Bon D-Part

To courage to say No! to prescribed drugs

2011-03-19T19:46:00.001-04:00

I've just experienced an unexpected event just two days ago.

My husband, who is being followed closely by a very talented and knowledgeable endocrinologist due to his being a type 2 diabetic, went to his routine appointment on Thursday. Now, it has to be said here before I continue that just prior to the appointment, which was scheduled at 1:00 pm, he stopped for lunch at a Thai restaurant, and ate one of their hot and filling soups. Being only March 17th, and the weather having been very cold, he was wearing a heavy winter jacket. That day, however, the temperature reached 10oC (50oF), and the doctor's office, which is at the hospital, was a ten-minute walk.

In the office, the doctor was very happy with his continued good glucose count, weight loss and fantastic blood pressure (121/77). Then she took his pulse, and found that he was sweaty; when she listened to his heart beats, it seems that the beats were irregular. In fact, it seemed to have a long hop-skip ratio. She wondered why he was so sweaty, and how come his heart beats were so irregular. Being the careful investigator that she is, she immediately hospitalized him.

Next thing you know, he's in an ICU area, attached to an electro-cardiogram machine, with an IV in which she prescribed a drug that forced the heart beats to regulate. He was kept overnight at the hospital, which completely sent the family into a loop. We had no idea he had been admitted, only finding out just before dinner time.

In the end, his heartbeat turned out to be regular, and before he was released he was prescribed the medication that is supposed to force his heart beats to be regular. The cardiologist prescribed a medication that is known to have severe side effects, such as unexpected bleeding. OK, this is where our being informed came in handy.

The cardiologist assumed that he had high blood pressure; wrong! She assumed as a diabetic, his blood has a tendency to clot; wrong! He is already taking medication to keep his blood from thickening. He had a close call with death eight years ago with vasculitis that almost killed him. He was bleeding internally, and the healthcare professionals had a difficult time getting him back to normal. Why would he take a medication that can cause him to bleed?

Anyway, he refused the medication, and this seemed to send the doctor into shock. It was the cardiologist's duty to explain to him the risks he was taking by not accepting this drug. And the facts she was mentioning could have been very scary, had we not been so informed on the side effects of certain medications.

Did he take the right decision? Well, he hasn't started on the medication he was prescribed for regulating the heart beats. He's been home exactly 28 hours, and he has not felt those palpitations.

After thinking about why all this started, we came to this conclusion. We take resveratrol, which helps to energize and rejuvenate cells; we also have been having up to the equivalent of five cups of coffee per day, and he exercises almost every day. We believe the caffeine and energy that the resveratrol provides combined is causing the heart a bit too much energy.

Are we right? Are we wrong? Don't know, but we are not taking anything that might cause more problems than resolve them. Thank you.

Winter vacation... continued

2011-02-24T23:02:00.001-05:00

I haven't posted since January 15, part 1 of my first winter vacation. So, here goes part 2.

As I mentioned earlier, our first winter vacation did not turn out to be what we had planned or expected. After experiencing a severe strain to my right ankle on the ship, my husband and I realised that the whole dynamic of our cruise experience had changed.

At first, we thought we would have to return home as soon as possible, however, since we would be reaching our first port stop on the fourth day, and that leaving for home on a flight would only be possible by day seven, Gerry and I decided that we might as well stay on the ship, and return home once we reached Baltimore.

I have to say the ship's staff was just wonderful. They did the best they could to make me comfortable. Being in a splint and in a wheelchair brought a whole different perspective to being a guest on a ship. My poor husband had to lug the chair around the whole time, and not all doorways on the ship are built to fit the width of a wheelchair; ironically the doorway to the ship's clinic was too small. I had to get out of the chair so my husband could fold it, cross to the other side, and I hobbled back into it.

The first port was a private island in Haiti. Since it's an island that the cruise company owns, it was built to receive people with mobility problems. Gerry was able to push me around on the beautiful island, and then with the use of my ill-fitting crutches, I spent the whole day sitting in a beach chair, under and sun tent, with my leg in a splint, and watching other people enjoy the sun, sand and water. My husband took a picture of me once I was settled under a sun tent, in a beach chair, facing the gorgeous turquoise sea. Both my arms are in the air, and I exclaimed, 'Just what I wanted, come to the Caribbean to sit under a tent, and remain white!'

I only got to enjoy a very small portion of the other port stops. When I did leave the ship, it was only for a short time, and returned on board. My husband did not want to leave me alone for fear that I would not be able to get around the ship by myself. He was mostly right, but I did convince him to take an afternoon excursion in Tortola, BVI. He went reluctantly, but when he returned in late afternoon he looked more relaxed. I spent the afternoon on our room's balcony with a puzzle book, a bottle of water and almonds.

If there is a lesson in this trip it's that if you're walking around unfamiliar territory, such as the ship in this case, make sure you don't get caught off guard by dark carpeted areas that have a step that seems to blend in.

Has this soured me on cruising? Not one bit!

Winter vacation... not what I expected

2011-01-15T22:24:00.001-05:00

For the first time in my life, I was to find out how it feels to be in a hot climate during a cold winter month. Gerry and I loved our first cruise back in September so much, we decided to do another one almost immediately.

On December 26th, we boarded the Amtrak train in downtown Montreal, and started on our adventure going in the direction of Baltimore, Maryland. The seats were comfy and wide, we had packed sandwiches, fruits and almonds; our water bottles were filled with purified water, we had packed books, puzzles, and I had brought my laptop and DVDs to watch in between chats.

A couple of hours into our trip, as we were riding across New York state, we noticed snow was coming down steadily. By hour six or seven, the state was experiencing a serious blizzard. The weather had slowed down the train ride only because the switches were frozen and covered with snow, and the conductor(s) had to de-freeze and clear them manually.

We arrived in Baltimore sixteen hours after our departure from Montreal; we were prepared for a fourteen hour trip. Two hours late is not too bad, only we were supposed to arrive around midnight; it was now 2:00 a.m. By the time we made it to our hotel, checked in, freshened up and went to bed, it was past 3:00 a.m. No problem, the shuttle to the ship was scheduled to pick us up around 11:00 a.m. We would get up around nine, have breakfast and relax until pick up.

At quarter to eight that morning, the phone rang in our room; it was the front desk advising us that the shuttle would be coming at 9:30 a.m. We rushed to get dressed, have breakfast (I couldn't even swallow the whole toast, I was so tired), brush teeth, pack up and be ready downstairs. The ship's shuttle finally showed up at 10:30 a.m., one hour late.

No matter! By 1:00 p.m. on December 27th, we were on the ship enjoying lunch, and ready to set sail toward the Southern Caribbean by 5:00 p.m. We walked around the ship to familiarize ourselves with it; relaxed for the afternoon, and then showered and got ready for our first of twelve evening dinners. The next eleven days were full of wonderful promise.

On Day 3, more specifically December 29th, Gerry and I were heading toward the first of many ballroom lessons after lunch. The lesson was scheduled in one of the lounges of the ship. As I was walking toward one of the seats, I did not differentiate the space between where I was walking and the lower level. I missed the step, and fell straight down. In my head, I heard a loud snap, and as I was on the floor still trying to process what had just happened, I saw Gerry's shocked face looking down at me. Within seconds I felt pain in my right ankle, and was watching my own appendage swell to a deformed lump and discoloration set in. Oy! I think I broke my ankle.

Yep, on Day 3, after being at sea since Day 1, and just before the day we were to reach our first of five ports, I fell and hurt myself. I discovered a part of the ship I had never even thought of visiting, the infirmary. The doctor on duty, after seeing my foot, also thought that I might have fractured or broken my ankle. He took x-rays, which was a pain on its own. When he returned he had good and bad news. He did not see any fractures or breakage, however, he did think I had a severe strain. A strain? Oh no! I know that a sprain involves muscles, a strain involves ligaments. Ligaments take much longer to heal, and in some cases, they remain stretched. The bad news was that he would be putting a cast to immobilize the ankle, and save it from more strain.

I was glad to discover the new casts can be removed as needed. Whew, I would be able to shower. In the days to follow, I discovered what it feels like to be limited due to one unusable leg, in a wheelchair that was often too wide to pass through some doors, on crutches that are built for people 5'4" and taller (I am 5'1"), and eventually walk with a cane in the middle of a crowd of people who are rushing around and inattentive to your plight.

Yep, winter vacation... not what I expected.This story to be continued.

Will the children take care of us?

2010-12-04T17:13:00.000-05:00

The other day during our lunch period at work, the discussion drifted toward the difficulty of adult children taking care of ailing parents.

As I listened to what the others had to say about it, I drifted back to my own parents, who had me when they were each forty years old. I grew up surrounded by grown ups, and by the time I reached my teens, my father's health was already failing. He was a heavy smoker, was overweight and the only exercise he did was when he bent under the car hood to fix something or other. My mother had already had her gallbladder removed, and had never in her life worn shorts, trousers or running shoes much less exercised.

To make a long story short, I took care of both my parents until each took their last breath, and all at a time when there wasn't even an inkling of support anywhere.

I snapped out of my travel down memory lane when someone asked me if I thought my children would take care of me when I was too old to do things for myself. I admit I had to stop and think about this for a second or so. My response was that it is quite different when you have boys (I have two). They grow into men, and leave home to make their own life building, I hope, a family and career. Whereas girls are by instinct and normally more attached to home, even if they start their own family. I further said that I did not expect my sons to think twice about caring for me or my husband for that matter were we at a point where we could not provide for ourselves. I don't think they'd abandon us altogether, but definitely think they would put us in strangers hands.

The co-workers who participated in the discussion were either just recently married with no children, still unmarried, and one is married with two daughters, and like me is of Italian descent. She totally expected that her daughters would take care of her and/or her husband. I hope they do, my bet is they will.

As for me, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that my sons might prove me wrong.

Dream Vacation

2010-10-03T20:05:00.001-04:00

Ever since I can remember I wanted to travel to two places: Hawaii and the Caribbean.

