tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91720590822393207152024-03-05T05:31:09.170-06:00A C-Joyful LifeSharing the things that bring joy into my lifeC-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.comBlogger284125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-86050227393219499732013-03-03T10:47:00.000-06:002013-03-03T10:47:24.547-06:00True strength<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKj-i4Dr2NSU1Dr-pg6nTjFCTg6tQ7yoTgApSIuJvMKk3RQZKlM8HQGAqEUh28clOnmQ2RGMdwfqxdTPZS6pjvBuSAakIz3LP7hoNwSsYrD8LdTP_T4wLd-bh4VNudNVsxj17YymVzv7k/s1600/Viorst2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKj-i4Dr2NSU1Dr-pg6nTjFCTg6tQ7yoTgApSIuJvMKk3RQZKlM8HQGAqEUh28clOnmQ2RGMdwfqxdTPZS6pjvBuSAakIz3LP7hoNwSsYrD8LdTP_T4wLd-bh4VNudNVsxj17YymVzv7k/s320/Viorst2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-8587474582225923812013-02-04T06:26:00.001-06:002013-02-04T06:26:33.394-06:00My funny valentine<p>I know it's a bit early, but I may want to send more of these between now and Valentine's Day.</p>
<p>Knock knock.<br>
Who's there?<br>
Frank.<br>
Frank who?<br>
Frank you for being a friend!</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLiRJ2M45E0mvCN1ZhtYK8Tg4uBWfUe2e7tADhiVBM8x2obiZAqgJVYKQyakXYkrkbo3IObN9I5KCyCr7XXXiCVe_Z56s2OwlNQXo6-YAGTbr6ud7tauNDB9H-CJHOvQoOY_xhyphenhyphenMCiAE/s1600/12430358_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLiRJ2M45E0mvCN1ZhtYK8Tg4uBWfUe2e7tADhiVBM8x2obiZAqgJVYKQyakXYkrkbo3IObN9I5KCyCr7XXXiCVe_Z56s2OwlNQXo6-YAGTbr6ud7tauNDB9H-CJHOvQoOY_xhyphenhyphenMCiAE/s640/12430358_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-79945873734090562542013-02-01T13:47:00.000-06:002013-02-01T13:47:00.076-06:005FF: Fighting the Fog<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Fibro Fog is one of the most annoying symptoms for me. I can feel perfectly fine, but have the hardest time understanding what people are trying to say to me. I have found a few things that help me focus on those foggy days.<br />
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<ol>
<li><i>Fragrance</i>: Inhaling either peppermint or citrus scents help wake my brain up. I keep essential oils in my classroom and take a sniff as needed. Portable, non-toxic, and I can do it as often as I would like.</li>
<li><i>Music</i>: Give me a song I can sing along to and I perk right up! I can always put on headphones if I don't want to bother anyone else. Or if I'm in the classroom at the time, the kids dance along with me!</li>
<li><i>Water</i>: I've noticed that when I get dehydrated, my brain slows down. It is hard for me to drink enough water in the classroom (after all, I can't always run to the bathroom when I need to), so I try to make sure I drink extra glasses when I first get up and at lunch time.</li>
<li><i>Movement</i>: Maria Montessori observed that the mind follows the hand. In order to be able to control our minds, we have to be able to control our bodies. To get my students focused, I give them a physical task such as washing dishes, scrubbing tables, or sewing. The same thing works for adults: find an activity that involves your hands and your mind will calm down and come into focus.</li>
<li> <i>Take a break</i>: A change is as good as a rest! A few minutes walking around after sitting in front of a computer will help you stay focused on the task at hand. I take a few minutes for some deep breathing before my students come in. It allows me to focus my mind on what I want to get done during the day before the hustle and bustle begins.</li>
</ol>
What do you do to combat the dreaded Fibro Fog? C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-1053063991701723212013-01-28T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-28T08:00:10.867-06:00Kettlebell of the Ball<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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It wasn't <b>exactly </b>a whim when I signed up for a beginner's kettlebell class. I read about kettlebells in the most recent issue of <i>Oxygen </i>magazine, and was intrigued. Naturally, I had to read all about it and in the course of my "research" discovered this class. Perfect start time (three days after I learned about the course), perfect time of day (after school with plenty of time to eat a snack and get there), easy to get to, and perfect days of the week. With that much going for me, I pretty much <b>had </b>to sign up for it!<br />
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I've got four classes under my belt, and the verdict so far: <i>holy frickin smokes</i> -this workout is kicking my tush! I don't think I have ever had such a vigorous cardio workout before in my life. And there is minimal impact on my knees, just the occasional round of jumping jacks. We are doing circuits with the kettlebells, ropes, TRX, and body weight to create a 45 minute workout that provides both cardio and strength training. It was taking me nearly twice as long to do cardio and lift weights at the gym! It has given me a huge motivation shot as far as exercising goes. I've been slacking a bit since the holidays and its been hard getting back into an exercising groove. I've not experienced any increase in Fibro symptoms since I've started. In fact, I am sleeping a bit better at night. Not going to complain about that! Learning how to move safely is keeping my brain focused, so for at least 45 minutes a day I am fog-free. And I can definitely tell that it has revved up my metabolism!<br />
