It’s April 16, 2017—Today, Jenna Fischer of the NBC funny show, The Office, released a limited edition of items you can buy from the “Finer Things Club.”
There are T-shirts, teapots and coffee mugs.
Continue reading “The Finer Things Club: Jenna Fischer”
Hello everyone! Thank you for joining me today. I hope this finds you at the beginning of a great week.
It’s Monday, April 16, 2018–It seems like every other week we learn something new about what is or isn’t good for us. But I have to admit, this hugging thing is something I can get behind. In psychology we are taught that emotional deprivation can lead to a variety of issues in children. So, common sense tells me that adults, too, would experience some negative symptoms due to lack of affection.
Friday, March 23, 2018–YOU might agree that blogging is a business. It requires time, creativity, energy and nurturing. Blogging can generate income and for some, celebrity status. But as with any business, blogging has its share of challenges, disappointments, setbacks and learning curves. Here are just two of the challenges I’m currently struggling with as well as my solution to them.
Happy Friday, friends.
I hope this finds you planning for a great weekend. Today’s post is all about home inspiration. We’re currently in the midst of renovating our home. And if you read last weeks post then you know we HAVE to remodel since we live in a fixer upper.
Hey everybody! It’s Thursday February 1. Where does the time go, right? Wherever you are I hope this finds you having a great week. My week has been pretty tamed. I’ve had a laundry list of things to do (including the laundry). But since I’ve been staying home a lot (trying to avoid contact with sick people), I can focus on getting some real work done around here, like painting.
Hi everybody, I hope this finds you gearing up for a good weekend!
SO many friends in social media have been posting images of themselves snowed in, playing in the snow, skiing or just pictures of the snow by itself. While snow makes for beautiful images, it’s more than this California girl can handle so I am doing all I can to stay warm. In this post I share some of my favorite soft and cozy things to keep me warm.
The cold and flu season has officially descended upon us. Everyone, everywhere is getting sick. To my dismay, I have been sick twice in the last few months–it hasn’t been fun. Making matters worse for me is that cancer and chemotherapy treatments have left me with a weak immune system. This means I am more susceptible to catching a cold, the flu or anything else going around.
Continue reading “How to Protect Yourself and Others From Getting Sick”
Happy Saturday, friends!
I hope this finds you having a great weekend. But, if it finds you shopping for the wine lover in your life, I hope this helps!
Always, April
After a certain age it’s easy to assume that the older adults in your life have all they need and want. But the reality is that some 6.4 million older Americans live at or below the federal poverty level of $11,800 a year (AARP). And being a woman, a person of color or a person in poor health increases the odds of poverty.
Casual reading has become a luxury that most people can’t afford–literally and figuratively. The cost of books and magazines, demanding schedules, shorter days and the never ending to do list can make it impossible to take a break.
Continue reading “My Favorite Magazines to Give and Receive”
Great news! 100 Percent Pure has released a line of lip liners! Yay!
Finding a chemical free lip liner has not been an easy task. You can imagine my surprise when I found these in my inbox.
Just look at the pretty colors.
In addition to the big release the Pure beauty team gave us tips to lining. Here’s a few don’ts.
#1 Overdraw Your Lips
While bigger can be better, full on exaggerating your lips (like Miranda Sings) won’t fool anyone. A little out of the natural lip lines will give you the illusion of plumper, fuller lips, but let’s just enhance our lips to a level of believability, not science fiction.
#2 Harsh, Unblended Lines
We can appreciate your dedication to clean, perfect lines… but practicing around your lips is not the place. Blend, blend, blend. Save those perfectionist skills for your cat eye wings. Soft lines and edges will keep your lip liner looking natural and subtle.
#3 Over Sharpen Your Pencil Tip
You’ll want a soft, rounded tip to achieve the perfect smooth lip pencil application. Sharp points will just create tight, intense lines.
For the full article click HERE.
The truth is, most women with breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease. Only about 13 percent of women diagnosed have a first-degree female relative (mother, sister or daughter) with breast cancer. Having said this…
A woman who has a first-degree female relative with breast cancer has almost twice the risk of a woman without this family history. If she has more than 1 first-degree female relative with a history of breast cancer, her risk is about 3-4 times higher.
Regardless of your beliefs or fears, please do your breast exams and get your mammograms.
If you’d like to learn more about breast cancer and your risks you can go to the Susan G. Komen.
Please share.
I have my pet peeves. There’s no doubt about. Last week, after doing a little grocery shopping, I was headed to my car when I noticed this parking situation.
Granted, neither of these cars belong to me. Still, why in the world do people park this close? Look at the lines on the ground. Could that truck be parked any worse (insert eye roll).
