I push away all the time. It is a normal reaction for me.
I crave so much and yet I have given up more than enough.
I have shown you my true self and I have hidden nothing from you.
I'm not a bad person. I do have a good heart. Maybe I am speaking out of guilt.
No, it's not guilt. You've seen my heart and you've felt what I can give.
I sometimes feel like a clear sky that is empty and solid blue.
Waiting for foggy winds or a drizzle of rain. Even a bunny shaped cloud would be nice.
I try to control my horizon but I cannot stop my sun from rising or setting.
I have been myself and if I hurt you in the process I did not mean to.
To have me is not to give to me.
To have me is not to share with me.
To have me is not to entertain me.
To have me is not to keep me.
To have me is nothing more than to follow me and love me.
You can not capture the cool breeze of the wind.
You can not capture the bright shine of the sun.
You can not capture the rythmic waves of a shore.
All of these are ment to be free.
So...
Hold your hands out and feel my breeze.
Sit and feel the warmth of my sunset and appreciate it's beauty.
Lay and bathe in the waves that tap against my shore.
This is who I am.
This is me.
This is how I have to be.
This is how to hug me, to kiss me, make love to me, and take me.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
What I'm scared of...
Me? I'm scared of everything. I'm scared of what I feel, of what I've said, of who I am, but most of all I'm scared of walking out of this room and never feeling the rest of my life the way I feel when I'm with you
Friday, September 11, 2009
For you....
Breathe on me, oh breath of God
that I might feel your passion
as tenderly your love consoles me
and rebukes the evil that dwells.
Breathe on me, oh breath of God
that I might feel your presence
as graciously your blood redeems
my body from it's ailments.
Breathe on me, oh breath of God
that I might know your compassion
as
are praying for my protection.
Breathe on me, oh breath of God
that I might know your mercy
as I confess to my own faults
to prepare me for my journey.
Breathe on me, oh breath of God
that I might know your serenity
as faithfully I pray to thee
for courage and understanding.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Verses on God’s Guidance
Psalm 73:24-26 (NIV) You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. [25] Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. [26] My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 25:4-5 (NIV) Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; [5] guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
Verses on Worry
Psalm 37:1-4 (NIV)
Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong; [2] for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. [3] Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. [4] Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.
John 14:1 (NIV) "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong; [2] for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. [3] Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. [4] Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.
John 14:1 (NIV) "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Good Character
Good character is more to be praised than outstanding talent. Most talents are, to some extent, a gift. Good character, by contrast, is not given to us. We have to build it, piece by piece, by thought, choice, courage, and determination.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Achievement
Achievement seems to be connected with action.Successful men and women keep moving.They make mistakes, but they don't quit.
Children
A child can always teach an adult three things: to be happy for no reason, to always be busy with something, and to know how to demand with all his might that which he desires.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Great People
Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.
Now....
Making changes in your life is never an easy task. The key, however, is not to get caught up in the distance you have to go to get to where you want to be. Nor should you despair over the amount of control you have over your circumstances. Progress is made in the small, intentional steps, and chances are, you have more power than you think. By focusing on little steps you can take every day, the progress you make will motivate you to continue your journey, and eventually, you can go wherever you want to go. The important thing is simply to begin
-Daily Writing
-Daily Writing
Face your Fears
You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face... The danger lies in refusing to face the fear, in not daring to come to grips with it... You must make yourself succeed every time. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Divine Order
Divine order There is nothing that happens by chance in our universe. Everything unfolds according to higher laws - everything is regulated by divine order.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Some Lessons in Life
Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of good or bad luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these small tests, if they be events, illnesses or relationships, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight, flat road to nowhere.
If someone hurts you, betrays you , or breaks your heart, forgive them. For they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious to who you open your heart to.
If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they love you, but because they are teaching you to love and opening your heart and eyes to things you would have never seen or felt without them.
Make every day count. Appreciate every moment and take from it everything that you possibly can, for you may never be able to experience it again.
Talk to people you have never talked to before, and actually listen. Hold your head up because you have every right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself, for if you don't believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you either.
You can make of your life anything you wish. Create your own life and then go out and live it.
-Daily Writing
If someone hurts you, betrays you , or breaks your heart, forgive them. For they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious to who you open your heart to.
If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they love you, but because they are teaching you to love and opening your heart and eyes to things you would have never seen or felt without them.
Make every day count. Appreciate every moment and take from it everything that you possibly can, for you may never be able to experience it again.
Talk to people you have never talked to before, and actually listen. Hold your head up because you have every right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself, for if you don't believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you either.
You can make of your life anything you wish. Create your own life and then go out and live it.
-Daily Writing
Allow Your Own Inner Light to Guide You
There comes a time when you must stand alone.
You must feel confident enough within yourself to follow your own dreams.
You must be willing to make sacrifices.
You must be capable of changing and rearranging your priorities so that your final goal can be achieved.
Sometimes, familiarity and comfort need to be challenged.
There are times when you must take a few extra chances and create your own realities.
Be strong enough to at least try to make your life better.
Be confident enough that you won't settle for a compromise just to get by.
Appreciate yourself by allowing yourself the opportunities to grow, develop, and find your true sense of purpose in this life.
Don't stand in someone else's shadow when it's your sunlight that should lead the way.
You must feel confident enough within yourself to follow your own dreams.
You must be willing to make sacrifices.
You must be capable of changing and rearranging your priorities so that your final goal can be achieved.
Sometimes, familiarity and comfort need to be challenged.
There are times when you must take a few extra chances and create your own realities.
Be strong enough to at least try to make your life better.
Be confident enough that you won't settle for a compromise just to get by.
Appreciate yourself by allowing yourself the opportunities to grow, develop, and find your true sense of purpose in this life.
Don't stand in someone else's shadow when it's your sunlight that should lead the way.
Be thankful
Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference.
It's easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings.
Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference.
It's easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Exploring the Relationship between Insomnia and AEDs
A good night’s sleep eludes many people with epilepsy, thus significantly impacting their quality of life. And while there has been speculation regarding the role specific antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may have on sleep quality in people with epilepsy, there have been few studies examining the relationship with insomnia—until now. Today, Carl Bazil, M.D., Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology, Columbia University, and colleagues presented their latest research exploring the link between AEDs and insomnia at the American Epilepsy Society 59th Annual Meeting in Washington DC.
Bazil’s interest in investigating the effect specific AEDs have on sleep in patients with epilepsy began with clinical observations that some patients improved in terms of sleep with certain agents, while others developed insomnia. “There have been studies for years suggesting that certain AEDs could adversely affect sleep, especially phenobarbital and phenytoin. There are others (like felbamate) that were shown to commonly cause insomnia starting in the initial clinical trials. So I became interested in further exploring these relationships”, said Bazil.
Bazil et al. used the Columbia University AED database, which includes detailed information on patients taking virtually all marketed AEDs, alone or in combination. Data were compiled on all outpatients seen from January 1, 2000 to January 1, 2004. The researchers correlated insomnia, as reported by patients or physicians during routine office, with the use of individual AEDs, and evaluated insomnia resulting in AED dose reduction or discontinuation. They also looked at predictors of insomnia independent of AED use, including: gender; epilepsy classification; presence of cognitive, psychiatric, or sedative side effects; and history of epilepsy surgery.
Results
Medical records from 818 patients were included in the study. All patients had been newly started on one of the 14 AEDs, either as monotherapy or in combination with other AEDs. Insomnia was seen most commonly with felbamate (18%) especially when compared with all other drugs. The data also revealed that insomnia was seen with lamotrigine and zonisamide (3%), topiramate (2%), and levetiracetam and gabapentin (1%), though at much lower frequencies. Drugs not associated with insomnia included: clobazam, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, tiagabine, vigabatrin, and valproate.
“We found that insomnia is significantly associated with felbamate use and is seen rarely with several other AEDs, particularly lamotrigine, zonisamide, and levetiracetam. For other AEDs, particularly those with known sedative effects, we did not see insomnia. That insomnia was most commonly reported with felbamate was not surprising, but confirms anecdotal reports”, said Bazil.
Bazil recognizes the need for further research regarding insomnia in the epilepsy population. He believes future research needs to be focused specifically on the examination of sleep problems, sleep disorders, and sleep habits as well as seizures and AED use. “We are actually in the process of conducting a study looking at a large outpatient population for determination of the prevalence of various sleep disorders, including insomnia. This will be a first step in research ultimately looking at the impact of insomnia and other sleep disorders not only on the occurrence of seizures in these patients, but also on their overall quality of life. We think that for many patients, stopping seizures may not be enough if other disorders such as insomnia remain.”
The abstract of this study is published in Epilepsia 2005, Vol. 46, Supplement 8, p.169.
Bazil’s interest in investigating the effect specific AEDs have on sleep in patients with epilepsy began with clinical observations that some patients improved in terms of sleep with certain agents, while others developed insomnia. “There have been studies for years suggesting that certain AEDs could adversely affect sleep, especially phenobarbital and phenytoin. There are others (like felbamate) that were shown to commonly cause insomnia starting in the initial clinical trials. So I became interested in further exploring these relationships”, said Bazil.
Bazil et al. used the Columbia University AED database, which includes detailed information on patients taking virtually all marketed AEDs, alone or in combination. Data were compiled on all outpatients seen from January 1, 2000 to January 1, 2004. The researchers correlated insomnia, as reported by patients or physicians during routine office, with the use of individual AEDs, and evaluated insomnia resulting in AED dose reduction or discontinuation. They also looked at predictors of insomnia independent of AED use, including: gender; epilepsy classification; presence of cognitive, psychiatric, or sedative side effects; and history of epilepsy surgery.
Results
Medical records from 818 patients were included in the study. All patients had been newly started on one of the 14 AEDs, either as monotherapy or in combination with other AEDs. Insomnia was seen most commonly with felbamate (18%) especially when compared with all other drugs. The data also revealed that insomnia was seen with lamotrigine and zonisamide (3%), topiramate (2%), and levetiracetam and gabapentin (1%), though at much lower frequencies. Drugs not associated with insomnia included: clobazam, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, tiagabine, vigabatrin, and valproate.