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As long as I don't get injured, I foresee no problem finishing the six-week course. If I continue on past the course has yet to be decided. <br />
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Don't know anything about kettlebells? Read about them <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kettlebell">here</a>. There are many books and videos available, but I would highly recommend you learn proper form from a real person before striking out on your own. <br />
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Have you tried anything new recently with your exercise routine?C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-24960986833769439662013-01-21T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-21T08:00:10.707-06:00Technical DifficultiesI will be taking a short break from the blog due to technical difficulties. Well, complete technology failure would be a more accurate description. On top of my laptop that died earlier this year, and our desktop crashing, now my tablet has ceased to function. Apparently, my name also means <i>Death to Computers</i> in Latin. Hopefully, I will soon have regular access to a functioning computer. C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-70650721480933414802013-01-18T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-18T08:00:15.883-06:005FF: Fighting Colds<div style="text-align: center;">
*5 Things. About Fibro. Every Friday*</div>
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I am constantly battling on the front lines of germ warfare: I work with young children. Young children who are still learning to blow their own noses, cover their mouths when they cough or sneeze, wash their hands thoroughly and frequently, and just so happen to be very affectionate. Sigh. This means I have to be on my toes to keep my immune system as healthy as possible because one thing I have learned in my first year of living with Fibro is that <i>being sick is so much worse now</i>. Double sigh.<br />
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Preparing for mid-year assessments happens right after the holidays, so my stress levels are up and I am particularly vulnerable. It came as no surprise when I woke up the other morning with a sore throat that would not go away after drinking lots of water. It was time to pull out my favorite home cold remedies.<br />
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<ol>
<li>Hot honey & lemon: Mix 2 spoonfuls of honey with 1 spoonful of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger and hot water. Feels divine on the throat, especially when you alternate sips of this hot drink with sips of icy cold water.</li>
<li>Zicam: I start taking it as directed as soon as I know my throat is sore (and not just merely dry)</li>
<li>Airborne: I don't take it as a daily immune booster, but when I take it in combination with Zicam, the results are almost immediate.</li>
<li>A pot of my "Miracle Soup": chicken broth full of garlic, onions, lemon, ginger and a bit of couscous. Never fails to make me feel better!</li>
<li>Steam: putting boiling water in a bowl with a few drops of eucalyptus oil, then carefully breathing in the steam. Sometimes, I make a tent by placing a towel over my head.</li>
</ol>
After 2 days of using these remedies, I am pleased to announce that my cold is a mere irritation now, rather than a full-blown-taken-over-my-life-and-is-making-me-and-everyone-around-me-completely-miserable illness.<br />
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What do you do to comfort yourself when you catch a cold? <br />
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<ol>
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C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-82097253038367066842013-01-16T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-16T08:00:09.867-06:00Cold Comfort<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can hardly believe that I am posting a picture of my refrigerator! But yet, I am. I HATE cleaning the shelves in the fridge, so when I saw this idea on Pinterest idea (so sorry, to whomever the original poster is -I forgot to pin it but the idea is great) I knew I had to try it! Plastic place mats now line my shelves. I had to trim the back end to make it fit the depth. I tried adding bits to the side since the mat wasn't wide enough, but I didn't like the look. So far, the shelves are staying clean! And, it looks pretty so I smile now instead of cringe when I open the refrigerator door. I like being able to find things inside again, too. So much easier to stay on top of the leftovers.<br />
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I also relocated my refrigerator thermometer. Turns out I had the temperature set far colder than it needed to be! No wonder I had such a hard time defrosting meat. I just may go completely crazy and pull the fridge out & vacuum the coils. If I do, you'll know that I have completely succumbed to cleaning fever.<br />
