600/mlm2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUR36igmJ6NzU6gwG9MPC0e71bumW34bfUWlbhMA-8LzMVUgu7ziAj9xem_1Z-LdPEXzeyhCkhOQrHy_CRNGM7YlFBeU0GRYwqDRAoahAlaZ0D8UnwLJoPZkC4jwOrfKP6rmZdh57rZ9M/s1600/mlm2.jpg" height="200" width="143" /></a></div>
<br /><strong>1. Low Startup Costs</strong> – For usually less than $500-$1,000 you can start your own business that has the potential to generate a full-time income. Often a large portion of start up fees include your product, sales materials, back office and or website.<br /><br /><strong></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfZFbkPrXtB5KYZqSAgK-ImvvK5NkOjg7wosW01eeasHfi_6XO2ebKZrC93kWfFea3Zz-_MQn7RREQUTD1xJ-inF_br9YBM5Ch-2nmDyiY4WA7wS_I1Y52bqafD_sa9b-QoHrdSAF4RI/s1600/freetime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfZFbkPrXtB5KYZqSAgK-ImvvK5NkOjg7wosW01eeasHfi_6XO2ebKZrC93kWfFea3Zz-_MQn7RREQUTD1xJ-inF_br9YBM5Ch-2nmDyiY4WA7wS_I1Y52bqafD_sa9b-QoHrdSAF4RI/s1600/freetime.jpg" height="172" width="200" /></a></div>
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>2. Time</strong> – MLM allows you to work however many hours you want. You could take on a 'second job' but if "time is money" you have already lost. I currently work in the 'real world' 36 hours a week. I have been able to simultaneously work three other businesses and assist my husband with our biggest money maker, LifeVantage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-UQUIr48XNwU-IPRm0tgb0XS4Mx6uBxq8fCWdazuRYTV7G09V6LFEbP2hN7kD2QOtyuyiajmhy9DyP6kgkPgoN_FD5k7Z1xAhdoLVpZ1S2Byx_otA6OBALOqNNHfqAAKFbq1UDrHrUw/s1600/comfort-zone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-UQUIr48XNwU-IPRm0tgb0XS4Mx6uBxq8fCWdazuRYTV7G09V6LFEbP2hN7kD2QOtyuyiajmhy9DyP6kgkPgoN_FD5k7Z1xAhdoLVpZ1S2Byx_otA6OBALOqNNHfqAAKFbq1UDrHrUw/s1600/comfort-zone.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br /><strong>3. Build Your Skillset</strong> – When you run your own MLM home business, you’re also learning how to sell, market, manage, and network, all things that can carry over to your success in almost any other area of life. I am not a natural sales person...I am not a naturally outgoing person even...but I have found that this business is forcing me out of my comfort zone and into a place of growth.<br /><br /><strong></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UPUpERG-rqlFeXi60zwBBJd_5loK-m5kBj4FsbbGzHjJwA38JGVsG0TtRn3VRVmM3TSXvGVj2Zoh2ePAdpCmGNhCptl8hLxmhRBKxGPb5yEYFfT2PqyL42JT6f1EAW3qgtKybK4D8hs/s1600/personal-development.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UPUpERG-rqlFeXi60zwBBJd_5loK-m5kBj4FsbbGzHjJwA38JGVsG0TtRn3VRVmM3TSXvGVj2Zoh2ePAdpCmGNhCptl8hLxmhRBKxGPb5yEYFfT2PqyL42JT6f1EAW3qgtKybK4D8hs/s1600/personal-development.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>4. Personal Development</strong> – Network Marketers are some of the most optimistic people you will ever meet. This optimism and drive to keep learning new things makes this a great industry to be part of. I have met the BEST people since diving into the MLM pool. I am learning it's up to me to make it happen...the people I meet believe the same thing. <br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkE-5WqRDhe0vYNzRanBwQMefuQ40SEA07IGnpYrYLncNf7tYzLzPGVClyDiqjApHSvpyqEJBHajm6k5PLeyIakZkfhij0PuqHJnsrHxb_aoFEOCXHULRzskd3VaDJtKF1i-tKsL7Hs8/s1600/familylan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkE-5WqRDhe0vYNzRanBwQMefuQ40SEA07IGnpYrYLncNf7tYzLzPGVClyDiqjApHSvpyqEJBHajm6k5PLeyIakZkfhij0PuqHJnsrHxb_aoFEOCXHULRzskd3VaDJtKF1i-tKsL7Hs8/s1600/familylan.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
"<strong>Anyone can do network marketing.</strong> It is for men and women of all backgrounds and ages, or from all ethnic or socioeconomic groups. For example, the LifeVantage family is comprised of people from all walks of life: doctors, lawyers, teachers, athletes, stay-at-home moms, realtors, young adults, senior citizens and students from all around the world.<br /><br />In direct sales, you are <strong>empowered to dream and achieve</strong> beyond what you thought was possible, to <strong>create and live the life you've always dreamed of."</strong> Credit LifeVantageNicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-4228536084415451072013-05-04T18:49:00.001-07:002013-05-04T18:49:20.939-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-BDWUT8hcLolz1msEG7jLjUL70kFBhNegRKt2_VvpAG2MOpNa8AsG9Nr2vdZsV5JUgPni8sWAfLlrLP6wfiszzmDUPiNsdWKcNVoGzxb8DTY1XZYJt81dYrPLYaQiNOGimjp__BX2EyY/s1600/23330_542611112415960_1242389069_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-BDWUT8hcLolz1msEG7jLjUL70kFBhNegRKt2_VvpAG2MOpNa8AsG9Nr2vdZsV5JUgPni8sWAfLlrLP6wfiszzmDUPiNsdWKcNVoGzxb8DTY1XZYJt81dYrPLYaQiNOGimjp__BX2EyY/s1600/23330_542611112415960_1242389069_n.png" /></a></div>
Today was my SHAPE Diva Dash 5K, I can't even tell you how much I wanted to just cancel and stay in bed. But I 'manned up' and put on my shorts, sports bra and tall socks and finished my first 5K in style!<br />
<br />
I didn't run the entire time, I really haven't had the opportunity to train my lungs enough to take it, but I ran a lot and I did all of the obstacles without crying or whining too much.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4eO-dDewq9oIJu676wcdAxQulxRoNv2ALkSlCRqxu5OOXgkxky8ysxvkXBEabF822IpWwrwTo6vhA6cqqQ2QFviw8hyphenhyphenHJbqhiuWZf2dKRhKuK9ukvK5JMl4LKudK4cyh7x2vcGIt3kUU/s1600/559957_566621386681599_2125964026_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4eO-dDewq9oIJu676wcdAxQulxRoNv2ALkSlCRqxu5OOXgkxky8ysxvkXBEabF822IpWwrwTo6vhA6cqqQ2QFviw8hyphenhyphenHJbqhiuWZf2dKRhKuK9ukvK5JMl4LKudK4cyh7x2vcGIt3kUU/s1600/559957_566621386681599_2125964026_n.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diva Dash Obstacle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I am exhausted now and I can't wait to crawl into my bed wearing my new SHAPE Diva Dash t-shirt and little else. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMKySXo6aqtKZQ_3L07JVbjR3zVsv9keHCKSd0bPXiCcjZ3yKahhpuM9og_WTzh-fAtPPAjf8hWc-BDbBGkBE_hMRtZYtrPm-9EvjRERqQxw6ean_lEoT1qDiomEpC4-0bhm4AyrZIFI/s1600/486675_10151478212083863_1278172192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMKySXo6aqtKZQ_3L07JVbjR3zVsv9keHCKSd0bPXiCcjZ3yKahhpuM9og_WTzh-fAtPPAjf8hWc-BDbBGkBE_hMRtZYtrPm-9EvjRERqQxw6ean_lEoT1qDiomEpC4-0bhm4AyrZIFI/s1600/486675_10151478212083863_1278172192_n.jpg" height="300" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter and I at the race (I'm waving to my other kiddos)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVa2Q4drrojVxbP9jnkuYbIFxmkUEm6S3jVfWPTLsKyFWKMoH16P02e9NDcyPd9vjrIAt4-hmdWpARQM0QrtPSk98xJYF2qNMTBJXA1uHjvyzrMQ0ZAXYzQ23_BXg6Bp33fa4Q_O2hw8/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVa2Q4drrojVxbP9jnkuYbIFxmkUEm6S3jVfWPTLsKyFWKMoH16P02e9NDcyPd9vjrIAt4-hmdWpARQM0QrtPSk98xJYF2qNMTBJXA1uHjvyzrMQ0ZAXYzQ23_BXg6Bp33fa4Q_O2hw8/s1600/photo.