As if I wasn’t already annoyed, I came across this wandering shopping cart.
While this isn’t my car either, a few weeks ago–and although I parked so far away from the store it may as well have been in Egypt–I returned to find a ding in my door.
I guarantee you it’s because someone with a lack of respect for other peoples things parked too close to my car, or they just let their cart wander off without any regard for others.
The moral of the story; treat others the way you want to be treated…please?
#RealLife
On Monday, Gossip girl, Blake Lively, posted this picture on Instagram with the caption “Happy Birthday, baby.”
When I saw the picture I paused…and then Googled ‘Blake Lively husband.’ I could swear Lively was married to Ryan Reynolds (and she is), but the two Ryan’s together confused me, momentarily.
As the day went on, I learned this was Lively’s way of getting even with her husband for a picture he posted of her on her 30th birthday. The picture showed only half of her face with the caption “Happy Birthday to my amazing wife.”
Maybe the post was meant to imply she’s his better ‘half.’ Whatever the case, the picture made me laugh and for a minute, stumped me. The couples public teasing gives us a behind the scenes look at their relationship. This one gets a ‘super cute’ and ‘funny’ rating from me!
Alwayz, April
I can’t believe it’s already Mid-October. The month is getting away from me. Before it comes to a screeching halt, let’s talk about the Teal Pumpkin Project.
Researchers estimate that up to 15 million Americans have food allergies, including 5.9 million children under age 18. That’s 1 in 13 children, or roughly two in every classroom.
If you celebrate Halloween, putting a teal pumpkin on your doorstep means you have non-food treats available for kids with food allergies.
Examples of items you could offer are glow sticks and small toys. This simple act promotes inclusion for trick-or-treaters with food allergies or other conditions.
Last year, almost 18,000 households from all 50 states participated in the Teal Pumpkin Project.
You can also go directly to the Teal Pumpkin Project Website for a free downloadable sign to put in your window. You’ll find a list of non-food treats there, as well, in case you need some suggestions.
If you’re interested in getting more involved with the teal pumpkin project you can learn more about becoming a Teal Project insider HERE.
Almost perfect, April
Images sourced at Teal PumpkinProject
By P.P.
Fifty years later, the memory takes my breath away. We were not mean or hateful, just unbelievably stupid and ignorant. Today our raised consciousness recognizes discrimination against blacks, women, gays, even the height and weight challenged.
We don’t always solve the problems, but at least we see them. Still, discrimination exists. I came home from a class one night and sat down to watch a TV show with my daughter Lara who had recently moved back home.
The sitcom plot took a turn when a crazy woman just out of the crazy house came over and acted crazy. The laugh track was cranked to the highest volume and my stomach knotted.
“Oh, my gawd,” said Lara lunging the recliner back to upright. “This is the third show this week that is getting laughs off the crazies.”
Eeny meeny miney mo, catch a crazy by the toe
Once again we are woefully ignorant and insensitive. Look at our very common expressions. Better yet, listen to them. “What a nut job!” “I’ll be ready for the loony bin!” “He’s such a schizo!” “You’re driving me crazy!”
We don’t mean to be cruel or thoughtless, but ignorance is no excuse either. Millions of people in this country suffer from mental illness. TV commercials promote pills, but they don’t deal with the reality of people drowning in darkness, randomly selected for a pain beyond that most of us will ever know. A pain that goes beyond will, a pain to which they are neurologically chained.
Christmas 1990. I sat with my friend in her motel room, the floor like her mind was strewn with a clutter she could not clear. She had divorced her husband and her children were exhausted from begging her to get up. I was her only visitor.
How dare this pain be used for humor or cheapened by squeezing a pill commercial in between foot and yeast infections. We would not dream of passing a man on the street who was having a heart attack, yet we pass—albeit squeamishly—a man having a conversation with the voices in his head.
In a society that ruthlessly pursues wealth as the marker of success, we dismiss those who are not achieving without ever trying to distinguish between those who won’t and those who can’t.
When I was growing up, the ultimate threat was “We’ll have to send you to Imola”, the state hospital in Napa.
Governor Reagan stopped that when he emptied our mental institutions and filled our streets. The lucky ones stayed at Imola, safe and supervised. The others we step around on the streets—or laugh at on TV.
“That’s it! “ Lara said. “I’m going to write a letter! I should have taken some stationery when I left the hospital. I’ll tell them a thing or two.” She could.
Happy Friday, friends!
The number one question I get regarding the cancer patient is what should I buy someone with a diagnosis to show my support?