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How do you keep your fridge organized?<br />
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<br />C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-54389888883681618032013-01-14T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-14T08:00:11.093-06:00Saving Inspiration<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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One of the titles that inspired my saving money at the grocery store effort was <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/your-grocery-budget-toolbox-anne-simpson/1111919692">Your Grocery Budget Toolbox</a> by Anne Simpson. I appreciated her focus on how to buy the healthiest food possible based on your budget. (I think if there were a Trader Joe's nearby, my grocery list would look very similar to hers.) Nutrition is a vital component in managing my Fibro symptoms, and I'm not willing to sacrifice all quality for the bottom line. I also like how her method acknowledges that coupons can be useful in saving money, they are not the basis for keeping your food budget under control.<br />
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She too is a proponent of Once A Month Shopping (OAMS), but makes weekly forays to get fresh produce and dairy. I may try this myself as I'm not sure I like the limits of buying produce once a month, at least until it is CSA season. DH didn't mind doing the weekly grocery shopping, so I'm sure he would be willing to continue with the job.<br />
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At any rate, check it out if you too are trying to stretch your money dollars. You can get some of the information in the book from her <a href="http://authenticsimplicity.net/">blog </a>as well! <br />
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<br />C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-71860687686708423022013-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-11T08:00:15.829-06:005FF: I'm Such a Teas<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*5 things. About Fibro. Every Friday*</b></div>
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Some can't live without coffee. Me? I can not live without my tea! Not even my favorite heating pad can worm me up faster than a cup of tea. Naturally, I have to tell you which ones I like best.<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/product/everyday-detox-reg">Traditional Medicinal Everyday Detox Tea</a>: It is naturally caffeine free, which means I can enjoy it any time of day. It is slightly sweet, and what I love the most about it is the way it relieves my dry mouth symptoms!<br />
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2. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PG_Tips"> PG Tips</a>: A full bodied, fully caffeinated, black tea. I drink a cup of this first thing in the morning when I don't have to worry about the caffeine keeping me awake all night. Lovely with a splash of soy milk.<br />
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3. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peppermint_tea">Peppermint tea</a>: Another naturally caffeine-free drink. I love having this in the afternoon with a light snack. It does help settle my stomach after I have indulged in the wrong kind of food. A very good tea to have on hand for those with IBS.<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.stashtea.com/Chai-Spice-Decaf-Black-Tea/dp/B005DM5ABY?class=quickView&field_availability=-1&field_browse=2734892011&field_keywords=Chai&field_product_site_launch_date_utc=-1y&id=Chai+Spice+Decaf+Black+Tea&ie=UTF8&refinementHistory=subjectbin%2Cprice%2Csize_name%2Ccolor_map&searchKeywords=Chai&searchNodeID=2734892011&searchPage=1&searchRank=salesrank&searchSize=12">Stash Chai Spice Decaf Tea</a>: This is my go-to evening beverage! It smells divine. I don't mind skipping dessert when I have this with a touch of honey and some soy milk. It is also very tasty straight up.<br />
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5. <a href="http://www.redblossomtea.com/dragon-pearl-jasmine-supreme.html">Red Blossom Tea Company Dragon Pearl Jasmine Supreme</a>: This is hands down my most favorite green tea! Just a few "pearls" in your cup of hot water produces the most heavenly-scented tea on the planet. When brewed properly, it has an incredible floral/sweet flavor. I also like that you can get 2 or 3 steepings out of the same leaves before discarding.<br />