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running the DivaDash</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-78254700707432476182013-04-26T13:27:00.004-07:002013-04-27T08:14:46.509-07:00Anxiety<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3W_MSowPrgIhUw9RS_0Q-rUR5BU_xNXwonVGacHdhUQbif5YsvmqbSFUdvu9JDM5SPSwzSnJkWCrNJpR-kCEh3ZnY5vn4s25RohyphenhyphenXiwvNoosbsZshxO55aMoqYZNdrKnd-u95tKM7EHY/s1600/anxiety-girl-header2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3W_MSowPrgIhUw9RS_0Q-rUR5BU_xNXwonVGacHdhUQbif5YsvmqbSFUdvu9JDM5SPSwzSnJkWCrNJpR-kCEh3ZnY5vn4s25RohyphenhyphenXiwvNoosbsZshxO55aMoqYZNdrKnd-u95tKM7EHY/s1600/anxiety-girl-header2.png" height="187" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My husband and I have made some big changes in our life
recently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They aren’t obvious to the
casual observer but I have been reeling a bit as a result.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reeling and getting anxious.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have realized that I am highly susceptible to
stress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have an anxiety issue that
I keep in check with a combination of medication and natural means.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Occasionally, however, the stress level peaks
and knocks me off my equilibrium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
causes the typical symptoms of anxiety like the adrenaline rush, stomach upset,
dry mouth and jitters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some episodes are
worse than others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcFHZdaH6UU6PprNpgE7hW-W2A4Z3XBNvTCn8WsxO3aPndTPGI1RfjmDSLmePeBTZUJQhldOm-3LcAH0ecMTJlyreRICpwaxe9KT7-eFsMytr1KCr7AU0pvY_4anOXk-GtG8OeYL2p1g/s1600/FEAR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcFHZdaH6UU6PprNpgE7hW-W2A4Z3XBNvTCn8WsxO3aPndTPGI1RfjmDSLmePeBTZUJQhldOm-3LcAH0ecMTJlyreRICpwaxe9KT7-eFsMytr1KCr7AU0pvY_4anOXk-GtG8OeYL2p1g/s1600/FEAR.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My anxiety seems to flare up when I am unable to see the
path ahead. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chaos freaks me the hell
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It feels like bumping around in a
dark and scary basement with noises that are very likely zombified mutant
spider people coming to kill me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then the lights come on and the basement is actually quite
cozy and the noises are just the hot water heater.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUjwkYzr4MeM1A7gekLO80dV9SAkDoUISkns4rgZCMzOEQgnlibjUjWQFBzvT9JQKHS4OuhTvex-l2NLwbQrnQnKQebJI-tC4IRAJVxawcyBOoWtGilMpw8_xyGs4LetlVb0efTky2qM/s1600/VajLU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUjwkYzr4MeM1A7gekLO80dV9SAkDoUISkns4rgZCMzOEQgnlibjUjWQFBzvT9JQKHS4OuhTvex-l2NLwbQrnQnKQebJI-tC4IRAJVxawcyBOoWtGilMpw8_xyGs4LetlVb0efTky2qM/s1600/VajLU.jpg" height="227" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So the light came on in my brain and I may not be able to
see the destination but I am on the path and it’s rather nice, a little bumpy,
a few curves, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>but I know I have the strength
to navigate it and no matter where it ends I will make it and be a better
person for it.</span></div>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<o:p>
Anxiety</o:p></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p>Anxiety is the enemy of a positive outlook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will creep into every area of your life
and poison it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anxiety is the zombified
mutant spider people that lurk in your brain waiting for the opportunity to
strike. </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcVZFx9WVvMCrfSUyuBizoBqia3dXNXMjdCgwLNPoLd5H3ANNIipBenOLqhdI9mp-r9NP2kkVIAFemBWItfr-q2f420U7nxfXAhWoGTyYmDGAqLzLhpPsMsxJ6Yb0h9ZZiJNOH6Q3uww/s1600/dealing+with+anxiety+%252814%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcVZFx9WVvMCrfSUyuBizoBqia3dXNXMjdCgwLNPoLd5H3ANNIipBenOLqhdI9mp-r9NP2kkVIAFemBWItfr-q2f420U7nxfXAhWoGTyYmDGAqLzLhpPsMsxJ6Yb0h9ZZiJNOH6Q3uww/s1600/dealing+with+anxiety+%252814%2529.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><a href="http://marthabeck.com/" target="_blank">In Steering by Starlight: The Science and Magic of Finding Your Destiny</a>, author <strong>Martha Beck</strong> explains that we each have an inner lizard,
stemming from the reptilian brain, which inundates us with frightening messages
of "lack and attack" which is the primal way we keep ourselves fed
and safe from saber tooth tigers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately for most of us, lack has become,
"I don't have enough money!" <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
by attack you might think people have it in for you or are going to hurt you in
some way . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Attack fears might make you
defensive -- or offensive -- at times, or it might give you anxiety ranging
from mild to curling up in a ball and sucking your thumb.<o:p></o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
I have pictured and named my inner lizard, in order to
become able to soothe the lack and attack thoughts using the higher, more ‘evolved’
brain. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>Beck says:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>“This silly visualization is actually a very serious,
powerful exercise, rooted in sound psychological and neurological evidence. It
may in fact, physically change your brain. By calling on the non-reptilian part
of your neural complex to watch the reptile, you subtract neural energy from
survival fear and move it to a more highly evolved portion of the brain.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>When your lizard starts wringing it’s claws and bleating