If you’re not sure what to buy the cancer fighter in your life, the first thing to do is to keep in mind how you feel when you are fighting a bug. What are some of the things that bring you comfort?
For example, hot soup and cozy pajamas always feel so good when you’re feeling ‘blah?’ It’s the same way for the cancer fighter. Here are some of my faves.
Consider gifting your loved one with a nice carryall bag equipped with Ginger Candy to help fight nausea and a soft small blanket to take to chemotherapy (sometimes it gets cold in that suite). You can check out Target for some faux fur blankets or Kaufman Mercantile for a beautiful classic cotton version.
A scarf is also a nice option. It’s a good idea to keep the neck covered when the body is weak. I’ll be posting more ideas soon but trust me, this is a great start!
Oh, I can’t forget my favorite cookbook! You will see this one a LOT around here; One Bite At a Time is authored by chef Rebecca Katz. She’s the best when it comes to cancer nourishment (in my opinion).
What nourishes your soul when you’re feeling under the weather?
Alwayz, April
You’ve heard the acronyms and the heated debates. The he said, she said. But do you know what DACA is? If you don’t, you’re not alone. Most people including the news reporters, had no idea what any of that jargon meant until DACA became an issue. So In case, like me, you’re wondering what DACA is, here it is in a nutshell:
source CNN
There’s no doubt about it; Summer is slowly drifting away making room for fall. And while fall means back to the daily grind for most of us, it doesn’t have to mean a dull existence.
Color is a good way to brighten the day. This fall I find myself drawn to splashes of red. When it comes to fashion, much like my music, I don’t like to put limitations on myself based on some rules or the expectations of others.
I think fashion should reflect the personality of the individual. As you can see here in my casual Friday post, I like to marry business with casual. This works for dinner, dates, parties, casual Friday or just the weekend.
I have to run now, but I hope this finds you somewhere planning for a great weekend!
Alwayz, April
Alicia Silverstone came into my peripheral as Cher Horowitz in the funny-rich-kid film Clueless. But in real life Alicia Silverstone is a vegan mom and wife. In this clip she shares her tips for making snacks and school lunches. Do you have some ideas? Please share!
“There’s no place like home.” Dorothy, Wizard of Oz
featured image | @bedbathandbeyond
After fighting breast cancer I know for sure that home should be a soft place to fall. The space where you recharge your batteries. Where you heal, smile, laugh, cry, fall in love and gather with friends and family.
It doesn’t matter how big or small your home is or how much money you have, your living space should be a reflection of the good in your life.
What you put into your home will either enhance your life or take away from it. Whatever you choose, it will have a big impact on how you feel emotionally.
So many get caught up in decorating their lives based on the opinions of others. Based on magazines, advertisements and programming.
My desire is to encourage you to cultivate a life and a living space that brings you peace and happiness, based on your ideals, regardless of status or income.
In Real Fine Things you will find all of the lifestyle things I think are pretty great, at a variety of price points. If you have something you think should be featured here be sure to hit me up.
Remember, if you like what you see, share it! And please join me in social media at the top right corner of the screen.
Always, April
Joanna Gaines Partners With Bed Bath & Beyond
Chip and Joanna Gaines are hot ticket items for HGTV. The ‘Fixer Upper’ duo got T.V. famous (almost) overnight. With Joanna’s keen eye for renovation and home decor, it’s easy to see why.
When asked what inspires me within my own home I always go back to the same thing. There was a place and time when less was more. People didn’t over crowd their spaces and their homes were functional and practical. They worked hard on the land and their home served as a place of rest to prepare them for another hard day of working the fields. Call me old fashioned but I am truly inspired by this way of living. –Joanna, blog post Magnolia Market Dot Com
Fixer Upper wouldn’t be the same without Joanna’s husband, Chip. He’s the physical muscle and artist that helps bring Joanna’s visions to fruition.
From demolition to renovation and real estate, Chip does it all. In the fall, this hands-on dad of four, will be releasing a book titled Capital Gaines Smart Things I Learned Doing Stupid Stuff .
“I’ve done so many dumb things in my day that I had enough material to write a book… so I did!” Chips says on Instagram.
The two are really making good use of their success. Joanna has recently partnered with Bed, Bath and Beyond to bring us rugs, pillows and throws, designed by her.
I was so excited to hear this news! I love Joanna’s sense of style.
Despite the rumors about Joanna leaving Fixer Upper and releasing a new cosmetic line Joanna had this to say in a blog post, “Just in case you were wondering, YES! We are currently filming season 5 of the show. No! I am not getting into the business of facial creams. And No! We are not expecting baby #5. And no worries, believing some of these stories happens to the best of us. In summary, don’t buy the facial cream, friends.”