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<b>Fascinating tea tip</b>: Does your tea taste bitter? Many try to correct this by adding sugar, which will actually end up making your tea taste even more bitter. Smooth out the flavor by adding a slice of lemon. To avoid bitter tasting tea, be sure to use the <a href="http://www.artoftea.com/learn_about_tea/steeptime.html">correct temperature</a> of water and remove the tea in a timely fashion. If you are using a bag, don't squeeze it to get the water out :)C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-53582193966208202432013-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-09T08:00:16.409-06:00CSA: Fresh & Local<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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In my mind, I'm a keen gardener with the ability to provide copious amounts of fresh produce to consume during the growing season. In reality, I'm a girl with big ideas and a black thumb. Having finally come to terms with the fact that I will never be the kind of urban homesteader who feed her family solely from the produce of her garden, I have decided to invest in a <a href="http://www.localharvest.org/csa/">CSA </a>program.<br />
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Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is perfect for people like me who want to enjoy fresh produce, but don't have the time/space/energy to grow their own food. We did it one summer before Turtle was born. It was a treat to go out to the farm to pick up our box of goodies each week. We wouldn't be picking up from a farm this time around, but there is an option to purchase a share of spring harvests. Assuming that I will be continuing with my OAMS effort, having weekly fresh produce will be an enormous treat. <br />
<br />
I'm drooling already thinking about fresh asparagus. Maybe I should stop writing about farm fresh produce, and actually fill out the form to reserve our share!<br />
<br />
Have you ever done <a href="http://www.localharvest.org/csa/">CSA </a>before?C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-24289481186420291962013-01-07T08:00:00.000-06:002013-01-07T08:00:05.554-06:00Saving Money at the Grocery Store New year. New ideas. I've got plans, Baby!<br />
<br />
Naturally, these plans cost money. It may surprise you to learn that I don't rake in big bucks as an early childhood educator. Big bonuses and hefty raises are not part of my foreseeable future, so in order to get the things I would like I need to stretch the money that does trickle in.<br />
<br />
During my winter break I indulged in reading about saving money on groceries. The grocery store seems to eat a frightening amount of my paycheck, so it seemed a logical place to start. A common theme amongst the titles I read was the concept of Once A Month Shopping (OAMS). The theory being that we tend to spend money on unnecessary things each time we go to the store. The fewer times you go to the store, the fewer unnecessary purchases you make. It requires meticulous planning, an iron will, and some space in which to store your food. It sounded completely crazy, so of course I just had to try it.<br />
<br />
Knowing my ability to over plan and over complicate, I made a menu for the month and jumped right in while I had the time and energy before classes resumed.<br />
<br />
It was physically more challenging than I had anticipated. Those shopping carts can hold A LOT of food, and they can get heavy! It didn't take much more time than it takes me to do a weekly shop. (Fortunately I had the foresight to leave Turtle at home with DH, which helped speed the whole shopping process up considerably.) I can't imagine doing this on my own on a bad pain day. I expect once I get the hang of this I can plan well enough to delay the shopping a few days if I had to without running out of food. <br />
<br />
It has only been a week, but it feels like we have barely made a dent in the food I brought home. So far, I have noticed that I am more conscious about making sure we are wasting as little food as possible. This may explain why it feels we have eaten so little of our stockpile -we're getting more miles out the food we prepare! The truly interesting time will be the end of the month. Will I have to break down and go to the store before the month is through, or will we be able to tough it out? Stay tuned to find out!<br />
<br />
What do you think -is OAMS something you would try?<br />
<br />
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<p>Except, what I chose isn't really a word. It's a phrase.</p>
<p>Are you ready for it?</p>
<p>My 2013 One Little Word is......Big Girl Pants!</p>
<p>This year, I want to stop making excuses and just do what needs to be done (including going to the gym regularly in order to wear smaller girl pants. Irony.)</p>
<p>I suppose I could have gone with "Just Do It", but Nike already claimed that one.  Besides, Big Girl Pants is much funnier, which is very me.</p>
<p>I've already put the phrase to use already! Instead of leaving a few dirty dishes in the sink, I went ahead and washed them even though I was completely exhausted. Waking up to an empty sink is very good for the soul!</p>
<p>Do you do resolutions?</p>
<p>BTW, this post is brought to you image-free because Blogger has decided that it cannot read any of the photos I am trying to add. </p>
C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-74353438166007083942013-01-01T08:16:00.001-06:002013-01-01T08:16:32.656-06:00New page leaf<p>Happy New Year!</p>
<p>Are you as full of new ideas, new plans, goals, and challenges as I am?</p>
