Merry Christmas From Santa Puzzle

Ho Ho Ho Jigsaw

Christmas Holly Puzzle

Happy Holidays Snowmen Jigsaw

Seasons Greetings Jigsaw

Caroling Penguins Jigsaw

Stardust Christmas Tree Puzzle

Christmas Presents Jigsaw

Chistmas Bunny Puzzle

Christmas Ornaments Jigsaw

Christmas Holiday Lights Puzzle

Bronze Christmas Balls Jigsaw

Christmas Bells Puzzle

Holiday Stockings Puzzle

A Fall Jigsaw To Do:

Finally Diagnoised:

Well, since my last update I will tell you that I have talked to Dr. Hope and we will not do anymore injections in the neck. However, since then he did inject both of my knees which did help about eighty percent. Of course the first three days I was in excruciating pain which kept me from my physical therapy. My other joints continue to ache too. Therefore, he told me to go back to the other specialist for some medication regime also. On Sept. 15th I am having both of my hips injected for some relief. I am in hopes it helps as much as it did for the knees. In the meantime my neck, back, shoulders, ankles, hips, jaw, fingers and wrists continue to ache awful every morning I arise. Therefore, I continue to wrap a heating blanket around me (even in above 80 degree weather) and use a heating pad for my back.

I did get a diagnosis for my abdominal pain: fatty liver and lactose intolerance.
I also got a diagnosis for my joint pain: Fibromyalgia. Well, now I know what is going on with me. For the Fibromyalgia the doctor gave me trial samples of Cymbalta and Lyrica. I am to take the Cymbalta for three weeks then switch to the Lyrica for one week and call the doctor and let her know which helped the most. So far I have been taking the Cymbalta for eight days without much of a difference. Only time will tell.

Poet's Corner: A New Day

A NEW DAY

Sweet Harmony of the wind
Passes through my hair
As the trees bend
On a early morn, so fair
My spirit loftily ascends
Into the dewy air.

Watching the sun rise
Over the mountain peaks
Such an awakening for the eyes
To see the orange hues streak
Illuminating the skies
As a new day breaks.

Restaurant Review: BJ's Bayou

BJ's Bayou is located in Roberts Idaho. It's menu items are those with Cajun Flair.
We went there for the first time on our One Year Anniversary on August 1st. The outside of the building says nothing for the elegance you will find when you walk into the restaurant. It's fine white linens accented with glass goblets, matching cloth napkins and lace curtains are just an appetizer to the fine dining experience you will have. There is also a full bar for those who wish to indulge. Along with a nice variety of wines and Louisiana Bottled Beer.

Prices are very adequate, mostly beginning at $16.95 a plate and up. However the hamburger selection is a bit less. I regret to say I didn't peruse the exact prices on the burgers since I was there to eat a favorite I have missed for a long time--Alligator.

I chose the Alligator tails with oysters. You have a choice on the fried menu of mixing several selections (at varying prices). Or you can have the whole deal for just over $40.00 if you are wanting to try a bit of everything and share with a friend. I also had the gumbo which came with the meal and choice or fries or onion rings (with the fried food dish). I enjoyed the meal which also came with a moderately spicy version of cocktail sauce. Accompanied with a few spears of Asparagus. My husband enjoyed the Shrimp Creole, which I asked to be made at level one of the 1-10 spicy range due to he is not into heat. Dessert was Pecan Pie which was simply divine. I was only disappointed with the fact that they were out of Hush puppies that day and didn't make Sweet Potato Pie. Otherwise we enjoyed our dining experience immensely lingering there for nearly two hours.

There is also a selection of various hot sauces and T-shirts available for sale at the establishment. There are two alligators sunning in the front window to add to the Cajun experience. We plan to return again whenever we are nearby. It was definitely worth the special trip for our anniversary though.

Poet's Corner: Summer Days Gone By

SUMMER DAYS GONE BY

Sitting in my beach chair
Watching the gulls fly
The wind rustling my hair
Reminding me of days gone by.

Days spent upon the beach
Collecting Seashells
And inspecting each
Invigorated by the salty air.

With my dog beside me
Playing volleyball
By the edge of the sea
Until nightfall.

Traveling place to place
Camping under the stars
Beside a fire's blaze
Strumming my guitar.

Icy water tickling my toes
While crossing a stream
Spying a white-tailed doe
Illuminated by the moon's beam.

The days of summer
When life was so free
Childhood reminders
Of days gone by.

Health/Medical Insurances And Disabilities:

Bidding my time on Disability until they can find out how to control my dizzy spells and what is causing my joint pain is not any fun. They keep this gal poked and prodded at least once to three times per week. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have three health insurance plans.

There are so many people out there without any health/medical insurance coverage or not enough. My husband has only one, it helps pay sixty to eighty percent--but we pay the difference. Except when it comes to his MS IV therapy which is once a month. He takes Tysabri; it's original cost before insurance is $5,124.00 for one treatment for one time per month for the rest of his life as long as it works. His insurance pays $2,120.00 and we must pay the difference.

My husband needs to go on disability but can't due to he will loose his only insurance and we can't survive on my little check of $640.00 per month for nine months while they determine if he's eligible. While determining eligibility the person applying for disability must have ZERO income. I don't know how the government expects people to survive for even a month on no income let alone up to nine months. Oh, of course they will back pay you, after they minus three months for the eligibility waiting time.

But what creditors, mortgage companies, grocery stores, car dealership, utility companies are going to wait up to nine months?..and then there's the chance you will be denied. Nobody waits and Medicaid won't help either until you have gotten your disability status from Medicare. If you are denied you have the right to appeal but that takes even more time. Also, when you get disability you are allowed to apply for SSI, Foodstamps, and State Medical assistance (it's Medicaid where we live). However, you are not entitled to Federal Medicare benefits until you have been on SSD (Social Security Disability) for Two entire years. Then you can finally have your secondary insurance--but in that case Medicare is then your primary and state medical secondary. It can be pretty confusing to those with limited capabilities of understanding. It is very tough to live on your SSD check and find doctors that will accept your state medical card alone (without you having a secondary insurance). And when you do the quality of care I believe is somewhat compromised in the fact that they know that you can't pay it or won't or that the state pays so darn little (which is very true).

My advice: Don't get sick without Medical Insurance or become disabled in America!

My Physical Therapy Routine Etc:

Lately, most of my time has been spent at the doctors' offices or having physical therapy. I had twelve falls in about a week's time. Eight of those times I ended up falling, with my full weight, unto my Right knee. Needless to say I had to go get a MRI of the knee. It's nothing surgical my doctor says and just adds additional orders to the physical therapy I am already getting. I had started only a month earlier receiving physical therapy for a fall that involved my neck. Because of this I have no idea if the shots that Dr. Hope had given me truly has worked (I'll let you know more in a moment). During Physical Therapy last week my therapist tried a technique that is suppose to hopefully decrease my dizziness of my Menieres. We talked about it for about two weeks so we went ahead and did it. However, the worst part was not the way he pulled me down so fast or twisted my neck making me dizzier. It was that I could not bend over of lie prone for three full days afterwards. No leaning over even more that a three to five percent angle. Well, I blew that the second day, when nobody was here, and I dropped something and bent over to retrieve it. I told him today. He plans on re-doing the technique again this Thursday (July 31st), in the afternoon.

The morning of July 31st I will be seeing Dr. Hope in regards as to whether we should continue the nerve block injections. I have such terrible pain, where I cry so much for the first 48 to 72 hrs. However, it's suppose to get better each new time-- Dr. Hope says it should lessen over time. If I do it we will have to see how often the shots are needed to best benefit my pain management. I only have one big problem with this-------it's not helping my joint pain below the neck/shoulders.

I still have fatigue and joint pain in the early morning and late afternoon each day. I'm also have some intestinal problems which I will blog about later as I have been diagnosed with both fatty liver disease and lactose intolerance these past two months.....I am currently awaiting another status of an additional test.

Some Books/Ebooks Worth Checking Out:

I find summer a wonderful time to catch up on some reading. I have previewed/read some of these books, therefore I recommend that you check them out for yourself.


THAT SUMMER PLACE

Browse this book

Add to your site

Buy this book

BONE YARD:

Browse this book

Add to your site

Buy this book

IRON COWBOY:

Browse this book

Add to your site

Buy this book

Song Lyrics: That's Life

These are some song lyrics I wrote a while back. It's intended for a Country Western song.

That's Life
by Pamel Starr-Welsh
written 8-2-05


VI:
Your truck won't start
Cause the battery's dead
You need to go to Kmart
So you pay your neighbor Ed.

VII:
Your house is broken into
They took your guns
The dog and barbecue
Your day's just begun.

Chorus:
Well, that's life
Problems come and go
In everyday life
Some you fix, some you let go
Because that's life
That's life.

