tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40005118621576895692024-03-13T22:08:22.312-04:00Return to EdenThis blog has a target audience of those desiring to step out of the rat race of life in a world bent on living life at warp speed, to a life of simplicity in the 21st Century.Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-17989314721755422472013-10-26T22:43:00.000-04:002013-10-26T22:43:44.587-04:00<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:RelyOnVML/>
<o:AllowPNG/>
<o:TargetScreenSize>800x600</o:TargetScreenSize>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:DoNotOptimizeForBrowser/>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="371">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;"> </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Principles to
Live By (</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Sneak Peak at a Couple Pages of the Upcoming Book-Healthy Living in a Toxic World-excerpt)</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Embrace 'homesteading', meaning a 'rural
mentality' prepared to endure hard economic times and prepared to live with
less money and things</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We don't know what we don't know. I have
inadvertently, unwittingly fed my kids all the wrong foods, allowed them to
consume sugars, bad carbs, and chemical/preservative filled foods their entire
lives. We've used all the worst health and beauty products, drank and eaten
from the worst containers. We've blindly, like sheep, accepted all the FDA has
approved and consumed it. I have done some things right, however. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span>·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Cook primarily from 'scratch', and avoid
pre-packaged products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If it's a plant, eat it. If it was made
in a plant-don't eat it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If your food doesn't spoil, it's not
fresh and chances are part of it is not even food.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">80% of the food in the supermarket didn't
exist 25 years ago! Shop the perimeter. Before there were stores filled with
man-made products, we got our foods from farms, forests, fields!</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Drink water the majority of the time,
and plenty of it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Buy organic when possible, that way you
can avoid ingesting the nasty chemicals and pesticides often found on or in
non-organic foods.. If not possible, watch the labels and do the best you can.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Eat/drink whole foods-rather than fat free,
sugar free, or skim products.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Eat primarily fruits, veggies, nuts, and
grains<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Follow the 'eat healthy' 80/20% of the
time principle.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Cancer & infections cannot live in
an alkaline body (eat greens, use lemons).</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Eating healthy is the true “detox diet.”
There’s nothing fancy about it, just some dedication and trust in the amazing
functions of the human body. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Attend to the underlying emotional
issues and trauma that is causing you to turn to food for comfort.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Exercise is #1 biochemical way to
decrease stress. 4x a week is as effective anti-depressants.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sleep enough. Lack of sleep can increase
weight by 2 pounds, overnight!</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Visualize daily, how it will feel to be
healthy and how you will look.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Love much-yourself and others. Ditch
those who don't love you-your health depends on it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Live fully.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Laugh much-clinically proven to improve
immune system and decrease pain.</span></div>
Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-29071154027318411542013-10-25T23:07:00.001-04:002013-10-25T23:08:21.901-04:00<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:RelyOnVML/>
<o:AllowPNG/>
<o:TargetScreenSize>800x600</o:TargetScreenSize>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:DoNotOptimizeForBrowser/>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="371">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;">I've spent the past 8 months preparing to release to you my life-changing discoveries!!! Very soon, this practical 'quick tips and resource guide' will be available in a pocket size print edition, as well as Kindle edition. I will be sharing excerpts here, so stay tuned!!! </span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Prolouge-Healthy Living in a Toxic World</span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I'm a paid content writer,
journalist, investigative reporter, researcher. I also author books, and aid
others in getting theirs published. However, I did not set out to write a book
on the topic of healthy living. <b>I set out on this journey, in search of answers
to why my own health was so poor and declining by the month.</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Once I began researching for
answers to my own issues, I was stunned. Not only have I discovered some of the
reasons for my own suffering, but also those of some friends and family
members. One by one, I (and they) have begun implementing what I call 'best
practices. As I've done so, my <b>symptoms are disappearing and my health is
returning! </b>The added bonus is that I am also losing the extra pounds that I
have unnecessarily hauled around for years.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Raw
foods are a great step toward good health but I’m not suggesting that you go
all raw - my research tells me that some nutrients are heightened by
cooking, others are reduced, some aren’t changed and there are still a lot of
grey areas. Also, there are a lot of really terrific foods that aren’t
edible when not cooked – and cooking is fun! <b>So keep in mind that a
well-rounded, healthy diet is the best way to ensure that you are nourishing
your body</b> with all of the vitamins and minerals that you need.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">It is by no means an exhaustive
book on the topic. Moreover, I feel that this is only the tip of the iceberg,
just a glimpse of the toxic world we are living in and of the toxic 'food' and
medicines we have all been consuming, and toxic products we have been using. I readily acknowledge that there are plenty of 'experts' out there, who could and have written books on the topic. I have not found any one source that synthesizes all the data, condenses it, and compiles it into one spot-which a reader can use as a quick reference. <b>This book accomplishes what others haven't. Synthesized. Condensed. Compiled. AHHHH. </b></span></div>
<b>
</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I could be selfish and just keep
all of this researched information to myself, but I feel it would be wrong to
do so. I recognize that not everyone is an accomplished researcher nor does
everyone have the time to research and synthesize several hundred sites and
books!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 83.3pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Therefore, I am releasing my
findings to you, in the <b>most coherent and concise manner</b> possible, in an easy
to read and understand format.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <b>(Bullets and quick tips)</b> </span>I may
release a more exhaustive book at a later date, but at this point, I want to
give you the information so that you may begin to <b>make informed choices, now. </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>This
book contains truth and insight regarding our toxic world and how to stay
healthy while living in it.</b> The words contained within this book are applicable
to people in every country around the world. It crosses all ethnic and
socio-economic barriers and gives bottom line information to the reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Balance</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> is the
keyword. I am giving you the factual information, but realize that it would be
a gianormous leap for many to go from where you are now to 100% all natural,
totally certified organic products and green living. The more urban of an area
you live in, the more challenging it is going to be, to live healthy in this
toxic world. I am not there yet, and I realize the impossibility of getting to
that point in the immediate future. I am, however, sure that I can continue to
make changes in that direction. So can you.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Mel
Tavares</span></div>
Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-83113128190622875282013-10-03T15:52:00.003-04:002013-10-03T15:52:36.740-04:00I have neglected my blog for a year! I apologize to all of my readers! I've been so busy working on my own books (forthcoming); as well as freelance writing and mentoring up and coming writers, that I have neglected the blog that I started. Again, my apologies. <br />
<br />
I am preparing for re-birthing of my ministry "Return to Eden" and commit to doing a much better job of keeping up with the blogging. Topics will remain the same-all to do with living a simplified, yet abundant life! Please stay tuned.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
<br />
Mel Tavares<br />
October 2013Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-3751780961777007902012-11-10T12:58:00.002-05:002012-11-10T12:58:48.652-05:00<div style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
New Book Review for Amazon! You gotta get this book!<span style="margin-left: -5px;"></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<span style="margin-left: -5px;"></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<span style="margin-left: -5px;"></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<span style="margin-left: -5px;"><img alt="5.0 out of 5 stars" border="0" height="12" src="http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/customer-reviews/stars-5-0._V192240867_.gif" title="5.0 out of 5 stars" width="64" /> </span>
<b>Focus!</b>, <nobr>November 10, 2012/</nobr>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr><td><form action="/review/edit-review" method="POST">
<input alt="Edit Review" border="0" height="14" name="crEditReview" src="http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/communities/reviews/button_editreviewtan._V192249943_.gif" type="image" width="65" />
</form>
</td>
<td><form action="/review/delete-review" method="POST">
<input alt="Delete Review" border="0" height="14" name="crDeleteReview" src="http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/communities/reviews/button_deletereviewtan._V192249940_.gif" type="image" width="77" />
</form>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="tiny" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<b><span class="h3color tiny">This review is from: </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Big-Thing-Discovering-What/dp/159555484X/ref=cm_aya_orig_subj">One Big Thing: Discovering What You Were Born to Do (Hardcover)</a></b>
</div>
Phil Cooke captures the heart of a life well spent. Focus is, in
essence, the key to living life with purpose, and discovering the one
big thing you were born to do. Such an exploratory journey cannot be
made without great sacrifice, however. The author states well, the
reality of needing to detach ourselves from the electronic world long
enough to focus on a higher calling. I love what Phil says about needing
to follow passion, and then passion ignites the achievement of dreams.
Phil is well respected, not just as a film maker and media producer, but
also as a lecturer and as a blogger for Huffington Post. He knows who
he is and what he was born to do. This book is for all of those out
there, who are still aimlessly wandering the earth, living day to day
and have no real sense of direction or purpose. While reading this book,
I was reminded again, that it is more tragic to live to an old age, but
die still not knowing the purpose of existence; than to die at a
younger age, having used each day as a focused means of leaving a
footprint in eternity.
Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-60617725024830968442012-09-28T16:56:00.001-04:002012-09-28T16:56:23.297-04:00Ode to 2011<br />
<b>This was written one year ago. So thankful for an easier year in 2012, in many ways! </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Ode to 2011</b><br />
We shall not soon forget.<br />
2011, a record breaking year<br />
Blizzards, tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods<br />
Twelve months of destruction, causing some to fear.<br />
<br />
The shimmering snow fell foot after foot.<br />
New England weather, no longer friend-but foe.<br />
Torrents of rain, sheeting down<br />
The fierce winds, they did blow<br />
<br />
Streets uncleared, school and business’ closed<br />
January blizzards left us in distress<br />
As roofs groaned and collapsed under ‘the mother load’.<br />
For week after exhausting week, we shoveled the frozen mess.<br />
<br />
Bursting rivers beyond their banks<br />
As spring rains fell, weathermen eyed the record page<br />
Homeowners and shopkeepers huddled, helpless<br />
As uncaring waters swallowed buildings, in rage.<br />
<br />
Air so thick, victims tossed in it’s angry fog<br />
There was a night sky with an eerie hue<br />
When it was over, we learned her name<br />
Destruction-clothed in green, purple, and blue.<br />
<br />
Anticipating carefree days under the shining sun<br />
With outstretched arms, summer we did embrace<br />
Short-lived joy, as temperatures soared to record heights<br />
Behind air conditioners and fans, we did hide our face.<br />
<br />
August finally arrived and Irene came to visit.<br />
An unwelcome guest, we did not need<br />
She laid ancient trees to waste, left our state in the dark<br />
Then, we stood in long lines for showers and the MRE’s we’d receive.<br />
<br />
Yet again, plans quickly derailed<br />
Just as mail delivery had resumed, telling of the school start date<br />
Irene’s cousin Lee, had come ashore<br />
As flood waters once again rose, we wondered at our fate.<br />
<br />
Breathe in the crisp cool air<br />
View the brilliant colors of fall, now beginning to show<br />
Walk slowly, while an apple you crunch<br />
For next month-we welcome back the snow. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
MaryEllen (Mel) Smith Tavares © 2011Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-41260331986170182472012-09-28T16:48:00.001-04:002012-09-28T16:51:17.616-04:00Developing the Habit of an 'Attitude of Gratitude'Sept 28, 2012<br />
<br />
I just found this post in my 'draft' folder. I read it and thought to myself "Wow, what a difference a year makes. I'm so thankful that we've not carried this load in 2012!" It is amazing when we take the time to look back. There, we find perspective. Those storms in life (literal and figurative) that we thought would be the death of us-are but a distant memory. The saying my grandmother used to quote is "This too, shall pass." I had a hard time understanding that quote, as a young girl. Sometimes now, as an adult, I have to be reminded again. This too, shall pass. Most of our struggles and trials aren't remembered even a year later, never mind 5 or 10 years. For those momentous events that change the course of life forever, there is grace. Grace and strength to continue on, despite the enduring pain and struggle resulting from the trial.<br />
<br />
Here's my post from 10 mos ago: <br />
<br />
<br />
<i>November 2011 </i><br />
<br />
Thanksgiving is coming. I've been thinking a lot about all that I am thankful for, things that have occurred this past year. The list is long. It contains obvious gianormous landmark events like being my cleared of the initial breast cancer (mis) diagnosis and being able to pay off our mortgage. Mostly, my list contains things less obvious, and perhaps taken for granted by some. Unappreciated by others. Not me. I am so thankful for even the basics of life.<br />
<br />
I am thankful for our home, which is still standing-albeit that the roof was ripped off this past summer in a horrific storm and had to be replaced. I am thankful that the insurance company saw fit to cover us and that we found a contractor right away. (This, in and of itself, was no small feat, as thousands of customers were needing repairs after the winter of 2011.) I am thankful that when tree branches fell during all the storms, they did not fall on our cars or house or garage. <br />
<br />
I am thankful for the electricity that comes to our home. Never mind the fact that we were out of power for a number of days, twice in the past couple of months. Or the fact that I threw out a couple hundred dollars worth of food twice over. Or how much income we lost due to hubby's places of employment being shut down. Or how much money I spent purchasing candles, batteries and such. Or how strange it was to to wash my hair and dry it in the Dunkin Donuts bathroom :O (hey-desperate times call for desperate measures) All of these inconveniences only served to make me thankful for the fact that most of the time, we do have electricity at our home, and can afford to pay the bill.<br />
<br />
Many here in Connecticut found themselves in situations this fall, similar to those around the world-facing life with no running water and no bathroom facilities. I am thankful that I am on city water and sewer, and was able to use the cold water. I am thankful for shelters that were open to those without.<br />
<br />
<br />Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-21271846757847459112012-09-27T11:39:00.003-04:002012-09-28T16:59:36.674-04:00Three Hearts Movie ReviewI have just reviewed another book for booksneeze.com.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<span style="margin-left: -5px;"><span class="swSprite s_star_5_0 " title="5.0 out of 5 stars">5.0 out of 5 stars</span> </span>
<b>Three Hearts Will Enlarge Your Heart</b>, <nobr>September 27, 2012</nobr>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<div>
<div style="float: left;">
By </div>
<div style="float: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/A1XSXQFTUWPYVO/ref=cm_cr_dp_pdp"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mel Tavares</span></a> - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/cdp/member-reviews/A1XSXQFTUWPYVO/ref=cm_cr_dp_auth_rev?ie=UTF8&sort_by=MostRecentReview">See all my reviews</a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="tiny" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em;">
<b><span class="h3color tiny">This review is from: </span>Three Hearts (DVD)</b>
</div>
This movie is perhaps the most riveting of any that I have seen in
recent years. It is the story of Cassie, granddaughter of the great
Billy Graham, and her quest to understand the plight of children in
third world countries. Her journey to Mongolia turned out to have far
more of an impact on her than on those she was there to help. As she
collaborated to bring medically fragile children to the U.S. for heart
surgery, her own heart became enlarged with compassion for the children,
their families, and the host families in the U.S. You will laugh and
cry, celebrate the miracles, and grow in your own desire to help those
in need.
<br />
The review can be found at amazon.com, as well.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Three-Hearts-Cissie-Graham-Lynch/product-reviews/1400320720/ref=cm_cr_dp_see_all_btm?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending"> http://www.amazon.com/Three-Hearts-Cissie-Graham-Lynch/product-reviews/1400320720/ref=cm_cr_dp_see_all_btm?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending</a><br />
<br />
<br />
For more information on how you can become a booksneeze reviewer, go to<br />
<a href="http://booksneeze.com/blogger">http://booksneeze.com/blogger</a>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-36719462500539789012012-09-27T10:57:00.003-04:002012-09-27T11:14:03.105-04:00Your Table is The Centerpiece of Your HomeI've been talking with different people over the past couple months, about my stance that the dining room (or kitchen) table in the centerpiece of the home. I have long since adhered to this belief and have experienced the reality of it in my own life. The table is where connectedness happens. <br />
<br />
The obvious comes to mind when speaking of the table and its' purpose. Eating. I say obvious, but in the rat race world we live in today, eating family dinner is becoming of less importance to many families. I find this tragic, and believe the result is the continued demise of a connected family.<br />
<br />
According to a CBS news report just two years ago, 78% of Americans report eating dinner at the same table. 22% admit up front, to not eating dinner together.<br />
<br />
I found the high number of 78% to be perplexing and contrary to what I am told by people across the U.S. After further research, the reality of the statistic became more clear. Of the 78%, 33% say the TV is always on during dinner and another 27% say it is on at least half the time. 5 % admit that phones and other electronic devices are always used during family meal time, while another 10% admitted that the devices are 'often' in use. <br />
<br />
<br />
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH, NOW the statistic makes more sense. The TRUTH is, only 3% of the initial 78% actually CONNECT, undistracted at the dinner table! WOW. <br />
<br />
As recently as just twenty years ago, family dinner was a global expectation, even in America. By family dinner, I mean an undistracted family dinner, void of TV and electronics. Regardless of who had what after school activities and evening meetings, everyone was expected to be at the dinner table at the same time AND to use that time to connect with each other. <br />
<br />
Today, the norm has shifted. A high percentage of mothers are working and not home to make evening meals. More often than not, after school activities are scheduled throughout the evening, including family dinner hour. This makes it all but impossible for a parent to pull the family together for dinner.<br />
<br />
The rat race that we live in today, and the 21st century custom of always being 'plugged in' has created the staggering reality that less than 1/4 of families connect their lives while eating dinner together. This reality explains some things to me. For example, it explains why parents do not know what their children are doing in school. What homework is due the next day. What project was well received and got an A. What issues are going on at school and on the bus, such as bullying. The fire drill that happened in the middle of a math test. I use the example of public school students, because statistics show that families who choose to homeschool or enroll their students in private school, are amongst the 25% who still feel the need to adhere to traditional family dinners.<br />
<br />
Communication of the big and small things happens around the undistracted family dinner table! It isn't just about what happened while the kids were in school. It is also the place to discuss a national or global event, such as an earthquake or the economy. Not by watching the news during the meal and making side comments, but by discussing what one of the family may have heard earlier on the news or from a co-worker or in school. By discussing such matters with all age levels in the family, practical application can be made, regarding the impact it has/will make on the individual family. <br />
<br />
Undistracted conversations at the family dinner table create a bond that is not easily broken. Not all comments and conversations need to be of a serious nature. Sometimes, jokes are told or the latest movie discussed. Sometimes the latest fashion trend is discussed. Whatever the topic of conversation, the important factor is that there IS a conversation.<br />
<br />
I've spent a few minutes discussing families gathering around the table for dinner. Is that the only purpose of the table, which is the centerpiece of the home? No. I can think of numerous things that we've used and continue to use our table for. Here is the list, in part.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>It is where we rolled out cookies we often bake</li>
<li>Where we play board games</li>
<li>Where we do crafts and hobbies</li>