terrifying predictions stop and ask yourself “What am I really afraid of?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtS4PqPNKjYxaCYTv2ymdpb4QZ8aZ9j4yjO58Jwp_lkygX81tkSyvGHIJg1o6rpja13TdgwVzGXkv9sWzGm6A58LKTZvjMHAcwcYiPpDB8GLN8_UG1mqMqCovzpXmlKp9Ks_IesW_GGM/s1600/lonely-old-woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtS4PqPNKjYxaCYTv2ymdpb4QZ8aZ9j4yjO58Jwp_lkygX81tkSyvGHIJg1o6rpja13TdgwVzGXkv9sWzGm6A58LKTZvjMHAcwcYiPpDB8GLN8_UG1mqMqCovzpXmlKp9Ks_IesW_GGM/s1600/lonely-old-woman.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What am I really afraid of?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I started identifying the fears that were causing this particular
bout of anxiety I realized how ridiculous they each were once in the full
glaring light of reason.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Usually when I follow these thoughts to their source I find
that they all stem from the same basic fears that are part of every human: <strong>fear
of debilitation and painful death all alone, poor, and nobody loves me</strong>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Okay, maybe this is just me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But I am sure your core fears are really along the same lines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So that is when I need to comfort my lizard and remind her
that everything will be okay and she doesn’t need to freak out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My lizard is Louise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She is technically a chameleon, not a lizard, since she is afraid of
being a target.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tries to hide, she
curls up tight and hunches over almost fetal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She has a medical condition so I need to be very careful what I feed
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her favorite thing to eat is
fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She will eat it until she is full
and fat and completely terrified.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoLgXY2wOZqNydDovxo-xlaxoeYriUSZyJHOXOfwOItgfeFFUSaAZxvF9QYl3sTR0dQubcw4ILS45qfeTus2vfqCoPjR6192mAwQjffVg-wLnNDvJcgCf6aoYa1N1ICjQMbodVqvk63o/s1600/agama_genus_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoLgXY2wOZqNydDovxo-xlaxoeYriUSZyJHOXOfwOItgfeFFUSaAZxvF9QYl3sTR0dQubcw4ILS45qfeTus2vfqCoPjR6192mAwQjffVg-wLnNDvJcgCf6aoYa1N1ICjQMbodVqvk63o/s1600/agama_genus_12.jpg" height="246" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Which leaves me feeling like I want to crawl into a hole and
die.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD50d5kvvW2nPNvASkVeYXl_vfv-sF0vlAlWg_jF6hK6-3f8uVZ95UNSBVsY5S7rHHnuJ4sy7jhK2kBn9UKDzuP_HXHJqexP05g5hf-Ts6AKuxZ_DsZ_4dL09I-i8WGWRNQVTmID1shw0/s1600/156516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD50d5kvvW2nPNvASkVeYXl_vfv-sF0vlAlWg_jF6hK6-3f8uVZ95UNSBVsY5S7rHHnuJ4sy7jhK2kBn9UKDzuP_HXHJqexP05g5hf-Ts6AKuxZ_DsZ_4dL09I-i8WGWRNQVTmID1shw0/s1600/156516.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a>
I<span style="font-family: Calibri;">t is vital that we see the lizard brain for what it is, a
survival tool to keep us from jumping out of windows or playing computer games for
several days straight until we die of thirst.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But every fear it chirps must be scrutinized for truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be like a wise cow, eat the straw and spit
out the sticks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-38773047102528696212013-04-20T20:44:00.000-07:002013-04-20T20:45:21.171-07:00The Antioxidant Truth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKtbCkTB1PDa0UtQMqtD16XQBRxEhM_aqGbbYO4JJLGTLQwPDEHbsrJ8GWGPi2mmiAB3sO0f5IIHxWBLDs528ST0xKn83YdqgwNdPGCKkd4j9srXo7z-Xr9jxqNu9yBAWfMRM8xjYiLM/s1600/Antioxidants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKtbCkTB1PDa0UtQMqtD16XQBRxEhM_aqGbbYO4JJLGTLQwPDEHbsrJ8GWGPi2mmiAB3sO0f5IIHxWBLDs528ST0xKn83YdqgwNdPGCKkd4j9srXo7z-Xr9jxqNu9yBAWfMRM8xjYiLM/s1600/Antioxidants.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
You can't really do anything today without hearing the word "Antioxidant". I have been a big believer in the antioxidant method of wellness and it didn't hurt that some of my favorite treats were on the list...berries, coffee, chocolate and wine.<br />
<br />
Imagine my shock at finding out that I have been misinformed.<br />
<br />
We have all seen products in the grocery store ranging from supplements to candy claiming high antioxidant content. <br />
<br />
But what does that mean?<br />
<br />
"Antioxidants came to public attention in the 1990s...Some studies showed that people with low intakes of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables were at greater risk for developing these chronic conditions than were people who ate plenty of these fruits and vegetables. Clinical trials began testing the impact of single substances, especially beta-carotene and vitamin E, as weapons against heart disease, cancer, and the like." <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/antioxidants/#the bottom line on antioxidants" target="_blank">credit: Harvard School of Public Health</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6lXXTTpCKJj2272rQzMe2w8hxR2MCxHHdcHdUACXWzVDIl3stcZH_rV2X_SxTRcpA9P5QecnokQ-iLLDQVi0ckc3gqk0wO9ye8Hbn_8l92RNh83djgRkO7iyg-iqZJBEqaZkGkVh8-LA/s1600/Edys%2520Antioxidant%2520Bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6lXXTTpCKJj2272rQzMe2w8hxR2MCxHHdcHdUACXWzVDIl3stcZH_rV2X_SxTRcpA9P5QecnokQ-iLLDQVi0ckc3gqk0wO9ye8Hbn_8l92RNh83djgRkO7iyg-iqZJBEqaZkGkVh8-LA/s1600/Edys%2520Antioxidant%2520Bar.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
So how did the media, and the supplement and food industries react to this news?<br />
"Even before the results of these trials were in, [they] began to hype the benefits of “antioxidants.” Frozen berries, green tea, and other foods labeled as being rich in antioxidants began popping up in stores. Supplement makers touted the disease-fighting properties of all sorts of antioxidants." <a href="http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/antioxidants/#the bottom line on antioxidants" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">credit: HSPH</span></a><br />
<br />
(That's sort of exactly how we should expect them to react.)<br />
<br />
<br />