I was watching TV one day at a time when colour TVs were existent but not as yet in our household. It was a game show, which at this writing I can't even remember what kind of game show or who was hosting it, but the prize the contestant won stuck with me. It was a cruise that would sail the Caribbean for one week, all expenses paid. The images on screen appeared, and even through the black and white screen (if you ask me, it was more like grey and dark grey), I could see the beauty of the ocean the ship was sailing in. The ship looked so grand, the people seemed to be having a great time, and the water looked so calm and beautiful, that I wanted to experience it with all my soul.

It took over forty years, but this past September I finally had the opportunity to embark on my first cruise, and with one of my favourite people: my husband. Over the years, life threw many curves my way, and some dreams fell into a void where they could not be recuperated, but Hawaii and the Caribbean have survived the onslaught of disappointments.

The trip we planned for ourselves was in three sections, and all three were the best vacation we ever had the privilege to experience. On this trip, a miracle occurred too. My lifelong fear of flying seemed to have melted away and the full trip became one of pure enjoyment.

Our first stop was Cocoa Beach, Florida. We arrived two days ahead of the sail date, and spent one half day enjoying the beach, and the next whole day, visiting the Kennedy Space Center. We paid to have lunch with an astronaut and on this day, John McBride, one of the first to have piloted the shuttle, was the guest host. It was so fantastic to hear his perspective of what space exploration is like. He will be the last astronaut to pilot the shuttle in February 2011 as this program draws to a close.

The second part of the vacation consisted of embarking on a cruise for the first time in both our lives. We embarked on 'Freedom of the Seas' heading in the Eastern direction of the Caribbean. As soon as we set foot on the ship, we learned we would not be going East, but detour to the West. September is hurricane season, and hurricane Earl was acting up and doing its best to upset anything crossing its path. The captain of the ship took the decision to stop at Coco Cay, Bahamas, the one original stop of the cruise, then do a u-turn and head west.

I have to say motion sickness does not really affect me. I must admit that five hours of constant up and down motion, and having to walk and hold on to everything almost took its toll on my stomach. Five hours after embarkation, I was feeling quite woozy, and decided that I would go to be bed early. Gerry and I hit the sheets by 9:30 that night. Once we left the tail path of hurricane Earl, it was smooth sailing all the way.

We stopped at Grand Cayman and then in Cozumel, Mexico, both great experiences, but I have to say the time spent on board the ship was the most fun we ever had. There is so much to do on a ship, there is actually no time to get bored. The nightly shows are of the same quality you would expect of a Broadway musical or a Vegas show; the activities are non stop, and the food... oh my... the food. You have to pace yourself, otherwise you can gain a minimum of ten pounds in one week.

I met the nicest people from all over the world, and the biggest kick I got while on International waters was meeting people who came from different areas of Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and the province of Saskatchewan. I was especially impressed to be under the same roof as others from England, Russia, Germany, China, Japan, Turkey, Romania and, of course, the good old U. S. of A. All in all, I highly recommend taking a cruise at least once in your life.

The third part of our vacation was spent At Universal Theme Parks in Orlando, Florida. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened this past June, and being a huge HP fan, I visited it every chance I had, and was not disappointed. A lot of little details found in the books and in the movies were included everywhere. You just had to look. We enjoyed many butterbeers during our five days at Universal, were able to witness the wand choosing the wizard, ate at the Three Broomsticks, visited Zonko's and Honeyduke's, and even took the ride of the Forbidden Journey, from which we bought the picture taken of me, and in which I look like I'm in a coma and slipping down from the seat. Oh well, can't win 'em all.

It took over forty years, but it sure was worth the wait. Next vacation plan... another cruise, and later Hawaii. Woo hoo!

August 10, 1985, quite the celebration!

2010-08-11T23:07:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was our 25th wedding anniversary.

It seems to have all passed so quickly. Gerry and I, when we talk about it, both feel the wedding day was only just a short while ago. I can certainly remember it very clearly.

When we stop to think of it though, so much has happened. Since 1985, Gerry and I have gone through many curves life has thrown at us; we've had ups and downs, and sometimes it felt we had more downs than ups. We've experienced losing our parents, serious illness, bankruptcy, more moves than army families both in Quebec and Ontario. Through it all we've remained friends, good friends! I truly believe had we not been friends first, and liked each other, our relationship would not have survived the trials.

Through the rough times, just as many positives came our way. The best was having our children. Our two sons, who are now respectively twenty and eighteen make us proud every day. We've had small but good opportunities come our way, have met and made many new friends, have worked hard and managed to buy our first home in 2004.

We've loved and laughed and cried and laughed some more. After 25 years together, we know each others' moves and thoughts, yet we still surprise each other with little things.

Yesterday, my wonderful husband wanted to have me return home from work to my favourite dinner. He wanted to take me out to dinner, but I had an acupuncture appointment, and I usually feel tired after the treatment. So he picked up dinner at my favourite Chinese restaurant. It would have all been a great celebration if only I did not have a monster headache that progressively got worse during the day.

All I could do when I came home from my appointment was take two Tylenols*, run upstairs, get into bed. I slept until 9:00 pm, ate one toast with water, took another Tylenol*, and went back to bed.

It was a heck of a way to celebrate 25 years. The great thing about it though is that we had our nice dinner tonight during our trek toward 26 years, and more, I hope.

Happy Belated Anniversary, baby love! To many more years together!

Vermont airport, great; getting there and back, not so great!

2010-08-09T23:20:00.000-04:00

My youngest son was invited by his girlfriend's family to spend a week in Florida. He worked hard all summer long towards this moment.

The plan was to be driven by her father with her brother to Burlington, Vermont airport, and the three of them were to leave together for Tampa. My son's girlfriend left three days earlier with her mother.

As the time approached, my son was getting antsy about the drive to Vermont; he was not thrilled that the three of them would be leaving later than he would have wanted to.

I thought, well, hubby and I haven't been to Vermont in years, it's Saturday, laundry's all done... why not offer my son a lift? His flight was to leave at 5:00 pm, he would have to be there at least two hours early. We could leave Montreal around 9:00 am, factor in the unknown such as a delay at the border, enjoy a nice lunch at hubby's favourite restaurant, Olive Garden, then bring my son to the airport, and all would be well with the world.

Yeeah, no! Hubby said 9:30 am was too early, and made us leave at 10:30 am. We made it to the Champlain bridge in less than a half hour, and then got stuck on the bridge for two and a quarter hours.

We got through the US border in less than ten minutes (thank you!), had to put some gas in the car because we were running out. I could not use the restroom because all this place had was a porta-potty. No self-respecting woman would even get close to these contraptions; I decided I would rather risk bursting my bladder.

We arrived at the airport at 3:15 pm; my son's friends, that is his girlfriend's father and brother arrived five minutes after us. The good thing about our getting stuck on the bridge was that my son was able to warn the other two, who were a half hour behind. They ended up taking the Victoria bridge, and, as I mentioned, they arrived at the Vermont airport five minutes after us.

Wait, I'm not finished! It was now 4:00 pm, and we were starving, and I was bursting at the seams having not voided in six hours. My son hugged us, thanked us for the lift, then joined his two hosts to go through customs, and have something to eat before the flight.

Gerry and I, each went to our respective washroom. I have to say that I was very impressed with the ladies' washroom at the airport. The toilet seat was covered with a soft, non sticky plastic for protection; I pressed a green button and the plastic cover slid around so I could have a fresh protective cover. Cool! I was glad because I had a lot of liquid to get rid of.

We stopped at Olive Garden, had a nice dinner; walked around in a few stores, and we decided to drive back to Montreal. The drive was going well, until we were about 2 km from the Canadian border. At first, we thought there was a slow down because of construction, but, no, we had driven straight into a line up of cars waiting to get through. Yes, folks, it took one hour and a quarter to pass through the Canadian border.

Hey, it was still early enough, only five after seven, and we had made plans to stop for coffee when we would be nearer to our Kirkland home. Gosh, we were so naive.

As we were approaching the Champlain bridge again, and we were nowhere in sight of it, we noticed the line up of cars forming quickly. Then, we noticed a sign that had Louis H. Lafontaine tunnel, this exit. My husband, who was driving, said he would rather detour and take the Louis H, than sit on that bridge again. Agreed!

We were driving for a long time, it was getting dark, and we crossed a sign that warned for construction reasons, route 25N would close at 10 pm. Is there a chance in hell that we are going toward the 25 north? I asked my husband. Yes! I see signs for Montreal, and tell my husband we should take the exit, but he said no. That's not where we want to go. Huh? So he keeps driving, and we find ourselves going deeper and deeper into dee blackness. Honey, seems to me we should be seeing more lights. He decided twenty minutes after NOT taking the Montreal exit to turn around... and it was nine forty on the clock.

We took the Montreal exit, found the Louis H. signs again, the 25N was trickling into one lane until it would be completely closed, and drove home. We stepped into the house at 10:30 pm, I, frazzled and in pain from sitting too long, he, annoyed because I got angry with him when he didn't listen to me. Ten hours stuck together in a car, hungry and tired will do that to someone.

So there you go! I spent Sunday in pain, tired, hosting lovely people for lunch, and couldn't get to work on Monday due to lack of sleep and a monster headache.

My son though is having a blast in Florida. Good for him!

Text, read, talk, walk, slam

2010-08-03T23:17:00.000-04:00

Today, it suddenly dawned on me how much things have changed. It's said the more things change, the more it stays the same. Not in this case.

I am amazed at how people are not looking up anymore whether they walk, drive or sit. What are they doing? Looking down at the wireless in their hands. You see them coming your way, with their heads down. You can't catch their eye, you certainly couldn't describe the colour of their eyes, and they couldn't even be a witness to anything going on around them.

People's eyes are down while walking on the street, at work, eating at the restaurant, playing with their children at the park.

Today I saw a father, push his young daughter on one of those tricycles with the long handle, she looking back to ask daddy something, he busy texting with his other hand... missing her beautiful face looking up at him.