<li>Where matchbox cars were played with on cookie sheets filled with cornmeal</li>
<li>Where homemade bubble gum was made</li>
<li>Where gifts are wrapped for an upcoming celebration</li>
<li>It is where coffee has been served for decades, to guests visiting our home</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Whether working outside of the home, working from a home office, a homeschooling mom, or perhaps a mom able to stay at home without added responsibilities of work or teaching; it is important to make time each day, to be together at the table! It is where families should purpose to gather, at dinner, if at no other time that day! It is the centerpiece of your home!Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-3020974450086274662012-09-27T10:55:00.003-04:002012-09-28T16:56:56.197-04:00Finding a Work-Life Balance For You and Your FamilyI am hereby confessing that I am the first in line for the train headed to Eden. I've had enough. I can't take this rat race one more day.<br />
<br />
I find myself having to revisit my own mantra, many many times a year. In this day and age, it is so easy to get sucked back into the frenzied lifestyle of America, isn't it?<br />
<br />
In my book, "Return to Eden", I wrote of the need for the woman to keep the priority of the house being in order, and family needs met. I wrote about the need to simplify, and to stay focused on the basics. I wrote about the challenge of women working outside of the home and the need to strike a work-life balance. I am re-reading my own book, to glean nuggets of wisdom on how to strike this delicate balance, because suddenly I find myself struggling to find the simplicity that I have become accustomed to. <br />
<br />
A month ago, I enrolled the youngest child in private school, which
promptly dispatched my 15 year career of being a homeschool teacher. To everything there is a season, and the season of homeschooling kids has come to an end, because the needs are beyond my scope of ability to teach. Private school isn't cheap. Public middle school in this city, is an option my husband and I refuse to entertain. So, the decision to enroll in private school has, in essence, created the decision for me to put on a suit and head back to an office. <br />
<br />
I start a job on Monday, at a new law firm in town. I haven't held an
'office job' in 15 years, except for an 8 month stint a few years back. The last time I had kids in
school and worked full time, I was 35 years old. At 50, I am feeling a
bit overwhelmed, to say the least.<br />
<br />
I knew it would be a rough transition, but had no idea how challenging it would be. Because of written language delays, my son has required extensive help from me doing his homework each night and studying for upcoming tests. Truth be told, I am putting more time in now per day than I ever did homeschooling! Getting the homework done has started to consume our very lives. Now, I need to add a work day to that schedule? <br />
<br />
I find myself wondering things like "How will I find time to work?" "How will I ever find time to clean the house?" "Will I be able to serve them something homemade and nutritious for dinner each night?" "When will I ever have time to write those books, anyway?" The list goes on and on.<br />
<br />
I refuse to live back in the rat race. I am on the first train to Eden, before it is too late. <br />
<br />
The challenge will be this: to find simplicity and maintain the lifestyle we are used to, even though the sands have shifted. I have the weekend left, to prepare for the final phase of this transition. The quest is on. As I move through the month ahead, time will reveal how well organized the house is, the home office, the filing system, the pantry, and the clothes closets. I will keep you posted. Meanwhile, I shall be walking this new path out, one day at a time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-24390275046261203342012-02-15T20:27:00.002-05:002012-09-28T16:59:36.675-04:00Book Review: The Coming RevolutionBooksneeze.com provided me with a complimentary copy of "The Coming Revolution", subtitled "Signs From America's Past That Signal Our Nation's Future" <br />
<br />
Dr. Richard Lee is the Pastor of a large church in Atlanta, and well versed in American history and the Christian faith of our forefathers who drafted the U.S. Constitution. Throughout this book, Dr. Lee writes with compelling evidence of a country that was once great but is now falling from within.<br />
<br />
Dr. Lee urges Bible believing Christians to take a stand and get involved with the revolution beginning to spread across the land. He states the positive impact and changes being wrought by the Tea Party Revolution and others who are speaking out and demanding a reversal of liberal policies. He clearly shows that America, once great and fighting to be free from tyranny outside of our borders, is now a country crumbling under the corrupt government within our borders.<br />
<br />
The content of this book is controversial and is sure to enrage the liberals, while at the same time encourage the conservatives of this country. It is a call to action, intended to further the revolution that has started, to take back the moral fabric of this great country.<br />
<br />
Dr. Lee systematically exposes the breakdown of the moral fiber of our country, founded solely on Biblical principles back in 1776. Two institutions in particular are highlighted as being pivotal in the fall of our society, the education system and the destruction of traditional families. Not one to tout his own opinion, Dr. Lee referenced many civilizations over the course of time which have crumbled because of the lack of fortitude in these two institutions, the primary of which is the traditional family unit.<br />
<br />
The book is endorsed by Oliver North and Mike Huckabee, amongst other conservatives.Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-50116379765575793072012-01-27T07:38:00.007-05:002012-09-28T16:59:36.677-04:00Book Review: Healing is a Choice<b>I am now writing book reviews for BookSneeze. </b><br />
<b>Review of "Healing is a Choice" by Steve Arterburn</b><br />
<br />
Steve Arterburn is well known across the country. He hosts a national radio/TV show called "New Life Live", is a bestselling author, and is perhaps best known as the founder of the "Women of Faith" conferences. <br />
<br />
This book is a compelling read, which includes a workbook. Steve shares from both a professional and experiential standpoint, ten decisions that will transform your life and ten lies that can prevent you from making them. I was provided a complimentary copy, by BookSneeze. I was captivated by his candidness of the pain in his own life. As I read, I found myself relating on many levels. I appreciated his blunt approach in talking to the reader about the need to begin to connect with others, to reach out, to share the pain, to seek help, and then to begin to risk again. <br />
<br />
Backed up by statistics and his professional work as a counselor, Arterburn maintains his stance that one cannot live an isolated life, telling no one of their pain, and expect to be healed. He repeatedly states the need for living a transparent life, pain and all, in order to allow for others to participate in your healing process. <br />
<br />
If you are seeking a comprehensive book that will take you down a path of healing, this is the book for you! Each chapter is designed with a workbook section, to aid you in your journey. You will be challenged in ways that are uncomfortable but necessary, if you have any residual pain in your life. If you are persistent and work through the book, you will be a changed person by the time you complete the book. How long that takes you will depend on how much you can work through and deal with in a given time frame. There are 10 very intensive chapters.<br />
<br />
<b> BookSneeze.</b> <a href="<a href="http://booksneeze.com/reviews/blogger/27913?ref=badge%22%3E%3Cimg">http://booksneeze.com/reviews/blogger/27913?ref=badge"><img</a> alt="I review for BookSneeze®" src="<a href="http://booksneeze.com/images/booksneeze_badge_lg.png">http://booksneeze.com/images/booksneeze_badge_lg.png</a>" border="0" width="300" height="250"></a>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-35129111205900890612011-11-14T14:40:00.002-05:002011-11-15T08:33:18.833-05:00Send a Christmas Newsletter<div class="MsoNormal">Just as long letter writing gave way to sending Christmas cards back in the mid 1800’s; so it is that trying to write individual notes inside of Christmas cards have given way to an annual Christmas newsletter, printed in mass quantities for distribution.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>The purpose of a Christmas Newsletter</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">The purpose of the Christmas newsletter is to update friends, family and loved ones with whom you have had little contact over the year. It is a way to keep in touch with each person, in the midst of a very busy lifestyle. Although some were initially offended by receiving a form letter rather than a handwritten personal letter or note in the card, acceptance is now widespread. It is now the norm to receive several family newsletters throughout the season. They become treasured keepsakes, just as Christmas cards do.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Newsletters are typically printed from home computers, on holiday stationery. Most writers search on sites such as here at (MyExpression.com) for stationery that matches their personality and the content of the newsletter, much like shoppers who search for unique cards that will strike a cord of appreciation and stand out from the rest. Mothers are likely to pick stationery that has Santa or snowmen or gingerbread cookies on it. Bird lovers will choose a winter scene with cardinals on it, while an older person might choose a Victorian paper. Devout Christians will likely choose stationery with Scripture or a Nativity scene on it. Colored envelopes and seals add to the air of expectancy that the recipient feels when the letter is received. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Formatting the Newsletter</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">The newsletter can be formatted in a number of ways. Below are some ideas:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><u>Depict the year in photos</u></i>. You can select thumbnails of 5-6 pictures and write captions, or you can do a collage and write a paragraph or two about the collage. Information is limited in this type of format; however people enjoy looking at the photos. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><u><i><br />
</i></u></div><div class="MsoNormal"><u><i>Have each family member type a “journal entry”</i></u>, about one paragraph in length. The content should highlight interests, achievements or a job. Usually the format allows the writing to be done youngest to oldest, ending with the parents entries. An example might be “Hi, this is Alyssa. I am 15 now and a sophomore in high school. I spent the summer working at Dairy Queen, and played field hockey this fall at Central High. We won the State Championship. I will be taking Driver’s Ed this winter. I need to buy a car.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><u><i>Assign one family member to write</i></u> about the events of the year, from their viewpoint. It will be interesting and amusing to see which things get highlighted. One child wrote “One time, we ate cold spaghetti with mustard, and it was good”. MMMM. No editing allowed in these newsletters, unless inappropriate material is put in!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The more <u><i>traditional newsletter is written by the mother</i></u>, on behalf of the family and is a narrative chronicle of the previous year. Included are highlights of the life of each individual, family vacations, births and deaths and weddings. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i>This article was originally published in 2007 as internet content no byline given to me as I was ghostwriting for them. I did, in fact, write hundreds of text blocks for their site...</i></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><i><br />