“We found that insomnia is significantly associated with felbamate use and is seen rarely with several other AEDs, particularly lamotrigine, zonisamide, and levetiracetam. For other AEDs, particularly those with known sedative effects, we did not see insomnia. That insomnia was most commonly reported with felbamate was not surprising, but confirms anecdotal reports”, said Bazil.
Bazil recognizes the need for further research regarding insomnia in the epilepsy population. He believes future research needs to be focused specifically on the examination of sleep problems, sleep disorders, and sleep habits as well as seizures and AED use. “We are actually in the process of conducting a study looking at a large outpatient population for determination of the prevalence of various sleep disorders, including insomnia. This will be a first step in research ultimately looking at the impact of insomnia and other sleep disorders not only on the occurrence of seizures in these patients, but also on their overall quality of life. We think that for many patients, stopping seizures may not be enough if other disorders such as insomnia remain.”
The abstract of this study is published in Epilepsia 2005, Vol. 46, Supplement 8, p.169.
Sleep Matters!
Sleep is our body's natural way of shutting off and recuperating from the entire day's activities. Sleep keeps our brain healthy by giving rest to parts that control emotions and social interactions and maintain cognitive skills such as speech and thinking. Lack of sleep can have the absolute opposite effect on brain functioning with controls like memory, concentration, planning and sense of time being severely affected. In more serious cases, lack of sleep is manifested as a sleep disorder that is intimately related to various psychological disorders like depression and anxiety.
What Is Sleep Apnoea?
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep apnoea may affect between 20 and 40% of adult snoring population, topping the list of sleep disorders. The more common form is referred to as “Obstructive Sleep Apnoea” (OSA), which occurs due to an obstruction that prevents air from entering lungs. Lack of muscle tone in the upper airways during sleep causes their collapse and blocks the airway. The brain senses this lack of oxygen and automatically wakes you up, usually with a loud snore in order to breathe again. OSA becomes clinically significant only if the stopping of breathing lasts more than 10 seconds and occurs more than 10 times in an hour.
The more serious form of sleep apnoea is referred to as “Central sleep apnoea” wherein the brain 'forgets to breathe' during sleep. Brain cells live on oxygen and a long pause in breathing reduces the blood level of oxygen, eventually causing severe brain damage and even death.
Symptoms
Disturbed sleep, excessive sleepiness during the day along with irritability and restlessness are common symptoms. Surprisingly though, patients are unaware of the lack of a proper night's sleep caused by these repeated interruptions. The other common symptoms are:
* Snoring
* Impaired concentration
* Restlessness during sleep
* Decreased libido
* A personality change
* Choking during sleep
Snoring And Insomnia- Their Correlation With Sleep Apnoea
Snoring does not always mean “difficulty in breathing” and does not confirm sleep apnoea. On the contrary, blocked airways hardly allow any air to circulate diminishing the possibility of a snore. However, snoring coupled with obesity could be a strong indicator for OSA, the reason being, fat deposition around the upper airway cause obstruction.
Read more: http://sleep-disorders.suite101.com/article.cfm/sleep_matters#ixzz0O5ouZJSp
What Is Sleep Apnoea?
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep apnoea may affect between 20 and 40% of adult snoring population, topping the list of sleep disorders. The more common form is referred to as “Obstructive Sleep Apnoea” (OSA), which occurs due to an obstruction that prevents air from entering lungs. Lack of muscle tone in the upper airways during sleep causes their collapse and blocks the airway. The brain senses this lack of oxygen and automatically wakes you up, usually with a loud snore in order to breathe again. OSA becomes clinically significant only if the stopping of breathing lasts more than 10 seconds and occurs more than 10 times in an hour.
The more serious form of sleep apnoea is referred to as “Central sleep apnoea” wherein the brain 'forgets to breathe' during sleep. Brain cells live on oxygen and a long pause in breathing reduces the blood level of oxygen, eventually causing severe brain damage and even death.
Symptoms
Disturbed sleep, excessive sleepiness during the day along with irritability and restlessness are common symptoms. Surprisingly though, patients are unaware of the lack of a proper night's sleep caused by these repeated interruptions. The other common symptoms are:
* Snoring
* Impaired concentration
* Restlessness during sleep
* Decreased libido
* A personality change
* Choking during sleep
Snoring And Insomnia- Their Correlation With Sleep Apnoea
Snoring does not always mean “difficulty in breathing” and does not confirm sleep apnoea. On the contrary, blocked airways hardly allow any air to circulate diminishing the possibility of a snore. However, snoring coupled with obesity could be a strong indicator for OSA, the reason being, fat deposition around the upper airway cause obstruction.
Read more: http://sleep-disorders.suite101.com/article.cfm/sleep_matters#ixzz0O5ouZJSp
Sleep Disorder... or another way of saying Insomnia! Sheesh
The term “sleep disorder” encompasses awakenings, snoring, certain types of muscle pain, or just overall discomfort due to the positioning of the person who is trying to remain asleep. Sleep disorders fulfill a large percentage of medical problems that found in general medicine, family practice, and the field of psychiatric medicine today.
The human body tends to have specific mechanisms that involve hormones, cells, and muscle tissue that all work together in order to provide a person with the sleep he or she needs. Sleep disorder patients tend to have symptoms and difficulties that show up during the day.
Sleep tests and polysomnograms (PSG) are often needed to properly diagnose and thoroughly investigate the physical issues someone may have that are keeping him or her from getting the right amount of sleep.
Sleep Disorder Statistics
Sleep disorder visits are becoming an increasing stop for patients in medical clinics worldwide. The statistics that have been compiled for sleep disorders are quite astounding in numbers. Each year, a large percentage of Americans, 20-40% to be exact, complain of sleep problems experienced at some point in their life.
Among those complaining of sleep disorders, many victims also report an insufficient amount of sleep. 20% of adult patients these days approach their doctor and tell them they may have insomnia, or the inability to sleep.
Read more: http://sleep-disorders.suite101.com/article.cfm/sleep_disorders_explained#ixzz0O5nnPmna
The human body tends to have specific mechanisms that involve hormones, cells, and muscle tissue that all work together in order to provide a person with the sleep he or she needs. Sleep disorder patients tend to have symptoms and difficulties that show up during the day.
Sleep tests and polysomnograms (PSG) are often needed to properly diagnose and thoroughly investigate the physical issues someone may have that are keeping him or her from getting the right amount of sleep.
Sleep Disorder Statistics
Sleep disorder visits are becoming an increasing stop for patients in medical clinics worldwide. The statistics that have been compiled for sleep disorders are quite astounding in numbers. Each year, a large percentage of Americans, 20-40% to be exact, complain of sleep problems experienced at some point in their life.
Among those complaining of sleep disorders, many victims also report an insufficient amount of sleep. 20% of adult patients these days approach their doctor and tell them they may have insomnia, or the inability to sleep.
Read more: http://sleep-disorders.suite101.com/article.cfm/sleep_disorders_explained#ixzz0O5nnPmna
Insomnia-I hate it!
Insomnia is a common problem that may be temporary or chronic. As many as one in 10 Americans have chronic insomnia, and at least one in four has difficulty sleeping sometimes. But that doesn't mean you have to just put up with sleepless nights. Some simple changes in your daily routine and habits may result in better sleep.
Insomnia can cause problems during the day, such as excessive sleepiness, fatigue, trouble thinking clearly or staying focused, or feeling depressed or irritable. It is not defined by the number of hours you sleep every night. Although the amount of sleep a person needs varies, most people need between 7 and 8 hours of sleep a night.
Most adults have experienced insomnia or sleeplessness at one time or another in their lives. An estimated 30-50% of the general population is affected by insomnia, and 10% have chronic insomnia. Insomnia affects all age groups. Among older adults, insomnia affects women more often than men. The incidence increases with age.
Not getting enough sleep is real curse, believe me I know. I've suffered from insomnia for many years now and have tried many assorted insomnia treatments with varying success. This website has been put together after years of sleep problems, with the aim of collecting together the information that has helped me with my long battle with insomnia.
Cures for Insomnia
Try a warm bath or hot shower before bedtime. Keep the bedroom temperature comfortable, not too hot or too cold. A heated blanket can be relaxing as well. Use cotton sheets with your favorite pillow(s).
Avoid stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine. It's best to abstain from these altogether but if you can't then try to avoid them before late afternoon/ early evening.
Do not allow yourself to take any naps during the day. While you may feel that power naps are refreshing your body throughout the day, they interrupt your nightly sleep cycle. They prevent your body from entering into the deeper sleep stages needed to refresh your body.
Participants in the study warm their hands and feet through relaxation techniques like visualization and deep breathing, which helps to draw the blood from the core of the body to the extremities.
Take from this what you will. It works for me whenever I need it, and it works for others too I understand. So if you simply need a bit of help getting to sleep, and you'd rather not resort to liquor or drugs or a depressing visit to the doctors, perhaps give this a try.
Honey is beneficial in the treatment of insomnia. It has a hypnotic action and induces a sound sleep. It should be taken with water, before going to bed, in doses of two teaspoons in a large cup of water. Babies generally fall asleep after taking honey.
Stress is something we can overcome with persistence. There are many ways of coping with stress and again, different things work for different people. We'll look at lots of them in these pages.
Insomnia can cause problems during the day, such as excessive sleepiness, fatigue, trouble thinking clearly or staying focused, or feeling depressed or irritable. It is not defined by the number of hours you sleep every night. Although the amount of sleep a person needs varies, most people need between 7 and 8 hours of sleep a night.
Most adults have experienced insomnia or sleeplessness at one time or another in their lives. An estimated 30-50% of the general population is affected by insomnia, and 10% have chronic insomnia. Insomnia affects all age groups. Among older adults, insomnia affects women more often than men. The incidence increases with age.
Not getting enough sleep is real curse, believe me I know. I've suffered from insomnia for many years now and have tried many assorted insomnia treatments with varying success. This website has been put together after years of sleep problems, with the aim of collecting together the information that has helped me with my long battle with insomnia.
Cures for Insomnia
Try a warm bath or hot shower before bedtime. Keep the bedroom temperature comfortable, not too hot or too cold. A heated blanket can be relaxing as well. Use cotton sheets with your favorite pillow(s).