I made it a personal policy years ago to look people in the eyes, and smile when I cross their path. I always enjoy getting a smile reaction back, or how some don't know what to do: look away, or smile. But I always enjoy the feeling of showing others a kindly smile. It's difficult to do this these days, everyone has their head down.

Then there are the ones who walk into solid objects because they are walking and looking down. My blood boils when I see people texting in their car while driving; won't go there in this post. All I can say is 'Stop! You are going to kill someone!'

I've said it to a few single friends who are lamenting the lack of a soul mate in their lives. Look up! Mr or Ms Right have passed by a few times, you just weren't 'looking' when they did.

Things have changed indeed.

Dr. David Sinclair - Father of Anti Aging

2010-06-19T20:28:00.001-04:00

Dr David Sinclair, a co-author of more than 60 published articles on aging research, heads a research team of more than twenty post-doctorate students at Harvard Medical School. He was introduced as the "Father of the Anti Aging" Movement by Dr. Jamie McManus, MD, FAAFP, who is responsible for leading Shaklee's clinical research efforts in support of product development and distributor education.

Dr. Sinclair said "This century will be known [as the era] when humans conquered aging."

"Over 70 years ago," he continues, "scientists discovered that a calorie-restricted diet increases animal lifespan 30%. [We have found in our studies] that resveratrol, a compound found in red wine, tricks cells to switch on the aging pathways, which in turn mimics the effect of calorie restriction."

"Resveratrol lowers the incidents of cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoporosis in animals."

Dr. Sinclair wrote about his discovery, which was published in Nature Magazine in 2004. He also appeared on television, in a Barbara Walters Special in April 2008, "Live To 150, Can You Do It?" He will also be featured on an upcoming "60 Minutes".

"[Studies show] resveratrol never fails to extend life and improve health." says Dr. Sinclair. Resveratrol works in worms, flies, mice, rats and primates.

A 3-year study of resveratrol-fed mice found the mice were much healthier and the mice's physiology was 30% younger than their actual age.

Further, a 15-year study of monkeys on a calorie restricted diet at the University of Wisconsin proving they live longer, will be published next year.

There are no known reasons to believe that resveratrol will not work the same way in humans as observed in animal studies, and there are no side effects of taking measured amounts of resveratrol.

Dr. Sinclair also said, study results show that resveratrol lowers blood sugar levels, [especially] for type 2 Diabetics, improves memory and artery vessel walls, lowers cholesterol (MIT study in 2007), slows down the aging of cells and molecules, reduces the incidence of breast cancer and other forms of cancer. Resveratrol is "the most potent natural molecule against cancer." (animal studies). It reduces inflammation, and joint pain, increases mitochondria in muscles (animal studies).

Dr. Sinclair approached Shaklee two years ago to help guide Shaklee to create a [world class] natural anti-aging product. He felt that to produce a pharmaceutical resveratrol would take too long--- 7 to 10 years to get FDA approval--- and would cost hundreds of millions of dollars for the clinical trials.

He found the science, ethics and morality at Shaklee, and Dr. Jamie McManus' research team "as equaling his own values,". He stated that he is asked at least once a week by companies if he would work with them. But he always said no...until he found Shaklee, and met Roger Barnett, Shaklee's visionary CEO!

Dr. McManus said that Shaklee's new anti-aging tonic, Vivix*, has the purest form of resveratrol--- 98% pure---the ingredients that activate genetic regulators of cellular longevity pathways, which may have a positive effect on DNA, cellular health and metabolism.

Vivix* is 10 times more powerful than resveratrol alone. The Vivix* ingredients have shown to impact four key mechanisms of cellular aging.

Resveratrol alone impacts only three of those key mechanisms. Vivix's ingredients inhibit AGE proteins, the sludge build-up in cells [that slows down older people.]

One teaspoon of Vivix* a day, (a 100 mg of trans-resveratrol), is the resveratrol equivalent of 100 glasses of red wine! A month's supply of Vivix* is equivalent to 3,000 glasses of red wine! Vivix* contains a patented blend of polyphenols, mostly derived from the skin and seeds of the muscadine grape --- a super grape found to contain an extra chromosome not found in ordinary grapes. Shaklee researchers believe this polyphenol blend greatly enhances the potential health benefits.

Editors: Jerry Aldrich & BJ Geyer

Note: This report is not intended to give medical advice, and the FDA has not given its approval on the content of this article. See your doctor for medical advice.

What do you see?

2010-06-18T15:59:00.003-04:00

When you look in the mirror what do you see?

* Uneven skin tone
* Blemishes
* Breakouts
* Bumpy skin
* Fine lines around eyes
* Laugh lines
* Puffiness around eyes
* Sagging skin
* Age spots
* Oily T Zone
* Blackheads
* Whiteheads

Do you feel you skin being:

* Dry
* Sensitive
* Oily

In today's modern society our skin is exposed to toxins that create accelerated aging:

* Chemicals
* Iron in tap water
* UV rays
* stress
* smoke
* car exhausts
* poor diets
* medications

These elements create FREE RADICALS which:

* Damage the DNA of the cells
* Break down collagen
* Cause sagging skin
* Create Age spots
* Slow cellular renewal

The key to healthy, radiant skin is nutrients. Nutrients that are in the right amounts and in the right form that your skin can absorb and use properly.

That's why you want skin care that is created by a vitamin company.

Enfuselle Skin Care is Vitamins in Cream Form.

Watch this video: http://content.shaklee.com/shaklee/flash/show.php?video=enfuselle

Troublemakers

2010-05-26T22:31:00.002-04:00

I can't speak for others, but troublemakers are the bane of my existence. You know what I'm talking about, don't you? Troublemakers spread rumours, lies, interfere with your plans, can ruin your reputation, and just generally cause mayhem all around.

I never understood why these people have the need to suck the fun and life out of anything or anyone. I also am at a loss to explain how most of the time, they get away with the devastation they can cause.

Troublemakers usually manage to surround themselves with people who will be an advantage to them. In other words, they are not necessarily someone's friend just for the sake of being a friend. They are users. If the people they want to be 'friends' with are useful to them, they will insinuate themselves into the unsuspecting targets' life. When they set their sights on someone they don't like, they will go to any lengths to destroy that person, and they will use their 'friends', who will most of the time participate in the devastation convinced that they are helping.

I have only one thing to say to troublemakers: 'what goes around, comes around'. As sure as the earth rotates on its axis during twenty-three hours, fifty-six minutes and some odd seconds and then do it again, troublemakers will get a taste of their own medicine at one time or another.

Multi-grain and whole wheat

2010-05-14T15:53:00.003-04:00

Once again I am at a loss to understand why people associate multi-grain with whole wheat. They are two very separate things.

This morning I stopped at a Tim Horton's to order myself one of the breakfast items. I had never done this before, and today I felt like trying one. I was asked the type of bread I wanted. I answered very clearly, 'whole wheat'. When the order was ready, the young lady who prepared the sandwich shouted 'blah, blah ... on multi-grain.' I didn't have time to argue because I had to go to work, but last time I did this, the person across the counter looked at me as if I came from another planet.

I don't mind having multi-grain on my bread, but I want bread that's been baked with whole wheat flour. Not enriched flour. Not refined or white flour. Whole wheat! That means the flour has not been stripped of all its nutritious parts. That is not so hard to understand, is it?

Please, keep this in mind: multi-grain is NOT whole wheat, unless it has been specifically baked with whole wheat. Multi-grain can be baked with refined flour. For me that's a no-no.

Thank you.

Its and It's

2010-05-10T11:27:00.003-04:00

What is it with the confusion between the contraction 'it's' and the possessive 'its'? I don't understand how people, English-speaking people for that matter, can confuse the two within a context.

'It's' is a contraction of the subject and verb 'it is'. 'Its', on the other hand, is the possessive meaning it is NOT subject and verb.

Why am I saying this? Well, just this past three days, I've been reading texts written by friends and other every day people; I've also been reading the news supposedly written by professionals who make their living at writing articles. Lo and behold, each one had wrongly used these two terms. Why is that?

If one is not sure which spelling to use, there is a very simple trick. In the sentence, if the subject and verb 'it is' does not work, then the possessive version is to be used. Example: "This note contains 'its' own spell check." Can you say, "This note contains 'it is' own spell check?" Of course not; so the possessive 'its' fits in.

English is not my first language, but 'it's and 'its' have never been an issue. How come it is for others?

Anyone care to venture an explanation?

Excited to be part of the team

2010-05-06T22:32:00.002-04:00

I've joined our company's team for Run for the Cure. Our run is actually called Ride for the Cure. A group of colleagues, who are in tip-top shape, will be riding their bikes from Toronto to our West-Island office in three days. Another group will be doing the 1 day ride from the Ontario border to the WI office.

For the past four years, I've been trying to figure out how I could help raise money for research on breast cancer. I certainly am not in good enough shape to do the bike run thanks to my body's limitations, but still I was thinking how I could contribute aside from just donating $$. Well, I am happy to say that I volunteered to be a driver for the group riding back from Toronto. The great thing about this is I have to raise the same amount of money as the riders, that is, $2,000.

I'll be starting to put a plan in place to raise the money. I certainly hope my friends and acquaintances will help me with the cause. Cancer has taken away both my parents, but breast cancer killed both my mother-in-law and her twin sister.

I wish to do this activity in their memory. More to come...

Earth Day - Earth Month

2010-04-09T15:09:00.004-04:00

April 22nd is Earth Day, however, we should consider every day Earth Day. We need to really change our behaviour, because our planet is not happy.

Whether one believes that what is happening around the world is cyclical or unusual, we need to take note!

It is not difficult to change certain habits; it just takes a bit of discipline and cooperation. Here are a few questions to ponder.

1. Do you buy products that are packaged in material that cannot be recycled? If you do, then you are contributing to the problem. I'm not saying don't get it, but take the time to let the company know, it's not acceptable, and that you will no longer buy their product if it doesn't find a solution.