<p>It must be all this wondrous time off that has really started the old gray cells working. I am trying something new with my blogging -writing out my ideas on paper first! Somehow, I like what I come up with when I can longhand it first. Plus I am hoping that it will help me post more regularly. I have lots of ideas on which to write, but my mind always goes blank when I sit down in front of the computer. Weird.</p>
<p>So I have a lovely new notebook to start the new year. I shall have to be firm with Turtle as to whom this notebook belongs, otherwise I will find it in her room, covered with her lovely artwork and handwriting. (Yes, she's writing now!)</p>
<p>I'm going to beat the intimidation of the first blank page by starting my writing on the second page. </p>
<p>Here's to an abundant & joyful year!</p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIBOibNZN7FUpKMJe56hJA6LUELCrCfP3PzjHwVagm_Uyv4O4YV0aEUro22xrj2-f5fqh6UluGloKMI4KrvkJwIbPEYxBxREim7oeVSBBoFVgbIVh3hNs9_OAuuqq6H_FBBshNitIH_M/s1600/PicsArt_1357049262496.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIBOibNZN7FUpKMJe56hJA6LUELCrCfP3PzjHwVagm_Uyv4O4YV0aEUro22xrj2-f5fqh6UluGloKMI4KrvkJwIbPEYxBxREim7oeVSBBoFVgbIVh3hNs9_OAuuqq6H_FBBshNitIH_M/s320/PicsArt_1357049262496.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-79289656434108879222012-12-08T09:05:00.001-06:002012-12-08T09:05:53.030-06:005FF: Forgetting<p>*Five things. Every Friday. About Fibro*</p>
<p>Hello, Brain Fog!</p>
<p>The upcoming holidays seem to be highlighting just how awful my memory is. Sometimes, I am amazed that I manage to get myself to work at all, let alone get to work appropriately dressed and with everything I need for the day. So for today's post, I thought I would highlight the five things that most frequently bypass my brain.</p>
<p>1. My purse. I don't go far to get to the gym or work, and I generally don't stop at any stores on the way home from work. This means for the most part, I can get by without my purse. However, it is where I keep my padlock and music -both essential components for working out at the gym. I keep these items in my purse as the my current gym bag has no pockets, and I hate having to pull everything out just to find these tiny items. Sometimes, I merely forget my purse in the car at the gym. This is easily fixed by a quick trip out to the parking lot. It is not a quick fix when I manage to leave my purse at home. When this happens, I can write off working out before work.</p>
<p>2. Work clothes. I pack my gym bag the night before. I just don't always remember to pack everything I need to change into post-workout. I can get by with casual work attire, but sweaty t-shirts are just a tad too casual. Not to mention, uncomfortable.</p>
<p>3. My lunch. Again, I prepare my lunch for the next day when I get home from work. I don't always remember to take it out of the fridge when I leave for work. </p>
<p>4. My vitamins. I am horrible at remembering to take my vitamins, and medicine in general. This pre-dates my Fibro diagnosis, but is noticeably worse these days. It is a bit ironic, as some of the vitamins are supposed to help my brain function better.</p>
<p>5. My blog. Don't think I didn't notice that this Friday post is going up on Saturday! I am stuck using an app to post on my blog, and there is no feature to schedule posts in advance. There is also no feature that smacks me upside the head to remind me to post something.</p>
<p>There you have it -my forgotten list. What do you struggle to remember?</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a><br>
</p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhos6fXuq2bzbO0Yk1KRAVTUe3G7ouqSfrzzQ_jDAkIhjzrNwS4WbMY1MSIG4Aul4jTHTBZdeojouEaQHgsoTPlVm_OxXB-X_bMFrw6Q7651GFr5eF4_0zGpPb12QWtQXoPva5tUqAMYPc/s1600/15751834_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhos6fXuq2bzbO0Yk1KRAVTUe3G7ouqSfrzzQ_jDAkIhjzrNwS4WbMY1MSIG4Aul4jTHTBZdeojouEaQHgsoTPlVm_OxXB-X_bMFrw6Q7651GFr5eF4_0zGpPb12QWtQXoPva5tUqAMYPc/s320/15751834_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-6699526122814492562012-12-06T05:19:00.001-06:002012-12-06T05:24:34.004-06:00This Moment<p>Inspired by <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/">Soule</a><a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/"> Mama</a>. A single photo, no words.  A moment in time to treasure.</p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1dTrsWt4PRRCCR8roN-5cTj1JtioZR0XHGce8h43HzycabM-NZZ2HFXcszFcoj_Ojl4AqF7Pso8dqGUuQSrxaPJRykKyLESgBctIHSCqBexesPk3LmOCupTAKi9zOtpkeT8RdN4UCJc/s1600/PicsArt_1354792922910.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1dTrsWt4PRRCCR8roN-5cTj1JtioZR0XHGce8h43HzycabM-NZZ2HFXcszFcoj_Ojl4AqF7Pso8dqGUuQSrxaPJRykKyLESgBctIHSCqBexesPk3LmOCupTAKi9zOtpkeT8RdN4UCJc/s320/PicsArt_1354792922910.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-55844126548887013082012-12-03T06:15:00.001-06:002012-12-03T06:15:53.646-06:00Monday Motivation<a href="http://www.someecards.com/usercards/nsviewcard/MjAxMi0xNWEwNmRlMjYzODM1ZTgw"><img src="http://static.someecards.com/someecards/usercards/MjAxMi04YjcxY2Y3M2NlZmMyZDJj.png" alt="someecards.com - I just LOVE Mondays! (said no one ever)" /></a>
Have a wonderful Monday!C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-3777277735876695972012-11-30T16:41:00.001-06:002012-11-30T16:41:56.718-06:005FF: Comfort and Joy<p>***5 Things, About Fibro, Every Friday***<br></p>