Avoid stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine. It's best to abstain from these altogether but if you can't then try to avoid them before late afternoon/ early evening.
Do not allow yourself to take any naps during the day. While you may feel that power naps are refreshing your body throughout the day, they interrupt your nightly sleep cycle. They prevent your body from entering into the deeper sleep stages needed to refresh your body.
Participants in the study warm their hands and feet through relaxation techniques like visualization and deep breathing, which helps to draw the blood from the core of the body to the extremities.
Take from this what you will. It works for me whenever I need it, and it works for others too I understand. So if you simply need a bit of help getting to sleep, and you'd rather not resort to liquor or drugs or a depressing visit to the doctors, perhaps give this a try.
Honey is beneficial in the treatment of insomnia. It has a hypnotic action and induces a sound sleep. It should be taken with water, before going to bed, in doses of two teaspoons in a large cup of water. Babies generally fall asleep after taking honey.
Stress is something we can overcome with persistence. There are many ways of coping with stress and again, different things work for different people. We'll look at lots of them in these pages.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Update on son's arm
Well the kid did it in this time!
He had several broken areas so we have had them put the cast on more then three times. They said ten more days.
However we aren't 100% sure it could be even longer.
However they did say that his arm will be stronger then ever!
He had several broken areas so we have had them put the cast on more then three times. They said ten more days.
However we aren't 100% sure it could be even longer.
However they did say that his arm will be stronger then ever!
Feeling Important
Sometimes people don't realize that they have a way of making you feel your so not important! Not at all, in life or just to them.
That feeling really hurts.
Makes you question your role in that relationship i.e friendship, love, family etc.
In life you have a lot of relationships that make up to be your life.
Sometimes you come to a point and realize that one or two of those may not be any good for you. Especially if they drain you.
However you can't stop it from hurting you.
-Daily Writing
That feeling really hurts.
Makes you question your role in that relationship i.e friendship, love, family etc.
In life you have a lot of relationships that make up to be your life.
Sometimes you come to a point and realize that one or two of those may not be any good for you. Especially if they drain you.
However you can't stop it from hurting you.
-Daily Writing
Monday, June 22, 2009
Thankful!
I'm so thankful to have some great friends!
Today Cat brought me some very yum yum food
On top of tasting good it was also good for me!
That is always a plus in my book!
Today Cat brought me some very yum yum food
On top of tasting good it was also good for me!
That is always a plus in my book!
Hate Packing!!
I can't stand packing!
It really sucks!
I hope that I don't put something in storage that shouldn't be in storage.
I don't like thinking I will forget where I put something.
It gives me anxiety to have to do it all by a certain time.
Well back to packing I have to go!
It really sucks!
I hope that I don't put something in storage that shouldn't be in storage.
I don't like thinking I will forget where I put something.
It gives me anxiety to have to do it all by a certain time.
Well back to packing I have to go!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
My niece and nephews big birthday bash
The kids had such an amazing time! I have a million pictures from that day but here are just a few! The guys played connect four forever! That's how we roll! I got the kids a cotton candy machine and it was a hit. They got the kids two huge jumpers one with water and yes who gets wet first???? Of course it was me! I took my niece down and I went in with my jeans, which was not a good idea they were so heavy after that. My brother is such a awesome dad, they both had the cutest cakes and the whole family drove in from out of town. It was a great day!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
April had her new baby
I can't believe it all these years and we are with another baby in the world, it's amazing! I'm so happy for them! Can't wait to see him in person. Unfortunately I'm sick or I'd be there...
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Monday, June 1, 2009
Whats for dinner tonight???
I love love love this salad, and this is a great secret BBQ chicken that I now make... I made some Guacamole tortillas and Mexican Rice. Very good tasting.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Why do Indianapolis 500 winners drink milk?
Indy mystery: Why do Indianapolis 500 winners drink milk?
After crossing the bricked finish line on Sunday, the winner of the Indianapolis 500 will drive into the winner’s circle, be presented with a celebratory wreath and take a swig from a cold bottle of milk. The latter is one of the grandest traditions in sports, but also one of the most confusing. Why milk? Why is it in a bottle? And (this one was actually asked by a girl I knew in college) has it been sitting in the sun all day?
After solving mysteries in Beijing, Boston and Augusta, GA, the old Y! Sports investigative unit is here to answer all your questions in order to solve the mystery of the milk-drinking drivers. It all started in 1933. After Louis Meyer won his second Indianapolis 500, he requested a cold bottle of buttermilk to quench his thirst. The Yonkers, NY native had grown up drinking the beverage and favored it throughout his racing days.
Three years later, Meyer won his third title and, again, he requested a cold glass of buttermilk to celebrate. This time, a newspaper photographer snapped a photo of Meyer taking a swig from the bottle while holding up three fingers, one to represent each of his Indy victories. The shot would appear the next day in a number of newspapers.
As legend has it, a local dairy executive saw the photo and, realizing a great marketing opportunity, vowed that milk would be given to the winner the following year. (They had thought Meyer was drinking regular milk, not buttermilk.) Except for a stretch from 1947 to 1955, milk has been presented at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway ever since.
Today, instead of buttermilk, the winner is given a choice between whole milk, two percent and skim. Those bottles are held in a cooler by two selected Southern Indiana dairy farmers and are etched with the words “Indianapolis 500 winner,” making the bottles not just a beverage receptacle but a trophy in their own right. The drivers seem to like the milk, not just for what it represents, but because of its taste as well.
Dario Franchitti said in 2007 that the milk is: “Good. Really good. They chill it and it's very cold. I went for full fat inside and then I went outside in Victory Circle after the rain stopped and I had another bottle and I think that was 2%. That was good as well. I was liking the milk.”
Personally, I can’t imagine that milk is the ideal beverage to consume immediately after finishing a grueling three-hour race run at 200 mph in cramped, often-sweltering conditions. But for the racers at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday afternoon, no drink would be finer. Thanks to the Indiana Dairy Council for helping solve this mystery. We’ll be raising a tall glass of skim in their honor this Sunday.
By Chris Chase.... I love finding out new stuff so I thought I would share this with everyone....
After crossing the bricked finish line on Sunday, the winner of the Indianapolis 500 will drive into the winner’s circle, be presented with a celebratory wreath and take a swig from a cold bottle of milk. The latter is one of the grandest traditions in sports, but also one of the most confusing. Why milk? Why is it in a bottle? And (this one was actually asked by a girl I knew in college) has it been sitting in the sun all day?
After solving mysteries in Beijing, Boston and Augusta, GA, the old Y! Sports investigative unit is here to answer all your questions in order to solve the mystery of the milk-drinking drivers. It all started in 1933. After Louis Meyer won his second Indianapolis 500, he requested a cold bottle of buttermilk to quench his thirst. The Yonkers, NY native had grown up drinking the beverage and favored it throughout his racing days.
Three years later, Meyer won his third title and, again, he requested a cold glass of buttermilk to celebrate. This time, a newspaper photographer snapped a photo of Meyer taking a swig from the bottle while holding up three fingers, one to represent each of his Indy victories. The shot would appear the next day in a number of newspapers.
As legend has it, a local dairy executive saw the photo and, realizing a great marketing opportunity, vowed that milk would be given to the winner the following year. (They had thought Meyer was drinking regular milk, not buttermilk.) Except for a stretch from 1947 to 1955, milk has been presented at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway ever since.
Today, instead of buttermilk, the winner is given a choice between whole milk, two percent and skim. Those bottles are held in a cooler by two selected Southern Indiana dairy farmers and are etched with the words “Indianapolis 500 winner,” making the bottles not just a beverage receptacle but a trophy in their own right. The drivers seem to like the milk, not just for what it represents, but because of its taste as well.
Dario Franchitti said in 2007 that the milk is: “Good. Really good. They chill it and it's very cold. I went for full fat inside and then I went outside in Victory Circle after the rain stopped and I had another bottle and I think that was 2%. That was good as well. I was liking the milk.”
Personally, I can’t imagine that milk is the ideal beverage to consume immediately after finishing a grueling three-hour race run at 200 mph in cramped, often-sweltering conditions. But for the racers at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday afternoon, no drink would be finer. Thanks to the Indiana Dairy Council for helping solve this mystery. We’ll be raising a tall glass of skim in their honor this Sunday.
By Chris Chase.... I love finding out new stuff so I thought I would share this with everyone....
Friday, May 22, 2009
So hard to please the world
I have to say it's pretty hard to please everyone.
If you don't make every gathering...
If you have plans already and you feel obligated to maybe cancel your plans.
It seems everyone always has something to say or someone is always not happy about stuff.
Very frustrating..
If you don't make every gathering...
If you have plans already and you feel obligated to maybe cancel your plans.
It seems everyone always has something to say or someone is always not happy about stuff.
Very frustrating..
Friday, May 15, 2009
Mexican Rice & Guacamole
Let me tell you I love to cook and especially when I get to eat most of it!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Best Friend Thoughts... thanks love
Best Friend
GIRLS IN MY CIRCLE
When I was little,
I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I started to become a woman.
And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up,
God would show you the best in many friends.
One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
Another , 'Let's fight together,'
Another , 'Let's walk away together.
'
One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier,
Another the wind beneath your wings.
But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself ...
Those are your best friends.
It may all be wrapped up in one woman,
But for many, it's wrapped up in several..
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
a couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,
And on some days, your daughters.
You're...
My Friend,
my companion,
through good times and bad
my friend, my buddy,
through happy and sad,
beside me you stand,
beside me you walk,
you're there to listen,
you're there to talk,
with happiness, with smiles,
with pain and tears,
I know you'll be there,
throughout the years!
A loyal friend laughs at your jokes when they're not so good, and sympathizes with your problems when they're not so bad.
If you're alone, I'll be your shadow. If you want to cry, I'll be your shoulder. If you want a hug, I'll be your pillow. If you need to be happy, I'll be your smile. But anytime you need a friend, I'll just be me
Friendship isn't always easily described. The Eskimos, they say, have a hundred different words for snow. Unfortunately, the English language isn't quite as innovative, though it has vast opportunities to differentiate meaning. Certainly, Love is one of those opportunities. And so, too, is Friendship.