</i></div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-64143253236653293812011-11-14T13:40:00.000-05:002011-11-14T13:47:54.509-05:00The Timeless Tradition of Sending Christmas Cards<div class="MsoNormal">In the mid eighteen hundreds, a person in Britain could send a letter for one penny. Letter writing became very popular during this time, particularly during the holiday season. The tradition of exchanging holiday greetings with those both near and afar was birthed during this time. Although sending a letter was an inexpensive way to stay in touch, it was time consuming.<br />
<br />
<br />
An Englishman by the name of Henry Cole found that he was too busy to write individual letters to each person that he wanted to send greetings to. He hired an artist to design a card that would combine the religious aspect of the season, as well as values such as gathering with family and aiding the poor and needy. 1,000 copies of the card were produced and sent to friends and family, and is thought to be the first Christmas card.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The original purpose of sending a holiday card was to stay in touch with friends and relatives who live too far away to attend gatherings during the holidays. In the 21<sup>st</sup> Century; cards are given to coworkers, service providers, business associates, church family members, and loved ones. Distance is of no consequence, as cards are given not just to keep in touch, but primarily to express love and caring toward the recipient.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The looks of the Christmas cards have changed over the years. By the end of the late 1800’s, the tradition of sending Christmas cards had gained in popularity and several stationery companies had hired artists to design cards. As companies competed to win the business of customers, cards became quite lavish.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Depression in the United States created a need for people to have an outlet and to think of more lighthearted things. Popularity of cards depicting animated characters like Popeye and Mickey Mouse grew during the 1930’s. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span>The 1940’s brought added sentiments and styles to choices in Christmas Cards. Word War II played a major role in the development of themes such as “Missing You” and “Across the miles”. Patriotic messages were also developed, as thousands of cards were mailed overseas to servicemen. Cards also reflected technology advances in printing, and four colored cards were very popular.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Cards designed during the second half of the 20<sup>th</sup> Century depicted the ever changing world. Cards created in the 1950’s were filled with artwork of such artists as Norman Rockwell and spoke to the every day life of leisure, strongly contrasting the war torn prior decade. The 1960’s began an era of nontraditional cards, as peace cards became a growing theme. With the 1970’s Jesus Movement came a resurgence in the popularity of religious cards, as born again Christians spurred an interest in reverting back to the original intent of the Christmas card. Sophisticated corporate cards emerged in the 1980’s. Cards of the 1990’s depicted home and family life, as traditional values once again became a lifestyle quest.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">With the 21<sup>st</sup> Century comes the technology that allows for individuals to send cards from smart phones or other electronic devices. (Just a few short years ago, the cutting edge was creating cards at home or sending photo cards) The cost of buying cards and stamps, and the time it takes to write each one out has all but rendered the timeless tradition of paper cards a relic of the past. Some people, myself included, still love the feel and touch of the cards send through 'snail mail', hung around the doorways to be enjoyed over and over again.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Regardless of how times and the looks of the cards have changed over the years, exchanging Christmas cards remains a timeless tradition, and many a lonely person has been cheered by the cards they receive during December. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The clock is ticking. Whatever your preferred mode, don't forget to send a few cards this year!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>This article was originally written as internet content for a top selling greeting card company, then reworked and later published under my birth name of MaryEllen Smith, in the Maine print paper SV Weekly, in 2007</i>. </div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-36574479205673803102011-11-14T13:01:00.000-05:002011-11-14T13:06:49.984-05:00The Meaning of Traditional Christmas Symbols<div class="MsoNormal"><b>People love the timeless symbols that are associated with Christmas, yet few know what the meanings of the symbols are. Below is a list of symbols found during the holiday season, and what the meaning is. </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Angels</b></u>- Represent God’s protection over his people throughout the ages.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Apple</b></u>-Today, symbolizes health. In the middle ages in Germany, it was used to hang on the Paradise Tree (Christmas Fir Tree) during the retelling of the story of the Garden of Eden.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Bows on Packages</b></u>-Remind us of how we should be tied together in love.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Gifts and Packages</b></u>- Remind us of the gift God gave through Christ, as well as gifts the wise men brought to Christ when they visited him.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Holly</b></u>-The thorn like leaves symbolize the crown Christ wore at crucifixion and the red berries symbolize the blood he shed.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Nativity Scene</b></u>- Reminds the world of the scene that the Bible tells of the night that Christ was born.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Poinsettias</b></u>- Plants native to Mexico were originally brought as gifts for the Christ child, to a village Nativity scene. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Santa</b></u>- Reminds us of the Bishop of Myra centuries ago who was known for his kindness and generosity and concern for the welfare of children. He wore a red robe and sports a white beard.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>The Bell</b></u>- Symbolizes the announcement of the birth of Christ.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>The Candle</b></u>- Friendship, Unselfishness. It also mirrors starlight. It was first used by Martin Luther after he walked home one evening and noticed the stars shimmering through fir trees. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>The Candy Cane</b></u>-first introduced by a German choir director in 1670, as a white confection resembling a shepherd’s hook and handed out to children during the Christmas pageant, as a bribe to keep them quiet.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>The Color Red</b></u>-Symbolizes Christ’s blood, thought to be the first color used in Christmas celebrations.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>The Fir Tree</b></u>- Is representative of everlasting life. The needles point to heaven. It was first used in Germany in the Middle Ages, during plays depicting the Garden of Eden. It was popularized in the late 1800’s in England, after a photo was published in the paper of the Royal Family around the tree which was brought from Albert’s native homeland of Germany.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>The Star</b></u>- Represents the hope of prophecy fulfilled and pointing us to look heavenward.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><u><b>Wreath</b></u>-The never ending circle has no beginning and end and symbolizes God’s love for us.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><b>Below are some less traditional holiday symbols that have emerged over the past sixty years and are gaining in popularity</b>. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">Bird-Happiness Snowman -Patience </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">Cat-Affection Dog-Loyalty</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">Sheep-Devotion Lion and Lamb-Symbols of Christ </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">Church-Faith Dove-Purity </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">Flower-Good Wishes Grape-Friendship</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">House-Shelter Patriotic Theme-Military<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>First published under my birth name, MaryEllen Smith, in 2007 for print paper in Maine-SV Weekly </i></div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-10127719572426610742011-11-14T09:14:00.000-05:002011-11-14T09:31:50.150-05:0010 Easy Steps to Throwing an Amazing Holiday Party<div class="MsoNormal"><b>I love hosting parties and entertaining. Many of my friends find the concept of hosting a holiday party completely overwhelming. For that reason, I developed this simplified party planning guide a few years ago and shared a copy with my friends.</b> </div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>10 Easy Steps</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">1. Decide your basic guest list. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">2. Decide what the theme of your party will be. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">3. Choose an invitation that best expresses the theme of your party. Will it be a trim-a-tree, a cookie exchange, or a holiday meal? Your invitation will be the first glimpse your guest has into your party. The invitation should create an anticipation will sway him to make attendance a priority.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">4. Do a complete set of checklists. Be sure that your menu is planned, the grocery list is made, and an action plan for the day of the party is done. Purchase gifts for party favors, gift exchanges and contest winners. Decorate your home, inside and outside.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">5. Keep a running list of RSVP’s to your party. This will aid you in purchasing the correct amount of food and drinks. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">6. Three days prior to your party- Follow up with any of the invited guests who have not yet RSVP’d. Let them know you are looking forward to their attending and you are just doing a final headcount. Go over your menu again, then double check your cupboard and grocery list.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">7. Two days prior to the party- Go to the grocery store. Clean your house. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">8. One day prior to the party-Make all food items ahead that will keep overnight. Set up your buffet or dining area. Put slips of paper in serving dishes to make the setup quick when it is time for the party to begin.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">9. The day of the party- Take a nice hot shower or long bath. Pamper yourself as you prepare for the party. Congratulate yourself on planning a party that will be remembered by all of your guests. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">10. After dressing in an elegant outfit, go and complete the last minute party preparations. When the doorbell rings, invite your guests inside and relax. Enjoy spending quality time with each one.<br />
<br />
<i>Originally published 2007, SV Weekly-Maine newspaper</i>,<i> under birth name of MaryEllen Smith</i></div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-61417321908785459832011-11-10T15:26:00.007-05:002011-11-15T07:34:02.046-05:00Electronics-How Much is Too Much?<div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><b>I read some staggering statistics in a survey result today. Staggering to me at least. Here are the stats:</b></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><b> </b></div><i><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Among the survey’s key findings:</span></i><br />