<p>This week I had the pleasure of being stricken with a case of the stomach flu. Yay.  Surely, I should have expected my fibro to flare with this viral attack on my body. But frankly, I was a little distracted by all the time I spent making deposits to the porcelain bank. As I ponder over the experience, I have to wonder what I could have done to make myself more comfortable during the process. Basically, I want a Stomach Flu Emergency Kit to have on hand for when it happens again. And when you work with young children, <i><b>it will happen again</b></i>.</p>
<p>1. <b>A soft heat source</b>.  I love my heating pads to bits. However, when I get the stomach flu I tend to experience excruciating lower back pain. Add fibro pain on top of it, and it was unbearable. My heating pads are filled with rice that I heat in the microwave as needed. Not at all comfortable to have under a sore back, and resting on my stomach was out of the question. So I will get a stack of the "peel and stick" heat thingies. I'm a little freaked out about chemical reactions creating heat so close to my skin, but at least there should be no chance of my burning down the house because of them.</p>
<p>2. <b>Pedialyte</b><b> that </b><b>hasn</b><b>'t expired</b>. I keep Pedialyte on hand. Unfortunately, what I had was already expired.  I wasn't willing to experiment with expired Pedialyte and my upset tummy. Once I was able to get some down (hooray for DH!), the tender skin sensation subsided.</p>
<p>3.  <b>Peppermint tea</b>. I usually have some on hand, but naturally I am out. Even when I couldn't actually drink it, it would have been nice to be able to rinse my mouth out with some minty goodness.</p>
<p>4. <b>A sleeping mask</b>. Bright lights felt like sharp knives in my eyes. Even lights that I wouldn't normally consider bright seemed to set me over the edge. I made a mask for DH, looks like I need to make one for myself!</p>
<p>5.  <b>Coloring books to keep Turtle entertained.</b> Due to DH's work schedule, I spent of majority of the illness on my own with Turtle. Thank goodness she can entertain herself! Give her a new coloring book and you won't see her for hours. I didn't have any new books on hand for her, but I did let her dip into my art supplies. Friends and Family of Turtle: you can expect original Turtle paintings for Christmas!</p>
<p>Fortunately, neither DH or Turtle are showing symptoms, so if I could cross my fingers right now I would, in hopes that this is the end of the stomach flu at Casa C-Joy.</p>
<p>What do you like to keep on hand during flu season?</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RMmAIhH341E/ULk2M8ThRFI/AAAAAAAAB40/l9i82iNxXrc/s1600/13720151_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RMmAIhH341E/ULk2M8ThRFI/AAAAAAAAB40/l9i82iNxXrc/s320/13720151_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-65030478134148786042012-11-28T05:44:00.001-06:002012-11-28T05:44:13.732-06:00In the mood<p>If this version of Jingle Bell Rock by <a href="http://m.youtube.com/#/watch?v=KsthP5AONzc&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DKsthP5AONzc">Billy Idol </a>doesn't get you in the mood for the holidays, then I'm afraid nothing will! </p>
<p>I wrap all my presents like this. Don't you? </p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vu4j6DS0lk4/ULX5DPiT6CI/AAAAAAAAB4c/VrOEb3QB1vw/s1600/7919369_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vu4j6DS0lk4/ULX5DPiT6CI/AAAAAAAAB4c/VrOEb3QB1vw/s320/7919369_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-55482128510851272202012-11-26T06:42:00.001-06:002012-11-26T06:42:04.170-06:00MIA<p>I suspect that I am not the only one to suffer from MIA (Monday Induced Anxiety). This seldom-discussed ailment strikes at various times during the weekend, but tends to peak on Sunday evenings. The cause is stress incurred from the anticipation of the upcoming week. Symptoms include:<br>
* irritability<br>
* insomnia<br>
* fatigue<br>
* changes in appetite</p>
<p>Severity of symptoms increase in direct proportion to the amount of time taken off before returning to work on Monday. </p>
<p>Speaking from personal experience, I am usually stressing about the vast amount of work I have to do, the questionable amount of energy I have to do the vast amount of work, changes to the routine, preparing for upcoming events, and the details involved with managing a home. It may not be just a coincidence that a majority of my flares begin on a Monday!</p>
<p>I wish I could be Zen and just let go of all these expectations and pressure I put on myself to get stuff done.  Then maybe MIA wouldn't bother me so much. I know during the summer, I rarely suffer any MIA symptoms!</p>
<p>These are the things that I do to help alleviate the symptoms:<br>
* Have my classroom completely ready for Monday morning. That way I don't have to rush to get to school early to finish anything needed for the day.<br>
* Packing lunches the night before. I ALWAYS tell myself "I can do this in the morning." And I ALWAYS kick myself the next morning when I didn't do it the night before.<br>