Instead of different words, however, we're stuck with simple adjectives. Close friend. Best friend. Childhood friend. Intimate friend. Trusted friend. Beloved friend. But whether you use adjectives or different words, few could deny the nearly infinite meaning in such a simple word.
Friends are special people. We can't pick our family, and we're sorely limited in the number of them at any rate. Society and mores (and often our own conscience) dictate we select a single mate. But our friends can be as diverse and infinite as the adjectives we choose. Our friends, in a very real sense, reflect the choices we make in life.
You know when you are so amazed at how you could ever find that special friend whom shares your every moment? Who reaches for you exactly how you hoped, and always, always, helps make your dreams come true?! That's what my best friends are to me! We are inseparable!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Actions speak lounder then words...
Actions Speak Louder then words...
You can say you so call "Love someone"
However "Do you show them?"
A simple flower, for no reason!
His/Her favorite candy, food, drink for no reason
You can say you so call "Love someone"
However "Do you show them?"
A simple flower, for no reason!
His/Her favorite candy, food, drink for no reason
Monday, May 11, 2009
Should it truly matter????
Should it truly matter??
You know just the fact of someone being great to you but forgetting something special like a special day?
Why put so much on a date?
I mean simply if a person is good to you all year long and forgets how special a day is, should it be a big deal still?
I know so many women that get hung up on this, I mean truly hurt and upset over the fact of someone forgetting to make a BIG DEAL of a day...
I recently started to think about this because I've had people make big deals out of days or dates shall I say, and all year long not be so awesome to me.
I'm not sure if you can have it all but I'd love to have it all! I'm sure we all would.....
More on this later
You know just the fact of someone being great to you but forgetting something special like a special day?
Why put so much on a date?
I mean simply if a person is good to you all year long and forgets how special a day is, should it be a big deal still?
I know so many women that get hung up on this, I mean truly hurt and upset over the fact of someone forgetting to make a BIG DEAL of a day...
I recently started to think about this because I've had people make big deals out of days or dates shall I say, and all year long not be so awesome to me.
I'm not sure if you can have it all but I'd love to have it all! I'm sure we all would.....
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Helmets (Parents & Childrens views)
Parents' Attitudes Towards Helmets and Their Use
A study conducted with parents and with children aged five to 14 who own bicycles showed that helmet ownership by children was significantly (p<.05) related to parental characteristics: educational level, race, perceived effectiveness of bicycle helmets, seat belt use and parental helmet ownership. Specifically, the incidence of helmet ownership was significantly higher in families in which the parent had a college or postgraduate degree (p<.001), was Caucasian (p<.05), reported always using seat belts (p<.01), owned a bicycle helmet (p<.001), and perceived helmets as effective for preventing head injury (p<.05).
Several researchers have found that a major barrier to helmet use by children and adolescents is lack of parental awareness. When parents were asked why their children do not own bicycle helmets, the most common responses were: "never thought about purchasing a helmet" (35 percent ), "never got around to purchasing a helmet" (29 percent), "child wouldn't wear it anyway" (26 percent), and the bicycle helmet was "too expensive" (16 percent). Other reasons for not purchasing bicycle helmets for their children include: "child doesn't ride enough" (19 percent) and "only rides in safe areas" (12 percent).
In the Miller et al study, parents identified magazines, television, family and friends, and pediatricians as key sources of bicycle helmet information. The only source significantly associated with increased helmet ownership was friends and family (p<.01).
Also, in Miller's study, only 48 of the 169 children interviewed owned bicycle helmets. Of these children, only 16 (33 percent) follow strict helmet-wearing rules; 10 follow partial rules and 22 had no parental rules on helmets. As might be expected, children with strict helmet rules were more likely to wear them always or most of the time. Interestingly, the incidence of helmet wearing was no greater for children who had partial rules than those with no rules.
Since lack of parental awareness was the most frequent reason for not purchasing helmets, Miller et al suggested that parental education, particularly through pediatricians, could help to increase bicycle helmet use. A number of researchers have suggested targeting education programs at pediatricians, as well as at parents.
Children's Attitudes Towards Helmets and Their Use
According to CPSC, each year about 400,000 children under the age of 15 are treated in hospital emergency rooms for bicycle-related injuries. An additional 300 die as a result of their injuries. And, about one-third of the injuries and two-thirds of the deaths of bicyclists aged five to 14 are head-related.
National statistics show that only 15 percent of children wear bicycle helmets, even though many youngsters seemed to understand that helmets could protect their head from injury. One child said "you could be paralyzed, killed, or you could suffer brain damage." CPSC found that, of those children who own helmets, 43 percent reportedly wear them always or most of the time, 11 percent wear them occasionally, and 44 percent seldom or never wear their helmets. According to the CPSC, helmet use was highest for younger children (age six or less) and lowest for older children (12 to 14 year olds).
A survey of 282 children conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the CPSC determined that children most disliked the fit of bicycle helmets (46 percent). Many reportedly complained that the helmets felt uncomfortable on the head or that the chinstraps pinch. Interestingly, when these children were asked what one thing they would change about the helmets, the majority (52 percent) said "how they look," and only 23 percent said "how they fit."
In a bicycle injury study conducted in Ohio, many of the children who do not own a bicycle helmet seemed to lack an awareness or understanding of the importance of helmets. Twenty-nine percent of the children in this study said they "never thought of wearing a helmet" and 19 percent said that wearing a helmet is "not necessary." Only 15 percent expressed negative feelings about bicycle helmets, including they did not like helmets in general or did not like the way they look (e.g., ugly or embarrassing).
In yet a third study, child helmet owners who do not wear their helmet said they do not feel it is necessary or that they forgot or lost it. On the other hand, those who do not own helmets reportedly avoid this type of head gear because of the way they look or because they are uncomfortable. Style and comfort appear to be more important barriers to helmet use for adolescents and young adults who are reluctant to wear a helmet if their peers do not.
In a 1994 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children most frequently pointed to low perceived risk of injury or simply "never considered the issue" as the main reasons for not owning a helmet or wearing one more often
Children in the CPSC/AAA survey suggested that helmet manufacturers use "cooler" colors and more interesting and varied designs. They also indicated that a role model, such as a celebrity or professional athlete, who would talk about the importance and benefits of helmets, might encourage some children to wear bicycle helmets. Other children indicated that discussing the consequences of riding a bicycle without a helmet would be effective in promoting helmet use. Still others suggested that retailers and local communities run promotions (e.g. wear a bike helmet and get a free pizza) to increase helmet use among children.
A number of researchers have found that the incidence of helmet use was higher among those who ride with peers wearing helmets than those who ride alone or with peers who do not wear helmets. Children were also more likely to wear helmets if their parents wear them.
No conclusive evidence has been uncovered to show that children who wear helmets as youngsters continue to wear them as they grow older. However, in a study conducted in Oregon where mandatory helmet laws exist, researchers predicted that because younger children were more likely to comply with helmet laws, helmet use by Oregon children may continue to increase as younger children grow up with the law.
Number of Head Injuries, Causes and Ways to Prevent Them
Bicycle injury rates are reportedly highest for five to 15 year-olds, with these children accounting for three-fourths of all bicycle head injuries. Within this group, females five to nine years of age and males 10 to 14 years old have the highest injury rates per 100,000 population, according to Thompson et al. For all age categories, males are injured more often than females. This may be attributed, in part, to the fact that males ride more frequently and spend more time on bicycles than females.
According to one study, children are reportedly six times less likely than adults to wear helmets even though they are over twice as likely to sustain a severe head injury.
Studies show that the most common cause of death and serious disability from bicycle crashes is head injury. Head and brain injuries are the primary or contributing cause of death in 62 percent to 90 percent of all bicycling fatalities. Riding at speeds greater than 15 miles per hour - which is not unusual -- increased the risk of severe injury by 40 percent.
Grimand, Nolan and Carlin carried out one study that demonstrates the effectiveness of bicycle helmets. This study reveals that the majority of injuries sustained by helmeted bicyclists were mild. However, helmeted children were as likely as unhelmeted children to suffer facial injuries. Helmeted bicyclists who suffered head injury, in many instances, did not properly wear the helmet.
Overall, helmets have been found to decrease the risk of head and brain injury by 70 percent to 88 percent and facial injury to the upper and mid-face by 65 percent. Acton et al recommend that manufacturers make helmets so they cover a larger area of the head, with chinstraps and visors to provide maximum protection for the head and face.
Thompson et al recommend that steps be taken to reduce the number of bicycle crashes among adults and children. Also, Thompson et al discuss the need for bicycle-friendly riding environments to encourage cycling and reduce crashes. These would include improvements in road design, bicycle design, and bicyclist behavior, all of which contribute to better safety.
Every year, about 100,000 people visit hospital emergency rooms to treat injuries sustained from in-line skating accidents. An estimated 65,000 children under the age of 15 sustain in-line skating injuries, of which 29,000 will fracture a bone and 7,000 will injure their faces or heads. The number of injuries related to in-line skating increased 184 percent from 1993 to 1995. According to the CPSC, as many as two-thirds of injured in-line skaters were not wearing safety gear (i.e., helmets, elbow and knee pads, wrist guards and gloves). The rise in the number of in-line skating injuries underscores the need to encourage skaters to wear safety gear.
When in-line skating, females are generally more likely than males to wear some protective gear. However, females reportedly wear helmets as infrequently as males. Advanced and beginner skaters are much more likely to wear helmets than are average skaters. Teenagers are the least likely to wear any protective equipment (including helmets) compared with children and adults. Helmets are reportedly worn by 10.3 percent of older skaters, 8.1 percent of children, 2.0 percent of adults, 0.0 percent of teenagers.
As with many bicyclists, in-line skaters' lack of knowledge of the importance of protective equipment (including helmets), discomfort from the equipment, perceived unattractive appearance while wearing protective gear, and cost all contribute to low rates of safety equipment usage.