You can check out her new line here. Or, if you live in Chelsea, New York, it’s rumored that a Bed Bath & Beyond there is selling the items in-store. You can also buy home decor items directly online at Magnolia Market.
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With the release of her cookbook, Food, Health and Happiness, Oprah Winfrey really can say she’s done it all.
There’s no denying Oprah knows a thing or two about good living. Not just because she’s one of the richest people on the planet, although that certainly helps!
But because her fame and fortune has afforded her the opportunity to be in the company of some of the most talented chefs, designers and health aficionados.
People we aren’t typically exposed to. The same people who helped Oprah create her own home, life and dinner party menus.
Oprah’s appreciation of good food and good living combined with the knowledge she’s acquired from her talented friends and employees will influence everything she does pertaining to lifestyle.
When Oprah shares I listen, borrow and apply when and where I can.
For example, those sorbet recipes you see above. I assure you those sorbets taste just as delicious as they look in that pretty little picture. Likely due to the tips Oprah’s received from her famed chefs.
I prefer a sorbet over ice cream. I never liked the way my mouth or my body feels after eating whole milk ice cream. It turns out I am lactose intolerant, though, I didn’t know this until I was an adult.
After attending a health presentation a few years ago I was inspired to try my hand at making sorbets and shakes. They were delicious.
Even my husband, a die-hard chocolate and sugar lover, agreed the homemade desserts are competitive to the store bought products he was used to eating.
Knowing it was healthier was an added bonus. He said there was no sugar crash either. I think sorbets are a delicious healthy alternative to store bought anything.
Even better is that I know what goes into my food. I’ll share some of my own recipes with you down the road. But for now, I think Oprah’s sorbet is ‘peachy-keen,’ as they said in the fifties.
If you have kids this would be something fun to try with them, too. Let me know if you try the sorbets. I want to hear what you think. And don’t forget to share this if you like what you read here!
What’s your favorite summer treat?
Enjoy! April
Serves 8
Ingredients
Directions
Speaking of Food
I do believe Martha Stewart finally has some real competition. The Kraft Heinz Company and Oprah Winfrey recently announced the debut of O, That’s Good!, a line of four flavorful soups and four savory sides that bring a nutritious twist on comfort food classics to everyone’s table.
The twist includes healthy substitutions like replacing some of the potato in their Original Mashed Potatoes dish with mashed cauliflower. In their Broccoli Cheddar Soup they’ve replaced some of the cheese with velvety butternut squash – increasing the number of veggies while keeping all of the rich flavor in every bite.
“I love healthy foods and eating from my garden,” said Winfrey. “When Kraft Heinz approached me for a food line, what got my attention is making nutritious comfort foods more accessible to everyone. This product line is real, delicious food with a twist. You’ll feel good about serving it for your family.”
The O, That’s Good! Soups will retail for $4.99 and the sides will go for $4.49. You can expect to find the new line in the refrigerated section in select grocery stores and will be available nationwide in October 2017.
For more information on O, That’s Good! Soups and Sides, please visit http://www.Othatsgood.com.
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Never underestimate the value of an ordinary day-April
August 1, 2017–Hello, friends. It’s hard to believe it’s August already. I can hear Target tearing down the summer display ads and replacing the swim suits and beach totes with sweaters, backpacks and back-to-school bargains.
Meanwhile, we’re still dealing with the heat and humidity. You may have noticed I’ve been M.I.A. That’s not by design.
At the end of June I caught what I thought was a flu bug; fever, aches, pains, low appetite–you know the drill. I stayed in bed, made soup and expected it to flee in about a week or so.
That’s not what happen. It turns out I probably had something a little more serious than the typical flu. Something like the influenza virus.
My doctors are unable to confirm this considering I waited too long to be seen. In fact, the reason I went it at all was because my asthma was out of control and I couldn’t digest anything. (You’ll hear more about that in future posts).
As you may recall, I’m also a cancer and chemo survivor. This means my body is somewhat weak to begin with. It’s been rough around here, lately.
I think I’m on the mend now, but, I’m afraid to get too excited about anything until I know for sure.
For now, I continue to nurture my body and hope to be back soon (hopefully end of week). Until then, may this find you having a good summer wherever you are.
Always, April
It’s Friday June 16, 2017–Olivia Newton-John recently announced that after living cancer-free for 25 years, cancer has returned and it has metastasized. In case you don’t know, metastasized means that cancer has spread from one place of the body to another.