<ul><li><i><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">42 percent of children under 8 years old have a TV in their bedroom.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Half (52 percent) of all zero- to 8-year-olds have access to a new mobile device such as a smart phone, video iPod, or iPad/tablet.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">More than a third (38 percent) of children this age have used one of these devices, including 10 percent of zero-to 1-year-olds, 39 percent of 2- to 4-year-olds, and more than half (52 percent) of 5- to 8-year-olds.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">In a typical day, one in 10 zero- to 8-year-olds uses a smart phone, video iPod, iPad, or similar device to play games, watch videos, or use other apps. Those who do such activities spend an average of 43 minutes a day doing so. (<a href="http://www.eschoolnews.com/2011/10/25/study-more-than-half-of-young-children-use-digital-media/print/">Source</a>)</span></i></li>
</ul><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><b>Am I the only one who finds these statistics bothersome? Read on: </b></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><b>The following excerpt is taken from the book “Return to Eden: Exposing the Lies that Are Destroying the Family”, authored by MaryEllen Smith (C) 2007. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=return+to+eden+exposing+the+lies+that+are+destroying+the+family&x=5&y=21">Amazon: Return to Eden</a> </b><br />
<br />
<b>Note: MaryEllen Smith is actually my birth name, so 'tis me who authored the book!</b></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><i>“Americans live an on-the-go lifestyle that many would say is normal. In this land of opportunity, there is seemingly no limit to the activities available for us to be involved in that consume the twenty-four hour day. Our insatiable appetites for more have driven the industry to develop technology and services that allow us to see, experience, eat, and accomplish more in a twenty-four hour day than ever before. </i></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><i>We live in an instant society, which has caused our length of patience to wane over the years. We find waiting for two seconds for the Web page to load bothersome. We have become so dependent on having cell phones that we will no longer tolerate being in a “dead zone.” Shopping is done at chain grocery stores, with little desire on the part of the shopper to do anything but get in and out as quickly as possible. A person in front of the shopper in the express checkout immediately equates to an extra couple of minutes in the store and is barely tolerated. The average American is scheduled right to the minute and cannot afford the extra five minutes that the wait is costing them. </i></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><i>If the only lasting value in life is the relationships that we have built, then it will never have been the wrong choice to choose to live more simplistically, allowing for more family time. Is it possible to have a family be involved in a plethora of activities and still stay connected? The answer lies in how the family functions. If the family does the activities together, and relates to one another throughout the activity, then yes, I believe it is possible. I don’t believe that it is easily achieved, and it requires determination to be fully present.</i></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><i>Recent data shows that it is the norm for many families to share space yet never connect. It is nearly impossible to go to a restaurant anymore without hearing other patrons chatting on their cell phones, while those they are with eat in silence. Parents or siblings attending a child’s sports event often bring a laptop to multitask and do unfinished work, and beach goers take routinely take their iPods or MP3 players and sit side by side with those accompanying them for a day of leisure. It’s true that they are in the same space at the same time, but each is preoccupied with his or her own interests, or is multitasking, rather than giving the needed attention to developing relationships with the ones that they are with. Call me old fashioned, but the rule in our house is that we are to be fully present when with someone, and that includes listening to each other and making eye contact.” Smith concludes.</i> <b>(Smith, like I said, is my maiden name-so actually, I concluded the comments) </b></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><b>I can't say that my stance has changed in the past 4 years. Actually, with the technological advances, I see that things are getting worse, not better. I witnessed the 'family disconnect' just this fall, at the football field-where I was enthusiastically watching practices and games. Can't say the same of all parents there. I go to the mall and I see the same. And, gasp...I even witness kids using the devices at church. And no, they aren't reading the Bible on it. Some do. You can always tell who is and who is using the device for other purposes.</b></div><b><br />
</b><br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><b>"Get with the times, Mel" I have often been told. "You're too old fashioned. This is the way it is, now." Oh really? I always think to myself-and sometimes say aloud...</b></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><b>I love statistics, research and the like. Well, here is some research that backs up reasons to stick to my old fashioned thinking....</b></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"In a typical day, zero- to 1-year-olds spend more than twice as much time watching television and DVDs (53 minutes) as they do reading or being read to (23 minutes). And some young children have already begun media multitasking—23 percent of 5- to 8-year-olds use more than one medium “most” or “some” of the time."</i> </span> <b>YIKES</b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>How about this excerpt from one of my favorite mommy e-zine sites</b></span><b>. And no, it isn't plagiarizing, if I site the sources....</b><br />
<a href="http://mommiesmagazine.com/13479/american-pediatric-association/">http://mommiesmagazine.com/13479/american-pediatric-association/ </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>"If you have very young children, under the age of four, spending too time in front of the television can be harmful for their developmental health. Although experts have in the past warned parents of the dangers, the American Pediatric Association issued a new warning this week. The New York Times <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/19/health/19babies.html?ref=health">reported</a> on the story, stating: </i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>‘The new report strongly warns parents against putting a TV in a very young child’s room and advises them to be mindful of how much their own use of media is distracting from playtime. In some surveys between 40 and 60 percent of households report having a TV on for much of the day — which distracts both children and adults, research suggests.”</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<i>The APA had issued a previous warning in 1999 which was much more severe. The first warning recommended that parents ban television completely for young children, and that doctors record and monitor young children’s screen time. The latest warning is less drastic, and is an effort from the APA to be more realistic about the fact that screens in the 21st century are all but unavoidable.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Considering that young children learn much more quickly from interacting with people and objects in the physical world, too much television exposure can stunt their early learning. Of course, there are times when you may be too busy to constantly engage with your child, which makes having them view television an easy way to keep them entertained."</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>A</b><b>nother source, which further confirms that I am not 'completely old school and needing to get up with the times'. </b><br />
<br />
<i>The kids in the study, average age 14-and-one-half, were all treated at the JFK Medical Center Sleep Laboratory in Edison, N.J. About 77 percent had trouble falling asleep; others had daytime sleepiness.</i><br />
<i>And it's no wonder: Turns out they sent an average 34 <span style="color: black;"></span>texts or e-mails a night, according to the study, to be presented Monday at the meeting of the American College of Chest Physicians in Vancouver, British Columbia. Texts were sent anywhere from 10 minutes to four hours after bedtime.</i><br />
<div id="articleFlex1"><div class="prWrap"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="prt67B104002A1F6E4F0309C43000060100" style="margin: 0px; width: 300px;"><tbody>
<tr><td><div class="prWrap" id="prw67B104002A1F6E4F0309C43000060100" style="margin: 0px auto; width: 300px;"><style type="text/css">
.prWrap, .prWrap div, .prWrap img { margin: 0px; padding: 0px; overflow: visible; direction: ltr; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; }
</style></div><i><br />
</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div></div><i>"Across the board, all of the children admitted to using electronic media - texting, computers, gaming - after lights out," says co-author Peter Polos, a physician at the JFK clinic.</i><br />
<i>Kids texted an average of four people a night. Electronic media woke them up once a night, when they were texted or called by a friend. Young people who used the most bedtime media - from phones </i> <i>to playing video games - were more likely to have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression and learning problems during the day.</i><br />
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"></div><br />
<br />
<b>Well, that pretty much convinces me that my old fashioned thinking is O.K. Am I saying that all electronic usage is bad? No! The word that comes to mind is balance. Using technology in limited quantities, in doses appropriate for the age is OK. Using electronics to keep children occupied, thereby 'babysitting' the kid....may seem like a good idea in the short term. In reality, the long term detrimental impact makes the short term benefits pale in comparison. In addition to being disconnected from the family, teens overusing cell phones and other devices are dealing with a host of issues.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Balance.</b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;"></span>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-7300013705576731152011-11-08T08:26:00.000-05:002011-11-14T07:57:43.758-05:00Working for a Living-Looking Forward to 2012?<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">Life is …<br />
<br />