* Packing the gym bag. On Mondays, that means having yoga clothes ready.<br>
* Having my purse/bag full of stuff needed for class on Monday together so I can just grab and go<br>
* Locate my keys. They always seem to take trips on the weekend when I'm not looking.<br>
* Take a few minutes to just focus on breathing.</p>
<p>Once I get going at work, I am generally so busy that all the things I was anxious about fade to the background. Until I get home on Monday evening.......</p>
<p>Do you suffer from MIA? How do you treat it?</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ffgyUHdwyKE/ULNjmfekgoI/AAAAAAAAB4E/SOVBaOMVpTo/s1600/11115440_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ffgyUHdwyKE/ULNjmfekgoI/AAAAAAAAB4E/SOVBaOMVpTo/s320/11115440_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-75576994921036773632012-11-21T21:00:00.001-06:002012-11-22T07:56:56.510-06:00Thankful<p>Happy Thanksgiving!</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<p>Among my many blessings are:<br>
*my family<br>
*my <a href="http://aeracurablossominglife.blogspot.com/">friends</a><br>
*my home<br>
*my health</p>
<p>I hope that you too are able to take a moment and count your blessings.</p>
<p>Wishing you well,</p>
<p>C</p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uZyUHbPm_t4/UK2VQ36E27I/AAAAAAAAB3U/fXig65N01ts/s1600/5642342_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uZyUHbPm_t4/UK2VQ36E27I/AAAAAAAAB3U/fXig65N01ts/s320/5642342_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-11023687430845390592012-11-20T05:27:00.001-06:002012-11-20T05:27:13.453-06:00Relief<p>I made it through the day! I also managed to stay awake until after Turtle went to bed, without having a tantrum (from either of us).</p>
<p>One thing is for certain, my job offers a lot of distractions which helps keep my mind off of my symptoms. Being prepared for the day was also a huge help. I just may have to create a file full of work ready to go to use for the next of <i>one of those days</i>.</p>
<p>Now there is just one more day without my assistant, then I get a few days off.</p>
<p>I can do this!</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7U8WCossEhE/UKtpD5aJLMI/AAAAAAAAB28/kms5gHlw87w/s1600/9510777_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7U8WCossEhE/UKtpD5aJLMI/AAAAAAAAB28/kms5gHlw87w/s320/9510777_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-10936725063813163232012-11-19T06:22:00.001-06:002012-11-19T06:22:12.203-06:00One of those days<p>No matter how much I exercise, how well I stick to a healthy diet, how much water I drink, I still have bad days.</p>
<p>It's very frustrating.</p>
<p>Today is one of those days. It is not a high pain day, but the fatigue is overwhelming. It also couldn't have come at a worse time. I truly can not afford to be less than 100% today, and I can not take the day off. If I push myself too hard, I will pay for it later and longer.</p>
<p>The only way I can get through this day is to move gently, and trust that everything that "needs" to happen today will get done. Let go of my expectations. Put out extra coloring work, be generous with snack servings, speak less. Most importantly, remember to BREATHE.</p>
<p>How do you deal with work obligations when Fibro symptoms get in the way?</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uy-rdMyxd9g/UKokcgY7S5I/AAAAAAAAB2k/dJsmDctwfcg/s1600/11728051_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uy-rdMyxd9g/UKokcgY7S5I/AAAAAAAAB2k/dJsmDctwfcg/s320/11728051_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-70963197267505976822012-11-16T05:31:00.001-06:002012-11-16T05:35:12.703-06:005FF: Holiday Shopping<p>*5 things. About Fibro. Every Friday*</p>
<p>My Favorite Places to Shop for the Holidays</p>
<p>It's the most wonderful time of the year!  I spent many, many years in retail before becoming an educator. During my retail days, most of my holiday purchases came from the store where I worked. I was just too tired to go other places during the holidays to shop! When I left retail, I vowed to have my shopping done by December 1 so that I could enjoy the season, and avoid the crowds. Fast forward to today, my first official Christmas with Fibromyalgia. I still want to get my shopping done by December 1, but I do not have the energy to go out and hit the stores. What's a girl to do? Shop online, of course!  (For an extra fee, many will wrap your gift as well) So today I though I would share some of my favorite online retailers.</p>
<p>1.  <a href="http:// www.northstarbison.com/">North Star Bison</a>: This fab company will ship non-GMO, grass-fed, hormone and antibiotic-free buffalo to your door! They have a great gift selection as well as buying specific cuts of meat. Don't want bison? They also carry beef, chicken and lamb.</p>
<p>2.  <a href="http://www.thebodyshop-usa.com/">The Body Shop:</a>  I fell in love with this store when I lived in London. As much as I would love to go to London to stock up on fair trade beauty products, they now have retail locations across the US, as well as an online presence. I highly recommend the Satsuma line of products -citrusy goodness in a bottle!</p>