As a breast cancer survivor, her ‘news’ made me cringe. It’s a reminder that cancer can happen to anyone at anytime. Even worse; it can happen more than once. My thoughts and prayers go out to her and her family as she faces another battle with the criminal-like disease.
The three K’s. Know your body. Know your risks. Know the facts. Get regular checkups. Do regular self-exams. If you have daughters, teach them how to do breast self exams. Encourage them to become familiar with their bodies so they can quickly identify if something changes. As Fran Drescher says “Early arrival, 90 percent survival.” The youngest breast cancer survivor I met was 19. Cancer does not discriminate.
We’ve come along way. We now have apps to help make it easier to remember to do a self-breast exam, and to help you teach your daughters or younger sisters how to do one. I’ve tried a few of them but it comes down to preference. Some of these apps are aimed at the younger selfie generation making it more eye catching for them.
Breast Check Now Check Yourself Your Man Reminder
It is Friday, after all! For me, the best way to kick off the weekend is with dinner, a movie and my man. I don’t wanna fight crowds (or the angry and violent) just to see a movie. The bonus is that I can eat all of the popcorn I want without paying the high price of theater popcorn, and I can go the bathroom without missing a beat.
Some of my recommendations may be a littler older. But still, if you haven’t seem them they’re worth watching.
Jackie: Don’t underestimate this one. You might be inclined to think that this is just another Kennedy movie. But it’s not! Natalie Portman does an AMAZING job at portraying Jackie Kennedy. The film is one of a kind in that it takes us backstage and into the life of the wife, the woman, the widow and the Lady of the White House. No sex. No contrived drama. I do not recommend this movie for children. We see a lot of blood and grief, although, the movie is not gruesome.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story: I totally underestimated this one! Great movie for the whole family. One scene implied supernatural abilities featuring Darth Vader, in case that’s something you’re concerned about.
It was very reminiscent of the original Star Wars. Loved, loved, loved seeing older characters in this film. This goes on the repeat watch list for sure.
In support of Olivia Newton-John (and just because it’s a fun one)!
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It’s Friday! Let’s dance our way into the weekend with Melanie Chisholm, Victoria Beckham, Geri Halliwell, Melanie Brown, and Emma Bunton AKA The Spice Girls!
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Warning: You’re going to need some tissue. This is not your average Cinderella story. But, it is a story about love. Life. Success. Beauty. And, the unthinkable.
I remember the first time I saw the husband-and-wife singing duo Joey+Rory. It was on a show called Can You Duet. They were an interesting and talented pair.
Their career catapulted after their appearance on that show. I remember feeling happy for them. They seemed so down to earth. Those are the kind of people I enjoy seeing succeed.
But then, the duo took a step back indicating they “wanted more to life.” They were expecting a baby so they chose less. In preparation for the birth of their child, the couple simplified their lives by putting their music career on hold and staying at home, planting roots deep in the soil of their small farm, and the community they loved.
They believed God would give them a great story. Despite pain and loss they say..He did. As a breast cancer survivor I don’t know if I’ll be able to watch this in full. But, I have followed the story and I have seen bits and pieces. I am sharing it with you because I think it’s beautifully done. Let me know what you think if you watch it.
Always, April
CMT will host the broadcast premiere of To Joey, With Love on Wednesday, June 21 at 8/7c. The documentary is the incredible true love story of Joey and Rory Feek (Joey+Rory) and was filmed by the couple over two and a half years.
To Joey, With Love also takes viewers from the birth of their daughter Indiana, born with Down Syndrome, through Joey’s struggle with and ultimate surrender to cancer — all amidst their never-ending hope in something far greater.
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It doesn’t matter whether you’re planning for breast reconstruction or you’re considering augmentation, I think you’ll find this video helpful.
“Traditionally, most breast implants had a silicone shell filled with liquid silicone. Newer, shaped implants have a silicone shell with cohesive gel silicone inside. The benefit of the shaped silicone is that these implants do not leak like traditional implants. Here we are cutting an implant in half to show you what is inside. Nothing leaks out!” Dr. Leif Rogers, MD, FACS
While I was planning for breast reconstruction I couldn’t get any doctor to show me the inside of an implant. In fact, in most cases, doctors didn’t even have the right sample for me to see or touch before making a selection.
*I’ve never met with Dr. Rogers. This is not an endorsement. Please do your own research prior to selecting a surgeon.*
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Quick note: My apologies dear friends for any issues you experienced viewing this post. It’s fixed! Enjoy, and thanks for your patience.
Always, April
Over the weekend families everywhere gathered together to celebrate their moms. Here are just a few of my favorite publicly shared moments.
Hoda Kotb posted this heartwarming, new mama moment.