VIII:
The sink is leaking
So you replace the flange
The door is creaking
So you oil the hinge.

VIV:
Your being dogged
By your boss
So you quit your job
With good cause.

Bridge:
Well, that's life
That's life.

VV:
You get mugged
The doctors realize
You're allergic to the drugs
Oh, what a surprise.

Chorus:
Well that's life
Problems come and go
In everyday life
Some you fix, some you let go
Because that's life
That's life.

Tag:
Well, that's life
We live each day
Despite the strife
So go on and say
That's life
That's life...fade.

Give All Americans Affordable Health Care!

Hi,
I just signed the petition "Give All Americans Affordable Health Care!". I'm asking you to sign this petition to help us reach our goal of 20,000 signatures. I care deeply about this cause, and I hope you will support our efforts.

Give All Americans Affordable Health Care!
Target: U.S. House and Senate
Sponsored by: Divided We Fail
Health care expenses are growing by the day. Premiums have risen 98 percent since 2000, but wages are not keeping up. American families and businesses are struggling to balance quality health care with financial demands. Millions of Americans are just one medical emergency away from bankruptcy.
In a recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll, 29 percent of respondents indicated that health care was the most important problem for Congress and the president to address - more than terrorism, the economy, immigration and taxes. Congress must put making quality health care affordable for all Americans a top priority.


Click Here to Sign Petition Letter

Help Protect Our Marine Ecosystem:

Support Protection Plan for Stellwagen Marine Ecosystem
Target: Superintendent Craig MacDonald, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
Sponsored by: Ocean River Institute
Located off the coast of Massachusetts, the Gerry E. Studds Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is home to a marvelous diversity of marine life, including whales, sea turtles, fish, birds and cold water coral. But the Stellwagen is under assault from multiple fronts: habitat damage from trawling and draggers, ship collisions, depletion of fish, pollution and global warming, just to name a few.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) has proposed a Stellwagen Bank Management Plan. The proposal lays the foundation for restoring and protecting the sanctuary's ecosystem. It recommends actions that should be taken now, and some that should be considered in the near future, for this special place.

The Sanctuary Superintendent is accepting open comments on the proposal until August 4. The marine life in the area need your help! Add your support for the proposal during the open comment period.

Click Here To Sign Petition and Add Your Comments

Help Maintain Tranquility At Lionhead:

Hi,

I need your help.

A rugged land of sparkling lakes, 10,000-foot peaks and
world-class wildlife habitat, Montana's stunning Lionhead
Recommended Wilderness, just west of Yellowstone National Park,
is a dazzling area of tranquility. The area is so rugged that
the Forest Service proposed that it be off limits to all
mechanized travel, including mountain bikes.

But the proposal to protect the rugged Lionhead area is in
danger.

That's why Lionhead needs your help before July 18. Tell the
Forest Service to do the right thing.

Click here to sign petition

Poet's Corner: The Rainbow

The Rainbow

God's covenant for you and me,
Is His own wonderful design,
The rainbow, a colorful array,
Of a continuous arc of lives,
A promise, set in the sky,
To bring to our minds,
That we will never again see,
Like in Moses' time,
The land covered by sea,
The rainbow's our sign,
Of God's covenant for eternity.

Banana Berry Caribbean Twist Smoothie:

I made this smoothie as a fluke. I had the ingredients for one of the ones in the book but also wanted it to be more icy since it is so hot. Therefore, I made a few changes to it and voila I got a fabulous tasting smoothie out of it.

Banana Berry Caribbean Twist

1/2 cup soy milk
2 ice cubes
1 kiwi; peeled & diced
1/2 papaya; peeled and diced
12-14 frozen blackberries
1/2 banana; peeled and diced

Place all ingredients into blender. Blend 45 seconds on low. Increase speed to medium; blend 30 seconds. Increase speed to high then puree for another 30-45 seconds until ice cubes & frozen fruit gone and smoothie is smooth and lump free.

Enjoy!

The Smoothies Bible: review

The Smoothies Bible written by Pat Crocker is an excellent book about smoothies. It has a great variety of smoothies. They vary from soy based, juice based, frozen yogurt or ice cream based. The book includes smoothies that range from fruit and vegetable to those including fiber additives such as grains and nuts.

It also has smoothies and information for the following medical/health conditions: Aids/Hiv, Aging, Allergies, Alopecia, Alzheimer's/Dementia, Anemia, Anxiety, Arthritis, ADD/ADHD, Breastfeeding, Bronchitis, Cancer Prevention, Candida, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Common Cold, Constipation, Depression, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Diverticular Disease, Endrometriosis, Eye Problems (Cataracts, Glaucoma & Macular Degeneration), Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Flatulence, Gallstones, Gout, Hangover, Headaches (non-migraine), Heart Problems (High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Cardiovascular disease, Heart Failure & Stroke), Heartburn, Herpes Simplex (cold sores and genital herpes), Hypoglycemia, Immune Deficiency, Impotence, Indigestion, Infertility (male and female), Influenza, Insomnia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Kidney Stones, Laryngitis, Liver Problems, Low Libido, Lupus, Menopause, Menstrual disorders, Migraines, Multiple Sclerosis, Osteoporosis, Overweight, Parkinson's, Peptic Ulcers, Pregnancy, Prostate Enlargement Benign, Sinusitis, Skin Conditions (Acne, Dry skin, Psoriasis & Rosacea, Quit Smoking, Urinary Tract Infection, Uterine Fibroids, Varicose Veins & Hemorrhoids, & Water Retention.

This book by no means replaces your doctor's advice. The smoothies help you better your health by acknowledging the foods that are good for you to consume for your particular disorder. It also tells you which foods can aggravate it so you can eliminate or avoid them in your diet.

The smoothies in this book range from simple thin based ones to thick creamy or icy ones that are nice and cool. I have enjoyed making several smoothies so far from this book and they all taste great.

I have also changed one or two items in some of the smoothies for a different taste or texture. Like in the soy based ones they are thin unless you reduce the soy milk to half cup (instead of three quarter cup) and add 2 ice cubes and add some frozen fruit. I learned this technique by trying several of the smoothies in this book. I recommend the book just for the great smoothies. If you want to use it for one of the disorders go ahead. You will learn what foods may disagree with your disorder so you can eat better to control it.

Pat Crocker put a lot of information in this book and went to a lot of trouble to research the disorders and what foods are compatible. I believe this is a very good book to have in your recipe book collection, especially if you are wanting to drink smoothies.

Update on Nerve Block/Trigger Point Injections:

Well, I would generally say it worked like a charm. However, the trigger point injection didn't seem to work so well. That kink in my neck only got worse. So bad that my cervical neck bones were in so much pain. Also, my entire right side of my neck, where the trigger point injection went, was swollen and very painful. I went to the Emergency Room thinking I had an infection or something like that going on. They made me comfortable with pain and anti-inflammatory medications then told me I must now do physical therapy to help recover.

As far as the Nerve Block injection I would say it has made about a sixty to seventy percent decrease in my neck pain. However, it hasn't done anything for the rest of the muscle pains in the other parts of my body. The doctor told me it wouldn't though. Therefore, the doctors still have no clue as to what I have yet.

Short Story: Destination Freedom

She watched the tall man with the black beard and big black stovepipe hat. He wore a black suit and stood very straight. He was the President her grand-daddy told her. Her daddy wasn’t here today because he had gone to fight the war. He never came back. Her grand-daddy said that her daddy was a hero who helped win the war. Still she wanted her daddy. Also, he was nice to everyone including the colored folks. That’s why daddy went to fight the war. He believed in this man here and the things he said.
The President had a deep voice "that we here highly resolve these dead shall not have died in vain; that the nation shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people by the people for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

"Ireland serves neither King nor Kaiser. We need to fight for our own freedom. They are recruiting women to fight alongside the men. We can carry pistols and dispatches for our countrymen. Who will go with me?" The other five women in the small room looked about and three looked to the floor.
One with red pigtails of twenty years jumped to her feet "I’ll go with you Helena" she declared "I believe in freedom for our people." "Me too." said the fifth woman, though not as enthusiastically.

Sitting beside her new husband she tugged at her white gloves anxiously. She had not enough time to be prepared for attending the Presidential State of the Union Address. He should have given me more notice she mused as she smoothed out her dress. She felt a bit slighted that their honeymoon had been cut short for this.
She returned her attention to President Roosevelt and his speech about the Four Freedoms. "The fourth is freedom from the fear-which, translated into world terms, means a world wide reduction of armaments to such a point and in such a thorough fashion that no nation will be in a position to commit an act of physical aggression against any neighbor-anywhere in the world."