2. Do you throw away batteries, spray cans, or dump your medication in the toilet? If you do, that's is absolutely unacceptable. Check with your municipality; most of them have started programs which encourage their citizens to bring toxic products to a certain location where they will take responsibility to dispose of them properly. Pharmacies will take your unused medications, and send them where they can be disposed of properly too.

3. Do you compost? Composting is a really cool way to dispose of food garbage and other earth friendly materials like coffee grounds and filters, napkins, lint, etc. It takes a little getting used to, but once you start, it gives great satisfaction. Plus, you will be able to use the end result to help your garden and lawn to remain in good condition. There are composting methods that exist for people who live in apartments too. Check with your municipality; many provide the receptacles for a minimal fee.

4. Do you use toxic cleaners around the house? If so, you are not only doing harm to the environment and water life, but you are harming your own health. Did you know that common household cleaners give off fumes, which can potentially increase the risk of children developing asthma? In fact, the incidence of cancer is 54% higher in women who are at-home moms or working from home, than women who work outside the home.

The four points above are important to consider. Eighteen years ago I was introduced to a non-toxic cleaner that would not poison the earth, water, or home. It doesn't contain any harmful chemicals such as chlorine bleach, phosphates, nitrates, borates or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It has sustainable ingredients from natural sources, biodegradable surfactants; it comes in recyclable packaging.

In honour of Earth Day, I made a commitment to introduce people to the idea that non toxic can be as powerful and effective as the more dangerous toxic products. Basic H is the only product I use to clean my home inside and out. It is an amazing product, and also very economical. One 473 mL bottle lasts anywhere from six to nine months. It costs about $10, but spread out over the months and the number of uses each concentration provides, the cost per use is extremely minimal.

You don't have to use this particular product, but if you use any other 'green' products, make sure it says '100% biodegradable'. Government standards only require that a product be 50% biodegradable; what is the other 50%?

A Most Dangerous Driver Decision

2010-03-29T21:46:00.005-04:00

I have a bone to pick with you. I'm talking about you... the ones who drive and text and dial and talk on the cell phone or i-phone or other. What's the deal with driving, texting and phoning? Have you completely lost your mind, or are you just plain stupid and apathetic?

When someone decides to get behind the wheel of a car, or any vehicle for that matter, they are taking their life into their hands. Further, that same person is putting at deadly risk anyone else in the car, and pedestrians and other drivers on the road. People who walk and text aren't any smarter either. I've personally witnessed some walking into walls or off the sidewalk and been badly hurt.

Let me make this message very clear... YOU ARE NO BETTER THAN A DRUNK DRIVER, OR A CRIMINAL! You consciously take this decision knowing how dangerous and deadly it is. I truly believe that this practice should be considered a criminal offense. Must we go through the loss of myriads of lives before anyone decides that texting and phoning while driving is a most dangerous driver decision?

If I seem angry that's because I am. JUST STOP! PLEASE!

Another baby grows up...

2010-03-11T21:32:00.002-05:00

My youngest is turning 18 this coming March 24th. What??? Can't be! I only just helped him start to walk... no, no, I just finished registering him for kindergarten... no, no, I only just finished reading to him before bedtime. I think I must have lost some kind of consciousness, and only just come to. Right?

OK, I really am aware that both my sons are now their own men. Ben, who will be turning 20 in May, is working, paying for his school and books, paying for the cell phone, and preparing for his future. Sam, the soon-to-be birthday boy, also has been working hard, is paying for his car, and saving to take a trip this summer to Florida with his girlfriend and her parents. Wow!

Both boys have girlfriends, and don't seem to have any intention to play the field. Both young ladies are wonderful people too, and are so much fun to talk to. They are both intelligent, and have intentions to go to university. Actually, Kathleen, Ben's sweetheart, is already at Concordia; she's also a hard worker, and very good to Ben.

So what am I going to do now that my sons are grown up? Well, I have to say, it's been great to date my husband again. We've been going out for breakfasts, the movies, plays, musicals and just loafing around, and... well, yes, other fun activities. In fact, sometimes the boys are running after us because they have no idea where to find us. Tee hee!

I do get nostalgic, and grab a couple of DVD's of the boys when they were little, and tear up and laugh seeing them play and learn all over again. However, if this is supposed to be the empty nest syndrome, maybe it hasn't happened yet, because I seem to have more people at the supper table. I'm not complaining though, because I know they will soon proceed to living their own lives.

Anyone out there going through the same situation?

Changing lives... one at a time

2010-03-05T15:14:00.001-05:00

Discovering Shaklee is Changing Our Lives! Chris, a nurse, and Frank, a retired pharmaceutical sales rep, who worked in that industry for 30 years, share how Shaklee is impacting their lives. Chris writes: “I have been taking Shaklee Vitalizer for a month, and Vivix and NutriFeron for about 3 weeks, and I have to say … what a difference! I have a sluggish thyroid and take Synthroid. I tried numerous different supplements, including the “one-a-day” type vitamin. Nothing really made a difference, so I quit taking them. At a High School Reunion, I met Frank’s cousin who introduced us to Shaklee, and in particular … NutriFeron. Frank was especially interested in NutriFeron because he suffers from allergies and sinus infections. Frank’s cousin told us a lot about Shaklee and the quality of their supplements and we were convinced that this was the way to go in improving our health.

I began with only Vitalizer, and Frank began taking NutriFeron and Vivix. A couple of weeks later I decided if my husband was going to get the great benefits from Vivix and NutriFeron, then I should too, so I added those. We were coming into the Christmas season, and we all know how stressed and hurried and tiring the season can be sometimes. Then to complicate the situation, we were renovating the kitchen, and I broke my toe, so I was really putting these new supplements to the test. Even though I was tired from not sleeping (because my broken toe throbbed so much at night), I discovered I was not fuzzy headed, and was able to function … in fact function better than I do in general. I found I was organized and didn’t forget things. Previously that would not have been the case … if I missed my sleep I was a walking zombie. The winter is usually the time that the Synthroid just doesn’t seem to work very well for me, but with Vitalizer, I saw a noticeable improvement. But the benefits didn’t stop there. I had added Vivix, and NutriFeron to my supplements and I decided to add Advanced Beta Carotene. Just this past week, while I was driving at night I discovered that I was seeing better. Usually I feel like my night vision is not the best. I am OK to drive, it just feels like I am straining to see, and maybe not processing all the night cues. But not now … my vision is definitely clearer.

I had been following Weight Watchers to lose weight, but sometimes I just didn’t feel like making another salad for lunch, or making anything at all. I use the Cinch shakes or the Cinch meal bars for my lunch now, and I was really surprised at how full I was afterwards, and how long I stayed full, without hunger, or the tiredness that I used to get while trying to diet, was gone! I am very excited about discovering Shaklee … and I am looking forward to better and better health the longer I am on Shaklee supplements.”

Testimonial for Asperger's Syndrome

2010-03-05T14:50:00.003-05:00

As I've mentioned before, my oldest son was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome at the age of 12, years after he was misdiagnosed with ADD. In my journey to finding the best way to help my son, I found the Shaklee nutritional products. They helped him immensely. Read on for another testimonial regarding Asperger's. Congratulations to this mother who obviously saw the light. Just one thing I need to mention: I've learned there is a difference between vitamins and supplements. Her son and mine are using supplements.

“My son’s medications were Adderall and Guafacine, and we experienced the side effects of behavioural outbursts and rage fits with him on this. My husband and I spent countless evenings combating our ‘out of control’ boy, and trying to keep peace in a home that was controlled by this unpredictable behaviour. Today is Willie's 11th birthday! We are pleased to tell people that Willie is now off all his medications!” Libby shares her journey: “Doctors labelled him Asperger’s Syndrome (a form of Autism) and Oppositional Defiance Disorder. Then a mother at a basketball practice mentioned that she had heard that some of these symptoms could be related to allergies, and we discussed the possibility of trying some nutritional ways to clear up his asthma. I listened to a CD on asthma, allergies and nutrition that talked about ear infections and antibiotics. Willie had had countless ear infections as a child and had suffered three seizures related to his temp being high from infections. He was diagnosed with asthma at age 2, and had been on 21 rounds of antibiotics by the time he was age 3. By preschool he was on regular asthma medication and additionally was labelled ADHD. The CD went on to tell me that his symptoms could be related to an allergy to milk or wheat, etc., and a nutrient deficiency and lack of probiotics. We made major changes. Today (2 months later) at age 11, Willie is on a Shaklee vitamin & nutrition program. He is off all medication; he's in advanced math and loves Science. He has never had another ‘rage outburst!’

o He takes Vita Lea, B Complex, Vita-C, and Probiotics (Optiflora), and a regular soy protein drink.

o I also give him Alfalfa to control his asthma symptoms and allergies, and it works wonderfully!

o I am most amazed by Shaklee's herbal line … they help him to remain calm, relaxed and mentally alert.

o In addition, I only use Shaklee cleaning products. This has helped us all to breathe normally again in our home!

It has become increasingly clear to me that Shaklee has made a dramatic change in Willie's immune system. The word vitamin, which once meant so little to us, has changed our lives profoundly! It came to our house by chance and we feel blessed by the amazing good fortune of reclaiming our son again.”

*Taken from Shaklee March 2010 Newsletter

Benefits of Resveratrol

2010-03-05T14:37:00.004-05:00

Resveratrol shows promise in Killing Cancer Cells: Resveratrol shows promise in killing cancer cells according to the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR).

1) According to Paul van Ginkel, PhD*, who tested resveratrol in mice with neuroblastomas, “Mice who consumed resveratrol daily for five weeks had tumors approximately 50 to 80% smaller than those in the comparison group.” When Dr. van Ginkel increased the level of resveratrol and injected it beside and directly into the tumour, “… it was a dramatic effect. The result was tumour-cell death and smaller tumours.”