“Leaving the house in the morning, dressed in clothes that you bought on credit card for work, driving through the traffic in a car that you are still paying for, putting in fuel that you cannot afford, in order to get to the job that you hate but need so badly so that you can pay for the clothes, car, fuel and the house that you leave empty the whole day, in order to live in it”</span></b></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></b></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">Are you laughing? Crying? Just nodding your head in hopeless agreement? It seems like the life you're supposed to have, doesn't it? Isn't that the way the world works? Aren't we taught from birth that this is our purpose in life? Here in America, isn't this touted as the American Dream? </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">I used to think that too. Then, back about 15 years ago, the whole concept started bothering me. Alot. I spent six months searching my heart and soul. Sitting at my desk in corporate America, looking at pictures of my kids that were growing up way too fast. I'd ponder things like "What is the point of having a family, if I never get to see them?" "What is the point of earning all this money, if I'm going to expend most of it in bills?" "Why do I work all these hours, just so I can have a vacation a couple times a year?" "Why am I expending all of my years doing everything I don't want to do, so that I can retire? By then, kids will have grown up and I will have missed it. Parents will have died and I will not have had the time to spend with them....." Nothing made sense anymore. I found myself in an internal battle, unwilling to accept the norm that had been fed to me, yet unsure of how to break free.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">During this time, I sought much counsel. Biblical counsel. I read every book that I could get my hands on. I prayed much. I spent alot of time with the elderly folk I knew, asking them about how life was 'in their day'. I struggled with being torn between all I'd believed my whole life about the purpose in life and the reality in which I was living. The fact was, it just wasn't lining up. I knew I didn't have my priorities in order and my kids didn't come first. The job came first. It had to. Our daily lives were ruled by the almighty buck. </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">"There has to be a way", I kept thinking to myself.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">I started thinking "What if...what if.....I just walked off the job? Gave my notice, and never looked back?" I started running some numbers. First I looked at all of the expenses that were created by me going to work, just as the beginning quote states. Extra car (new one, at that). Fuel and insurance on the car. Suits. Heels. Haircuts. Lunches and coffees while I was on the road. Un-reimbursed travel expenses. Daycare. </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">Next, I took a hard look at which budget items were really luxuries and not something that we needed. That was hard to swallow. Vacations. Wants-not needs. Sigh. Admission tickets to entertainment spots. You know, all the things that allow us to escape the reality of the rat race we are living in or the lives we are living that we are not satisfied with.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">As I continued crunching numbers, I began to research ways to cut expenses. I started thinking things like "What if I just went back to living the way people lived 50 years ago? I wonder what would happen then?" "What if I found ways to cut even basic expenses, like paper products and heat?" Could I do it then?</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"></span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">By the time I was done with my budget books and with my soul searching, I knew it was time. I called my boss and said "I am done. Finished. Giving my notice." Because of my position, it took me awhile to transition out. I agreed to stay in the position, as long as they agreed to let me move my office home and begin working from there. Agreed. </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">All said and done, it took about 18 mos for me to finally be out from under that job. They had to find someone to replace me. I had to train the person. They kept me on as a consultant for another year. During that time, I paid off debt that had accumulated. I did things like buy household appliances and blankets and whatever else I thought we might need but would no longer have the income to buy. I had another baby, which as you know-brings a whole raft of expenses. Over the next 10 years, I took on a variety of contracted jobs, to supplement the household income. At one point, I went back into the workforce for a short time, after my then husband was injured and unable to work. I was miserable. It wasn't working for me. I quit the workforce to come home, again. My great-grandmother used to say "Make do or do without". I decided that was good advice and adopted it as my life mantra.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">When I went through my divorce, I knew I needed to find something to do from home that would fulfill the need to bring in some extra cash for the rent. In my career, I'd worked many admin positions that required me to do extensive writing, so I decided to start freelancing. That was five years ago. It works for me. When I need more money, I take on more work. If the bills are paid and the budget is on track, I cut my hours back. I was blessed to meet my amazing hubby and marry him three years ago, and he is a hard worker. We have an agreement that unless I NEED to work, I won't. The time may come when I need to be earning more. If that is the case, I will step up the freelancing. I don't know if I will ever be able to return to corporate America. I've been spoiled this past 15 years and enjoy the simple things of life. Having tasted the freedom of living simplistically, I'd have to think long and hard about what expense is so critical that it requires me to return to work 'out there'.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">Am I saying that it has been an easy road, to leave corporate America? By no means. It has and continues to require sacrifice. Things like pulling the kids from the private school and committing to homeschooling them these past 15 years. That hasn't been an easy road, but it has been the right decision, for us. The kids have not enjoyed all the technological gadgets that others their age have. I am not convinced they are deprived on that count. More than what they've missed out on, are the experiences and opportunities they've gained, because I walked out of my corporate office. Living on less requires creativity and a willingness to find alternatives to the things that used to suck the life out of the budget. You learn to seek out free community events, like art gala opening receptions. Hey, it is free admission that night AND a premier! God even provided a way for me to take each of my girls to Florida for a vacation. They've been to El Salvador on a missions trip. They've traveled New England. They are rich in experiences, which are now carrying them in their adult lives.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />
</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">After Joe and I got married, he lost his job. I was only working as a part time freelancer. We had 4 kids in the house. We were on a bare bones, no frills budget. He's working again now, and we're finally able to start setting aside monies in our family fun budget line. Even so, most would say we are being frugal about our expenditures while having fun. Let me tell you some of the fun things we've done just this summer as a family (now only 1 kid at home). </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">We went to Six Flags for $50, gas included. How? My son earned the passes for him and I, by reading. Yep. They have a program that encourages kids in K-6 to read and reward those hours of reading with free passes! I bought Joe's at a discount, packed our food and drinks and went for the day. It was just as much fun as if we'd spent a couple hundred! </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">We went to see a minor league team that plays afew miles from us. We even took another teen, to 'hang' with our son. The four of us enjoyed hot dogs and drinks, while watching the game behind home plate, for just $20. The boys even got free hats and the opportunity to be out on the field with the team, because we arrived early.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">We went to Fenway to see a Red Sox game. Ok, admittedly--that was $150, all said and done. Still, because we were willing to sit in seats with an 'obstructed view', we got the cheaper seats. We all enjoyed the hot dogs, crackerjacks, peanuts and usual fare, but Joe and I were splitting ours-figuring we really didn't need all that food, anyway. It was a great day at the ball park.</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"></span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">We had a 4 day beach vacation, for under $500 for the family. We stayed at a great bed and breakfast right on the beach there in Rhode Island. World famous beaches for $500? Oh yeah. I had to do a lot of searching to find the B & B, and we went during the week and off season in June, before the real tourist season started. We borrowed boogie boards instead of buying them. Breakfast was provided. We bought lunch food and snacks for the fridge. We ate dinner out, but at modest local places that allowed the 3 of us to eat for under $25 (no it was not fast food!)</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">We've enjoyed much of the summer foods that everyone else has enjoyed. The difference is that I make the food myself. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. We look at the plates and say "This would have cost us $50 or $100 if we'd gone out. This is healthier and cost only a fraction of the price." I don't think I often spend more than $20 for even the biggest celebration dinners. Most of the time-if I shop the sales, I can do a 3 course meal for $10! We had lobster and steak for our anniversary this year. We could have gone to one of the local restaurants, many of which are 4 stars. That anniversary dinner would have cost close to $200. We went to the local grocer and had them cook the lobsters (for free) and enjoyed an amazing meal for under $50-while our son was at football practice-complete with the black dress, candlelight and dancing to our favorite music. Really, would the restaurant have been any better? </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">The list goes on. We had a great summer. And a great fall. And, we will have a great winter. Christmas? Right. We love Christmas.I'll save my frugal gift giving topic for another time....</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">Am I saying that it is bad for you to be working? No! Did I write this to put you on a guilt trip about working? Not at all. My purpose in writing this is simply to say "If you are sick of getting up and going to work to pay for all the stuff that you have no time to enjoy because you are working, there is hope. If you are sick of spending your life working instead of living and you wish that you could just be DONE, or at least cut back your hours or change jobs, there is hope! It IS possible, even in 21st Century America, to live a simple life. To take a hard look at your budget, decide what you NEED for an income and then only work the hours necessary to meet the budget."</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">I know the economy is tough. I know you may be in debt. I've sat with hundreds of men and women over the years, and have also been a team leader of financial classes. I say the same to everyone "There are ways to trim and downsize" I've yet to meet a person who was not able to achieve their goals and dreams, if armed with a diligent spirit and a willingness to make sacrifices. Even the dream of leaving the job behind or reducing the number of hours worked. </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />
</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />
</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />
</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />
</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />
</span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></h6>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-45898608456692260472011-11-04T22:41:00.000-04:002011-11-14T08:01:00.502-05:00Laughter is Good Medicine For Holiday Lonliness<div class="MsoNormal">The phrase “laughter is good medicine” has merit, according to mental health professionals and physicians. Author, Chuck Swindoll, wrote “10% of life is what happens to you and 90% is your attitude about the event”.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Suicide rates and depression hit a high during the holidays, and the ability to laugh becomes critical. Humor is a powerful emotional medicine that can lower stress, dissolve anger, and unite families in troubled times. Mood is elevated by striving to find humor in difficult and frustrating situations. “Laughing at ones self and the situation helps reveal that small things are not the earth-shaking events they sometimes seem to be. Looking at a problem from a different perspective can make it seem less formidable and provide opportunities for greater objectivity and insight”, states the Alliance for the Mentally Ill. “Humor also helps us avoid loneliness by connecting with others who are attracted to genuine cheerfulness. And the good feeling that we get when we laugh can remain with us as an internal experience even after the laughter subsides.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Mental health professionals point out that humor can also teach perspective by helping patients to see reality rather than the distortion that supports their distress. Humor shifts the ways in which people think, and distress is greatly associated with the way people think. It is not situations which generate stress; it is the meaning that is placed on the situations. Humor adjusts the meaning of an event so that it is not so overwhelming. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Laughter, along with an active sense of humor, may help protect people against a heart attack, according to the study at the University of Maryland Medical Center. A recent study, which is the first to indicate that laughter may help prevent heart disease, found that people with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh in a variety of situations compared to people of the same age without heart disease. According to the research, people who laugh heartily on a regular basis also have lower standing blood pressure than the average person. When patients have a good laugh, initially the blood pressure increases, but then it decreases to levels below normal. Breathing then becomes deeper which sends oxygen enriched blood and nutrients throughout the body.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The American Association of Physical Therapists advocates the use of humor in the overall healing process in the body. Laughter increases infection fighting antibodies that the body needs in order to heal. It can be a great workout for the diaphragm, abdominal, respiratory, facial, leg, and back muscles. It massages abdominal organs, tones intestinal functioning, and strengthens the muscles that hold the abdominal organs in place. Not only does laughter give the midsection a workout, it can benefit digestion and absorption functioning as well. It is estimated that hearty laughter can burn calories equivalent to several minutes on the rowing machine or the exercise bike.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Professionals working with patients who have brain dysfunctions often incorporate the use of humor into treatment plans. Laughter stimulates both sides of the brain to enhance learning. It eases muscle tension and psychological stress, which keeps the brain alert and allows people to retain more information. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The holidays offer ample opportunity during social gatherings to find humor. Bring humor into conversations. Ask people, “What’s the funniest thing that happened to you today? This week? In your life?” Some other ways to get a daily dose of laughter are: watch comedy DVD’s and TV shows (Remember classics like the Marx Brothers and the Three Stooges), go to comedy clubs, listen to comedy while driving, read comic authors, seek out funny people, and spend less time with overly serious people. Even in the most difficult of times, a laugh, or even simply a smile, can go a long way in helping a person feel better.</div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Originally published in print paper, Sebasticook Valley Weekly </div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-41248925941201874092011-11-04T22:38:00.000-04:002011-11-14T07:55:35.716-05:00“Chestnuts Roasting On an Open Fire”<div class="MsoNormal">“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire” is the title of the popular music and lyrics composed by Torme and Wells in 1946. The most popular recording of this truly great Christmas song, “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire” was recorded by Nat King Cole. The strong imagery in the words to this Christmas song are also complimented by such sentiments as reflected in one of its lines "from kids from one to ninety-two" which encompass the essence of the family Christmas. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
The tradition of roasting chestnuts dates back to the old world. Research revealed that there are ways to roast chestnuts in modern homes that are void of open fireplaces. A campfire ring or a barbecue pit will do serve as an adequate roasting fire. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Steps for Roasting Chestnuts Over an Open Fire (combined instructions from several websites) </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">1. The most important item to have when roasting chestnuts is the proper pan. Although any type of frying pan with a lid will do, you will have to modify it for roasting purposes. Specifically, you will need to drill holes into the bottom of the pan. This allows the chestnuts to roast properly. For a 12-inch pan, there should be about 25-30 holes in the pan, each hole having a 3/6-inch diameter. The holes should also be spaced apart evenly. Once you have modified your pan, wash it and set it aside. You now need to prepare the chestnuts. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="padding: 0.75pt;"><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">2. When purchasing chestnuts at a store, select chestnuts that are similar in size. For a more flavorful dish, you can purchase the larger "Maroni"-type chestnuts. Bear in mind, however, that due to their size these chestnuts will take longer to roast. Once you have purchased your chestnuts and have them at home, wash them in cold water and allow them to dry. When dry, sort the chestnuts again to further categorize them by size for cooking. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">3. When you are ready to roast the chestnuts, take chestnuts of a like size and place them into the pan ensuring that the bottom of the pan is covered in a single layer with the chestnuts. Next, you will need to take each chestnut in the pan and place a cut into its skin using a sharp knife.. This is done so that the chestnut releases steam while cooking and does not explode. To prepare a cut in the chestnut, hold the chestnut in your hand with its tip facing upward and its flat surface towards you. Take a small, sharp, and pointed knife and slice into the chestnut's skin from left to right making sure that you do not cut into the chestnut's meat. The cut should be no larger than 3/8 to 1/2-inch in length. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">4. Once the chestnuts have been cut, prepare your campfire or barbeque grill. If you are using a campfire, make sure that you have something to support the pan -- do not place the pan directly into an open fire. Also, the campfire or grill must be very hot before placing the pan onto it and a flame must not be present. When the temperature is correct, place the pan with the chestnuts on the grill or campfire. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">5. Note that you do not need to add any oil or grease to the pan because as the chestnuts roast they will release steam and their own cooking oils. Cover the pan and roast the chestnuts for a few minutes. After awhile, remove the lid and stir the chestnuts so that they do not roast only on one side. This process of covering, roasting, removing the lid, stirring, and re-covering must be repeated frequently throughout the roasting process. For an average size chestnut, about the size of a U.S. half-dollar coin, the roasting time is approximately 20-25 minutes. You will know when the chestnuts are cooked when they appear darker in color and if, when you remove a chestnut from the pan, its skin breaks easily making a crackling sound. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">6. Once the chestnuts are roasted, take a large bowl and line it with paper towels. Place the roasted chestnuts into the bowl and cover them with a cloth. The chestnuts should sit in their own heat for approximately 2-4 minutes as this makes them easier to peel. After they have sat awhile, they are ready to be eaten. Chestnuts are best when served hot and when accompanied by apple cider.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Originally published in print paper, Sebasticook Valley Weekly </div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-4235870976520135462011-11-04T22:35:00.000-04:002011-11-14T07:54:45.164-05:00Hosting a Christmas Cookie Exchange<div class="MsoNormal">One of my favorite holiday traditions of days gone by is the Cookie Exchange. It is an easy way to get people together, create variety platters of cookies, and create holiday memories. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Inviting people to a Christmas Cookie Exchange is about swapping cookies and recipes, while sharing quality time with people that that may not have been seen for awhile. The people who love to cook are first on the list of invitees. These people (usually women) will outdo themselves in an effort to create the most delicious creations at the party. The artist type will have spent large quantities of time meticulously decorating each cookie. The career woman will have a quick and easy recipe to make. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Be sure to explain to guests that they should bring at least 3 dozen cookies and an equal number of 8 ½ x 11 photocopies of the recipes to be compiled into a scrapbook. Stationary can be purchased at an office supply store or created on a home computer. Let the guests know that their cookies will be judged for creativity, baking ease, and ethnic appeal (Swiss, Polish etc). </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Once guests arrive to the exchange, have them put the cookies that they brought on the dining room table (use the entire circumference). Assign each type of cookie a number, using paper cutouts made from tracing cookie cutters. Also write the name and description of the cookie on the paper. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Hand out pre-made ballots to each guest and ask them quietly circulate the dining room table and view the cookies. Have them vote for one in each category. Tally the votes and award prizes for each category. Prizes can be cookie presses, a recipe book, tubes of icing, or a baking sheet. These can be purchased at a dollar store.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Provide each guest with a decorative platter (purchased at a dollar store) and have them circle the table, putting one of each type of cookie on their platter. If there are extras, the guests may make a second circle. Once everyone has completed making their platters of cookies, provide saran wrap and tags for each guest to wrap and identify their platter.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Next, create the recipe scrapbook. Have each guest choose a seat. Hand each guest a 3 ring binder pre-filled with sheet protectors. One at a time, invite each guest to hand out their 8 ½ x 11 stationery with copied recipes on them (be sure she includes herself). After everyone has handed out their uniquely styled stationery, have each guest insert the recipes into their sheet protectors. A scrapbook will automatically be created because of the variety in the stationery paper used. Take a digital photo of the group and then excuse yourself, leaving guests to chat. Add in the text (date, occasion) and print it off a copy for everyone on stationery. Hand them out to each guest to put in the front of the binder. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Originally published in print paper, Sebasticook Valley Weekly </div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-75558000270750432172011-11-04T22:32:00.000-04:002011-11-14T07:54:07.931-05:00“Here We Come, A Wassailing”<div class="MsoNormal"><b>What does “Wassailing” mean? It is sung throughout the season, but few people know what it means. </b> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Wassailing<span style="font-size: 18pt;"> </span>though usually thought of as being something akin to carol singing,<b> </b>is actually a set of customs going back more than 500 years in which groups of villagers wished health to the crops and animals of their neighbors as well as to the people of the village themselves. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The most common form of wassailing recorded concerned fruit trees, in particular, apple trees and a true Wassail Cup, the drink carried round by the wassailers, contains apples cooked till they are fluffy and bursting from their skins. Traditionally, the Wassailers walked round the orchards, blessing the trees and asking for good crops and around the farm animals, blessing them and asking for the herds to continue. They then knocked on the door of the house, were admitted by the youngest woman in the household and then drank the health of all those in the house with the<b> </b>Wassail Cup they had brought with them in the wassail bowl. (usually wooden ). </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The drink was a liquor made with ale, spirits, sugar, eggs<b> </b>and spices....and full of roasted apples bursting in the steaming cup. It was often the custom to float a piece of bread on top - hence, our expression "to propose a toast".<b> <br />