The attic was cramped with about a dozen of them. Here they hid like animals trying to survive. Outside they heard planes drone above them. In the deepest recesses of the night they would hear the sirens braying loudly warning of incoming bombers on their way. Then they’d feel the ground shake as bombs fell far away. When their ears would literally pop from the shrills they knew they were nearby. Then the house, whose attic they hid in, would shake. As did their bones and teeth from fear and the cold, not just from the bomb’s aftermath. What’s that now? God no! Hands grabbing at everyone, yanking them from the attic. "No! Let go! Ow!"
"Run!" a woman’s voice shouted.

"..that freedom can be the future of every nation." Click.
"Hey Steve, I was watching that."
"Bush is full of shit." I don’t want him on my t.v. If you want to watch him go somewhere else."
"Fine!" She grabbed her dark woolen coat and red scarf and bundled herself up. Grabbed her purse and keys, slamming the door behind her. Walking the half block in the chilly November air, tears threatened to spill from her eyes. Opening the pub door she was greeted by the odor of cigarette smoke.
"A Bud" she told the bartender as she sat upon the stool and watched the Presidential Address continue. She slid him a couple of one dollar bills before he could say a word. "The advance of freedom is the calling of our time; it is the calling of our country. From the Fourteen Points to the Four Freedoms, to the Speech at Westminster, America has put our power at the service of principle." "Another?" the bartender asked as she guzzled the Bud down. She nodded and pushed a few more singles out for him as he placed another in front of her.
She turned her attention back to the t.v."...we believe that freedom -- the freedom we prize -- is not for us alone, it is the right and the capacity of all mankind. (Applause.) Working for the spread of freedom can be hard. Yet, America has accomplished hard tasks before. Our nation is strong; we're strong of heart. And we're not alone. Freedom is finding allies in every country; freedom finds allies in every culture. And as we meet the terror and violence of the world, we can be certain the author of freedom is not indifferent to the fate of freedom."

She felt something warm and sticky upon her cheek. She wiped at it with her sleeve. Finding it to be blood. Smoke stung at her eyes. Someone grabbed her arm and helped her to her feet. She looked back and saw the Paratrooper. Using his ray gun he pointed to the right. Above the din she heard him shout "Run to-"

"Free---dom!" Tess turned looking around cautiously into the graying dimness of the stark room. Did someone say the word or had the word crept through her own mind? No, she couldn't allow it. He would see her thoughts. He always could tell. She wasn't good at hiding anything from him. That's why he could control her so well. She placed her hands over her ears and slid her back down the wall. Dropping to the cold concrete floor. Tears trickled down her face. No! She mustn't! No tears, no emotion. He played on all that. He used it all against her. No more, no more. She slumped over in total exhaustion and slept.

"I may have found the common thread in her time travels lately, Sir."
"Well, Lieutenant Xin What is it? Don’t keep me waiting. You know what happens to men who do!"
"Sorry Sir. I believe that they all have to do with Freedom."
"Freedom? Freedom? What are you trying to tell me Lieutenant?"
"Sir, Freedom means the power to act or speak or think without externally imposed restraints. It also means immunity from an obligation or duty."
"Where would she get this idea about Freedom and why? She’s a time-traveler!" Lord Cappalla slammed his fist into the table’s console and stormed out. The silver doors slid open then shut upon his exit.

Lieutenant Xin looked around the table at Corporal Pierre and 2nd Lieutenant Venne. "We need to destroy her. She is no longer of any use."
"Excuse me Sir. But wouldn’t it be easier to just send her off without a retrieval to someplace?" asked Corporal Pierre.
"Excellent idea Corporal. Do it, but don’t forget to remove her chip first."
The Corporal and 2nd Lieutenant stood gave nods toward Lieutenant Xin then left for their assignment. "Do we remove the chip tonight or in the morning then?" asked Venne
"Let’s wait till morning. She’s asleep now anyways." replied Pierre.
"Dinner then at my place?" smiled Venne
"Not till this is over." answered Pierre
"Oh, right." Venne replied flatly not showing her dejection.

The next morning, in the lab, Pierre and Venne oversaw as Dr. Zaghn removed the chip from Tesszalda.
"She’s ready for deportation" the Dr. stated as he went about closing the incision with the laser. "She’ll sleep for another two hours. So you have time now if you wish to finish with the business." He turned back to putting away his instruments.
Pierre and Venne transported Tesszalda from the lab in a portable cubicle to the transport room.
"Where to?" Venne asked Pierre.
"Who cares. Just turn the dial and zap her out into space somewhere. Then she’s no longer any of our worries." He replied brusquely.
"As you wish." Venne did as instructed.
Whirl.....whoooosh.

"Grandma, what year was it? How did they fall into the Ohio River?"
"Henry, my turn. My turn Grandma. What did President Lincoln say again? That’s my favorite part. What did he say about your book when he met you? Please tell it again. Please. Oh pleeeze" Mary pleaded.
"One at a time, my dears" she clucked at her two grand-children. Henry, it was the year Nineteen-hundred-and-thirty-eight Eliza fell into the Ohio River because it cracked beneath them. The water drenched her and the baby in it’s icy fingers. Mary dear, don’t you ever tire of hearing that story?" She looked upon the child’s black pigtails swaying back and forth as she shook her head no.

Sighing she continued. "It was around the beginning of the Civil War when I met President Abraham Lincoln. He was a big figure of a man, tall and lean with a big black stovepipe hat. My son Charles claimed that President Lincoln looked down at me with his coal nugget eyes and said, "so this is the lady who started the great war!" I don't recall the incident,but Charles was with me. If it was said, it is a terrible accusation to put on anyone. True, my book, Uncle Tom's Cabin, did stir up the hornet's nest, but the seeds of unrest were planted and a nation had been the harvest before it had been written."

"Grandma, one more question. What do you think was the secret password for the Underground Railroad?" asked Mary.
"It was a secret. It also changed frequently." Harriet looked upon her two grandchildren with loving pride. "I will tell you though that those who worked the Underground Railroad had a belief. Actually two words that summed up what they wanted for all people and that’s---destination, freedom."

Smoothie Recipe: Caribbean Crush

I just started making smoothies for one of my meals for weight loss and also for nutritional value needed. I also may be lactose intolerant. Therefore, this smoothie is made with soy milk.

I found it to taste more like the kiwi in it; so you'll have to like kiwi (like me). I enjoyed this one so much I am going to make an alternative by changing one of the fruits for more variety.

Caribbean Crush Smoothie
1 serving

3/4 cup plain soy milk
1/8 cup of lime juice
Half Mango; peeled, pitted and chopped
1 Kiwi, peeled and chopped

In blender combine soy milk, lime juice, mango and kiwi. Blend on low for thirty seconds; blend on high for an additional thirty seconds or until smooth. Enjoy.

I am going to substitute the Mango with a Papaya next.

Followup On Neck Nerve Injections:

Went back on the 18th of June for my second injection. This time I also needed a trigger point injection in the side of my neck. Somehow I had tweaked my neck according to the Specialist.

The trigger point injection was the same kind of Cortisone and Marcain mixture as the Specialist put into my neck between my vertebraes. However, with the trigger point injection it is not necessary to have to go to the Surgery Center in order to have them. The specialist told me I could get them at his office easily enough. They don't need x-rays taken like the nerve block injections. They palpate the site where the knot from your pulled muscle, or strain or whatever is and then they place the shot mixture into the site. There is no premedication of Marcain it is mixed into the shot. Therefore, it is a bit painful when injected. Then the site is massaged with pressure. This was uncomfortable yes. However, I noticed relief in the area within twenty-four hours. So it is a great way to get relief when it can be done.

As for the first Nerve Block Injection I had not noticed much pain relief, except for one week after the shot. After that my pain returned. The nurse who called me, to remind me of the Injection, stated that most people find the greatest relief after the second part of the shot is administered. Therefore, with great trepidation and hesitation I went forward with the second injection.

I still got a migraine as I did last time, however it only lasted about forty-two hours instead of seventy-seven hours as the last time. I also had a lot of aching and need for the Vicodin and heating pad for the first forty-five hours. The first time it lasted closer to seventy-four hours. Therefore, the side-effects for the second shot did not last as long as the first one. I am, at this moment, fairly comfortable with less aching in my neck and shoulders than I have been yet. I am hoping this feeling of relief continues.

I am to call and schedule an appointment with the Specialist anytime in two to four weeks. At the appointment we will determine whether or not to continue this therapy. It will depend on the amount of relief I seem to be getting. I will keep you posted.

Check Out My Stuff On EBAY:

I just began selling on EBAY. I have a variety of things available and will still be adding more items as the days continue to go by. There's computer related materials, clothing and sports cards at the moment. I'll be adding more articles too, so check me out whenever you can. You can find me under Pamel1959. Hope you stop by.