So are the corporations lying to us? Well, kind of. Certain foods and supplements are higher in antioxidants than others. They can even rate them according to amount of antioxidants so you can be confident in knowing that the dark chocolate covered pomegranate is kicking butt and taking names.<br />
<br />
What is <em><strong>not</strong></em> proven is whether the antioxidants actually affect your body and health one way or the other. <br />
<br />
Yes, you read that right...nobody knows for sure if antioxidants do a blessed thing for your health. If you look closely at the products on the grocery shelves claiming high antioxidant content you will notice that <em><strong>none</strong></em> of them actually make any sort of health claims We consumers just connect the two in our minds and buy buy buy. <br />
<br />
Right now are you paying more for specific kinds of juice that claim immense amounts of antioxidant power? Because if so you are wasting your money.<br />
<br />
Well, at least ingesting copious amounts of antioxidants <em><strong>might</strong></em> help...and it can't hurt, right? 'Just in case'. Not so fast.<br />
<br />
"The first inkling came in a large trial of beta-carotene conducted among men in Finland who were heavy smokers, and therefore at high risk for developing lung cancer. The trial was stopped early when researchers saw a <strong><em>significant increase in lung cancer among those taking the supplement</em></strong> compared to those taking the placebo." <a href="http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/antioxidants/#the bottom line on antioxidants" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">credit: HSPH</span></a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRocRbbiZ_KKT0H9Fqs1OIPezMo0_IZO_NAuR4JKcfFw4Iko8eOQkhgqLC0BESbWCnnJKtUYHqIQYpHbBGSCt4upG5z6rNUIfXCE0t05JE7_GbE421g38qHL3zuKdztANEu8iu6-_wpk/s1600/121112santa_dngnk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRocRbbiZ_KKT0H9Fqs1OIPezMo0_IZO_NAuR4JKcfFw4Iko8eOQkhgqLC0BESbWCnnJKtUYHqIQYpHbBGSCt4upG5z6rNUIfXCE0t05JE7_GbE421g38qHL3zuKdztANEu8iu6-_wpk/s1600/121112santa_dngnk.jpg" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong><em>But</em></strong> "Not all trials of beta-carotene show this harmful effect, however. In the Physicians’ Health Study, which included few active smokers, no increase in lung cancer or any other adverse affect was seen even after 18 years of follow-up." <a href="http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/antioxidants/#the bottom line on antioxidants" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">credit: HSPH</span></a> <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="the bottom line on antioxidants"></a><span style="font-size: large;">The Bottom Line on Antioxidants and Disease Prevention:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
According to the Harvard School of Public Health: " Free radicals contribute to chronic diseases from cancer to heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease to vision loss. This doesn’t automatically mean that substances with antioxidant properties will fix the problem, especially not when they are taken out of their natural context. The studies so far are inconclusive, but generally don’t provide strong evidence that antioxidant supplements have a substantial impact on disease."<br />
<br />
So eat healthy, include whole fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and buy the super juices only if you really love the taste. <br />
<br />
There are ways to provide protection against many of these scourges of aging but, sadly, chocolate and wine are not going to do it. That's not to say they aren't enjoyable and can contribute vitally to our emotional health. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsVeutSropZEvGU6vQ_H4ojDhIfFkRIQ9HhlmSTrQD3queoFXePSURTBOLWWXVozyO2RSmI3t4x4Z_Vrkm8phHGxKzJ8SOQQbRkLEw4rGBGR61g4AimHd-s3Y34Ac5FXHhbxVBBGTUv4/s1600/Pretty+Shoe+Quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsVeutSropZEvGU6vQ_H4ojDhIfFkRIQ9HhlmSTrQD3queoFXePSURTBOLWWXVozyO2RSmI3t4x4Z_Vrkm8phHGxKzJ8SOQQbRkLEw4rGBGR61g4AimHd-s3Y34Ac5FXHhbxVBBGTUv4/s1600/Pretty+Shoe+Quote.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-77020309371275744142013-04-20T10:04:00.001-07:002013-04-20T14:45:39.782-07:00Sometimes Natural Is Not Enough<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizvVwr0_kMyzeb1_z-hzQevzC0dmH0VXg6YWH6tG-Uq9IqUIfzdNa_AAw_fLpsKAciFzCsoWiXrsziHLXSOo5b3aF1IvvB7H7BPu4OklJPnfCLkZvVw1tQYraa1pG8Qep3H61TNgCvUIA/s1600/6549284621_c81e2f0cc2_z+wisconson+dept+of+natural+resources.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizvVwr0_kMyzeb1_z-hzQevzC0dmH0VXg6YWH6tG-Uq9IqUIfzdNa_AAw_fLpsKAciFzCsoWiXrsziHLXSOo5b3aF1IvvB7H7BPu4OklJPnfCLkZvVw1tQYraa1pG8Qep3H61TNgCvUIA/s1600/6549284621_c81e2f0cc2_z+wisconson+dept+of+natural+resources.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I want to thank you for visiting my site with a gift.<br />
<br />
I am a strong proponent of natural health and healing but I know that there are some instances when digging roots from the garden for a tincture aren't going to do the trick.<br />
<br />
When you need to use the pharmacy for prescribed medicine please have this <strong>InCareRx</strong> card handy. It is my gift to my readers.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This card is 100% free to use! It's active! Simply save it to your computer and print it! Save money on your prescriptions (And your pet's prescriptions!) Save up to 90% on generics and other scripts.</span></span><br />
Make sure that your pharmacist saves the information so that you don't have to continue to bring the card with each visit.<br />
<br />
Again, this is a free gift. If you would like to print a few and hand them out to friends you have my blessing!<br />
<br />
Enjoy your exuberant life!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2hTVXagcow7xtkzRher8vNPwmwltoUkrPGb9rXOx_Kq_pPgAhAMqFUKrwsNpchyecHwaWKzGgQB-DU_iFQf5gpJqybzebLRW9lpgRzl7uPd_G2_23C4Ry-OMNcNdtMvy14OVXWE9xS8/s1600/MY+CARD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2hTVXagcow7xtkzRher8vNPwmwltoUkrPGb9rXOx_Kq_pPgAhAMqFUKrwsNpchyecHwaWKzGgQB-DU_iFQf5gpJqybzebLRW9lpgRzl7uPd_G2_23C4Ry-OMNcNdtMvy14OVXWE9xS8/s400/MY+CARD.jpg" height="232" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-50562355464130784722013-04-18T07:39:00.000-07:002013-04-18T15:27:48.608-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>"Gold that buys health can never be ill spent. </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>~Thomas Dekker, <i>Westward Ho</i>, 1604"</strong></span></div>