</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b> </b>Research done on the internet yielded a recipe for a 17<sup>th</sup> century wassail. <u><br />
</u>" Boil: 3 pints of ale; - beat six eggs, the whites and the yolks together; set both to the fire in a pewter pot; add roasted apples, sugar, beaten nutmegs, cloves and ginger; and, being well brewed, drink it while hot<b> </b>" ( from the Royal Household of 1633 )<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A punch bowl has long since been the centerpiece of modern Christmas parties. <i>Here is a modern wassail recipe that will appeal to guests of all ages: </i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 gallon apple cider ( add about 4oz sugar if it's very dry ) </div><div class="MsoNormal">12 small apples peeled and cored<br />
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg </div><div class="MsoNormal">16 fl oz whipping cream<br />
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon </div><div class="MsoNormal">1/4 teaspoon salt <br />
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger</div><div class="MsoNormal">2 tablespoons brown sugar</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Slowly heat 3/4 of the cider till warm, but not boiling. Put remaining cider in another pan with the apples, sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger and bring it to the boil. Simmer vigorously until the apples lose their shape and become ' frothy '. Combine the two liquids and pour into a heatproof bowl. Whip the cream with the salt and brown sugar until it peaks and spoon it onto the wassail or add some cream to each drink as it's served. Drink Hot. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Originally published in print paper, Sebasticook Valley Weekly </div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-71332676443719437052011-11-04T22:28:00.000-04:002011-11-14T07:53:22.286-05:00Classic Toys Top Some Shopping Lists<div class="MsoNormal"><b>Not all shoppers will be searching for electronic devices or the latest fad toy released by toy makers this season!</b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><b> </b></div>According to a Toys-R-Us website, shoppers are looking for classic pre-school toys such as kitchen sets, wooden blocks, wagons, and play-doh.As doctors, therapists, and education experts increase the advocacy and awareness of the need for children to return to basic play, retailers are taking advantage of the trend back to classics.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Elementary age girls can expect to find Easy Bake Ovens, tea sets, dolls, and hula hoops under the tree this year. Boys can expect to find Lincoln Logs, Tinkertoys, Tonka Trucks, and GI Joe’s under the tree. Older kids will not be exempt from receiving classics. Topping the list are classic board games such as Monopoly, Sorry, Battleship, and Scrabble. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">There are several factors attributed to the resurgence of classics versus fads or technology. The first is that parents are reaching a saturation point with the electronics and battery operated toys. One parent, declining to be named, was expressing frustration at a store recently. “It seems that every time I turn around, the electronic thing stops working. Beyond that, I spend more on batteries than I did to buy the toy.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Grandparents are inclined to nod in agreement with the experts, who say that children do not know how to play anymore. It is not simply that they do not have the toys, but that many have become desensitized to the point of needing therapy to develop sensory integration skills that are lacking.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Sensory integration is the ability to take in information through the senses of touch, movement, smell, taste, vision, and hearing, and to combine the resulting perceptions with prior information, memories, and knowledge already stored in the brain, in order to derive coherent meaning from processing the stimuli.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The National Occupational Therapy Association, in part attributes the lack of creative play opportunities to the rise in sensory issues in children. Child experts agree that children need to be stimulated from birth. Replacing an infant’s rattles and cloth books with a television is often the beginning of a childhood of problems. As the child ages, playing outside in a sand pile has been replaced with sitting in front of a computer screen. Riding bikes has been replaced with riding a virtual bike in the “gaming” world. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It is difficult for seniors to understand how it is that an occupational therapist would need to prescribe a sensory diet for a child, mandating that the child engage in activities that were once commonplace, yet that is exactly the trend that the country is in. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Craft fairs are an excellent source for locating classics such as wooden planes, trains, and automobiles. Handmade doll outfits are also found in most of the craft fairs. Smaller department stores and general stores, themselves reminiscent of days gone by, carry most of the classics that are topping the list this year. Larger stores also are carrying the classics; however shoppers will need to navigate through aisles of barking dogs, talking robots, shooting tanks, and crying dolls to find the toys that require the child to use their imagination and create the play script.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Originally published in print paper, Sebasticook Valley Weekly </div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-25780909912004778362011-11-04T22:00:00.000-04:002011-11-14T07:51:45.419-05:00Clearing the Roof During Winter In New England<div class="MsoNormal">Stores are out of roof rakes, and managers don’t know if or when more will arrive. That didn’t stop my husband from getting the job done. A little Yankee ingenuity and we were set to clear the roofs.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Being a lifelong resident of Maine (until 2 years ago), I am all too aware of the danger of leaks and roof collapses. The presence of snow and ice on a roof can cause roofs to bow or sag. The horizontal force of the extra weight can cause walls to buckle. Caught early enough, chances are that removing the weight will remove the sagging. In extreme cases, permanent damage occurs, such as a roof collapse. The heavier the snow, the more danger there is. Right now, Connecticut residents are dealing with heavy snow loads.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Patch has been reporting all week, of problems throughout the region, and I know that we are not exempt from the possibility of having our house develop a problem. We watched the news last night, and knew the only choice to make was to get up this morning and finishing cleaning up the mess the series of snowstorms has left behind. More snow, and a chance of rain, is headed our way.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Someone stopped in the street, while we were on the roof shoveling, and asked if we had a leak. I replied that we do not. The question was then posed as to why we were bothering to clean it off. My response was “We don’t want to find out the hard way, that it was too much weight for our structure to bear.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Was it necessary? We don’t know. We worked all day. Even now, while I am writing this up, my husband is out putting tools and ladders away, under the street lights.We are tired and our muscles are sore. Was it worth it? Absolutely. When the snow and rain comes, as it surely will, we will have no worries. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">What about you? Are you ready for the rain and snow that is being forecast? Are you worried when you watch the news and see the number of buildings collapsing? The good news is that there are still two decent days of weather ahead, which gives you plenty of time to get ready. And, don’t forget….a little duct tape and you can make your own roof rake! </div><br />
<br />
This article was published in the Middletown Patch during the winter of 2011.<br />
<a href="http://middletown-ct.patch.com/articles/taking-time-to-clear-off-the-roof">http://middletown-ct.patch.com/articles/taking-time-to-clear-off-the-roof</a>Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4000511862157689569.post-72659515497564274422011-11-04T17:54:00.000-04:002011-11-06T16:17:26.000-05:00Purpose of Return to Eden BlogspotI am passionate about helping people live simplistically in the 21st century. There is an ever growing discontentment with this current life and the demands to keep up. Standing up and saying no to the rat race, in a time when life is running at warp speed, may seem to be impossible. It is not. It is my experience, from the thousands I network with each week, that people are looking for a way to jump off the wheel and step back to a space in time where life was more simple, more meaningful. <br />
<br />
Family time has become a thing of the past, replaced by the frenzied life of running from activity to activity, all in the name of enrichment. Employees are working 9-5 and then some, but often sit wondering if it is really worth all the stress, to get to the top. "Top of what?", they wonder. Even this week, we are watching the global economy continue to crumble. I strongly believe times are going to get tougher. As the economy continues to teeter on shaky ground and the cost of living continues to climb, hopelessness and despair sets in.<br />
<br />
People sit and ponder the purpose of life. It is hard to say what I will post on here. I am sure I will post some of my family heirloom recipes-you know, the ones that require cooking from scratch? You can expect some gardening tips and musings, for sure. Book reviews. Excerpts from my own books that I write. Tips of how to create simple celebrations. No doubt, I will link in some of my favorite other sites, too. Perhaps I will even post links to the one book that I have managed to finish writing, that released in 2007. I've written thousands of articles over the past 5 years, many of which I still own the copyright to. I imagine I will build an article library here. <br />
<br />
<br />
Some of the articles will just be basic common sense. Some will be filled with statistics (I happen to value statistics) and many will offer truths found in the Bible. Why the Bible? Well, in a world that seems to be spinning out of control-it is my experience that I need something that doesn't shake/rattle/roll/fall apart/change. The only constant is God himself, unmovable. Unshakable. Unchangeable. Faith in Christ gives me light in what can be a dark world. Hope in times of despair. It would be wrong of me to not offer that same hope to you. <br />
<br />
I desire to bring hope to what seems like impossible times. Infuse a little joy into your lives. Share some basics of debt free living. Celebrate the small things with you. Help you Return to Eden-to a life enjoyed rather than expended. <br />
<br />
Ready to be done with the rat race? Ready to live a more simplified life, reminiscent of times our grandparents enjoyed, with the added benefit of using modern conveniences for the positive points they offer? Come then, let us journey together.Mel Tavareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06998024360638235814noreply@blogger.com