2) According to K. Collins, MS, RD, CNC**, resveratrol & ellagic acid …

a. block metabolic pathways that can lead to cancer

b. and in animal studies, it has inhibited development of colon, esophageal, liver, lung and skin cancers stemming from a variety of carcinogens

Reseveratrol and Ellagic Acid are two key components of Shaklee VIVIX … and Vivix ingredients are 10X more powerful than resveratrol alone at reduction of cellular garbage*** that accumulates within the cell similar to sludge in your sewer system. *May 13,2009, Issue 18, AICR, **July 3, 2006, Am. Institute for Cancer Research, Nutrition Notes ***Advanced Glycation End Products

Shaklee VIVIX contains 60,000 Antioxidants! “There are at least 60,000 naturally occurring active antioxidant/anti-aging compounds in Vivix, Shaklee’s Anti-Aging tonic. There is nothing like it on the marketplace,” according to Dr. Richard Brouse, Biochemist, Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist, and Chiropractic Physician at a February 2010 lecture in Mississauga, ON. Antioxidants, also known as anti-free radicals, are known to prevent premature cellular aging. Laboratory studies of Shaklee Vivix suggest that taking this product could extend cellular health by 25 years. HAVE YOU HAD YOUR VIVIX TODAY?

Beat and Treat ADD and ADHD without Drugs

2010-02-28T13:30:00.001-05:00

Here is a great article. I discovered how to help my Asperger son years ago. Whether your children have special needs or not, consider what you put in their little bodies and the toxicity of their environment. Have a good read.

Beat and Treat ADD and ADHD without Drugs

Landmark Study

2010-02-24T19:11:00.002-05:00

A groundbreaking study of long-term supplement users conducted in collaboration with researchers from the U.C. Berkeley School of Public Health showed that people who took multiple Shaklee supplements had markedly better health than people who took either no supplements or other brands of multivitamins.

Shaklee supplement users retained normal levels of:

Blood pressure
HDL ("good") cholesterol
Triglycerides
C-reactive protein
Homocysteine

Visit www.bon-dpart.myshaklee.com.

What are your children eating?

2010-02-23T19:52:00.003-05:00

According to a recent study, most kids consume 25% of their calories in the form of junk food; French fries were found to be the number one vegetable source in children's diets.

Soft drinks consumption among children has more than doubled since the late 1970s; most 8-year-olds consume soft drinks every single day, and the phosphorus in these beverages can leach calcium from bones.

Hot dogs, cookies, and sweetened beverages are among the top 10 foods consumed by infants and toddlers aged four to 24 months.

Did you know most children don't get enough DHA from diet alone? A recent Canadian study found that only 22% of subjects tested received the suggested amounts of DHA, which is needed so the brain can work.

What can a parent do? Well, consider using dietary supplements that are made with supersafe ingredients to help bring out the best in your kids, like smart noggins.

*Taken from Shaklee 2010 Product Catalogue

Born in Quebec, growing up Italian

2010-02-19T21:58:00.005-05:00

Yes, I'm Italian; my late parents were Italian; so were my aunts, uncles and cousins; very few still alive, most now deceased. Some were born in North America, but had family who came from Italy and landed in the U.S., others detoured to Canada.

My parents, my brother and I were born in Montreal, Quebec. In fact, my mother's favourite story was how my birth was surrounded with International flavour. I was born at the Jewish General, birthed by a Japanese doctor, assisted by a french-speaking Quebec nurse, and baptised Catholic. Mmm, not such a big deal today, but quite the combination back in '52.

My late godparents were Italian, in fact my godmother came in from Italy as a young teen, and had quite a story about how she mistakenly was sent to Ellis Island. What a story; I loved listening to her stories about her youth. In the Italian culture, your godparents are your second set of parents. It is a role that is taken very seriously.

Why am I talking about my heritage? Well, lately I've been missing the way our culture thinks, lives, loves and respects. I did not marry Italian, and the culture and thinking are completely different.

Taking care of our own is ingrained in us from one generation to another. Being Italian means respect for our parents, our siblings, our family. Family is everything. It doesn't matter whether our parents are right or wrong, we respect them. We never, ever disagree with them in front of others; we can disagree, but in private.

When the time comes to take care of each other, nothing, and I mean nothing stops us from stepping up and getting involved.

I took care of my parents until the end. There was never any question that they would have to worry in their later years if they would get support. Unfortunately, both did not live to a very old age, but I never doubted for a minute that had they lived to a riper age, I would still be there for them.

I don't think the same thinking awaits me.

What's wrong with this picture?

2010-02-07T13:15:00.002-05:00

I just spoke to a friend who just returned from a two-week cruise. She had a great time along with her husband, and family members.

Our conversation drifted toward natural products. She is also a member of the Shaklee family, and we are both quite passionate about what we put into our bodies, and what affects our health from our surroundings.

If I may digress a bit. Ghislaine, who is the friend I am mentioning here, and I met while taking Naturopathy classes toward a diploma in 1996. I was sitting in the row next to hers and one desk behind hers. At one point, she took out a nutrition bar, and the packaging caught my attention because it was a Shaklee product. At break, I approached her, and a life-long friendship was born.

Ghislaine mentioned to me that Shaklee had recently applied to the government to be able to use the Ecolo symbol that proves a product is safe for the environment. Imagine my surprise when she said that Shaklee could not use the symbol because they do not meet one of the requirements: they must test their products on animals. Whaaaat??? Is this not an oxymoron? Shaklee doesn't test any of its products on animals. It never has, and never will! They have too much respect for the balance of our delicate ecologic system and fauna.

I knew that the government allows a company to claim that a cleaning product is biodegradable if it does so at a minimum of 50%. My question is, What does the other 50% contain? That, to me, is not kosher at all. Sorry!

In fact, Shaklee was the first company to receive the Climate Neutral Certification in 2000. See the press release here: http://www.shaklee.com/news_presskit_anannounce.shtml.

Shaklee's cleaning products are 100% biodegradable, and they put it right on their label! Their nutritional products are tested for quality and bioavailability over and over before they put them in the consumers' hands. They guarantee right on the label with pride their products will do at 100% what they say they do! So what's the problem? Are they too good to be true? Well, they are more than good, and they are true to themselves. When a company, or anyone for that matter, does that, it can only transfer that philosophy down the line.

Take a step toward bettering your health, your earth, yourselves! You will never regret it! I've been a Shaklee member for 18 years, been using their products for 18 years, and I take pride in saying that I am and have done the best for my environment and my family.

There that's my rant for today!

Shaklee Videos: Why We Age

2009-12-23T14:26:00.000-05:00

Shaklee Videos: Why We Age

Good friends are like a breath of fresh air

2009-12-07T22:57:00.004-05:00

Is there anything more relaxing and fun than meeting good friends for dinner?

It seems I am part of a very rare situation. Twenty-seven years ago, I worked at Allergan. The people there were a special breed. We were able to go out to lunch or party after work, have a great time, and then get back to work, and still respect each other. We were able to keep friendship and work separate.

Things happened, and we intermittently each went our own way. Eventually, the company closed in Quebec, and we dispersed across the board. Twenty-seven years later, at least this is since I first joined the company, we are still meeting for dinner once a year at least in December. Even more amazing is the number of friends in the group: two, you think? Three? Say twelve!

Huhuh! Twelve! And we all get along! I am one lucky woman!

Already November

2009-11-12T22:10:00.002-05:00

Wow! November is fast approaching the halfway mark. Is it me, or does it seem that the time continuum has increased in speed? Did I not just see my youngest son graduate high school? Did I just not recently take a staycation with hubby? Or was that August? Now, we're talking about getting ready for Christmas. Me thinks we are not stopping to smell the coffee!

November has not been an easy month for me since 1979. My dad passed away on the 19th that year; eight years later, my mother died on the 4th, and in 1995, on the 23rd, I received one of the worst phone calls of my life. My Godmother, who I loved as much as my parents was killed in a traffic accident. For the longest time, whenever November rolled around, I got nervous! Always afraid to get hit at the knees; but with time, I started thinking again that November is just another month, although the one closest to the end of the year.

It's time to plan for December; clean the house to make room for the Christmas tree, decorations across the house; shop a bit here and there for gifts; make the list for food, outings, charity, which I do all year long, and remember that we are all children of God, and to love each other and be thankful for what we have.

There's no business like the health business

2009-10-08T22:14:00.002-04:00

This month is going quite well, I must say. It's not even mid-month yet, and I've managed to talk and help a few people with my Shaklee part-time-at-the-moment business.

A case in point is my long-lost cousin. I found her on Facebook, She has been battling a debilitating mystery disease for the past nine years. When I saw her in late August, she was on crutches, bent over, in pain, and her speech was riddled with stutters. Having had the opportunity to talk to her on the phone beforehand and listen to her plight, I visited her with one of my cans of Shaklee Instant Soya Protein Powder, a bottle of body and hand cream, and my enthusiasm.

I recommended that she take one tablespoon of the powder every day in a glass of juice or on her cereal or with water; and she did so for the next six weeks without fail. Her birthday was on September 26, and I invited her out to lunch. I was not sure if she had to order one of those handicap buses to help with her electric wheelchair, or if she was going to use her crutches and get in the car with me. She told me on the phone, I'll come in the car with you.

Well, imagine my surprise when she was waiting for me in front of her apartment building, crutch-free and standing to her full height of 5'11". I was stunned and so proud to see her get in the car almost unassisted. She was still wobbly and her footing was a little unsure, but she was standing and walking. After lunch, I told her we would go to the mall, a place she hadn't been in a very long time. I thought we would slowly make it to a bench and watch the crowd, but lo and behold, my cousin wanted to walk the whole mall with me. We did very slowly, and she was sweating bullets, but was she ever happy to be walking around without her crutches.

Further, during our conversation on her birthday, I noticed her stutters were almost completely gone. She realized that too at the same time. Then, she ran out about a week and a half ago; she did not tell me. She is on a very limited income, and I suppose she felt she could not afford to buy the next can of Soya Protein.

It did not take me long to realize she was not taking the protein because her speech on the phone was becoming laboured again. I sent her another can, and she received it today. She immediately started taking it.