A study conducted with parents and with children aged five to 14 who own bicycles showed that helmet ownership by children was significantly (p<.05) related to parental characteristics: educational level, race, perceived effectiveness of bicycle helmets, seat belt use and parental helmet ownership. Specifically, the incidence of helmet ownership was significantly higher in families in which the parent had a college or postgraduate degree (p<.001), was Caucasian (p<.05), reported always using seat belts (p<.01), owned a bicycle helmet (p<.001), and perceived helmets as effective for preventing head injury (p<.05).
Several researchers have found that a major barrier to helmet use by children and adolescents is lack of parental awareness. When parents were asked why their children do not own bicycle helmets, the most common responses were: "never thought about purchasing a helmet" (35 percent ), "never got around to purchasing a helmet" (29 percent), "child wouldn't wear it anyway" (26 percent), and the bicycle helmet was "too expensive" (16 percent). Other reasons for not purchasing bicycle helmets for their children include: "child doesn't ride enough" (19 percent) and "only rides in safe areas" (12 percent).
In the Miller et al study, parents identified magazines, television, family and friends, and pediatricians as key sources of bicycle helmet information. The only source significantly associated with increased helmet ownership was friends and family (p<.01).
Also, in Miller's study, only 48 of the 169 children interviewed owned bicycle helmets. Of these children, only 16 (33 percent) follow strict helmet-wearing rules; 10 follow partial rules and 22 had no parental rules on helmets. As might be expected, children with strict helmet rules were more likely to wear them always or most of the time. Interestingly, the incidence of helmet wearing was no greater for children who had partial rules than those with no rules.
Since lack of parental awareness was the most frequent reason for not purchasing helmets, Miller et al suggested that parental education, particularly through pediatricians, could help to increase bicycle helmet use. A number of researchers have suggested targeting education programs at pediatricians, as well as at parents.
Children's Attitudes Towards Helmets and Their Use
According to CPSC, each year about 400,000 children under the age of 15 are treated in hospital emergency rooms for bicycle-related injuries. An additional 300 die as a result of their injuries. And, about one-third of the injuries and two-thirds of the deaths of bicyclists aged five to 14 are head-related.
National statistics show that only 15 percent of children wear bicycle helmets, even though many youngsters seemed to understand that helmets could protect their head from injury. One child said "you could be paralyzed, killed, or you could suffer brain damage." CPSC found that, of those children who own helmets, 43 percent reportedly wear them always or most of the time, 11 percent wear them occasionally, and 44 percent seldom or never wear their helmets. According to the CPSC, helmet use was highest for younger children (age six or less) and lowest for older children (12 to 14 year olds).
A survey of 282 children conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the CPSC determined that children most disliked the fit of bicycle helmets (46 percent). Many reportedly complained that the helmets felt uncomfortable on the head or that the chinstraps pinch. Interestingly, when these children were asked what one thing they would change about the helmets, the majority (52 percent) said "how they look," and only 23 percent said "how they fit."
In a bicycle injury study conducted in Ohio, many of the children who do not own a bicycle helmet seemed to lack an awareness or understanding of the importance of helmets. Twenty-nine percent of the children in this study said they "never thought of wearing a helmet" and 19 percent said that wearing a helmet is "not necessary." Only 15 percent expressed negative feelings about bicycle helmets, including they did not like helmets in general or did not like the way they look (e.g., ugly or embarrassing).
In yet a third study, child helmet owners who do not wear their helmet said they do not feel it is necessary or that they forgot or lost it. On the other hand, those who do not own helmets reportedly avoid this type of head gear because of the way they look or because they are uncomfortable. Style and comfort appear to be more important barriers to helmet use for adolescents and young adults who are reluctant to wear a helmet if their peers do not.
In a 1994 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children most frequently pointed to low perceived risk of injury or simply "never considered the issue" as the main reasons for not owning a helmet or wearing one more often
Children in the CPSC/AAA survey suggested that helmet manufacturers use "cooler" colors and more interesting and varied designs. They also indicated that a role model, such as a celebrity or professional athlete, who would talk about the importance and benefits of helmets, might encourage some children to wear bicycle helmets. Other children indicated that discussing the consequences of riding a bicycle without a helmet would be effective in promoting helmet use. Still others suggested that retailers and local communities run promotions (e.g. wear a bike helmet and get a free pizza) to increase helmet use among children.
A number of researchers have found that the incidence of helmet use was higher among those who ride with peers wearing helmets than those who ride alone or with peers who do not wear helmets. Children were also more likely to wear helmets if their parents wear them.
No conclusive evidence has been uncovered to show that children who wear helmets as youngsters continue to wear them as they grow older. However, in a study conducted in Oregon where mandatory helmet laws exist, researchers predicted that because younger children were more likely to comply with helmet laws, helmet use by Oregon children may continue to increase as younger children grow up with the law.
Number of Head Injuries, Causes and Ways to Prevent Them
Bicycle injury rates are reportedly highest for five to 15 year-olds, with these children accounting for three-fourths of all bicycle head injuries. Within this group, females five to nine years of age and males 10 to 14 years old have the highest injury rates per 100,000 population, according to Thompson et al. For all age categories, males are injured more often than females. This may be attributed, in part, to the fact that males ride more frequently and spend more time on bicycles than females.
According to one study, children are reportedly six times less likely than adults to wear helmets even though they are over twice as likely to sustain a severe head injury.
Studies show that the most common cause of death and serious disability from bicycle crashes is head injury. Head and brain injuries are the primary or contributing cause of death in 62 percent to 90 percent of all bicycling fatalities. Riding at speeds greater than 15 miles per hour - which is not unusual -- increased the risk of severe injury by 40 percent.
Grimand, Nolan and Carlin carried out one study that demonstrates the effectiveness of bicycle helmets. This study reveals that the majority of injuries sustained by helmeted bicyclists were mild. However, helmeted children were as likely as unhelmeted children to suffer facial injuries. Helmeted bicyclists who suffered head injury, in many instances, did not properly wear the helmet.
Overall, helmets have been found to decrease the risk of head and brain injury by 70 percent to 88 percent and facial injury to the upper and mid-face by 65 percent. Acton et al recommend that manufacturers make helmets so they cover a larger area of the head, with chinstraps and visors to provide maximum protection for the head and face.
Thompson et al recommend that steps be taken to reduce the number of bicycle crashes among adults and children. Also, Thompson et al discuss the need for bicycle-friendly riding environments to encourage cycling and reduce crashes. These would include improvements in road design, bicycle design, and bicyclist behavior, all of which contribute to better safety.
Every year, about 100,000 people visit hospital emergency rooms to treat injuries sustained from in-line skating accidents. An estimated 65,000 children under the age of 15 sustain in-line skating injuries, of which 29,000 will fracture a bone and 7,000 will injure their faces or heads. The number of injuries related to in-line skating increased 184 percent from 1993 to 1995. According to the CPSC, as many as two-thirds of injured in-line skaters were not wearing safety gear (i.e., helmets, elbow and knee pads, wrist guards and gloves). The rise in the number of in-line skating injuries underscores the need to encourage skaters to wear safety gear.
When in-line skating, females are generally more likely than males to wear some protective gear. However, females reportedly wear helmets as infrequently as males. Advanced and beginner skaters are much more likely to wear helmets than are average skaters. Teenagers are the least likely to wear any protective equipment (including helmets) compared with children and adults. Helmets are reportedly worn by 10.3 percent of older skaters, 8.1 percent of children, 2.0 percent of adults, 0.0 percent of teenagers.
As with many bicyclists, in-line skaters' lack of knowledge of the importance of protective equipment (including helmets), discomfort from the equipment, perceived unattractive appearance while wearing protective gear, and cost all contribute to low rates of safety equipment usage.
Always Wear a helmet!!
My son went to the skate park and usually uses his skate board, however he asked a child if he could use his bike and decided to take a try at riding a bike over some high steps.
He almost didn't put his helmet on, however he did but it flew off during impact..
My boy lost consciousness over three times by the time he was at the Emergency Room, we were there for over 4 to 5 hours and then the ambulance took him to another hospital.
We were admitted for several days. I'm happy to say he is doing much better but please make sure you put a helmet and all the rest of the safety stuff on your child or tell them no to going out on a skateboard or bike.
Wearing a helmet is probably what saved my little guys life..
He almost didn't put his helmet on, however he did but it flew off during impact..
My boy lost consciousness over three times by the time he was at the Emergency Room, we were there for over 4 to 5 hours and then the ambulance took him to another hospital.
We were admitted for several days. I'm happy to say he is doing much better but please make sure you put a helmet and all the rest of the safety stuff on your child or tell them no to going out on a skateboard or bike.
Wearing a helmet is probably what saved my little guys life..
Friday, May 1, 2009
My Peach Cobbler
So darn good! All you do is cut a piece and throw some vanilla ice cream on top!!!
I made this today Friday it was a great way to celebrate it being FRIDAY.. =)
I made this today Friday it was a great way to celebrate it being FRIDAY.. =)
Quotations involving Buddhism:
"Buddhism has the characteristics of what would be expected in a cosmic religion for the future: it transcends a personal God, avoids dogmas and theology; it covers both the natural & spiritual, and it is based on a religious sense aspiring from the experience of all things, natural and spiritual, as a meaningful unity" A widely cited, but apparently spurious quotation attributed to Albert Einstein 1
bullet "The greatest achievement is selflessness.
The greatest worth is self-mastery.
The greatest quality is seeking to serve others.
The greatest precept is continual awareness.
The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.
The greatest action is not conforming with the worlds ways.
The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.
The greatest generosity is non-attachment.
The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind.
The greatest patience is humility.
The greatest effort is not concerned with results.
The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go.