Poet's Corner: Voyage Of The Ark

Behind the old man and his staff,
They entered the ark, two by two,
First came the antelope to giraffe,
Then came the birds of many hues.

Behind the hippo they did trail,
With the zebra being the last,
Now aboard it was time to sail,
They closed the door, raised the mast.

From the Heavens the rain just poured,
For forty days and forty nights,
Outside the wind whistled and roared,
Causing man and beast much fright.

From above, they heard the rain cease,
Looking outside, land was in sight,
Anxiously awaiting their release,
So ended their forty day plight.

Houstan Death From Salmonellosis:

The CDC is currently investigating the death of a Houston woman, Wednesday, to determine if it is related to current raw tomato outbreak of Salmonella. The woman had an immuno-suppressed system as she had lymphoma.

There have been approximately, to date, one hundred and forty nine people infected from the Salmonella outbreak.

The Texas Board Of Health has determined that the source of the raw tomato outbreak is not from any tomatoes found in Texas. The Whole Foods grocery chain in Texas has however pulled the tomatoes off the shelves for the public's safety.

The CDC states the safest way to deal with tomatoes is not to buy the roma, round or pear-shaped tomatoes. The safe ones are homegrown, ones attached to the vine, grape and cherry tomatoes. However, if you already have the others don't eat them raw. If you cook them at one hundred and forty five degrees this will kill off the Salmonella germs. Also, please be careful in washing your hands before and after handling tomatoes. Keep tomatoes separate from all raw meat/seafood. Wash all cutting boards/utensils/countertops, that you use for cutting tomatoes, with hot soapy water, rinsing well afterwards. Also before cutting any other food.

Using can tomatoes is one of the safest options; some restaurants are beginning to use this option for the public's safety. One such restaurant includes Jack In The Box in California. To date only one person in California has been infected, it is believed she contracted it on a recent trip to Houstan though.

Seek medical attention if you suspect Salmonella poisoning. The symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, headache, stomach pain and occasional vomiting.

Update Of Tomatoes And Salmonella:

With all the testing that has been so far they have found three varieties of tomatoes are linked to Salmonella poisoning. These are the the roma/plum tomatoe and the round red variety.

The salmonella seems to be linked to the skin of the tomatoes and once sliced/cut the salmonella enters the inside of the tomatoe making it easier to get sick from it. The varieties, at this time, that seem safest are homegrown, cherry and grape tomatoes and the varieties that still have the vine attatched. If you are going to eat tomatoes than remember to wash them well before slicing them, then wash your hands with an anitbacterial soap. The best way to do this is to use a vegetable and fruit wash.

There is a great fruit and vegetable wash that is know to be economically safe for the enviroment too. It is known as CleanGreens. It cleans off pesticides, animal waste, organic fertilizers, toxic residues from other chemicals from produce that's not organic. It's great for both organic and non-organic produce. Another wash that's great for cleaning produce without harming the enviroment and is biodegradable is Vegiwash. It cleans the dirt, pesticides, fungicide, waxes, oil, and herbicide residues. There are many other fruit and vegetable washes available also. I have put their links below.

What it boils down to is that many growers still use pesticides, eventhough they rinse them prior to sending them to market, many times the rinse water is not emptied and often enough thus it is just not cleaning off the produce that goes to restaurants and consumers. Thus, we continue to get produce like tomatoes now, and spinach last year that is causing us to get ill. The only protection we have is at home when we implement the use of a fruit and vegetable wash into our daily routine. This reduces our risk of contracting diseases and illnesses due to the produce industry.

Even organic produce can become infected by the use of organic fertilizer, because the fertilizer is a by-product of worm or cricket poop and some are even a by-product of fish meal. All this is exposure to animal by-products. It doesn't mean that organic fertilizer isn't much safer than commercial brands that include herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. All it means is that for your health all your produce whether organic or non-organic should be rinsed in a fruit and vegetable rinse. This is your family's best protection against possible illness such as Salmonella. Let's give our families the best and safest fruit and vegetables. The recent Salmonella outbreak in tomatoes should wake us up to the fact that we need to better rinse the produce we eat. Happy eating.

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Tomatoes Cause Salmonella Poisoning

About nine states so far have had Salmonella outbreaks. These nine states are: New Mexico, Texas, Idaho, Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Illinois, Kansas, and Indiana. The common thread of the patients seem to be consumption of fresh tomatoes either at restaurants or grocery stores. Which type of tomato has yet to be determined. Neither has it been determined yet as to where the source is from. Thus leaving us to wonder if the red juicy beefsteak or roma tomato may possibly make us ill. Or if it is another culprit altogether.

It is known that after the ingestion of whatever unknown type of tomato. That if you have gotten a bad tomato; a Salmonella carrier, that you can begin to see signs of illness anytime between twelve to seventy-two hours. The symptoms are: diarrhea, cramping, and fever. Salmonella lasts from four to seven days.

People infected with Salmonella can actually get better without any type of medical intervention. However, some elderly, children and those with immuno-suppressed systems need to seek medical treatment. Due to the fact that those people are at a higher risk of complications like infections; in some of these cases there is a possible increase of hospitalization. Death can occur, however, at this time nobody has died. So be wary before you consider that tomato. If you do go ahead and eat tomatoes than by all means watch your health vigilantly. In the event you get any of the symptoms above please seek medical attention.

Celebrating Dad On Father's Day:

Celebrating Dad

Father's Day is about remembering Dad and all the sacrifices he made for the family. Remember all those hours he worked overtime when you were young? You missed him and didn't understand. Yet, when Christmas came around we had a fresh cut pine standing in the living room. The house was warm as the family decorated the tree. Then come Christmas morning we'd at least receive one or two of our most coveted gifts. Dad/Father/Padre whatever you call him (the man who raised you) made some of your wishes come true. Remember the evening horseback rides or wrestling with him? The times your family would cram into the family vehicle and go for a Sunday ride without knowing where you'd end up. Sometimes he'd even get you lost, if you were going somewhere special, however even then you'd discover something new or some exciting new place to eat. The picnics, camping trips, fishing and learning to swim in the lake all spent/supervised by good ole Dad. These were all made possible by his hard work and overtime pay.

Now it's time to remember Dad by showing him appreciation for all he did/does do. That's the real meaning of Father's Day. To celebrate Dad for all those memories, gifts, his help in completing a school science fair project/or with your math homework. The times you needed him when your dog got run over by a car or you broke-down in your car and he came to your rescue. Dad's are known to be our heroes; silent heroes who never ask for nothing in return. So don't forget this is how Dads show love in their own special way. Most Dads aren't too sentimental in their early years, however they become a little more so as time ages them.

If you are wondering what to get for him on Father's Day here are a few suggestions:

1) Gift Cards to his favorite store; Sportsman's Warehouse, Home Depot, Lowe's, Ace Hardware, Sears (for those Craftsman tools many men love). Or even to his favorite restaurant; after all what man doesn't like to eat. Also, giving a gift card is easier than mailing a package at today's shipping costs (and what if he doesn't like what you picked out?-he'll keep it anyways in his closet; never using it. What a shame). You can make it even more special by making his Father's Day card yourself. Therefore, you are giving him two gifts.

2) You can have a family barbecue in his honor. Just let him sit back and relax in the sunshine and fresh air; while you do all the grilling and cooking. More than likely, if there are grandkids that's where you'll find him; playing games or entertaining them. Don't forget to make "his favorite foods" for this special day.

3) If you want to really give a gift with a package and bow then most Dads have a need for new tools. Tools are different in everybody's hobbies/careers. There are tools for drafting, mechanics, woodworking, cabinetry, sculpting, model shipbuilding, gardening, and home remodeling. You see where I'm coming from? Be sure that whatever career or hobby your Father has that he doesn't already have that particular tool. Unless it is a better one than he has already. Be sure to fit the tool to your Father and to make it one he will use. Or if you Dad is a sports enthusiast or goes golfing, fishing, hunting, roller-blading, biking, ect.; you can get him something related to that sport. Try and use the concept of something he needs/wants in this area. It could be an autographed football by Brett Favre, tickets to the next basketball game, a special edition autographed copy of a book by Sports Celebrity he really likes.

4) If you are an only child or your siblings live faraway, and can't spend Father's Day with Dad, then just the two of you do something together. This can range from going to the golf course, fishing, playing billiards, to a rodeo/car show/races or other sporting event. Make it special, take a few pictures to record the event. Later put these pictures in a photo frame and give it to him as a reminder of the day you spent together.

5) Photos of grandchildren are a definite hit with Dad's. You could design a collage by making a tree with branches leading to each child's photograph. Remember to put the name, birth date and date of picture either below it or next to it. If you have siblings with kids be sure to get photos of them as well. This way you could include pictures of all Dad's grandchildren; thus, creating a piece of family history he will treasure. Maybe your siblings could help make it too so it can be from all of you.