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYvtSJ8y7WxoVy6OsS1fzQWc71zAPawGfON1hW5BqGiC337gmRxythrTu9VuhhCwZ6JCQLQl6GtMqpXQ6uv8tMiVOhL4CPWmuyg1ExbY3C4yznTMpzUNYJoxA9vCHg6GycrT43VEBsTE/s1600/bling_bling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYvtSJ8y7WxoVy6OsS1fzQWc71zAPawGfON1hW5BqGiC337gmRxythrTu9VuhhCwZ6JCQLQl6GtMqpXQ6uv8tMiVOhL4CPWmuyg1ExbY3C4yznTMpzUNYJoxA9vCHg6GycrT43VEBsTE/s1600/bling_bling.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">What would you give for health? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">This is a question I have had to ask myself recently. What would I pay to be well? How much time would I give? How much energy would I put forth?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">It's not an outlandish statement to say that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can cost you more in terms of time/energy/money at the onset. Fortunately it will be an investment in your long term wellness and can save you money later on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">It's like spending the big bucks on the energy efficient appliances. The out of pocket is pretty stiff but the cost of energy savings makes them worth that initial investment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXL0LbhXxtI_pGqVKbqOJfXEhWvhf-kHcsGi-NomKSmOyXlrkh4FoOStkhLtrwCZ50sdKtwC-JJf4SWwvfz1l-2JvXT9uNXj1RU_4xVtvzQIcoeYI73pS1NDKAf9BAHYdCsypymBaKFyk/s1600/gold-diamond-jewelry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXL0LbhXxtI_pGqVKbqOJfXEhWvhf-kHcsGi-NomKSmOyXlrkh4FoOStkhLtrwCZ50sdKtwC-JJf4SWwvfz1l-2JvXT9uNXj1RU_4xVtvzQIcoeYI73pS1NDKAf9BAHYdCsypymBaKFyk/s1600/gold-diamond-jewelry.jpg" height="136" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Being healthy costs you. Eating healthy costs money. Exercise costs time. Maintaining health costs energy. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Are you willing to spend? </span>Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-33879018742219022242013-04-12T16:23:00.001-07:002013-04-12T16:23:35.655-07:00Misery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9OuzPHjH6mkKF2Fp4w0LIfi8PO3EPYvhRZQm1q-Ce2LCR0IbfCSkVGTG3uR4kgUfcz9qsONPEa6xqrunHh3NE1wBpEZWi_luMaw4x7StD8o0L7TWZC7-XKTv1bT8wLvaKC04DxzvhwM/s1600/bad-week.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9OuzPHjH6mkKF2Fp4w0LIfi8PO3EPYvhRZQm1q-Ce2LCR0IbfCSkVGTG3uR4kgUfcz9qsONPEa6xqrunHh3NE1wBpEZWi_luMaw4x7StD8o0L7TWZC7-XKTv1bT8wLvaKC04DxzvhwM/s1600/bad-week.png" height="178" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9OuzPHjH6mkKF2Fp4w0LIfi8PO3EPYvhRZQm1q-Ce2LCR0IbfCSkVGTG3uR4kgUfcz9qsONPEa6xqrunHh3NE1wBpEZWi_luMaw4x7StD8o0L7TWZC7-XKTv1bT8wLvaKC04DxzvhwM/s1600/bad-week.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</a><br />
<br />
Omigosh it has been a miserable week.<br />
<br />
On Sunday our water heater broke and we had to order the part Monday morning. We had no hot water until Wednesday morning. Sponge baths and lots of lotion.<br />
<br />
On Monday our 10 year old told me he was itchy. I looked and discovered...chicken pox! WTH? He was vaccinated when he was little but he caught them nonetheless<br />
<br />
Wednesday Superman (aka my awesome husband) left for Salt Lake City for a business trip. He and his friend drove in our big ol' diesel pick up truck. They broke down in Rock Springs, WY. If you have never been to Rock Springs Wyoming I should tell you that there is noooothing there. (patriotic Rock Springs residents please forgive me). <br />
<br />
The guys had to get a hotel room for the night and then rent a car to make the rest of the trip to Salt Lake. <br />
<br />
Now my husband is in Salt Lake, the truck is in Wyoming and it's going to cost $600 to repair, and I am holding down the fort with the five kids, three dogs, and three cats. <br />
<br />
On that note, so that I do not start feeling sorry for myself, I will post some pictures of people who have it worse than I do....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYgwHORj0-jYlUxtzt9V8N1S0WzzXi640vsW5wM6qR-Yt7_dyClNZ9lBMOZsDQPrGvhaixNF1t7AUd9ywHKWBV9-c3HxSID5NG4yfX6_uQMfzOxW0hi1PHgWcSW7XS_e-QtWL7L2_-1k/s1600/anigif_enhanced-buzz-27933-1354297494-1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYgwHORj0-jYlUxtzt9V8N1S0WzzXi640vsW5wM6qR-Yt7_dyClNZ9lBMOZsDQPrGvhaixNF1t7AUd9ywHKWBV9-c3HxSID5NG4yfX6_uQMfzOxW0hi1PHgWcSW7XS_e-QtWL7L2_-1k/s1600/anigif_enhanced-buzz-27933-1354297494-1.gif" height="191" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMJlUocTsP8I5TYxZaz-Xhj9CKxwABpTC3u46phcILoRzwwumi5JkqOptGaauNywuBPWvX2BUpAti24SGgABvalVaJ5e-BXZMAiFjJbQRWOKvvzPoRrC1Cgca16YlNC1ka00oW5Z8nYc/s1600/7kZ8620877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMJlUocTsP8I5TYxZaz-Xhj9CKxwABpTC3u46phcILoRzwwumi5JkqOptGaauNywuBPWvX2BUpAti24SGgABvalVaJ5e-BXZMAiFjJbQRWOKvvzPoRrC1Cgca16YlNC1ka00oW5Z8nYc/s1600/7kZ8620877.jpg" height="320" width="294" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7D46FoaY8wCFOS9DpDiNIbbw0X0QQQjBe6zPDqFjpafZTAV9jxT8mJVCf5Bj0JVAXC7CXbUHV98HiBqjP7NtWQgDsf5PBRq4MQCQl3fHYo1HrH5oCvPur_8uNWjXqSEp8A-6DCBLvyo/s1600/badday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7D46FoaY8wCFOS9DpDiNIbbw0X0QQQjBe6zPDqFjpafZTAV9jxT8mJVCf5Bj0JVAXC7CXbUHV98HiBqjP7NtWQgDsf5PBRq4MQCQl3fHYo1HrH5oCvPur_8uNWjXqSEp8A-6DCBLvyo/s1600/badday.jpg" height="277" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ9OgQMZoiXwWU5wiHWNskOayjiH-htG4Z11vg5E7bIf74iPiSdSNZLbu4bmhIXVseAa9ZihIIQrsUMv1rv_xZ_aZ9PqzrSMDSr4EtJJh8zLZtp-06aeeDC0iseUq0lJoiBgqWEFjmI4U/s1600/imagesCA9J6O0C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ9OgQMZoiXwWU5wiHWNskOayjiH-htG4Z11vg5E7bIf74iPiSdSNZLbu4bmhIXVseAa9ZihIIQrsUMv1rv_xZ_aZ9PqzrSMDSr4EtJJh8zLZtp-06aeeDC0iseUq0lJoiBgqWEFjmI4U/s1600/imagesCA9J6O0C.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9OPANKZyfzo_KA6shkGzf10u_ebfPAw2MDAXSYwgBdjanN4_QVmfO5cI79RgdJmjVEfDArKE2efVfn-fwr-3t14GzuENXS3AVR3oR-b4IZrTO5t7p_P2uSw46qDfT55Nt7Icm9cSkkU/s1600/people-having-a-bad-day-bacon-wrapped-media-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9OPANKZyfzo_KA6shkGzf10u_ebfPAw2MDAXSYwgBdjanN4_QVmfO5cI79RgdJmjVEfDArKE2efVfn-fwr-3t14GzuENXS3AVR3oR-b4IZrTO5t7p_P2uSw46qDfT55Nt7Icm9cSkkU/s1600/people-having-a-bad-day-bacon-wrapped-media-16.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YXeNBBhdi1Y0Eou-rFmvw5ox7uphWskBVA-NcGH3IGoBzmebmDs9J91rs79OAIM3R3epOqp94YDSxOlLfkbaTMjexL_Wx0z1I4XExknPBp8uVJmJKN7BuAD5vsh3aDfLnEnrHrdV3_o/s1600/anigif_enhanced-buzz-28449-1354297555-0.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YXeNBBhdi1Y0Eou-rFmvw5ox7uphWskBVA-NcGH3IGoBzmebmDs9J91rs79OAIM3R3epOqp94YDSxOlLfkbaTMjexL_Wx0z1I4XExknPBp8uVJmJKN7BuAD5vsh3aDfLnEnrHrdV3_o/s1600/anigif_enhanced-buzz-28449-1354297555-0.gif" /></a></div>