The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances." Atisha.
bullet "If you live the sacred and despise the ordinary, you are still bobbing in the ocean of delusion." Lin-Chi.
bullet "Aware of the suffering caused by the destruction of life, I vow to cultivate compassion and learn ways to protect lives of people, animals, plants, and minerals. I am determined not to kill, not to let others kill, and not to condone any killing in the world, in my thinking, and in my way of life." Thich Nhat Hanh.
bullet "When the mind begins to become still, we then begin to truly see it. When you first try to stabilize and pacify the mind, initially it will become very busy because it's not accustomed to being still. In fact, it doesn't even necessarily want to become still, but it is essential to get a hold of the mind to recognize its nature. This practice is extremely important. ... Eventually you will find yourself in a state where your mind is clear and open all the time. It is just like when the clouds are removed from the sky and the sun can clearly be seen, shining all the time. This is coming close to the state of liberation, liberation from all traces of suffering. ... The truth of this practice is universal. It isn't necessary to call it a religion to practice it. Whether one is a Hindu or a Moslem or a Christian or a Buddhist simply doesn't matter. Anyone can practice this because this is the nature of the mind, the nature of everyone's mind. If you can get a handle on your mind, and pacify it in this way, you will definitely experience these results, and you will see them in your daily life situation. There is no need to put this into any kind of category, any kind of "ism." Venerable Gyatrul Rinpoche
bullet "The greatest achievement is selflessness.
The greatest worth is self-mastery.
The greatest quality is seeking to serve others.
The greatest precept is continual awareness.
The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.
The greatest action is not conforming with the worlds ways.
The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.
The greatest generosity is non-attachment.
The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind.
The greatest patience is humility.
The greatest effort is not concerned with results.
The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go.
The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances." Atisha.
bullet "If you live the sacred and despise the ordinary, you are still bobbing in the ocean of delusion." Lin-Chi.
bullet "Aware of the suffering caused by the destruction of life, I vow to cultivate compassion and learn ways to protect lives of people, animals, plants, and minerals. I am determined not to kill, not to let others kill, and not to condone any killing in the world, in my thinking, and in my way of life." Thich Nhat Hanh.
bullet "When the mind begins to become still, we then begin to truly see it. When you first try to stabilize and pacify the mind, initially it will become very busy because it's not accustomed to being still. In fact, it doesn't even necessarily want to become still, but it is essential to get a hold of the mind to recognize its nature. This practice is extremely important. ... Eventually you will find yourself in a state where your mind is clear and open all the time. It is just like when the clouds are removed from the sky and the sun can clearly be seen, shining all the time. This is coming close to the state of liberation, liberation from all traces of suffering. ... The truth of this practice is universal. It isn't necessary to call it a religion to practice it. Whether one is a Hindu or a Moslem or a Christian or a Buddhist simply doesn't matter. Anyone can practice this because this is the nature of the mind, the nature of everyone's mind. If you can get a handle on your mind, and pacify it in this way, you will definitely experience these results, and you will see them in your daily life situation. There is no need to put this into any kind of category, any kind of "ism." Venerable Gyatrul Rinpoche
Pozole...
Pozole is so darn good!!
See now what you do is add salsa, cabbage, onions, cilantro etc. MAKES IS SO GOOD!
See now what you do is add salsa, cabbage, onions, cilantro etc. MAKES IS SO GOOD!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Another yumi dinner
This was a very quick simple dinner...
Ground beef cooked in a pan, a can of tomatoes, stewed or cut preferably. Put the can tomatoes in a 10x10pan and cut up potatoes, put the potatoes on top and then the ground beef on top of that and throw it in the oven. I put the timer at 30minutes with it at 350 degrees... Put foil over or a lid depending on what kind of pan you use.
Then mix it up in there put it in for another ten to twenty minutes depending on how soft you love your potatoes...
P.S- You can also add green beans (a very easy quick dinner)
((Now on my bowl I cut up avocado and added it, I then threw some crystal hot sauce on top))
This was so darn good!
Ground beef cooked in a pan, a can of tomatoes, stewed or cut preferably. Put the can tomatoes in a 10x10pan and cut up potatoes, put the potatoes on top and then the ground beef on top of that and throw it in the oven. I put the timer at 30minutes with it at 350 degrees... Put foil over or a lid depending on what kind of pan you use.
Then mix it up in there put it in for another ten to twenty minutes depending on how soft you love your potatoes...
P.S- You can also add green beans (a very easy quick dinner)
((Now on my bowl I cut up avocado and added it, I then threw some crystal hot sauce on top))
This was so darn good!
A very yumi bagel
Jalapeno Bagel
Put it in the toaster
Put cheese on it, then cream cheese on the other side. I then made eggs and put it together and put it in the microwave for a few seconds.
YUM
Put it in the toaster
Put cheese on it, then cream cheese on the other side. I then made eggs and put it together and put it in the microwave for a few seconds.
YUM
Mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness meditation:
The person sits quietly and simply witnesses whatever goes through the mind, not reacting or becoming involved with thoughts, memories, worries, or images. This helps to gain a more calm, clear, and non-reactive state of mind. Mindfulness meditation can be likened to a wide-angle lens. Instead of narrowing your sight to a selected field as in concentrative meditation, here you will be aware of the entire field.
The person sits quietly and simply witnesses whatever goes through the mind, not reacting or becoming involved with thoughts, memories, worries, or images. This helps to gain a more calm, clear, and non-reactive state of mind. Mindfulness meditation can be likened to a wide-angle lens. Instead of narrowing your sight to a selected field as in concentrative meditation, here you will be aware of the entire field.
Concentrative meditation
Concentrative meditation:
focuses the attention on the breath, an image, or a sound (mantra), in order to still the mind and allow a greater awareness and clarity to emerge. This is like a zoom lens in a camera; we narrow our focus to a selected field.
The simplest form of concentrative meditation is to sit quietly and focus the attention on the breath. Yoga and meditation practitioners believe that there is a direct correlation between one's breath and one's state of the mind. For example, when a person is anxious, frightened, agitated, or distracted, the breath will tend to be shallow, rapid, and uneven. On the other hand, when the mind is calm, focused, and composed, the breath will tend to be slow, deep, and regular. Focusing the mind on the continuous rhythm of inhalation and exhalation provides a natural object of meditation. As you focus your awareness on the breath, your mind becomes absorbed in the rhythm of inhalation and exhalation. As a result, your breathing will become slower and deeper, and the mind becomes more tranquil and aware.
Mindfulness meditation
focuses the attention on the breath, an image, or a sound (mantra), in order to still the mind and allow a greater awareness and clarity to emerge. This is like a zoom lens in a camera; we narrow our focus to a selected field.
The simplest form of concentrative meditation is to sit quietly and focus the attention on the breath. Yoga and meditation practitioners believe that there is a direct correlation between one's breath and one's state of the mind. For example, when a person is anxious, frightened, agitated, or distracted, the breath will tend to be shallow, rapid, and uneven. On the other hand, when the mind is calm, focused, and composed, the breath will tend to be slow, deep, and regular. Focusing the mind on the continuous rhythm of inhalation and exhalation provides a natural object of meditation. As you focus your awareness on the breath, your mind becomes absorbed in the rhythm of inhalation and exhalation. As a result, your breathing will become slower and deeper, and the mind becomes more tranquil and aware.
Mindfulness meditation
How long should I meditate?
Be realistic with the amount of time you spend meditating. Begin by meditating for only 5 to 15 minutes and then increase your time as you feel appropriate. Each week try doing one longer meditation. Meditating with others can be highly beneficial and will involve a different, higher plateau of energy. Meditating with someone who has performed it longer can also bring insight and encouragement.
Aim for quality, not quantity. Begin with short sessions during which you focus with all your heart and the time will naturally increase. You can even meditate many times a day for very small amounts of time. Longer sessions will start to feel short as you continue on your spiritual journey.
Meditation produces subtle effects that you will start to see over time as you practice. Your meditation will deepen and you will be successful if you put forth the effort. But you will need to have a strong will and positive outlook without pride. With a constant stream of moderate effort, you will see your life change in positive ways.
Aim for quality, not quantity. Begin with short sessions during which you focus with all your heart and the time will naturally increase. You can even meditate many times a day for very small amounts of time. Longer sessions will start to feel short as you continue on your spiritual journey.
Meditation produces subtle effects that you will start to see over time as you practice. Your meditation will deepen and you will be successful if you put forth the effort. But you will need to have a strong will and positive outlook without pride. With a constant stream of moderate effort, you will see your life change in positive ways.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Lindor Truffles
I absolutely love love love these! If you ever want to get me chocolate you can totally get me some of these.
By far I've never been a sweets person, however when I became ill I suddenly had this sweet tooth. How strange is that??
Well out of everything I think these have to be my favorites.
By far I've never been a sweets person, however when I became ill I suddenly had this sweet tooth. How strange is that??
Well out of everything I think these have to be my favorites.
ECE COLLEGE UNITS
I loved doing my ECE and Pysch Classes for becoming a Teacher!
Exciting, so I'm going to go to Bible College as well and use them both for my future, hopefully I can find a great job in a Wonderful Church!
However if not, I can still be a teacher and have the tools God leaves me with for his purpose.
Exciting, so I'm going to go to Bible College as well and use them both for my future, hopefully I can find a great job in a Wonderful Church!
However if not, I can still be a teacher and have the tools God leaves me with for his purpose.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Cute Story
A 92 year old man, just as sharp as can be!
Every day up by 8am fully dressed, always looked impeccable.
Cleanly shaved, sharply dressed.
Although he could see images somewhat, he was legally blind.
His wife of 70 years, just passed, he was on his way to a senior home to move in, after waiting in the lobby for several hours, a young lady came out to help him to it.
As he maneuvered his walker through the hallway, the young lady started describing he room in great detail, she told how nice it was about the window etc.
As they were walking he interrupted her talking and said "I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT"
The young lady kinda laughed and said sir you haven't seen it yet we aren't there yet, let me show it to you; he said "No that doesn't have anything to do with it, happiness is something you decide ahead of time, weather I like my room or not doesn't have anything to do with how the furniture is arranged, it depends on how my mind is arranged."
((This was on Joel Osteen show on the Church Channel))
Every day up by 8am fully dressed, always looked impeccable.
Cleanly shaved, sharply dressed.
Although he could see images somewhat, he was legally blind.
His wife of 70 years, just passed, he was on his way to a senior home to move in, after waiting in the lobby for several hours, a young lady came out to help him to it.
As he maneuvered his walker through the hallway, the young lady started describing he room in great detail, she told how nice it was about the window etc.