6) Handmade cards; you can add little treasures from special outings with Dad as you were growing up. Which could be anything from a seashell collected in the family trip to Hawaii to ticket stubs from a Yankee game, or even a concert program in which Dad came to see you in.

Most of all, remember to honor your Dad with showing him you love him and appreciate all he did for you. If you have a problem with communicating with him than this may be the right time to reach out and either forgive him or tell him you're sorry. He is only human and he loves you even if he doesn't say it. He speaks it with his heart when he worked hard to get the things you needed/wanted (even if you didn't get everything you wanted he did try). Dads are that way; they are warriors and heroes who don't show as much emotion as Moms. That's what makes him your hero; did you know that? It's because he was fearless in the face of all those monsters under your bed, held unto you during a tornado and calmed your fears after your nightmare. Celebrate him with love, even if you are faraway at least call. If your Dad is passed away then remember all those times you had with him on this day; honor his memory and toast him for the man he was/what he did and accomplished. Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there.

Experiencing Nerve Block Injections:

It was my decision my husband told me, after the doctor explained the procedure and risks involved. I was considering having nerve block injections of cortisone for my neck pain. Since over twelve years ago, due to a motor vehicle accident (MVA), I had a C5/C6 fusion. A fusion is where they place a piece of bone, from a cadaver (deceased donor), into the body to replace the one that is broken, ruptured, herniated or otherwise damaged. The fusion has held well over the years, I've been in three other MVA's without any further damage to it.

However, a fusion is when bones fuse/meld together to where they can no longer bend. This constricts some of the person's movement to that area. Therefore, the other joints in my neck have had to take some additional stress creating now some herniation in the above and below discs of the neck. This in turn has caused even more pain in and around my area of fusion. Thus even some numbness and tingling coupled with pain has preceded down my neck, shoulders and into both arms. This all caused me to seek pain relief from a specialist.

My specialist informed me that due to my fusion that reduces my chances by about twenty to thirty percent of the injections success rate. However, being that the success rate is still sixty to seventy percent with minimal risks I weigh my choice of whether I want to go ahead or continue in pain. My biggest risk is a headache which I will more than likely get due to my history of migraines anyways. I will also have some pain for one to two days, which is normal, before relief begins. There is a three percent risk of the specialist accidentally hitting the spinal column and thus breaking the membrane to where spinal fluid will leak causing me a spinal headache.

I had a spinal headache once in my life following a spinal tap and it was far worse than my migraines. The only way to relieve it is to go back exactly into the same spot, puncture site, and inject your blood (which they draw from your arm) into it. It's called a blood patch and this patch will actually rid you of the spinal headache within five minutes with no side affects or anything. It was truly amazing, I've never had a migraine that's been totally relieved like that spinal headache was--however spinal headaches are not fun at all and I never want one again if possible. Therefore, this was my worst fear. Yet, the specialist informed me he'd only had three cases of hitting the spinal fluid himself, which was a bit reassuring.

I decide to go ahead with the nerve block procedure. The specialist informs me that there will be a series of two procedures performed a few weeks apart. One month following the second procedure we will do a follow up to see if there has been any relief and if it is significant to continue with this treatment. If we continue then we will try and find a treatment plan that fits my body. Some people need to have it done every three months while others only every six months. I'm scheduled and given my instructions to stay off blood thinners and aspirin, motrin, ect. for one week prior to the procedure. Of course I have to have someone to drive me home too. However, I can eat prior to this I am told--that's good news.

The day arrives, I'm too nervous to eat too much in the morning. My husband and I arrive at the Surgery Center and do all the normal paperwork required. I'm taken back, my husband is allowed to accompany for a short time. We talk once more to the specialist who answers any questions and goes into details how the procedure will proceed. Since I am allergic to dye they will not be able to inject the iodine dye that the do prior to placing the nerve block injections. However, the doctor is confident that he will have no problems locating the area without the dye. I'm given a gown and am told only to disrobe from the waist up. I also put on a surgical head cover along with surgical shoe covers over my shoes.

I am led from the room into the operation room. I am told to lie on my stomach, they place my chin on a rest and my forehead on a pillow rest also. This leaves my mouth/nose area hanging in the open with a cloth just draped below the area. This enables the specialist full access to my neck area to where he will be placing the injections. I am not given a general anaesthesia. Therefore, I am fully awake during the entire procedure. The attending nurse then proceeds to cleanse the area with Hebicleanse since I am allergic to betadine. The doctor then informs me he will begin by giving me injections at varying levels of depths to numb me prior to the initial cortisone injection. The first injection of lidocaine is given about about a quarter of an inch into my skin to begin numbing me. They get a few other things ready as I lie there for about three minutes before another injection is given about an inch deeper. I breath through the pain. Within minutes the specialist informs me he will be injecting the cortisone and some pain medication with it. I feel pressure and still some stinging as it is injected into my neck, therefore I breath through it again. About a minute later I am told that the procedure is over and to continue to lie still until the nurse is done cleaning my neck and applying a band aid. Afterwards, I sit up, it is then I become dizzy. Which I am told is sometimes common from the medication and lying on one's stomach. The doctor shows me a x-ray he took of where he placed the injection. Says I did well and goes to speak with my husband.

I go get my upper clothes back on and am given instructions to call the next day. I meet my husband in the waiting room, he has a copy of patient instructions on what I can and can't do for the next few days. We return home. In a few hours the lidocaine wears off and I am in terrible pain. The instructions say to apply a heating pad or ice to the area for twenty minutes then take off for up to one hour. I am not to take any aspirin, motrin or anti-inflammatory for four hours following the procedure (these they have had me off of for one week prior). Therefore, I still have an hour before I can take anything like that so I apply the heating pad. It helps with the pain, I am relieved. When time comes I still require more pain relief and take two aspirin (I am allergic to tylenol and can't take motrin due to it affects my liver). I continue over the whole night and next day with the heating pad and aspirin for controlling my pain. It is a common occurrence for cortisone injections to cause flare ups for 24-48 hrs following the injection. I wonder will it be worth it?

It has now been one week since the injection, I have had some relief. Not a significant amount by far. However, the specialist did tell me I would not know if it would work or not for sure until after the second procedure. I am scheduled to go back on June 18th. Then I will see the doctor a month later, this gives the cortisone time to do it's work. At my appointment we will discuss whether or not it is working for me and if I should continue with this therapy or not. It was as painful for me as was giving birth. However, if I can actually find relief at least by sixty percent from the constant pain it will be worth it. I think I could endure doing it as often as every three months if it meant so little pain for me to endure. Especially since it only lasted a few minutes, followed by two days of worse pain. This has been my experience so far. I will let you know how things progress.

Idaho Spud King Dies:

J.R. Simplot had achieved his ambitions during his long life of ninety-nine years. He became known as the Spud King here in Idaho. For a lad at fourteen years old leaving Iowa and starting out alone in a new state, Idaho, he had a vision and took aim to pursue it.

In 1923 J.R. arrived in Idaho and began working in the potato sorting workhouses. He then took his money, eighty dollars and put it into hogs in which he kept all winter, selling them for $7,500 after fattening them up. With this money he bought a electric potato sorter and managed to buy/build thirty to thirty three potato warehouses beginning in Idaho Falls, Idaho. This was the beginning of the Simplot Potato (now Food) Manufacturing Company, which is still in operation throughout Idaho today. He continued to invest in other ventures as he saw they would also help his current trend in food processing. He bought timberland to make wooden boxes for his potatoes, he also bought a fertilizer company to provide fertilizer to grow the potatoes. A phosphorous company also, as phosphorous is a key element that is included in many of today's products that range from food, fertilizer to cleaning products. His expansion didn't quite end there as he also bought a cattle ranch. J.R. Simplot was a man of large vision and one who understood that in order to make the best dollar you had to have most of the materials at the cheapest prices. In order to have your materials at the cheapest prices it is easier if you own them or manufacture them yourself, now that's what I call a visionary or a scholarly man. He did this and at the same time provided jobs for many local Idahoans.

One of the most prominent things J.R. Simplot will be forever remembered for is making the french fry commercial to the fast food industry. In the 1960's J.R. introduced the first frozen french fry to McDonald's Ray Kroc. Today Simplot Foods still provide McDonald's with over a third of their fries along with other fast food chains such as Wendy's and Burger King. It was a known fact, up until his recent death, that every week J.R. could be seen driving up to a McDonald's for fries or hash browns (both of them supplied by his company).

In the 1980's J.R. was one of the first people to invest in the little known Boise company of Micron. They were just barely starting out and having a bit of trouble in the beginning and he helped them out, thus investing in stock at that time. Today it is estimated that the investment that he kept in Micron is about 250 million dollars in value. Before his death Simplot was estimated to be worth over three and a half billion dollars.