Natalie Morales from the Today Show.
In true mama fashion SJP posted a video of this with the caption “The sound of practice, music to my ears.”
Joanna Gaines of the hit T.V. show “Fixer Upper” posted this cool flashback.
Kate Hudson is notorious for writing the most touching Instagram posts. She’s usually all heart. This year she kept it simple.
One of my favorite country singers also a stepmom.
Be sure to follow these beautiful moms for more.
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Nina Donovan is a courageous 19-year-old college student who used her talent as a spoken-word artist (think Hamilton) to rise up against the modern-day Goliath: politicians threatening to trample on equality in America.
Continue reading “‘Nasty Woman’ Teen Shines at Women’s March Washington “
Ashley Judd takes the stage by storm at the Women’s March in D.C. delivering a powerful poem written by 19-year-old, Nina Donovan. Some (men) have already classified it as a “psycho rant” proving Nina’s point.
Hello, friends. As I write this, president-elect Trump is taking his seat as the official leader of our country. While some are celebrating his victory, others are struggling with fear, anxiety and uncertainty.
I worry about what will come next. I struggle with anxiety and insomnia. I avoid the news or any conversation surrounding politics, because it makes me feel stressed. My fear is war. Everyone talks a good game, but our generation has no idea what war would look like for us. -Emily
Whether or not you share the same sentiment as Emily, there’s no denying this presidential switch, the political discord among Americans and the fear of violence and terrorism can add to the day-to-day anxieties we already face.
Did you know? Anxiety disorders affect 40 million Americans over the age of 18, and cost the U.S. 42 billion dollars a year.
While you probably agree that managing and minimizing stress is important to good health; demanding schedules, tight budgets and the daily grind can make it difficult to find downtime–especially for women. The mere mention of the word ‘downtime’ may strike a negative chord in some of you.
I hear you! But like so many other women, I too, used to juggle it all. I was working, pursuing, cleaning, and catering to everyone else. I never had enough time for me. Then…I was diagnosed with breast cancer. That’s a brick wall no one wants to hit.
It is with confidence I say continual exposure to stress and anxiety has a profound impact on the body. It can lead to a laundry list of health problems including disease. So while the whole brick wall had to fall down on me, the lesson I learned is that there is more to good health than eating the right foods and/or exercising.
Being in good health includes maintaining a good state of mind. It’s learning to process negative emotions. I believe taking what I term ‘mental health breaks’ throughout the day can contribute to overall good health and maybe even stave off illness. While disease can happen for a variety of reasons, I am of the opinion you can stack the odds in your favor by taking care of the whole body including mind and thoughts.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t have all of the answers. I am, like you, a work in progress. I’m still learning some things as I go. That’s how I came up with the following mental health exercise.
Health challenges and setbacks have, at times, limited my ability to even leave the house. I had to get creative. The following self-care practice is something I designed to be used anytime, anywhere. Try it out. I think after the first couple of times you’ll identify the benefits (and your friends and family might too).
Change the things you can, accept the things you can’t
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Image sourced at Pexels
<a href=”http://Follow my blog with Bloglovin” target=”_blank”>YOU CAN FIND ME ON BLOGLOVIN’ TOO
Hello friends, readers and fellow bloggers. This is a quick note to let you I’m making some changes starting with the name of my blog. After careful consideration and testing I decided to change my title from Imperfect Living to The Lifestyle Brief.
The new address will be; THE LIFESTYLE BRIEF DOT COM. Though, you’ll be able to find me with either name.
I continue to own the Imperfect Living name and plan to use it in another venture. But for now, I’m very happy and excited about this change. I think you’ll find the Site improved. You will continue to find the Imperfect Living theme, here. So…I’m not going anywhere in terms of that.
I hope you’ll continue to be a friend and follower as I grow up right before your eyes. Thank you so much for supporting me.
Wishing you happiness, balance and acceptance
Imperfect April
THAT lipstick in the photo is my favorite lipstick-ever!
For as long as I can remember I’ve had a drawer full of lipsticks that I can’t wear because while they look pretty in the store, they don’t look so pretty on me.
After my breast cancer battle I promised myself I would clean up my life in multiple ways including; getting rid of the stuff that I didn’t need and the stuff that didn’t work.
So why is this lipstick my favorite?-Because I have dry, sensitive and flaky skin and lips. Chemotherapy medications have wreaked havoc on my skin and body. Additionally, It catapulted me into early onset menopause which can cause dryness and irritation on it’s own.
So my lips were a mess. It was embarrassing. They were always peeling and bleeding. It felt like I had one of those dry white lines around my mouth all of the time. I felt so self-conscious.