As they were walking he interrupted her talking and said "I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT"
The young lady kinda laughed and said sir you haven't seen it yet we aren't there yet, let me show it to you; he said "No that doesn't have anything to do with it, happiness is something you decide ahead of time, weather I like my room or not doesn't have anything to do with how the furniture is arranged, it depends on how my mind is arranged."
((This was on Joel Osteen show on the Church Channel))
Monday, March 16, 2009
Feeling a little poetic..
Her heart glows like the coals of a warm fire,
Having no trouble with her true felt desire.
Knowing what she wants,
Letting her body flaunt,
Looking as her skin shows bright,
We both know it must be right.
All that has been done,
In the night and in the evening sun,
This fire that we light,
All our love such a beautiful sight.
I feel it in my bones and eyes,
A love that never dies,
We were given a gift,
Something that gave our spirits a lift.
While the sun sinks below the mountain,
Our body naked in a fountain,
A moment to treasure,
A moment Forever,
Such a thing as this,
In the utmost sense is true bliss.
All to be given,
Is the life that's to be liven,
A bond between two,
A bond that is to be shared with you.
This that is so nice,
That odds are the role of the dice,
For me to have you,
Shows me I can be true.
Having no trouble with her true felt desire.
Knowing what she wants,
Letting her body flaunt,
Looking as her skin shows bright,
We both know it must be right.
All that has been done,
In the night and in the evening sun,
This fire that we light,
All our love such a beautiful sight.
I feel it in my bones and eyes,
A love that never dies,
We were given a gift,
Something that gave our spirits a lift.
While the sun sinks below the mountain,
Our body naked in a fountain,
A moment to treasure,
A moment Forever,
Such a thing as this,
In the utmost sense is true bliss.
All to be given,
Is the life that's to be liven,
A bond between two,
A bond that is to be shared with you.
This that is so nice,
That odds are the role of the dice,
For me to have you,
Shows me I can be true.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Why do people say to love you let go?
We are all a little weird and life's a little weird and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.
There are things that we never want to let go of, people we never want to leave behind, but keep in mind that letting go isn't the end of the world, it's the beginning of a new life.
Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched and those who have tried.
For only they can appreciate the importance of the people who have touched their lives.
A great love? It's when you shed tears and still you care for her, it's when she ignores you and still you long for her.
It's when she begins to love another and yet you still smile and say "I'm happy for you.
If love fails, set yourself free, let your heart spread its wings and fly again.
Remember you may find love and lose it, but when love dies, you never have to die with it.
The strongest people are not those who always win but those who stand back up when they fall.
Somehow along the course of life, you learn about yourself and realize there should never be regrets, only a lifelong appreciation of the choices you've made.
A true friend understands when you say, I forgot, waits forever when you say, just a minute, stays when you say leave me alone, opens the door even before you knock and says "Can I come in?"
Loving is not how you forget but how you forgive, not how you listen but how you understand, not what you see but how you feel, and not how you let go but how you hold on.
It's more dangerous to weep inwardly rather than outwardly.
Outward tears can be wiped away while secret tears scar forever.
In love, very rarely do we win but when love is true, even if you lose, you still win just for having the tingle of loving someone more than you love yourself.
There comes a time when we have to stop loving someone not because that person
has stopped loving us but because we have found out that they'd be happier if we let go.
It's best to wait for the one you want than settle for one that's available.
Best to wait for the one you love than one who is around.
Best to wait for the right one because life is too short to waste on just someone.
Sometimes the one you love turns out to be the one who hurts you the most, and sometimes the friend who takes you into there arms and cries when you cry turns out to be the love you never knew you wanted.
If you really love someone never let go, don't believe that letting go means that you love best, instead fight for your love, that's what true love is.
Laugh to your heart's content; you cannot go through life without it
There are things that we never want to let go of, people we never want to leave behind, but keep in mind that letting go isn't the end of the world, it's the beginning of a new life.
Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched and those who have tried.
For only they can appreciate the importance of the people who have touched their lives.
A great love? It's when you shed tears and still you care for her, it's when she ignores you and still you long for her.
It's when she begins to love another and yet you still smile and say "I'm happy for you.
If love fails, set yourself free, let your heart spread its wings and fly again.
Remember you may find love and lose it, but when love dies, you never have to die with it.
The strongest people are not those who always win but those who stand back up when they fall.
Somehow along the course of life, you learn about yourself and realize there should never be regrets, only a lifelong appreciation of the choices you've made.
A true friend understands when you say, I forgot, waits forever when you say, just a minute, stays when you say leave me alone, opens the door even before you knock and says "Can I come in?"
Loving is not how you forget but how you forgive, not how you listen but how you understand, not what you see but how you feel, and not how you let go but how you hold on.
It's more dangerous to weep inwardly rather than outwardly.
Outward tears can be wiped away while secret tears scar forever.
In love, very rarely do we win but when love is true, even if you lose, you still win just for having the tingle of loving someone more than you love yourself.
There comes a time when we have to stop loving someone not because that person
has stopped loving us but because we have found out that they'd be happier if we let go.
It's best to wait for the one you want than settle for one that's available.
Best to wait for the one you love than one who is around.
Best to wait for the right one because life is too short to waste on just someone.
Sometimes the one you love turns out to be the one who hurts you the most, and sometimes the friend who takes you into there arms and cries when you cry turns out to be the love you never knew you wanted.
If you really love someone never let go, don't believe that letting go means that you love best, instead fight for your love, that's what true love is.
Laugh to your heart's content; you cannot go through life without it
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Saddest day of my life
I believed the day my Aunt died would always continue to be the worse day of my life! As I have always had such a hard time with it! I have always just seen it getting worse and worse! I mean how can you deal with it, counseling, talks, reading, crying, praying; nothing really has helped or prepared me for this day!
The only thing I did know is I didn't want to be married and be not living with the person or not having a MARRIAGE!
I felt as though it was my only choice, but if so...
WHY DOES IT HURT SO MUCH??????????? WHY DOES IT MAKE ME WANT TO DIE?
I knew this day would come but I wasn't ready for it.
The only thing I did know is I didn't want to be married and be not living with the person or not having a MARRIAGE!
I felt as though it was my only choice, but if so...
WHY DOES IT HURT SO MUCH??????????? WHY DOES IT MAKE ME WANT TO DIE?
I knew this day would come but I wasn't ready for it.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Divorce
It is an unfortunate fact that divorce has become commonplace in our society. The pain and anguish this is created in a divorce has a ripple effect on the family unit. Often family members are confused as how to act around the now divorced couple. Children are often used as pawns between their father and mother. Each one may try to gain the upper hand in the battle for their children's affection. Getting divorced may be necessary in cases when a relationship cannot be salvaged. However, the couple should keep in mind that the whole family unit will be affected by this change.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
His Birthday
Today I want to cry, it's my dads birthday and not being able to see him is pretty hard. It's been hard not being able to share all that is going on in person or on the phone but doing it by mail is just sometimes frustrating.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Not Easily Broken
Very good movie!
You should go see it if you haven't.
Seven Pounds was another good one as well.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Found when packing
My feelings of being stressed-Written sometime in August, I found it as I was packing
The feeling of being stressed out makes me want to rage, run, and shout.
Screaming
"Why can't I manage all this stress?"
and
"Why did I let myself get so low to have my life be such a God Damn Mess?"
All I want is to be able to keep in the present, stop dwelling on the past, so that the cloud can be liftedand I can see the road to find a changed me
And
hope God will show me signs to find my true Destiny.
But right now all I keep asking God is to let me be...
To please stop giving me all the these tests
Because it is just making me feel run down and depressed
I hate feeling so anxious, irritable, and overwhelmed
When I am feeling like this my mind feels like it isin another realm.
But as I have been told God is only here to give you whatyou
"need"
not necessarily what you
"want"
Though it feels like these tradgedy's,
road blocks,
and tests are making the stress build a fight in my head
Where it's like these demons are there to scare me and taunt
Taunt me to make me afraid of what lies next
And
to keep me in my head where the crazy thoughts run
To keep making me think of the Pain I went through in the past that I regret but will never forget
Today I am truly trying to change my character defects
Keep in the day,
stay clean,
and learn coping skills
So that I can manage my life and have a strong will
And
I can live my life with the desire to survive
So that I can finally have the compelling feeling of being alive.
Kids & Grades
Why is it when we are little we do not realize how important grades are?
Why is it now as grown ups we will cram and do all we can to get a great grade?
I work on my classes and even if I'm sick I try really hard.
My sons grades really make no sense. I have asked his teacher over and over to let me know if there is any issues. I'm not happy about getting grades that are horrible.
Maybe I made a mistake taking him out of private school. How is it that public school is easier but his grades are not well like when he was in private school.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Secret tears scar forever-
Do you have any idea how bad Chemo is?
As soon as I got past the shock of being told I had cancer, I wanted to learn more.
You never thought it could happen to you or a loved one
But when it does everything changes
Winter comes faster
And summer fades away
Oh, I hate cancer's pain.
As soon as I got past the shock of being told I had cancer, I wanted to learn more.
You never thought it could happen to you or a loved one
But when it does everything changes
Winter comes faster
And summer fades away
Oh, I hate cancer's pain.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Having a serious illness
You have learned that you have a life-threatening illness. Even if you have the loving support of family and friends, you may feel alone as you question your future health. This article is intended to help you live with your life-threatening illness.
Acknowledging Your Illness
Learning that you are seriously ill is a blow. If the onset of the illness was sudden or unexpected, you will likely feel shock and numbness at first. This is a natural and necessary response to painful news.
You can only cope with this new reality in doses. You will first come to understand it in your head, and only over the weeks and even months to come will you come to understand it with your heart.
To acknowledge that you have a life-threatening illness-be it cancer, heart disease or something else-is to acknowledge a major life transition. This transition is one that at some level we think only happens to other people, not us. Yet, inexplicably, it is happening to you. You are faced with a multitude of questions. What treatment should I pursue? Will my treatments reverse, delay or cure my illness? Who can I talk to about my thoughts and feelings? Am I going to die?
Facing the Unknown About the Illness
Discovering that you have a life-threatening illness naturally makes you take inventory of your life. You have a right to have questions, fears and hopes. Illness establishes new directions and often causes some questioning of old directions. New thoughts, feelings and action patterns will emerge. The unknown invites you to question and search for the meaning of your life, in the past, present and future.