Mr. Simplot sure had a great aptitude for knowledge of the business world for starting out in it at fourteen. Wouldn't you agree? That only goes to show us that with a lot of hard work and continued endurance what someone can accomplish. Remember, he didn't come from a family of means but made his own way in this world with barely anything to begin with. He worked hard and was honest in his work and with those with whom he dealt. No wonder he made such an impression in not only the Business world but also the Political world in Idaho and beyond. My best wishes go out to his family that are left behind. I hope that his hard work ethics will be instilled and kept in practice for future generations in memory of this great man known as the "Spud King."

Crock Pot Cherry Cobbler:

We like this easy to make cherry cobbler with one exception I generally find the original recipe does not have enough filling so I add extra. It is your choice though so I put it in parenthesis for you if you decide to make it the same as I do.

Makes 6 servings

21 ounce can of low-fat cherry pie filling (I use two cans)
1 cup flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup low fat milk (I use carb countdown milk)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/4 tsp salt (I use sea salt without iodine)

Heavily grease the crock pot. Pour pie filling into bottom. Combine, in bowl, remaining ingredients. Beat until smooth. Spread over pie filling.
Cover crock pot and cook on high for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Help Stop Global Warming Here:

If you are interested in doing something, even in a small way, to help lessen the impact of global warming visit this site:

Help stop global warming by offsetting one pound of carbon emissions - for free! When you click this link, Care2 makes a donation to offset one pound of carbon emissions, every day that you click.

Carbon, and other greenhouse gases, released into the air by power plants and cars
contribute to global warming.

Each day, you can take a small step in slowing global warming by offsetting some of your emissions. Forward this message to your friends to help offset even more!

Simply go to the site and click on the "Offset One Pound Carbon" button.

It takes one second. Remember, you're only allowed one click per day, so tell everyone you know!

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Craft Donations Needed For Autism:

I am all for giving Autism a helping hand and will be sending some knitted items to this benefit. Therefore, I offered to post the information about the need for donation for the raffle on my website. It is a great cause, as Autism is affecting many of our children each year. If you are someone who is a crafter please consider giving to this worthwhile event. If not, maybe you will be willing to buy some of the items that will be listed in the story ( I will post that information when the time comes). pamel


Autism Awareness Project
My 24 yr old nephew is trying to raise Autism awareness by doing a yearly drag race benefit (he's already got most of the approvals) and the first awareness race is scheduled for late next month. Brian is now working on getting the necessary permits and approvals to hold a raffle at the event(s) and I have agreed to help him get donations of homemade items for the raffle (I’m I crazy or what? J ). Even if he can't get the permits/authorization for this year’s race, Brian shouldn’t have any problems for the following year’s race. For the smaller items that might not be suitable for the raffle or if Brian isn’t able to get the necessary approvals in time, all items will be sold in my Etsy store with 100% going to the Autism Foundation.

How can you help?

This looks like it’s going to be an ongoing project so donations of any finished homemade goodies will be greatly appreciated. If you would like to donate to this great cause please let me know. I can be emailed at Bnewns@csudh.edu

Thanks…
Bea

Making My Favorite Sandwich:

The best ingredient by far for any sandwich is homemade bread. Especially when you have taken the time to mix, knead and wait for it to rise. Knead it again, let it rise once more, then bake it in the oven. The whole process takes about five to six hours to complete. However, you efforts are fully rewarded with fresh home baked bread for your favorite sandwich. Can you smell it? The aroma wafting from the kitchen as it sits upon the counter cooling to the correct temperature to be cut. It makes my mouth water all the more in anticipation for my favorite pastrami and swiss cheese on warm freshly baked wheat bread. Some people prefer rye, others even white for their pastrami and swiss cheese sandwiches. Whatever your preference it's always best with homemade bread.

After the bread is cooled enough to cut, without tearing it, you then proceed to smear a bit of mustard unto one slice. On the opposing slice you slather it with some Miracle Whip. Then you get out the baby swiss cheese, as it has the best flavor of most swiss cheeses when combined with pastrami. Placing plenty of cheese, on the bottom slice of bread, that has the Miracle Whip on it. I like at least two slices maybe three on my sandwich, I don't like skimpy sandwiches at all. You could choose Turkey pastrami if you are on a diet but I'd rather have the real thing even when I'm dieting. I want my mouth to enjoy the full flavor-fest of my experience of a pastrami and swiss cheese sandwich. After all, why make it if it's not that enjoyable? Then I add loads of pastrami as I pile it on thick in a folding motion, like rolling a third on top of one another. I do this with four slices across the size of a normal size piece of bread. Then I do another layer on top of that once more in the opposite direction. Using this method I am sure to cover all the corners of the bread, including the crust with plenty of pastrami inside. Yes, I love pastrami, don't I? Then I place a slice of lettuce and three to four pepperoncini peppers on top. I then top it with the other slice of bread. Holding the sandwich together I then cut it diagonally. Ever since I was a child I have always thought sandwiches tasted better when cut diagonally opposed to cutting straight across. I know it probably sounds silly however it is how I enjoy my sandwiches best. I then place a dill pickle spear or two, to the side of the sandwich, upon the plate. A pile of chips or potato salad with a glass of iced tea. A perfect meal.

Memorial Day:

Memorial Day first began as "Decoration Day" in remembrance of those soldiers who died in the Civil War. It began on May 5th in 1866 when the townspeople of several different areas went about decorating the graves, of soldiers, with wreaths, flowers and crosses. Also flags were flown at half-mast in honor of the fallen soldiers who died so bravely. Two years later, General Logan declared "Decoration Day" be made official. However, he moved the date to May 30th because flowers would be in bloom all over the country. The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, in attendance were General Robert E. Lee and General Ulysses S. Grant.

In 1882 the name was change from "Decoration Day" to "Memorial Day" in order to honor fallen Veterans of all wars not just the Civil War.

In 1971 Congress created the National Holiday Act making Memorial Day a three day weekend, by having Memorial Day observed on the last Monday in May. This was to allow families to have more time together for reflection and to be able to take time to travel to wherever it was needed to pay their respects. In retrospect it was a good idea, however it only seemed to backfire. Most of the nation's people decided to use the time to take mini-vacations instead of honoring our fallen soldiers as was intended. Traditions have fallen to the wayside nowadays. Many graves of our soldiers, who fought for our freedom, lay forgotten and bare on Memorial day. It is this day in which we are to show our respect and honor them for what they gave freely given, their lives for ours. Yet, we go off camping and merry-making without a moment's thought for them leaving their graves unadorned. Such a sad state of affairs we have let this National holiday for them become. It seems that changing the date only undermined the real meaning of the solemnity of the day.

In December 2000 Congress, in an attempt to get Americans to remember the true meaning and significance of Memorial Day, passed into law the "National Moment Of Remembrance Act." This was signed into law by the President to be sure that our American Heroes and Fallen Soldiers are not to be forgotten. This act, "encourages all Americans to pause at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation."

What we need to do is ask Congress to put Memorial Day back on May 30th where it belongs. Let it go back to it's original day so we can rekindle the feelings of kinship that go with this day. For over the years many places have let the traditions fall to the wayside. Towns no longer host parades. Those that do go to cemeteries, decorate any loved ones' grave in memory of them. Memorial day is set aside to remember our Fallen Soldiers or Veterans and pay tribute to them. It is their graves that get decorated, parades are held in their honor and memory. You can go any other day of the year and remember your other loved ones and honor and decorate their graves. Let's remember the true reason behind the observance of this day and bring it back to it's original purpose once more.

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Montel Bids Farewell:

Friday May 16th, Montel bid farewell after seventeen seasons. He said his final goodbye as the host of the television show "Montel". We laughed, we cried, we listened to his advice, we cared for his guests. Now it all comes to an end.

Montel was diagnosed with MS in 1999, approximately in his eighth season of "The Montel Williams Show". Montel continued to host his show despite his MS. His celebrity status gave courage to others, afflicted with MS, that they could find hope in continuing to lead normal lives. He established the Montel Williams MS Foundation in 2000 for further research in finding a cure in the future. For more information on the foundation click here: MontelMS

In January 2006 he became the spokesperson for a medication program named PPA. It assists those that are under insured and not insured to be able to get medications. To date Montel has assisted over five million people nationwide get the medications they need. PPA and those people are grateful for his involvement in the program. To get in touch with this program please check out this link: PPA.

We will miss you Montel. You were more than a talk show host, more than an entertainer. You were someone who showed compassion, truly listened and gave inspiration to others. You cared as you even followed up on your guests to see how they were doing. You went beyond what normal talk show hosts have done before you. You set a higher standard to follow. Thanks, we love you and shall miss you dearly.