<p>3.  <a href="http://www.stubbypencilstudio.com/">Stubby Pencil Studio:</a>  Eco-friendly art supplies and stationery for children. Well, they say it's for children, but I want these things for my personal art stash! They have kits as well as supplies. I LOVE the <a href="http://www.stubbypencilstudio.com/product/COCC_GLUETIN125G/Coccoina-Paste/">paste</a> imported from Italy -a great glue for those of us who miss Elmer's paste pots.</p>
<p>4.  <a href="http://www.heifer.org/">Heifer International:</a>  My favorite charity gift! Your money helps to buy animals for communities around the world (including the USA).  These are not hand-outs. The animals not only help improve nutrition, but provide an income source. Don't worry if you don't have a lot to give -your money can be pooled with other donations to buy more expensive animals. My favorite is the llama share.</p>
<p>5.  <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/">Barnes & Noble</a>:  It's not just books! Games, toys, movies, and more. You could easily buy something for everyone from here. In fact, for many years all my holiday gifts came from here  :-P</p>
<p>Now, go make yourself a cup of tea, get comfy on the sofa, and start shopping!</p>
<p>Disclosure: I am not affiliated with any of these retailers, I just love their products. I have an immediate family member who works for one of these companies, so any purchases made  indirectly affects me. </p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QQOQWaj5Uh0/UKYkLKkmYTI/AAAAAAAAB2M/3YoijPruREE/s1600/14893286_s.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QQOQWaj5Uh0/UKYkLKkmYTI/AAAAAAAAB2M/3YoijPruREE/s320/14893286_s.jpg' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-19627120437381023482012-11-14T19:06:00.001-06:002012-11-15T07:00:55.694-06:00Random Thoughts<p>*Have you ever had days when even though no one is home, <b>every single plate, spoon, and glass gets used?</b></p>
<p>*How many licks does it <i>really</i> take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop?</p>
<p>*If  2 political candidates can raise $2 billion to run campaigns, why do schools have to keep cutting budgets?</p>
<p>*Someday, I would like to take a tropical vacation. Those of you who know me and my aversion to being in the sun and wearing swimsuits in public may find this shocking.</p>
<p>*I want to develop a line of tea specifically designed for reading the leaves. I will call it CertainTea.</p>
<p>Copyright (c) <a href='http://www.123rf.com'>123RF Stock Photos</a></p>
<p>BTW, how does the post look? I'm reduced to using a Blogger App which limits my ability to put pictures where I want them to be. I also can't preview the page so I have no idea what this post looks like!</p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6tPLqchhIpI/UKRBLbMBXYI/AAAAAAAAB10/U03KNsrdIKw/s1600/12881268_s.png' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6tPLqchhIpI/UKRBLbMBXYI/AAAAAAAAB10/U03KNsrdIKw/s640/12881268_s.png' /> </a> </div>C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9172059082239320715.post-62777646050850083182012-11-14T08:00:00.000-06:002012-11-14T08:00:07.785-06:00Fearless<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraEoLGPnH4LqpFi_Fi67ABiBCib9b2yVByjYI-AJsdwfdolQ6ldfkwyqu65_eTh3w1KR0_aZ_rI-8f8n1nOGQ_M7Ecn4JL7vvfnJU6G495UuG7x0sRgLUcbzXmjBYsrMtWXyGB0YneiA/s1600/headstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraEoLGPnH4LqpFi_Fi67ABiBCib9b2yVByjYI-AJsdwfdolQ6ldfkwyqu65_eTh3w1KR0_aZ_rI-8f8n1nOGQ_M7Ecn4JL7vvfnJU6G495UuG7x0sRgLUcbzXmjBYsrMtWXyGB0YneiA/s320/headstand.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Copyright (c) <a href="http://www.123rf.com/">123RF Stock Photos</a><br />
<br />
This week's yoga class was about being fearless. In particular, about being fearless when doing a handstand. Please note, <i>I have never done a handstand before in my life</i>. Talk about fear!<br />
<br />
I'm not sure which fear was greater. The fear of:<br />
<ol>
<li>Being upside down</li>
<li>My clothes staying in place while I was upside down </li>
<li>The pain of stressing my neck and shoulders</li>
<li>Speaking up about my concern of stressing my neck and shoulders</li>
<li> My arms potentially not being strong enough to support me</li>
<li>Having to depend on a relative stranger to support me while I was trying to be upside down</li>
</ol>
I made it into a handstand on my second attempt. I was terrified, but I did it anyway. My clothes cooperated, my arms did not give out, and my partner was steady and reliable -I certainly couldn't have done it without her!<br />
<br />
I did not say anything about my concerns. Mostly, I was too chicken to speak up. But part of me just wanted to see how far I could push myself. I did not want to give pain the power to dictate what I could and could not do. So I kept my mouth shut, did the handstand, then went home and put on a heating pad. I may regret the decision in the morning, but somehow I think not.<br />
<br />
And speaking of fearlessness, have you purchased your copy of <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/daring-greatly-brene-brown/1109323706">Daring Greatly</a> yet? <br />
<br />
<br />C-Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02988652406948344207noreply@blogger.com3