Accept Your Respnse to the Illness
Each person responds to news of illness in his or her own unique way. You, too, will have your response, be it fear, excitement, anger, loss, grief, denial, hope or any combination of emotions. Becoming aware of how you respond right now is to discover how you will live with your illness. Don't let others prescribe how you feel; find people who encourage you to teach them how you feel. After all, there is no right or wrong way for you to think and feel.
Respect Your Own Need for Talk, for Silence
You may find that you don't want to talk about your illness at all. Or you may find that you want to talk about it with some people, but not with others. In general, open and honest communication is a good idea. When you make your thoughts and feelings known, you are more likely to receive the kind of care and companionship you feel will be most helpful to you.
But if you don't want to talk about your illness, don't force yourself. Perhaps you will be able to open up more later on, after you have lived with the reality of your illness for a time.
Telling Your Family and Friends About Your Illness
Your family and closest friends deserve to know what is happening to you. Tell them when you feel able to.
Be aware that everyone will react differently to your news, just as each seriously ill person reacts differently to his or her own illness. Many will be shocked. Many will cry. Some will refuse to believe it. Some will spring into helpful action by running errands for you, offering to clean your house, etc. Â
Many will not know how to respond. Because they don't know what to say or do, or because your illness may arouse their own fears of mortality, they may even avoid you altogether. Know that their apparent abandonment does not mean they don't love you.
Even children deserve to be told about your illness. As with all people, children can cope with what they know. They cannot cope with what they don't know. Be honest with them as you explain the situation in language they will understand. Don't overexplain, but do answer any questions they may have.
Be an Active Participant in your Treatment
Many people are taught as "patients" to be passive recipients of the care provided by medical experts. But don't forget-this is your body, your life. Don't fail to ask questions that are important to your emotional and physical well-being out of fear that you will be "taking up someone's time."
Learn about your illness. Visit your local library and consult the medical reference books. Request information from educational associations, such as the National Cancer Institute or the American Heart Association. Ask your doctor, nurses and other caregivers whenever you have a question.
If you educate yourself about the illness and its treatments, you will better understand what is happening to you. You will be better equipped to advocate for personalized, compassionate care. You may not be in control of your illness, but you can and should be in control of your care.
Be Tolerant of Your Physical and Emotional Limits
Your illness and its treatment will almost surely leave you feeling fatigued. Your ability to think clearly and make decisions may be impaired. And your low energy level may naturally slow you down. Respect what your body and mind are telling you. Nurture yourself. Get enough rest. Eat balanced meals. Lighten your schedule as much as possible.
Find Hope
When people are seriously ill, we tend to get caught up in statistics and averages about physical deterioration, treatments and survival. These can be helpful to know, but they don't always provide spiritual and emotional comfort.
Even if your future is guarded, you can find hope in your next treatment, your next visit from someone loved, your spirituality. At bottom, hope means finding meaning in life-whether that life will last five more months, five more years or five more decades.
Embrace Your Spirituality
If faith is part of your life, express it in ways that seem appropriate to you. You may find comfort and hope in reading spiritual texts, attending religious services or praying. Allow yourself to be around people who understand and support your religious beliefs. If you are angry at God because of your illness, realize that this is a normal and natural response. Find someone to talk to who won't be critical of whatever thoughts and feelings you need to explore.
Reach Out for Support
Many of us grew up believing, "Do it on your own so you don't have to depend on anyone else." But confronting a life-threatening illness cannot and should not be done alone. As difficult as it may be for you, you must reach out to your fellow human beings. Most of us know who we feel comfortable turning to when we are under stress. Who do you turn to? Give yourself permission to reach out for prayers, support and practical assistance.
If you do not have a large circle of family and friends, find out about local support groups for people with life-threatening illness. You might also consider seeing a counselor one-on-one. Whatever you do, don't isolate yourself and withdraw from people who love you
Acknowledging Your Illness
Learning that you are seriously ill is a blow. If the onset of the illness was sudden or unexpected, you will likely feel shock and numbness at first. This is a natural and necessary response to painful news.
You can only cope with this new reality in doses. You will first come to understand it in your head, and only over the weeks and even months to come will you come to understand it with your heart.
To acknowledge that you have a life-threatening illness-be it cancer, heart disease or something else-is to acknowledge a major life transition. This transition is one that at some level we think only happens to other people, not us. Yet, inexplicably, it is happening to you. You are faced with a multitude of questions. What treatment should I pursue? Will my treatments reverse, delay or cure my illness? Who can I talk to about my thoughts and feelings? Am I going to die?
Facing the Unknown About the Illness
Discovering that you have a life-threatening illness naturally makes you take inventory of your life. You have a right to have questions, fears and hopes. Illness establishes new directions and often causes some questioning of old directions. New thoughts, feelings and action patterns will emerge. The unknown invites you to question and search for the meaning of your life, in the past, present and future.
Accept Your Respnse to the Illness
Each person responds to news of illness in his or her own unique way. You, too, will have your response, be it fear, excitement, anger, loss, grief, denial, hope or any combination of emotions. Becoming aware of how you respond right now is to discover how you will live with your illness. Don't let others prescribe how you feel; find people who encourage you to teach them how you feel. After all, there is no right or wrong way for you to think and feel.
Respect Your Own Need for Talk, for Silence
You may find that you don't want to talk about your illness at all. Or you may find that you want to talk about it with some people, but not with others. In general, open and honest communication is a good idea. When you make your thoughts and feelings known, you are more likely to receive the kind of care and companionship you feel will be most helpful to you.
But if you don't want to talk about your illness, don't force yourself. Perhaps you will be able to open up more later on, after you have lived with the reality of your illness for a time.
Telling Your Family and Friends About Your Illness
Your family and closest friends deserve to know what is happening to you. Tell them when you feel able to.
Be aware that everyone will react differently to your news, just as each seriously ill person reacts differently to his or her own illness. Many will be shocked. Many will cry. Some will refuse to believe it. Some will spring into helpful action by running errands for you, offering to clean your house, etc. Â
Many will not know how to respond. Because they don't know what to say or do, or because your illness may arouse their own fears of mortality, they may even avoid you altogether. Know that their apparent abandonment does not mean they don't love you.
Even children deserve to be told about your illness. As with all people, children can cope with what they know. They cannot cope with what they don't know. Be honest with them as you explain the situation in language they will understand. Don't overexplain, but do answer any questions they may have.
Be an Active Participant in your Treatment
Many people are taught as "patients" to be passive recipients of the care provided by medical experts. But don't forget-this is your body, your life. Don't fail to ask questions that are important to your emotional and physical well-being out of fear that you will be "taking up someone's time."
Learn about your illness. Visit your local library and consult the medical reference books. Request information from educational associations, such as the National Cancer Institute or the American Heart Association. Ask your doctor, nurses and other caregivers whenever you have a question.
If you educate yourself about the illness and its treatments, you will better understand what is happening to you. You will be better equipped to advocate for personalized, compassionate care. You may not be in control of your illness, but you can and should be in control of your care.
Be Tolerant of Your Physical and Emotional Limits
Your illness and its treatment will almost surely leave you feeling fatigued. Your ability to think clearly and make decisions may be impaired. And your low energy level may naturally slow you down. Respect what your body and mind are telling you. Nurture yourself. Get enough rest. Eat balanced meals. Lighten your schedule as much as possible.
Find Hope
When people are seriously ill, we tend to get caught up in statistics and averages about physical deterioration, treatments and survival. These can be helpful to know, but they don't always provide spiritual and emotional comfort.
Even if your future is guarded, you can find hope in your next treatment, your next visit from someone loved, your spirituality. At bottom, hope means finding meaning in life-whether that life will last five more months, five more years or five more decades.
Embrace Your Spirituality
If faith is part of your life, express it in ways that seem appropriate to you. You may find comfort and hope in reading spiritual texts, attending religious services or praying. Allow yourself to be around people who understand and support your religious beliefs. If you are angry at God because of your illness, realize that this is a normal and natural response. Find someone to talk to who won't be critical of whatever thoughts and feelings you need to explore.
Reach Out for Support
Many of us grew up believing, "Do it on your own so you don't have to depend on anyone else." But confronting a life-threatening illness cannot and should not be done alone. As difficult as it may be for you, you must reach out to your fellow human beings. Most of us know who we feel comfortable turning to when we are under stress. Who do you turn to? Give yourself permission to reach out for prayers, support and practical assistance.
If you do not have a large circle of family and friends, find out about local support groups for people with life-threatening illness. You might also consider seeing a counselor one-on-one. Whatever you do, don't isolate yourself and withdraw from people who love you
Friday, January 2, 2009
Welcome 2009
Well I'm not sure what this year will bring, everything has changed in my life from this or that. Nothing has remained the same except that my life is and has been changing for awhile!
I've dealt with so much.
I actually went through some things that no one has a clue about.
However I am doing life as if I have everything in the palm of my hand as if I have the whole future of greatness in front of me.
Maybe I'm crazy....
Maybe I'm just hopeful
Maybe God is speaking to me at the times I don't know what is next.
My baby and I are moving.
It's kind of strange nothing I would admit out loud but apart of me wondered what would happen during the time of my stay in this place.
However I got lost, made some crazy off the wall decisions with not thinking first. I can't go backwards so I'm in the New Year!
In one moment your life can change.
However I am looking at this new year for a time for the good I've learned to take place in my everyday life.
I've dealt with so much.
I actually went through some things that no one has a clue about.
However I am doing life as if I have everything in the palm of my hand as if I have the whole future of greatness in front of me.
Maybe I'm crazy....
Maybe I'm just hopeful
Maybe God is speaking to me at the times I don't know what is next.
My baby and I are moving.
It's kind of strange nothing I would admit out loud but apart of me wondered what would happen during the time of my stay in this place.
However I got lost, made some crazy off the wall decisions with not thinking first. I can't go backwards so I'm in the New Year!
In one moment your life can change.
However I am looking at this new year for a time for the good I've learned to take place in my everyday life.
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