Tips In Avoiding Kidney Disease:

In today's society due to the many medications,and other factors, Kidney disease has become more common than Diabetes now. Kidney disease will help bring about deterioration to the heart and premature death along with contributing to osteoporosis and anemia. Putting more pressure and deterioration on your kidneys causing one to have to undergo dialysis or even kidney transplant when it is severe enough.

Therefore, we must be better prepared in taking care of our kidneys. Here are a few things you can do to help prevent or avoid Kidney Disease for as long as you can. Hopefully entirely.

1) Do not take large doses of pain relievers like Advil, Aleve, Motrin or Aspirin on a daily basis. As this can damage your kidneys.

2) When taking medications Please follow all directions carefully. Do not take extra medication without consulting your Doctor or Pharmacist--when you do ask how it will affect your kidneys if you are needing to take extra for a short time.

3) Remember to tell your Doctor about all the medications, vitamins and even herbal remedies/supplements that you may be taking over-the-counter (non-prescribed). This way your Doctor is aware of everything you are putting into your body and knows how they are best interacting with your liver and kidneys. The Doctor may then be able to best inform you as to if you need to change or quit taking something as it may be harmful to your kidneys in conjunction with some of the other medications and supplements you are taking too.

4) Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Cut down on colas/soda pop as they tend to form kidney stones.

5) Limit your protein intake. As protein has been found to stess kidneys that may already be slightly damaged or burdened.

6) Reduce your salt. Salt isn't excreted by kidney's well if they are damaged. Besides it will also lower your blood pressure.

7) Lower your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure it will affect your kidneys. Thus, lowering it will cut your risk for kidney disease.

8) Being overweight increases your risk of kidney failure. Therefore, loose weight if you need to and keep it at the correct weight for your frame size. Before beginning any weight loss regime please check with your Doctor.

Remember, we only get one body and our body is our temple. Therefore, it is up to us to keep them in good shape. By following these tips I am not telling you that you will never get kidney disease. But I am saying that you may be able to help fend it off or prevent it longer. Hopefully, you will never get it, but I can't promise that. Water is an important factor for kidneys and most of your vital organs therefore, replenish your body frequently year round with plenty of water.

Bloggers Unite: Human Rights Day

In view of "Human Rights Day" for Bloggers Unite I thought I would invite you to join me in helping sponsor International Children across our globe. It only takes a click each day for your donation. How simple is that? And I'm not personally asking you for any money like they do on television. So please read on then visit the url and click. Thanks for your much needed help for these precious children.

I need your help to sponsor children in need.

Go to: children.care2

Care2's Race for Children in Need is sponsoring several children through Children International. Your click helps generate donations from sponsors to support these children from some of the world's poorest regions. Clicking daily helps ensure that all of Care2's kids are sponsored all year long. How can you help? It is easy.

Just go to: Join Care2.com's Race for Children!

and click on the "click to help button". It only takes a second and it could make a significant difference in the lives of Care2's kids. You can help even more by inviting your friends to become racers. More clicks means that more children can be sponsored!

Just click: children.care2

Some of the kids you can help:
Rocio: Playing with dolls is six year old Rocio's favorite activity. Rocio is the youngest of 5 children and lives with her parents in a two bedroom home. Rocio hasn't yet started school, but helps her mother with the household chores.

Nishchal: Nishchal is five and enjoys playing with his friends and dancing. He has one younger sister and lives with his parents (both aged 21). The family's monthly income is $42.00 and they live in a two-room cottage with mud floors in Nepal.

Yelize: At six years old, Yelize enjoys dancing, playing soccer and doing artistic crafts in school. She has one brother. Her family's monthly income is only $75.00 and they live in Colombia.

Idaho's Capitol For May:

Governor Otter has chosen Priest River as the town to be the host Capitol for May. Priest River is seven miles east of Washington State and seventy-five miles south of Canada. It has a population of approximately 1,700. It will be "Capitol for the Day" for Governor Butch Otter and members of his staff on May 20th.

The Governor and his official staff will meet with the local officials between the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. They plan to discuss a variety of issues, concerning to the local people, which range from flood control, transportation, land endowment and economic development.


idahoexaminer

Poets Corner: Springs Rebirth

Springs Rebirth


The snow is melting

The sun does shine

The birds are singing

It's Spring divine.

I see tulips

Peeking up

From the earth

Signs of Springs rebirth.

Is Giving Better Than Receiving?

I may not be wealthy enough to buy everyone what they want in life. Somehow, I do manage to give something to each person that they will appreciate. My mother and children learned years ago not to go card shopping with me. Why? Because, I felt that even if I couldn't have the money to send a gift to a friend for their birthday I would send a card. The card had to be perfect for that person. I could spend up to five or six hours in stores searching for just the right card with the perfect sentiment. I'd read every card in every store until I'd find the right card. It always paid off, as I was always complimented with "you always send the perfect cards. How do you ever do that?" I'd chuckle under my breathe and think 'if you only knew how long I searched, but you were worth it.' But in reality I'd just say "Aw shucks, it just said you." It was my way of giving myself by searching out for that perfect card. Nowadays, we can make our own on the computers. We can create our own greeting prose and pictures even, this personalizes it even more. It also ends those grueling searches, how I miss them though.

All my life I have enjoyed giving more than receiving, even as a child. I enjoyed watching others open cards and gifts I'd give them with baited breath. I wanted to be sure it was the right thing, not something disappointing. I wanted to see that smile from ear to ear. Yes, I've enjoyed receiving, but I must admit I am addicted to giving the most. I can not afford to give as I would like due to finances though. So I must shop ever so diligently all year at clearance sales to find my treasures of pleasure. I also am a crafty and artistic person which comes in handy in creating some of my gifts. For some of my recipients would rather have something handmade than store-bought. A plus for me, I might add. I have a closet in which I place all my items I make or buy throughout the year. These items are normally made/bought already with someone special in mind. Therefore, they are placed in a separate bag for just that person. As that person's birthday comes about a gift is wrapped and readied. The same for Christmas and other occasions such as upcoming bridal/baby showers. I love to give with love on a budget.

Green Television Sneak Previews:

TLC has two new upcoming television shows for it's July schedule. They both deal with being eco-friendly. They aired the sneak previews on May 04. They are called Wa$ted and Greenovate.

Wa$ted deals with showing how you can be more eco-friendly by living more of a green lifestyle. The preview showed a couple (the green team masters I like to call them) going to New York to visit a couple (two men with a dog) who lived in an apartment. They brought along with them the men's garbage (complete with dog poop) for the entire year. This was to show them how much waste they were actually throwing out that could be recycled. They then told them the amount of their carbon footprint which was well over what they should be for the little apartment in which they were living in. The apartments had recycling bins already in place on the rooftop however the guys just weren't taking advantage of them. Plus they were wasting a lot of excess food which could be composted with a worm farm for their plants in the apartment. They also kept the television and lights on during the daytime for the dog while they were at work all day. The television and lights (during daytime hours), for the dog, was costing them around $500 per year extra. That's wasted money and resources. They also used a lot of cabs, no public transportation at all. They drycleaned many of their clothes also. The "green team" showed them how to become more efficient by composting the excess food in place of trashing it, using the recycle bins, turning off the television and lights when not at home, recycling the hangers from the drycleaners (by returning them for reuse instead of trashing them). They also helped them get an energy efficient heater, and folding bicycles. They asked them not to use the cabs and to switch to a drycleaner that was eco-friendly. They challenged them to better their carbon footprint by telling them they would give them the amount of a year's savings, of what they had accomplished, when they returned. The green team comes back in three weeks and find that they now have a second dog. They have reduced their garbage immensely, have gotten their neighbors into recycling along with them, they are turning off the television and lights when at work, they are even composting with the excess food and worms too. However, one of the guys has still used the cab a few times (but cut back immensely) and they still use a dry cleaner that isn't eco-friendly. However, they are recycling the hangers and actually drycleaning less clothes than before since they are washing more laundry now. They reduced their carbon footprint by thirty-nine percent and got $3,000. I found the show had great ideas and am looking forward to more episodes in July. I definately give this show my rating of a 10.

The next previewed show is called Greenovate. I think the title says it all. It's a renovation show with green appeal. The renovator turns an older 1930's home into an updated Green home. He uses low energy with low flow plumbing throughout the home. I was really impressed with the waterless heater. I think I'll check into that to replace our hot water heater with in the future. The renovator also added an addition unto the house making it larger. He used a metal roof for the entire house stating it allowed air flow to pass through thus keeping the home from getting too hot in the summer months. I learned something there since I always thought metal roofs would make a home feel warmer. See what you can learn when you watch television. The house was a great renovation except I wasn't too thrilled with the exterior paint color. Hey, if the man wants an eggplant colored house than that's his choice. I really enjoyed the show and am looking forward to more episodes in July as well with this show. Afterall, I am a home owner and always looking for new ideas and ways to improve my home's efficiency and be more green in the process when I can. Therefore, I give this show my rating of a 8.