Desperately seeking a solution I spent a lot of money buying one brand after another. Good brands claiming to eliminate my symptoms but none of them worked for me.
But then a girlfriend told me about Root Pretty. I had seen them on Instagram but since they don’t allow returns I was skeptical. I already had a drawer full of lipsticks and moisturizers that I could’t use, I didn’t want to add to that so I moved on.
But then my friend told me I could order samples and that the Root Pretty balm was so affordable and worked so well that she would buy it from me if I didn’t like it. Coming from her, that was a surprise. We’re talking about a girl who doesn’t even like to use mousse or hot irons.
So I caved. I started out with their Pretty Balms and it was love at first use. I’m so glad my friend insisted I try this product. My lips are in the best shape they have been in years.
After trying a couple of samples, I recently purchased the lipstick you see above in the color Kate. It is the perfect day-to-day or day-to-evening fall color. The biggest bonus for me is that enhances the skin of my lips.
I even wear it when I go to bed. Crazy, maybe. But I’m good with it!
The best compliment I recently got was when my husband kissed me on the lips and then pointed out that my lips were so soft. As someone who is finding her way back to sexy, that was such an empowering and flattering moment. I highly recommend this product. And in case you’re wondering, I haven’t received compensation on any level for sharing this product with you.
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Hey, everybody! Welcome to my list of favorite beauty products. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or checking off your gift buying list, I know you’ll find something here that you’ll love as much as I do
These gifts are perfect for everyone. But, I especially like them for women in the midst of a change. This includes; the cancer survivor, the menopausal woman, the pregnant woman and the young teen. Young girls are just women in training so why not start them off right.
What we put on our bodies shouldn’t just change the outside but should have an impact on the inside as well. All of these products make me feel like I’m doing something luxurious for myself. May you have the same experience. What’s your favorite healthy buys? hugs.
Note; hover and click on the red words to go directly to the website.
Image sourced; Pexel
It’s November 17, 2016. Happy Thursday friends, thank you for joining me today. I know the Zika virus is not a fun subject, but that doesn’t mean we should ignore it. The truth is; when I heard about Zika, I felt bad for those who were affected by it, yet, relieved that it wasn’t in the U.S.
That sounds selfish, I know. But after all I’d been through with a breast cancer diagnosis, I just needed a clean break from the medical profession. However, ignorant bliss can only last so long. I decided it was time to learn more about this unusual virus. The following is what I gathered.
May this find you well,
april
What is the Zika virus? Zika virus disease is caused by the Zika virus. I couldn’t find anything more specific than that.
How do I get it? Zika virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito species, called Aedes. Once a person is infected by Zika they can transfer the virus to another person.
For example,
Are older people at a greater risk? Yes. According to the professionals most healthy people can fight off Zika. In fact, they may not even have any symptoms. But as we age our immune system weakens making it harder to fight off illness and infection.
But aging isn’t the only factor. Anyone with a suppressed immune system is at risk including those with chronic illness and cancer. Everyone should be taking precautions.
What kind of precautions?
What can I do if I think I have Zika?
End of article.
Sources; Pexels image. Center for Disease Control National Institute on Aging and Oncolink
Last week, I posted an article on the 5 Things You Should Never Say To Someone With #Cancer. Martina McBride’s song “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” speaks volumes. The following are a combination of phrases that will help you say the right thing.
“Sometimes, the best way to help someone is just to be near them.” ~ Veronica Roth, Divergent
It was the last week of November 2012. Fall had officially settled in. The air was crisp and the sky was blue. We stopped for tea and coffee and then went to an appointment at a breast clinic. An appointment that would confirm or rule out breast cancer. I was nervous the whole drive there. My gut told me my body was in trouble.
My gut was right.
I was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. The words felt like a drop-kick to the center of my chest. I couldn’t catch my breath. I could hear myself sobbing inside but nothing was coming out. My throat was in pain from fighting back the tears. I needed to hear every word the doctor said. I needed to know what this meant for me. For us. For my future.
After getting the diagnosis I needed time to let it sink in. As a couple we needed time to grieve too. So we took a few weeks to privately cope with the diagnosis, and then we shared the ‘news’ with a few friends and family. I assumed they would help me carry the load. That they would eagerly offer comfort and support.
Boy, was I wrong.
Instead, they saw cancer as a carte blanche opportunity to say mean-spirited and hurtful things to me. Things I never forgot. Things that permanently damaged our relationship. As time went on, I heard similar stories from other cancer survivors.