<br />
There. I feel better.Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-55564964044990112202013-04-10T17:26:00.004-07:002013-04-11T11:03:23.930-07:00A Healthy Terrain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5rfEfi14Yu12C8msQhsn3yQOANNeBdPus7tQEMY2EoL_QPF_LU-NPWBavSPJrrfVvWk5kc6w6mfM1aFw3IDp9_H6tJu3B5rVK0og7piuDlfRY2rtbhIfyYXslSC9k7a1aiS0o7N-f0A/s1600/article-new_ehow_images_a07_d2_ej_dry-microbes-soil-800x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5rfEfi14Yu12C8msQhsn3yQOANNeBdPus7tQEMY2EoL_QPF_LU-NPWBavSPJrrfVvWk5kc6w6mfM1aFw3IDp9_H6tJu3B5rVK0og7piuDlfRY2rtbhIfyYXslSC9k7a1aiS0o7N-f0A/s1600/article-new_ehow_images_a07_d2_ej_dry-microbes-soil-800x800.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5rfEfi14Yu12C8msQhsn3yQOANNeBdPus7tQEMY2EoL_QPF_LU-NPWBavSPJrrfVvWk5kc6w6mfM1aFw3IDp9_H6tJu3B5rVK0og7piuDlfRY2rtbhIfyYXslSC9k7a1aiS0o7N-f0A/s1600/article-new_ehow_images_a07_d2_ej_dry-microbes-soil-800x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5rfEfi14Yu12C8msQhsn3yQOANNeBdPus7tQEMY2EoL_QPF_LU-NPWBavSPJrrfVvWk5kc6w6mfM1aFw3IDp9_H6tJu3B5rVK0og7piuDlfRY2rtbhIfyYXslSC9k7a1aiS0o7N-f0A/s1600/article-new_ehow_images_a07_d2_ej_dry-microbes-soil-800x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;" unselectable="on">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5rfEfi14Yu12C8msQhsn3yQOANNeBdPus7tQEMY2EoL_QPF_LU-NPWBavSPJrrfVvWk5kc6w6mfM1aFw3IDp9_H6tJu3B5rVK0og7piuDlfRY2rtbhIfyYXslSC9k7a1aiS0o7N-f0A/s1600/article-new_ehow_images_a07_d2_ej_dry-microbes-soil-800x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;" unselectable="on">
The healthiest crops grow out of healthy soil. Regardless of whether you grew up in Kansas, Brooklyn or the Moon you KNOW this essential truth about good soil. </div>
<br />
Many believe that our bodies work the same way.<br />
<br />
How?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkn32h4hWsL1SJCSkBS5aaQ0I_6N78V6O4wp9nm2H6r5zhRD17lf-LlYXW_6xi-UotZPDWCv5wZmKC2pPFUDVDZdSA4X5GpxQDIaBn4QD5p_oqTK66X1g5skjU19n1pp-p9RJue4paZg/s1600/250px-Antoine_Bechamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkn32h4hWsL1SJCSkBS5aaQ0I_6N78V6O4wp9nm2H6r5zhRD17lf-LlYXW_6xi-UotZPDWCv5wZmKC2pPFUDVDZdSA4X5GpxQDIaBn4QD5p_oqTK66X1g5skjU19n1pp-p9RJue4paZg/s1600/250px-Antoine_Bechamp.jpg" height="200" width="161" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Meet <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antoine_B%C3%A9champ" target="_blank">Antoine Béchamp</a> who believed that living entities called "<a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microzyme" title="Microzyme">microzymes</a>" created bacteria in <strong><u>response to host and environmental factors</u></strong>; he did not believe that bacteria could invade a healthy host and create disease on their own. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(credit: Wikipedia)</span><br />
<br />
Wait, what?<br />
<br />
Haven't we been taught in elementary school health class about how germs work? The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germ_theory_of_disease" target="_blank">germ theory of disease</a> refers to the discovery in the late 19th century that some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infectious_disease" title="Infectious disease">infectious diseases</a> are caused by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microorganism" title="Microorganism">microorganisms</a>, small organisms too small to see without magnification,<strong> that invade the host</strong>. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(credit: Wikipedia)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUYw7ixRTukCNd9vlDxNKG4ChLxvHq3KJLgd9moqxr3WbMWCSeAXaF4sKz92YewYeInxTYF-Mhikkbeq1YD0BUkKiDwnqp3wMrB62U4XfP2zrxCS3ganTNaOB133-k5g1s0yi5C2r6tgc/s1600/23rd-street-bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUYw7ixRTukCNd9vlDxNKG4ChLxvHq3KJLgd9moqxr3WbMWCSeAXaF4sKz92YewYeInxTYF-Mhikkbeq1YD0BUkKiDwnqp3wMrB62U4XfP2zrxCS3ganTNaOB133-k5g1s0yi5C2r6tgc/s1600/23rd-street-bridge.jpg" height="221" width="400" /></a>Germs invade the host and we get sick. Soooo the logical conclusion is to create antibiotics and vaccines that KILL THOSE GERMS! Right?<br />
<br />
Well, not exactly.<br />
<br />
Bechamp (among others) believed that the "germs" couldn't create disease on their own but that a healthy 'terrain' could prevent the invasion. <br />
<br />
I, personally do not want to be invaded. At least not by germs. I also don't enjoy the idea that I am helpless against the microorganisms that float around our lives just waiting gather enough forces to attack. Really? <br />
<br />
What would happen if a country didn't work at defending it's borders but instead just tried to fight the enemy once they had begun occupation? <br />
<br />
I will tell you what...the country would lose more troops AND civilians fighting an adversary that had already started buying real estate and joining the PTA. <br />
<br />
Doesn't it make more sense to fortify your defenses before the enemy strikes?<br />
<br />
Doesn't it?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zoX4_Judb66KZowFf8H0MZ1dNMSe4wLCKnI7Ff2BmRK3QGFaQU2H7Dbre81_kuS1Erpn3xc2Zqm8gfZoBb939xZ76RecftvLIzXd5P7UFwR4eZj8wgn5Ly_RgFhNmTz8pvfaX3TdVOE/s1600/l_77745_58c9b6b5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zoX4_Judb66KZowFf8H0MZ1dNMSe4wLCKnI7Ff2BmRK3QGFaQU2H7Dbre81_kuS1Erpn3xc2Zqm8gfZoBb939xZ76RecftvLIzXd5P7UFwR4eZj8wgn5Ly_RgFhNmTz8pvfaX3TdVOE/s1600/l_77745_58c9b6b5.jpg" height="320" width="206" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-45002936823162545092013-04-10T17:06:00.001-07:002013-04-11T11:02:43.795-07:00Fountain of Youth..?