I am so happy that this is helping her, and I hope that in the very near future, my cousin will be able to get back to the workforce and take charge of her health and life again. She is a good person, and deserves to have a better future.

One news after another

2009-09-26T01:41:00.002-04:00

This month has been full of sad news.

A young lady, with whom I presently work, is going to have surgery for tumours, suspected cancerous, on her thyroid. She is only about 30 years old, has a beautiful little boy who is only 19 months old, and a wonderful hard-working husband, who just dotes on his little son.

Then, a wonderful new friend of mine, who was introduced to me through my brother, who had disappeared for the past 26 years until he called out of the blue in 2007, was diagnosed with cancerous polyps in her bladder. She had surgery last week, and is home recuperating. I will need to visit her very soon.

Last night, my very best friend in the world called me to tell me her dad died the night before. This totally devastated me as her dad was like my own.

This morning I will be going to her house, which is about 40 minutes away, and I want to give her and her mom a so big hug. I know she has lots of family around her, but when my dad passed away in 1979, my friend was with me all the way. I can't do much for her, because her family will be around her, but I do want to give my moral support.

Not the best month I've gone through.

A mother's heart breaks

2009-08-13T16:22:00.004-04:00

Sometimes mothers forget that their children are no longer small and needy, and proceed to doing things that really turn them off. I can understand that my actions frustrate my 17-year old son at times but my intentions are good, and my goal is to ensure he remains safe in this unpredictable world. His choice of words and attitude, however, totally turn ME off, and make ME angry.

The other day, I innocently knocked on the bathroom door to wish him a good day, and wanted to tell him something that totally escapes me now. I did not open the door, mind you, as I never did this kind of thing even when my kids were little. I only knocked to let him know I was on the other side. Yes, I admit I could have chosen a better time to do this, but as I said before, I forget that he is not a little boy anymore. Plus, he has a tendency to disappear as quickly as I can blink, so I try to speak to him whenever I can. Well, his choice of words and tone really cut deep into my heart, and I was absolutely insulted.

A few minutes later, while I was folding laundry in my bedroom, he came over wanting to know what I had 'bothered' him about. I turned him around by his shoulders, and gently pushed him out of the room telling him that I would not stand to be treated this way. He stormed out of the house.

Can someone tell me what the heck happened between the time he was this cute toddler who kept calling me whenever I was out of sight, and when he was 10 years old, and wanted to dance with me every chance that presented itself and today? Since he turned 12, it's as if, when he sees me, I'm the devil incarnate. I don't understand.

24 years married...wow!

2009-08-10T17:51:00.003-04:00

It's our 24th wedding anniversay today. It is hard to believe; time passed so quickly. So much has happened.

We had a beautiful day; drove to Hawkesbury, Ontario, had breakfast at Goodie's; shopped a bit, and gassed up at the pump. Saved 13 cents per litre compared to Montreal, Quebec.

We then went to the movies on the way back, saw Julie&Julia; very good movie, and for anyone who grew up watching Julia Child cook on TV, it is really enjoyable to see.

Be sure not to go with an appetite to this movie; the food looks soooo good. The movie should come with cheese, a baguette and wine; it is just mouth watering to see the recipes in this movie.

Our youngest son called just as the movie ended to say he and girlfriend were hungry and going to our house. We picked up some chicken, and had lunch (at 3:30 pm) together.

Dessert was ice cream cake from Dairy Queen.

Thanks, Gerry, for a wonderful day.

Vivix* fights cellular aging and more...

2009-08-03T11:14:00.003-04:00

An all-natural, patent-pending formulation, Vivix is a unique blend of polyphenols, including resveratrol – ingredients which have been shown in laboratory studies to positively impact the four mechanisms of cellular aging.*

Vivix polyphenols have been shown to effectively help protect and repair cellular DNA.
Vivix polyphenols have been shown to positively impact genetic regulators, which help turn down cellular aging.
Vivix polyphenols have been shown to promote mitochondrial biogenesis, which helps increase power production within the cells.
Vivix polyphenols are 10x more powerful than resveratrol alone in slowing the formation of AGE proteins that gradually can clog up cells.

In addition, Vivix also:*

Supports heart health and cardiovascular function
Supports brain health
Supports enhanced immunity function
Supports joint function
Promotes cellular longevity
Increases cellular energy
Promotes good health and well being
Provides antioxidant support

Vivix ingredients are all natural

No artificial colors
No artificial flavors
No artificial sweeteners
No preservatives

*Trademark

Bill Gates Speech to H.S. students

2009-07-30T19:16:00.000-04:00

BILL GATES' SPEECH TO MT. WHITNEY HIGH SCHOOL in Visalia, California.

Love him or hate him, he sure hits the nail on the head with this!

To anyone with kids of any age, here's some advice. Bill Gates recently gave a speech at a High School about 11 things they did not and will not learn in school. He talks about how feel-good, politically correct teachings created a generation of kids with no concept of reality and how this concept set them up for failure in the real world.

Rule 1: Life is not fair -- get used to it!

Rule 2: The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

Rule 3: You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.

Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping -- they called it opportunity.

Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you think you are. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.

Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.

Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

I completely agree!

Another Harry Potter seen - Careful Spoilers

2009-07-16T21:50:00.003-04:00

As so many other fans, I saw the latest instalment of the Harry Potter movie series. HP and the HBP was very good, however, as a die-hard fan of the books, I must say there were two little disappointments for me.

I did not like the way the movie changed how Dumbledore comes to get Harry in the muggle world at the beginning, and I did not like the way they changed how Dumbledore keeps Harry away from the invaders and Draco Malfoy when they invade the tower.

In the first case, there is no way the Harry would be reading a newspaper from the magic world in plain view of anyone in the muggle world. Harry is more subtle and smart than that. I wish they hadn't eliminated the Dursleys again from this movie. I think they are a very important part of the whole story.

In the last case, in the book, Dumbledore, in order to protect Harry from danger and being seen by the enemy, he 'freezes' him while ensuring he is out of sight. There is a very good reason for this: Harry would never stand still if Dumbledore was going to be attacked or harmed in any way, and knowing this, Dumbledore makes sure Harry can't do anything. That is why, in the movie, it does not make sense that Harry would just stay below while witnessing what was going on above him. Further, in the movie, Snape goes right where Harry is hiding, and signs to him to keep quiet. Then Snape joins the group of attackers above. Harry does not trust Snape, and believes he is one of the Death Eaters, so why would Harry trust him now?

Now, don't get me wrong. I do differentiate between the screen and the book versions of the series. I do watch the movies without comparing the actions to the book. How else could I enjoy them? When the story deviates too much from the story, however, then that gets to me.

There you are. That's my opinion, and I'm sticking to it.

The Harry Potter Fever Is On Again

2009-07-12T16:49:00.002-04:00

The sixth installment of the Harry Potter movie series is set to be released on Wednesday, July 15th, and the fever seems to be running high again.

Someone commented a while ago during a conversation that since the seven books are now finished, the HP craziness is over and done with... Are you kidding me? Every time I turn around I hear comments that the movie can't come soon enough.

Those of us who have been Mugglenet followers were originally excited to wait for the 6th movie to come out in November 2008, but then we learned that WB wanted to postpone it to summer 2009. Hard to take, but willing to wait.

Now that July 15th is just a few days away, you can feel the temperature rising. As a big fan, I really, really look forward to seeing it. Harry Potter and the Half-Blook Prince. Yess!

June 25, A Most Sad Day

2009-06-27T17:29:00.002-04:00

This past Tuesday had to be one of the saddest days!

In the early afternoon we learned of the passing of actress Farrah Fawcett, who at 62, lost her valiant battle with anal cancer, a rare cancer indeed. Just as we're trying to wrap our head around that news, we hear of Michael Jackson suddenly dying. The news hit us at about 6:25 pm, Eastern time.

For Jackson, I feel we have lost one of the greatest talents in history. I didn't know him personally, but I did follow his career from the time he appeared on TV singing in a clear voice at 10 years old. He truly was a great entertainer, and, I found, the best dancer there ever was. I also found he always looked so sad and lonely, like completely lost, as if he was not where he wanted to be.

Farrah and Michael gone! I wonder why these two well-known artists died on the same day! All I know is we are a poorer world without them.

Seeing a movie twice... regardless!

2009-06-27T16:57:00.003-04:00

Wednesday was a holiday, and the weather was just gorgeous. On Tuesday night, I had suggested to my husband that we could do a double feature at the movies. Transformers was premiering at midnight O one, and we also wanted to see the movie Up!

So we saw Up! at 9:20 p.m., which ended at 11:05, then as we walked out of our theatre, we saw the endless lineups to see the Transformers movie. We already had purchased the tickets, and we decided to stand in line. Well, all was going well during the movie until about an hour and forty minutes into the movie, the scenes were suddenly upside down, and the dialogue was backwards. For the first 20 seconds, everyone thought it was part of the movie, but when it continued, the crowd was quickly turning into an angry mob. Whew! Talk about being fanatics.

I truly sympathized with the employee who had to tell the crowd there was nothing that could be done. They had received the copies in the afternoon, and there had not been any time to preview the movie. The crowd was not happy; he told them to get the free passes on the way out, and he left.

So much for our first Premiere! The Transformers is not a movie I had planned to see more than once. I was not sure I wanted to go sit through the whole thing again to get to the ending. Now, if this had happened at a Harry Potter movie, I would have been back that same day!

Anyway, we finally went back to see the Transformers today. Now we know the ending! On to the next movie!

Babies, children and nutrition

2009-06-19T20:20:00.005-04:00

Keeping the little ones healthy inside and out, nourishing their growing bodies with multivitamin/multimineral supplements are important decisions for parents to take, however it can get pretty confusing.

If you watched the video link I posted last June 14th, your confusion should be over. If you didn't watch it, then I invite you to do so. Our children are the most precious gift we have; let's get them started right by buidling up a healthy immune system and feed them the 23 essential nutrients that support proper development.