So in effort to help you to be a good friend (or well mannered person) the following is a lineup of things said to me, things I hope you’ll never say to anyone fighting cancer.
If you like what you read here, share it!
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On Monday’s episode of Teen Mom, Farrah Abraham, terminated an employee from her frozen yogurt shop while wearing these ridiculous glasses.
I don’t know what Farrah was thinking, but those glasses didn’t hide her arrogance, bad attitude or lack of professionalism.
Farrah argued with her employee, used sarcasm and made condescending unnecessary statements even after she let the girl go. Shortly thereafter, the cameras cut to Farrah driving daughter, Sophia, home. During the drive is Farrah saw it fit to offer her daughter tips to termination.
When arrived home she called her enabling mother and gloated about termination. While I realize the employee might have been a bad apple, Farrah poor approach to dealing with the situation is a reminder that bringing jobs back to America is only half the problem we have in the workplace. The other half is bad employers and bad managers who bully employees and abuse their power.
What do you think? Would you have worn these glasses?
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On October 20th at 10:20 a.m. millions of people worldwide will practice how to Drop, Cover and Hold On in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill.
In case you’re wondering, the drills began in Southern California in 2008 with the goal of teaching the public how to protect themselves during a large earthquake, and how to get prepared for one.
Like me, many of you probably just ignore these drills. But the reality is; earthquakes are happening everywhere. You could even be on vacation when one strikes, so a little preparedness wouldn’t hurt.
The Great ShakeOut practice drills are now held in more than 20 Official ShakeOut Regions, along with an option for people in any other state or country to also register and be counted in the global total.
Everyone is invited to participate. According to the Great ShakeOut website currently there are 9,173 individuals and families participating in the event.
If you would like more information on the Great ShakeOut or for resources, click here. If you like what you read here, share it!
IRL, divorce happens. But for country music sweetheart, Sara Evans, divorce happened very publicly. In 2006 after 13 years and 3 kids, Sara filed for divorce from Craig Schelske. Adding fuel to the rumors, she resigned from the ABC hit show “Dancing with the stars” on the same day.
The divorce papers cited irreconcilable differences, inappropriate marital conduct and adultery. Things quickly got ‘divorce ugly.’ The allegations were terrible. The pain and grief had to be hard on her family. But the sky is now clear and the ashes seems to have dissipated.
Continue reading “The Light At The End Of The Tunnel For Sara Evans “
Re-define perfection based on your ideals rather than those dictated by society~April
I once read somewhere that the kitchen is a window to a woman’s soul. If that’s true, what these botched cookies say about me is a little offensive (laugh).
Despite my efforts to create distance between me and the ‘perfection trap,’ when I recently flubbed some chocolate chip cookies, I found myself acting like a mad Betty Crocker.
I blamed the oven. The ingredients. The humidity. I kept reminding everyone that I really could cook. I even cited the last time I baked them and how beautifully they came out.
But that wasn’t enough. I tried to get my husband to confirm that I had baked them ‘perfectly’ many times before, by prompting him to tell everyone how good they were.
Why?
Because on a subconscious level I don’t want to be labeled a bad baker or cook. I don’t want anyone peering into “the kitchen window of my soul” and seeing anything but perfection. No one wants a mess, do you?
The odds are, you can relate.
Without a thought (and clearly forgetting my promise to myself to live life unfiltered) I walked over to the trash intending to toss the cookies, and start over. And that’s when it hit me that I had fallen off the wagon. I wanted my guests to believe that I don’t make mistakes.
While I am a good cook, I didn’t get to that place without botching recipes. And as you can see, I still have my bad days in the kitchen. So did our mother’s and grandmother’s. That’s why generational recipes are so good–someone has already worked out the kinks for us.
Instead of starting over I plated the cookies, served vanilla ice cream and told everyone they could eat them or move on.
The truth is, most chose to pass on the cookies. But for the first time in my life, I was okay with it. I didn’t obsess over it or get my feelings hurt when the cookies were still there or when some teased me. It was freeing!
Maybe it’s just me, but I think those ruined cookies look just as beautiful on that white plate as the perfectly baked.
End of post.
Do you think the kitchen is a window to your soul?
Good morning, friends. It’s the early, early hours of Monday, April 16, 2018—I was flipping through Instagram when this photo caught my eye; John Stamos announcing the birth of his son.
Stamos, 54, and his wife Caitlin McHugh, 32, married February 2018. Stamos posted this comment with the big reveal,
“From now on the best part of me will always be my wife and my son. Welcome Billy Stamos (named after my father). #NotJustanUncleAnymore #overjoyed”
His parents have already passed away. This must be a bittersweet moment.