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjCKcKqVlZLWpev2DjHBUEBY6l-zuqd1TDoJ1IPoUWRNnhyphenhyphenArlodiRRbpoZZBAHzpNipE6XK_H0C-v_4IRDyZaiFBbVUsYtZ934NaZljPwnwgk3rj7uOMn1sjDUMgCIsoP5OX3gYkzrM/s1600/fountain-youth-painting_24977_600x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjCKcKqVlZLWpev2DjHBUEBY6l-zuqd1TDoJ1IPoUWRNnhyphenhyphenArlodiRRbpoZZBAHzpNipE6XK_H0C-v_4IRDyZaiFBbVUsYtZ934NaZljPwnwgk3rj7uOMn1sjDUMgCIsoP5OX3gYkzrM/s1600/fountain-youth-painting_24977_600x450.jpg" height="260" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjCKcKqVlZLWpev2DjHBUEBY6l-zuqd1TDoJ1IPoUWRNnhyphenhyphenArlodiRRbpoZZBAHzpNipE6XK_H0C-v_4IRDyZaiFBbVUsYtZ934NaZljPwnwgk3rj7uOMn1sjDUMgCIsoP5OX3gYkzrM/s1600/fountain-youth-painting_24977_600x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjCKcKqVlZLWpev2DjHBUEBY6l-zuqd1TDoJ1IPoUWRNnhyphenhyphenArlodiRRbpoZZBAHzpNipE6XK_H0C-v_4IRDyZaiFBbVUsYtZ934NaZljPwnwgk3rj7uOMn1sjDUMgCIsoP5OX3gYkzrM/s1600/fountain-youth-painting_24977_600x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjCKcKqVlZLWpev2DjHBUEBY6l-zuqd1TDoJ1IPoUWRNnhyphenhyphenArlodiRRbpoZZBAHzpNipE6XK_H0C-v_4IRDyZaiFBbVUsYtZ934NaZljPwnwgk3rj7uOMn1sjDUMgCIsoP5OX3gYkzrM/s1600/fountain-youth-painting_24977_600x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div style="text-align: left;" unselectable="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjCKcKqVlZLWpev2DjHBUEBY6l-zuqd1TDoJ1IPoUWRNnhyphenhyphenArlodiRRbpoZZBAHzpNipE6XK_H0C-v_4IRDyZaiFBbVUsYtZ934NaZljPwnwgk3rj7uOMn1sjDUMgCIsoP5OX3gYkzrM/s1600/fountain-youth-painting_24977_600x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjCKcKqVlZLWpev2DjHBUEBY6l-zuqd1TDoJ1IPoUWRNnhyphenhyphenArlodiRRbpoZZBAHzpNipE6XK_H0C-v_4IRDyZaiFBbVUsYtZ934NaZljPwnwgk3rj7uOMn1sjDUMgCIsoP5OX3gYkzrM/s1600/fountain-youth-painting_24977_600x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Ever since <span dir="auto"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herodotus" target="_blank">Herodotus</a> mentioned a a fountain containing a special kind of water which gave people amazing longevity, the human race has, well, <em><strong>raced</strong></em> to locate this magical water that would restore youth to anyone who drinks of it.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">Of course we are modern, scientific thinkers and the idea of a magic fountain is quaint and ridiculous. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">(But secretly we all wish it were true)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">I personally wouldn't want to live forever but I would absolutely sign up for a sip of something that would keep me looking and feeling young until my life plays out to it's natural end. Heck, I would take just the young-feeling part and let the wrinkles and gray hair run rampant.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">Can we all agree on that? I think so.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">Is there a fountain of youth? No. But we all know that there are certain formulas to maintaining the best possible health as we age. Eating healthy foods. Exercise. Stress management. Reduce free radicals. Take your vitamins. Get eight hours of sleep a night. etc. etc.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">The problem is that while all the 'authorities' agree that these are vital in maintaining a healthy life, what they don't agree on is what it all means. We have all heard the jokes about the medical authorities coming out with a study that says that coffee is a powerful antioxidant and should be enjoyed daily, and the next day they report that coffee will kill you. Or at least damage you beyond repair. The same with milk, wine, wheat, corn, sweeteners, and the list goes on.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">One authority publishes a book saying that a high protein diet is the best while another bestseller asserts that vegan is the way to go.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">I am pretty sure that the only things that can be agreed upon across the board are organic fruits and vegetables and purified water. Anything else is entering uncharted waters. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">The fact is that we live in a messy, dirty, disease ridden world and at one time we would have died young from measles but now we are killed slowly by Little Debbie. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto">The fountain of youth is a myth and we can't truly determine what foods will help or harm us. What we need is not a new and exciting 'medicine' to combat disease<u> <strong><span style="color: black;">but an improved inner health that will enable our bodies to work as intended to create an internal 'fountain of youth'. A terrain of wellness.</span></strong></u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajeIWoqIPIKj6mR2GUlKoUMr0lFceL1TVgfifhyvOiyhSaiXIfZV_QCXRrZvNv_r4B53_u_y8sBnMSNt41jAzt3gisgrq7UQrh2NA3pw-yg7TPsl8j6Pq56wFpvYtofs3I-bSFNBExEU/s1600/Biochar_Answer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajeIWoqIPIKj6mR2GUlKoUMr0lFceL1TVgfifhyvOiyhSaiXIfZV_QCXRrZvNv_r4B53_u_y8sBnMSNt41jAzt3gisgrq7UQrh2NA3pw-yg7TPsl8j6Pq56wFpvYtofs3I-bSFNBExEU/s1600/Biochar_Answer.jpg" height="196" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span dir="auto"></span> </div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-29865609464460269442013-04-10T15:55:00.004-07:002013-04-11T11:02:07.346-07:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJ1hROY28dhoUgRSTG8n86ToE_68gvcdYKYrugGvhg8UCPLpqoSEbSDdQ4lriJ5dIY9z5FkXvkKEM0kR9GpQfGZl5Ofdixd6r8WxdA2E0orDgLC8ZipW9Mf4Bb-xF_g-Yte5F4jG6TQY/s640/283.jpg" height="101" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://divadash.com/" target="_blank">SHAPE Diva Dash</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On March 6, 2013 I committed myself to 'running' a 5k with some co-workers at the SHAPE Diva Dash in Boulder which was going to take place on May 4th. <br />
<br />
I haven't run since middle school and I was one of those people who said 'If you see me running there is probably something after me.'<br />
<br />