For babies' sensitive skin, use personal care products that are formulated with natural and organic ingredients and are pediatrician tested to be safe and effective.

So here is the link again:
http://content.shaklee.com/shaklee/flash/show.php?video=Baby

And as they grow, keep them even more healthy. Bring out the best in your little superheroes, like healthy bodies, smart noggins, rad vision, and a rockin' immune system. Load them with 100% natural, ultra-pure DHA, to support early brain development and healthy eyes while the right supplements help kids' immune systems stay supercharged. The 23 essential nutrients will help build strong bones and healthy bodies. Supplementing is perfect for all the important things they need to do, like fight imaginary monsters.

Here is the link for the kids video:
http://content.shaklee.com/shaklee/flash/show.php?video=Kids

If you think these products are for your family, go to www.bon-dpart.myshaklee.com. The products are 100% guaranteed, so you have nothing to lose to try them.

Note: Article adapted from shaklee.net.

Shaklee Videos: Shaklee Baby

2009-06-14T19:08:00.001-04:00

Shaklee Videos: Shaklee Baby

Shared via AddThis

Party Weekend done!

2009-05-18T22:05:00.002-04:00

OK, so another party came and went. Yep, I planned two big parties this holiday weekend. A surprise graduation party for my son, and a 60th birthday party for my sister-in-law, who is now the matriarch of my husband's family.

Susan, is the oldest of 12 siblings, and a great person and friend. She was the first one I was introduced to when I started dating my husband. He had brought me to his parents' house to meet them, but Susan was there at the time alone. She had stopped by to do her laundry. She was, and still is, the mother of two lovely daughters. I liked her right away.

Susan is just one of those people who is available for everyone. She has been our moral support numerous times, through happy and difficult times, like the time Gerry almost died from a rare blood disorder.

She is funny, a straight shooter, and honest about her feelings. I like that.

It was a true pleasure to plan and do this for her. I was glad that Francine, Jose, John, and Julie were able to make this party. They came with their children, and one of Susan's daughters was able to make it. Her other daughter really wanted to be there, but one of her own daughters was going through a dance competition.

Jacques, Susan's husband however, made the day. I had asked the poor man to do a short presentation for her only the night before. I was not able to ask him earlier because Susan and Jacques are inseparable since Susan retired from her full time job two years ago. It was difficult to call or write him without raising suspiscion from Susan.

He thanked her beautifully and originally for the 25 years they've known each other. Well, needless to say, this brought many, many tears to our eyes, and I was not able to finish my speech afterward.

I'm so happy I was able to do this. A great, big thank you to Gerry and my sons who helped me prepare the house to receive the guests. I'm also happy that I took an extra day off after today to recuperate, because, honestly, I'm tired. Oof!

Graduation Party

2009-05-16T21:57:00.003-04:00

After months of planning a surprise graduation party for my youngest son, who is graduating from high school this coming June, the day came and went in a wink.

It was a really nice day! The aunts, uncles and cousins came, and so did my son's friends, and a few of ours. As I looked across the room, I realized how these young men have known each other for many years. One particular friend who attended the party, has been in and out of our house as a guest since they were both in kindergarten.

It was so beautiful to see his dad give a loving speech about his youngest, and then he brought out his graduation gift, which made my son look like he was choking back a strong emotion. Then, one of his friends, from acting school, said some really mature, great things about their friendship. The moment continued when my oldest son talked about their own relationship, and how great they always have been as brothers. This brought tears to my eyes.

As for my turn, since my Italian background makes too emotional about things like family, children and love, I put a nice presentation together for him. The music and pictures, reminescent of his seventeen years, pulled tears out of a few aunts. Of course, as soon as I saw them cry, I had problems continuing with my speech. So, I cut it short, but I did manage to convey my message of pride and love.

Now, on to the graduation ceremony at the beginning of June, and more money spent on his graduation ball. But, you know what? It is all worth it. I'm very proud of my son, as I am of my other one. They both have their feet planted firmly on the ground.

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T22:50:00.002-04:00

May 10th, and it's Mother's Day. Wow! I was saying to my husband that after all these years, I still find it difficult that my sons celebrate me as their mother.

I married in my early thirties, and so I always took care of my parents; I'm the one who always celebrated my mother for Mother's Day. Now, however, I'm being celebrated!

I just had one of the best Mother's Day. My youngest, whose room looked like a tornado hit it, and on whose furniture dust was starting to sprout feet and crawl, cleaned his room from top to bottom. When I walked into his room, I honestly thought I had entered an alternate universe! And I had just come back from seeing the new Star Trek movie at the theatre.

My oldest, who's in CEGEP, has a few more days of classes and exams, and he'll be off until the last week of August. He told me he will be cleaning his room on Wednesday or Thursday. Hmm! Maybe I am on an alternate universe!

Gerry took me out for breakfast, then we went to see the movie at noon, our lunch was popcorn, and I was a good girl, I asked to have a glass of water instead of a soft drink. Tonight he made a really nice dinner, and the boys just kept hugging and kissing me. My sons pooled their money, and gave me a gift card for Chez Cora, and they promised that when I am ready to go there, we will have a family breakfast all together.

Aaaaah! I love this alternate universe. I think I'll stay!

Spring Cleaning? This must be May

2009-05-05T21:33:00.002-04:00

Wow! May is already here. Were we not battling cold, rainy snow and wind a few weeks ago? Wait! We sure were!

May is the fifth month of the year, and the one that brings everything and everyone back to 'life'! You step outside and smell the fresh in the air... well, as fresh as you can smell it. The melting of the snow, and the emergence of the muddy earth also reveal, among other things, where your neighbours' pets have been throughout the winter.

May also brings the urge to clean up! I know that for the past three weeks, I've been cleaning one room at a time from wall to furniture to floor. I've nagged my husband into cleaning the lawn, front and back; my 17-year old helped him, which was great. What was the incentive? Well, I've already paid a little under $1,000 to a company that is supposed to treat and re-seed and spread new earth on our grub-laced lawn. He does not want to hear me complain for the next ten years about how remnant garbage stopped the propper growth of new grass.

This brings me to the products we use to clean our house, our things, ourselves. Everyone today is trying their best to respect the environment. People are recycling more, taking reusabe bags to the store, and purchasing products that are supposed to be environmentally friendly. I've been using non toxic products for 17 years now, and what's very important to know is that if your non toxic product does not say on the container that it is 100% biodegradable, then ask yourself what percent of it is non toxic, and what is the rest made of?

If you're not using a 100% biodegradable product while cleaning, washing clothes, and especially washing yourself, you're still contributing to poisoning your environment, and more importantly putting what could be toxic to your skin and health.

The Get Clean* products I use are guaranteed 100% biodegradable, and are just as powerful to clean your house as any other products you buy at the store. They are economical too! Take the Basic H2 for example. Two drops in 16 oz of water will safely clean your shiny surfaces: mirrors, glass, furniture. Tougher jobs can be done with 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of Basic H2 in 1 litre of water. My bottle of Basic H2 lasts anywhere from 6 to 10 months.

When I introduce people to the Get Clean products, we go around the house and point out the products that will cause or already might have caused many health problems in families, especially children and pets. When they learn what the fumes of each one can do to the lungs, airway passages, eyes and brain, they are more than happy to switch immediately.

I could go on an on, but you can find out for yourself. Go to www.shaklee.ca/santebondpart, read up on Get Clean under household products, and join the club.

It's Sunday and the living is easy!

2009-04-26T15:58:00.003-04:00

Aaah! It's Sunday, and nothing to do. At least for the moment. It seems to me that Sundays have changed. When I was growing up, Sunday was the day for church, putting on your good duds, family luppers (that's a meal eaten after noon and before three), and reading the paper.

There was no shopping, if there was homework to do, it was done by Saturday afternoon. No cleaning, no laundry, no work... it was the day to rest. So, how come when we get the occasional Sunday with nothing to do, we feel like we should be doing something?

How times have changed!

Do I have a sleep disorder?

2009-04-19T01:24:00.004-04:00

It's almost 1:30 am, and I'm still as awake as ever. It's been like this my whole life. Sleep is just a big waste of time for me; my brain just seems to keep going and going, like the pink battery bunny. My sleep hours consist of about 5 to 6 hours per night of sometimes fitfull sleep, and other times, a complete deep sleep.

That's the thing. I rarely seem to get to that deep sleep part. I always feel there's something to be missed if I sleep deeply. Do I have a sleep disorder? I don't know. As long as I can remember, I never liked sleep. There are always so many other things to do and think about.

Although, I do have to admit that lately by Friday evenings, if I'm sitting quietly, I snooze and snooze. After more than a few times of waking up because my neck is sore or other, I get up to go to bed. I feel very tired, and am ready to go to bed. I take my shower, brush my teeth, and get into bed. Less than 45 minutes later, I'm up again raring to go.

Strange...

Grown up and driving

2009-04-11T20:05:00.003-04:00

Sam, our 17-year old has been driving since December 2008, and life has changed. My husband and I each have a car; and one of the cars no longer sits in the driveway during the evenings. Nope, the teenager has it. He has sort of become the taxi for his friends. He's pretty smart though; he and his friends, when they go out, and drive around to pick up someone else, go to the movies, and/or take each back home, have made a deal to contribute a few dollars each for the gas. Sam comes home, and gives the money either to his dad, if he drove his car, or me, if he drove mine.

However, since my husband's car is a sedan, the teen prefers to drive that one over my station wagon. I don't understand... it's bigger, more spacious! Anyway, this brings me to our other son, Ben.

The odd thing is, Ben, my soon-to-be 19-year old still isn't interested in getting his driver's licence. He's in no hurry to get behind the wheel, and I do find that odd, although I have to say relieved, sort of. He says he enjoys taking the bus to get where he wants to go. He goes downtown, and to school, meets his friends wherever they agree to meet, and he has a friend who has a driver's licence. That's good, but I still wonder why he's not interested.