Fact is, I hadn't even been walking. I mentioned in my last post that exertion was causing me pain especially in my hips. I would wake up in the morning hunched over and shuffling around like Baba Yaga.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wy2VLLcgUToVP0kJ5S3hdSSFatu0Kmy_YfACqzkWq-FZH2DhJ8C2uyUjxRLSJqAWi4GpQfXFnnpi7VxUV5ev3ay2i19srsCZFmMGuGe2IPLZzuQX4BPeSfqCl4kcVbvszLD2sKKXYFk/s1600/f12ee1e76c990ef152e64425ed68454e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wy2VLLcgUToVP0kJ5S3hdSSFatu0Kmy_YfACqzkWq-FZH2DhJ8C2uyUjxRLSJqAWi4GpQfXFnnpi7VxUV5ev3ay2i19srsCZFmMGuGe2IPLZzuQX4BPeSfqCl4kcVbvszLD2sKKXYFk/s1600/f12ee1e76c990ef152e64425ed68454e.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wy2VLLcgUToVP0kJ5S3hdSSFatu0Kmy_YfACqzkWq-FZH2DhJ8C2uyUjxRLSJqAWi4GpQfXFnnpi7VxUV5ev3ay2i19srsCZFmMGuGe2IPLZzuQX4BPeSfqCl4kcVbvszLD2sKKXYFk/s1600/f12ee1e76c990ef152e64425ed68454e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wy2VLLcgUToVP0kJ5S3hdSSFatu0Kmy_YfACqzkWq-FZH2DhJ8C2uyUjxRLSJqAWi4GpQfXFnnpi7VxUV5ev3ay2i19srsCZFmMGuGe2IPLZzuQX4BPeSfqCl4kcVbvszLD2sKKXYFk/s1600/f12ee1e76c990ef152e64425ed68454e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;" unselectable="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wy2VLLcgUToVP0kJ5S3hdSSFatu0Kmy_YfACqzkWq-FZH2DhJ8C2uyUjxRLSJqAWi4GpQfXFnnpi7VxUV5ev3ay2i19srsCZFmMGuGe2IPLZzuQX4BPeSfqCl4kcVbvszLD2sKKXYFk/s1600/f12ee1e76c990ef152e64425ed68454e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wy2VLLcgUToVP0kJ5S3hdSSFatu0Kmy_YfACqzkWq-FZH2DhJ8C2uyUjxRLSJqAWi4GpQfXFnnpi7VxUV5ev3ay2i19srsCZFmMGuGe2IPLZzuQX4BPeSfqCl4kcVbvszLD2sKKXYFk/s1600/f12ee1e76c990ef152e64425ed68454e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am also not the brightest bulb in the pack so I chose a ridiculous motivational tool like signing up for a 5k with my coworkers acting like I was a frequent runner and strutting about the office. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I kept planning to go walking and I even downloaded the <a href="http://www.c25k.com/" target="_blank">Couch to 5K</a> guide, which is excellent by the way. I bought a new pair of running shoes (<a href="http://www.saucony.com/" target="_blank">Saucony</a>) and bought the cutest pair of <a href="http://www.greenappleactive.com/" target="_blank">yoga pants</a> which make my butt look amazing even without working out. I wore these around the house and acted like a runner. I told my husband that wearing the right clothes is the first step in motivating a person to exercise. (He didn't fall for it).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How would I make the transition from this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKb_oYMrmYtmPaOriFOwLVVgKMMTn7c0-COZkRjuZFrBoe8blD4WnLJzmfR98-hXLo42n5SUmwPrSxQ-YM3a0iIf3ZLjj61Vu4ICb5yZWPA0UHGsT5zqd9Pt7XwVBH_FJhEQUNguuUmA/s1600/borats-wife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKb_oYMrmYtmPaOriFOwLVVgKMMTn7c0-COZkRjuZFrBoe8blD4WnLJzmfR98-hXLo42n5SUmwPrSxQ-YM3a0iIf3ZLjj61Vu4ICb5yZWPA0UHGsT5zqd9Pt7XwVBH_FJhEQUNguuUmA/s1600/borats-wife.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qQHQRvG1mZtUvdT9Aw6vtSsJMLXZHVKQu5db53JzwWCD97gP8Znpu8Bb4R7l57HBcfGZfYSgqKxHlDwttoec72Iig3VKFtL6zNEBFrKuoYHwXyXrSI9praV61ln-9kFD3RcgHEkpvE0/s1600/5582395-running-woman-running-at-great-speed-freeze-action-image-on-beautiful-forest-path-beautiful-model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qQHQRvG1mZtUvdT9Aw6vtSsJMLXZHVKQu5db53JzwWCD97gP8Znpu8Bb4R7l57HBcfGZfYSgqKxHlDwttoec72Iig3VKFtL6zNEBFrKuoYHwXyXrSI9praV61ln-9kFD3RcgHEkpvE0/s1600/5582395-running-woman-running-at-great-speed-freeze-action-image-on-beautiful-forest-path-beautiful-model.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qQHQRvG1mZtUvdT9Aw6vtSsJMLXZHVKQu5db53JzwWCD97gP8Znpu8Bb4R7l57HBcfGZfYSgqKxHlDwttoec72Iig3VKFtL6zNEBFrKuoYHwXyXrSI9praV61ln-9kFD3RcgHEkpvE0/s1600/5582395-running-woman-running-at-great-speed-freeze-action-image-on-beautiful-forest-path-beautiful-model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qQHQRvG1mZtUvdT9Aw6vtSsJMLXZHVKQu5db53JzwWCD97gP8Znpu8Bb4R7l57HBcfGZfYSgqKxHlDwttoec72Iig3VKFtL6zNEBFrKuoYHwXyXrSI9praV61ln-9kFD3RcgHEkpvE0/s1600/5582395-running-woman-running-at-great-speed-freeze-action-image-on-beautiful-forest-path-beautiful-model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qQHQRvG1mZtUvdT9Aw6vtSsJMLXZHVKQu5db53JzwWCD97gP8Znpu8Bb4R7l57HBcfGZfYSgqKxHlDwttoec72Iig3VKFtL6zNEBFrKuoYHwXyXrSI9praV61ln-9kFD3RcgHEkpvE0/s1600/5582395-running-woman-running-at-great-speed-freeze-action-image-on-beautiful-forest-path-beautiful-model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qQHQRvG1mZtUvdT9Aw6vtSsJMLXZHVKQu5db53JzwWCD97gP8Znpu8Bb4R7l57HBcfGZfYSgqKxHlDwttoec72Iig3VKFtL6zNEBFrKuoYHwXyXrSI9praV61ln-9kFD3RcgHEkpvE0/s1600/5582395-running-woman-running-at-great-speed-freeze-action-image-on-beautiful-forest-path-beautiful-model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7303654213058489071.post-33896293406302607422013-04-08T07:34:00.004-07:002013-04-11T11:01:09.258-07:00If I Can, So Can You!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3uNQNyQ7sM4yLqLOwtYNHnOGPxmAu1hWuM23HxxuuSd43D0pedREUeCGbzzXSdxN597x8xBhvDcwEA5SGN5q4TsWycT_ZdDb-je7llQhlfWyjg_J22m3F2nhoiQnkF41UUL1k2LTseQ/s1600/A+YEAR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3uNQNyQ7sM4yLqLOwtYNHnOGPxmAu1hWuM23HxxuuSd43D0pedREUeCGbzzXSdxN597x8xBhvDcwEA5SGN5q4TsWycT_ZdDb-je7llQhlfWyjg_J22m3F2nhoiQnkF41UUL1k2LTseQ/s320/A+YEAR.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm going to confess my deep dark secret once and for all....I'm kind of lazy.<br />
(Although this probably is not a big revelation to the people that know me.)<br />
<br />
I have a job that I work hard at and I have five kids, three dogs and three cats. Caring for all of these things and keeping a house will drain anyone and the idea of working out was kind of like the idea of visiting Egypt: I really want to do it someday...but this is not that day.<br />
<br />
Also, to be perfectly honest, I would hurt like hell after exerting myself. My back and hip pain had been getting progressively worse over the years--likely due to the pregnancies and carrying around children all day. As I have gotten older the pain has been more frequent. Like daily. Getting out of bed in the morning I felt like I was in worse shape than my 83 year old mother! I took ibuprofen daily. <br />
<br />
So, like most women, I had a nice list of excuses (or if you rather, reasons) for not being active. For spending far too much time on the sofa instead of on my feet. I was freaking exhausted and in pain. What are you going to do? <br />
<br />
I will tell you what I did...<br />
<br />
I signed up for a 5k!<br />
<br />
Good grief! What was I thinking? I hadn't run since middle school. I got winded walking up a flight of stairs! I weighed the most I have ever weighed (not pregnant) and it was settling around my midsection. I was beginning to add knee pain, joint pain and high cholesterol to my list of ailments. I knew I had to do something or I was heading down the fast track to a heart attack. <br />
<br />
But a 5k???<br />
<br />
Motivation, baby! I know my limitations mentally and lack of motivation was a huge barrier on my road to health and fitness. <br />
<br />Nicole Kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05512598649424408865noreply@blogger.com0