Ben took his written test last year, and his learner's permit will expire in July 2009. He says he will call the driving school, but it's April, and he has not taken the step yet to call. Well, to each his own pace.

As long as they remain safe and healthy. That's all a mother can wish for.

Easter is coming

2009-04-07T20:53:00.004-04:00

Another Easter is quickly coming. Of course, it's a religious event, as Catholics and Italians, my family practiced Lent, re-enacted washing of the feet on Holy Thursday, fasting and prayers on Good Friday until Holy Saturday noon, all re-enacting Jesus' last days, and then enjoying a wonderful family feast on Easter Sunday.

When I was young, I remember my mother going to St. Joseph's Oratory on Ash Wednesday, and doing a Novena on each of the special steps reserved for praying parishioners, in preparation for Easter. She would do the prayers all the way to the top. It would take her over two hours, and then she would go in and light all the church candles and pray for the workers, the sick, the children, etc. Don't get me wrong, I was able to enjoy the commercial side of Easter, and went on egg hunts, and then got to eat chocolate until it came out my ears. For me, that part of Easter ended when I was nine. I don't know why, but my parents stopped the egg hunt, and just gave me the chocolate bunny or chicken on Easter Sunday.

When my boys were growing up, I did teach them to respect some of the religious side of Easter, and although I don't follow that part of the tradition so much now, I did teach them to follow the Good Friday until Saturday noon tradition, and then made them work hard to get their Easter eggs. Not only did I hide the eggs all over the house, but I had them read clues from a mystery story that lead each of them to their own little toys, and at the end the big chocolate prize.

Well, imagine my surprise, when they were 14 and 12, I announced that since they were getting older now, they probably didn't care much about the mystery hunt. They both echoed the same sentiment: please, mom, don't stop it; we love it. We like the clues, even when we can't figure it out. It's even fun to find them the next day, or a few days later.

Wow! And so, even though Ben will be 19 in May, and Sam just turned 17 this past March, they are anticipating that mystery story with the clues to their eggs, and the grand chocolate prize. Go figure! Shhh! Don't let on that I love to do this too!

Which products do I use?

2009-03-29T13:32:00.003-04:00

As I said before, I switched my products to the Shaklee products 17 years ago. In 2006, Shaklee revamped its cleaning product line, and launched the Get Clean TM Starter Kit. It has everything you need to clean your house, do laundry and more. You would spend over $3,400 to get the same cleaning power from major name brands.

The Starter Kit contains everything you need to clean your house, your hands, do your laundry, clean your oven; there are spray bottles, dropper bottles, wipes, recyclable sponges and cloths, and a caddy to carry it all from room to room. Cost: $163.05 (Cdn).

All the products are super concentrated, so all you have to do is add the water. They cost literally pennies to use, and in this recession time, it's important to stretch the dollars.

The packaging is recyclable so you can stay true to your contribution toward keeping the Earth clean and toxic free.

By using the Get Clean products you Make A Difference! You help eliminate 108 pounds of packaging waste from the landfills, 248 pounds of greenhouse gasses, and you contribute to the environmental equivalent to planting 10 trees.

You can believe that the small act of scouring the sink can be part of the giant act of changing the world!

To get started with Get Clean* today, visit www.shaklee.ca/santebondpart, and enjoy what you see.

Finish My Toxic Products First?

2009-03-29T11:53:00.003-04:00

Please, no!
Stop using them right away!

Change your cleaning habits right away! Gather all of your toxic cleaners, put them in a box, and bring them to your Public Works department of your City. They will dispose of the hazardous products in the appropriate way.

DO NOT dump any toxic products down the sink or in the toilet. Please think, if it's toxic for you, it's toxic for the water, and the water life. While we're on the subject, DO NOT dump any medication in your toilet either; the medicinal ingredients do affect the underwater life such as plants and fish.

Where do I go to get non toxic products?

Well, I've already mentioned which products I'm using. Over the years, I did use store bought non toxic products. I like to experiment, even though I already use my favourite products. Some were great, but did not save me money; others were totally ineffective. None of them guaranteed 100% biodegradability. That was not satisfactory to me. If a product is not 100% biodegradable, then whatever percentage is not biodegradable is probably not good for the Earth.

Safe AND Clean AND Smart

2009-03-29T11:06:00.004-04:00

Home should be the safest place in the whole world

Choose to use products that are safe, powerful, green and smart. Earth friendly products give you cleaning choices that are non toxic and natural and don't contain any harmful ingredients such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), kerosene, phenol, cresol, lye, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, sulfamic acid, petroleum distillates, ammonia, sodium hydroxyde, butyl cellosolve, phosphoric acid, formaldehyde, chlorine bleach, morpholine.

Further, cleaning house shouldn't involve dirtying the Earth. Earth friendly product choices contain sustainable ingredients from natural sources, biodegradable surfactants, recyclable packaging, recyclable wipes, recyclable dryer sheets, no chlorine bleach, no phosphates, no nitrates, no borates, no VOCs, and as importantly, the company that manufactures the products doesn't test on animals.

Smart clean also saves you money while you go about saving the Earth. Earth friendly product choices are Smart for your wallet, Smart for your family, Smart for the planet.

A Story of the Past

2009-03-28T14:56:00.002-04:00

Years ago, I used to have many headaches and body aches. It didn't make sense because I would go to the doctor, and he couldn't find anything physically wrong. Test after test, no one still could not say what caused the headaches. Some days, nausea would set in, and once those came, I would have to miss work, stay in bed, take lots of acetaminophen, and sleep it off. This went on for most of my teen years, and a good chunk of my adulthood.

My first son, who had a bad case of eczema when he was a baby, had rashes all over his body, including his ears and inside the nose. In 1992, I was eight months pregnant with my second son, and the eldest was 21 monhts old at the time. My husband and I lived in Ottawa then, and one weekend I attended a Welcome Wagon Baby Shower trade show. During this event, there were presenters from the different sponsor companies talking their shpiel. One particular presenter caught my attention. She talked about how all her life she had allergies and unexplained headaches, and her four children were having their own issues with allergies. Then she discovered that the toxic products she used around the house seemed to be the main cause of her health problems. She did her homework, and found a company that, since 1956, creates products that improve the health of people and the planet. That got my attention.

I visited her kiosk immediately, and asked for more information. I liked what I was hearing, and put in my name for a visit, only I made it clear I wanted the visit asap. Less than a week later, a representative came to my home; she made some samples for me to use. One was an all purpose cleaner, and the other samples were for the laundry. At the time, the rep told me that for babies who have sensitive skin like my older son had, sometimes the baby soap and laundry detergent just may cause more irritation. She had left me enough cleanser to do a few loads of wash.

Well, right away, I noticed that my son's skin was less irritated, the white spots were disappearing the more I used the non toxic products. I called her up and placed my first order of the Shaklee non toxic cleaning products. It's been 17 years, and you know what, my headaches disappeared a few months after I started using the cleaning products, and I have never looked back. I didn't lose the power of cleaning, and, by using the safer, smarter, non toxic products, I also have contributed to making the earth a cleaner, less toxic environment for my children.

I like the products so much, that I decided to get into the business, and help other people like me get their health back, and help them make the earth a cleaner, safer place to live. Do you know of anyone who would be interested in products like that?

You can learn more about all the products by visiting www.shaklee.ca/santebondpart.

What Can you Do?

2009-03-28T13:41:00.000-04:00

Get Educated

Visit http://www.householdproducts.nlm.nih.gov/ingredients.htm

Step One: Go to the National Institutes of Health Household Products Database and find out what you have in your home

Step Two: Enter names of chemicals and see which brands contain them

Step Three: Look up Toxicity Information or Health Information for the chemical

Take Action

Properly dispose of harmful products; check with your City Hall

Find safer choices

What's Under Your Sink? Part 2

2009-03-28T13:21:00.000-04:00

Sodium Hydroxyde

Inhalation is immediately irritating to the respiratory tract

Contact can cause severe damage to the eyes, skin, mouth, and throat

Can cause liver and kidney damage

May be found in dishwashing liquids, laundry products, over cleaners, scouring cleaners, tub and tile cleaners

Hydrochloric Acid

Can cause severe damage to skin

Can be harmful to health, just by breathing the fumes

Can be fatal if swallowed

May be found in odour eliinators, toilet bowl cleaners

Butyl Cellosolve

Can cause irritation and tissue damage from inhalation

A person who spends 15 minutes cleaning scale off shower walls could inhale three times the acute exposure limit

May be found in all-purpose cleaners, cleaning wipes, degreasers, floor polish, rug shampoos, toilet bowl cleaners, tub and tile cleaners, window cleaners

What's Under Your Sink?

2009-03-28T13:01:00.000-04:00

Chlorine Bleach is the chemical most frequently involved in household poisonings in Canada and may cause reproductive, endocrine and immune disorders.

Degreasers may contain petroleum distillates which can damage lung tissues and dissolve fatty tissue around nerve cells.

Glass cleaners may contain ammonia. Ammonia fumes can irritate skin, eyes and respiratory system.

Oven cleaners can be one of the most dangerous cleaning products, which can cause severe damage to eyes, skin, mouth and throat.

Toilet Bowl Cleaners can be extremely dangerous cleaning products, which can be harmful just by breathing the fumes - and fatal if swallowed.

Did you know?

2009-03-27T20:41:00.001-04:00

Did you know...

That 90% of poison exposures happen in the home?

Common chlorine bleach is the #1 household chemical involved in poisoning?

Organic pollutants, found in many common cleaners and even air fresheners, have levels 2 to 5 times higher inside your home than out?

Common cleaners give off fumes that can potentially increase the risk of kids to develop asthma, the most common chronic childhood disease?

One in 13 school age children has asthma. Rates in children under 5 have increased 160% from 1980-1994?

If your home is anything like the average North American home, you generate more than 9 kg (20 pounds) of household hazardous waste each year (the U.S. Protection Agency (EPA) designates toilet cleaners, tub and tile cleaners, oven cleaners and bleach as hazardous waste).