Fitzel Update:

Now a neighbor who resided in an apartment just above the basement reported noises. He further states that Josef told him that it was the gas heating system. He also saw him taking wheelbarrows full of food into the basement. However, the basement was also suppose to be where he had built his nuclear bomb shelter and he assumed it was his supplies. He also managed to have a supposed office there in which he did design work, that was his cover for his wife apparently. The heating system had been inspected on several occasions and worked fine. Not far from there was the entryway to the rooms in which Fitzel kept his captive second family.

It seems Austria was okay with the fact that Josef was a convicted rapist in the 1960's. He had no problems adopting his three grandchildren in the courts, with their knowledge of this fact of his past, in order for them to live and be raised by him and his wife. How odd of a farce is that? Adopting your own children? Well, I guess he thought it was in his best interest so as not to raise suspicions. However, the courts did have social services go to his house and do check ups on the children.

Apparently Fitzel may not face all the charges for his crimes of rape due to how long ago they happened. I can not believe this! It's appalling, this was an on-going criminal rape. It was continuous over the years. However, he may be facing a murder charge for the infant twin who died at birth. He happened to incinerate the baby in the furnace afterwards in order to dispose of the body. What a heartless act. It's a maybe though, however this writer sure is in hopes he does face murder charges for the baby's death. Because the murder charges will carry a sentence of twenty years to life if he does. That will be justice in my book.

Meanwhile, his daughter and grandchildren remain in the hospital. The nineteen year old girl in a coma, his daughter Elisabeth (42) with no teeth due to poor nutrition and vitamin deficiency, the two boys with health and mental problems to face. Doctors predict the five year old will be the best candidate to come through this with the best prognosis in the future ahead.

Recipe: Cinnamon Chicken

Another of my children's favorite chicken recipes while growing up was cinnamon chicken. I designed this recipe because, like hamburger, chicken then was inexpensive to buy. Therefore, I needed to find several different ways in which to create meals that my children would enjoy.

Ingredients:

1- cut-up chicken
Cinnamon
Pepper
DO NOT FLOUR!

Sprinkle chicken with cinnamon and pepper. Place chicken pieces skin side up on a cookie sheet. Bake 1 hour at 350 degrees. There is no need for butter or oil; the chicken skin contains its own fat. It is not necessary to turn pieces during the baking process. After 1 hour in the oven the chicken will be crisp and brown.

The children will love it and it couldn't be easier, less calories and easier on the digestive system.

Austrian Man Holds Daughter Captive:

Josef Fitzl held his daughter captive for twenty-four years in his basement. Claiming she ran away all this time, after he had handcuffed and raped her in the basement. His wife apparently has been unaware of his actions. During these twenty-four years he has continued to rape his daughter, fathering seven children. One of those children a twin at birth died shortly after. He continued to maintain the illusion that his daughter had run away and joined a cult even when he took three of his daughter's children out of the basement to live with him and his wife upstairs. He told his wife his daughter contacted him in regards to leaving the children in their care. The other three children remained with his daughter in the basement to live, never seeing the light of day.

The eldest grand-daughter, in the basement, aged nineteen fell unconscious. Therefore, Josef's daughter pleaded that he take her to the hospital. He did as she asked telling the hospital staff, and his wife that his daughter left her on his doorstep with a note that said to get her medical care. Unknown to him the daughter had placed a note in the girl's pocket pleading for help. The nursing staff discovered the note and issued a statement on the news that "more information was needed from the mother of the child to please come forward." The daughter pleaded with her father to take her and the remaining two children to the hospital, which he did. He told his wife that their daughter and her remaining children had finally returned home and needed to go to the hospital.

It was then that the daughter told her story. After she was promised that she would never have to see her father again. She assured authorities, that she believed, her mother never knew about her whereabouts or the rapes.

The mother and children are being treated. They will have a long road ahead since some of this will be mental--never seeing the light of day for these children in their lifetimes.

The basement was investigated and they found a small living quarters set up. Josef was arrested and confessed. He is now facing fifteen years. Fifteen years?

I have a problem with him only serving fifteen years. This has impacted many people. His daughter who he began molesting at age eleven. Then when she was eighteen he tricked her to go into the basement with him, drugged her then handcuffed her to a bed to hold her captive. Since then he has raped her for twenty-four years. The three children who lived with her now aged nineteen, eighteen and five year old never saw the light of day while in the basement. Then there's the three children who believed their mother didn't want them but gave them away. And the infant twin who died at childbirth due to not having proper facilities. It's definitely not long enough in my book. What's your opinion?

Videos:
24yrcaptive
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reference

Eco-Friendly Shopping Bags:

Plastic has a big affect on our planet as most of us have probably heard over the past week; known as "Green Week." You can make a big impact by choosing not to use plastic bags from your shopping trips. That means trips to the malls, and grocery store too. You can choose paper but then that will be choosing to cut down more of our trees to accommodate the bigger demand on paper bags being chosen.

Please watch the following video to see the impact that the plastic is having on our planet and the lives of our wildlife: garbagepatch.

Then what do I use? you are asking. Reusable bags is the viable option. There is many different options for reusable bags ranging in types, styles and costs. I found that one market, Fred Meyers sells some for as low as .89 cents, Walmart has some for $9.99. Retail stores and online markets vary from $1.99 up to $250.00 depending on what you are looking for in a reusable bag. Most people want something not so bulky to haul around. Some women will just choose a tote type reusable bag to go to the mall, therefore something possibly stylish for this outing is more preferable.

I find that I really like the totes that you can actually fold and zip/velcro up and put in your pocket/purse to carry are easy and accessible. In this way you may carry more than one thus have more on hand when grocery shopping. If you are interested in this type of tote/bag you can find them at: ecobags or shagbags. Also a similar option is the foldable bags: go-again bags.

totes:
greenkit
bagsontherun
ivillage
piperlime
3beans

Poet's Corner:

A Rose, A Life

Just as life blossoms and grows,
It's much like the story of the rose,
Young petals are silky and scented,
Life's woes stay simple, as thorns are tended.

With age, rose petals once sweet,
Now lifeless, withered fall to one's feet,
As memories dance, upon a last breathe,
Mingled with rose petals, love mourns death.

Beauty Companies Becoming Eco-Friendly:

Some of the make-up/beauty companies have actually begun to become eco-friendly. They are using packaging that is recyclable/biodegradable. Also, their manufacturing companies are offsetting their carbon emissions by using recyclable materials when they manufacture their products.

These companies are: Burt's Bees, Aveda, Nude Skin Care, Paul Michael's Tea Tree, Louise Galvin's Sacred Locks (haircare), The Body Shop and Stem Organics (skincare).

Each of these companies are currently using more natural products in their line. Along with making them without preservatives or chemicals. This protects our environment and our health.

The two safest companies' products, listed above, at this time are Paul Michael's Tea Tree and Stem Organics. Below I have placed a link to a site called skin deep where you can check on your cosmetics to see how dangerous the chemicals are to you for that particular cosmetic.

Also, there are still many beauty/cosmetic companies out there that are exposing us to who-knows-what since they don't have to list everything on cosmetic labels. So please read the following statement (from the petition). If you agree please sign the petition to make our products safer.

Due to gaping loopholes in federal law, companies can put virtually any ingredient into personal care products. Even worse, the government does not require pre-market safety tests for any of them.

This is unacceptable. Sign the Environmental Working Group's petition to Congress to turn this around and make personal care products safe.


Sign the petition now:
Petition
cosmeticdatabase

Cleaning Museum To Be Eco-Friendly:

Don Aslett, who made his fortune selling cleaning products, is currently constructing a museum of clean in Pocatello, Idaho. The construction of the museum consists of using Green technology. The museum will have a solar energy for lighting, cooling and heating. Bricks from the original structure, an old dairy building, are being recycled and used in the building of the museum to defray from them ending up in the landfill. An alley is being converted into a greenbelt, along with a rooftop garden is going to sport native Idahoan plants. The rooftop garden will also offer insulation and filter rainwater into large underground tanks to be recycled for usage.

The museum will cost over six million dollars to construct. It will house all aspects of Cleaning. From soap to various implements, such as vacuums, in which we use to clean with in our daily lives. Some items dating back over 200 years There will also be an interactive globe, which will be a three story cleaning world. This is for children to go in and learn how to be clean and make their beds etc.


Video

April Recalls:

Fire Hazard Recalls:
Gas Water Heater by A.O. Smith due to Fire and Carbon Monoxide Hazards; A.O. Smith of Ashland City, Tenn. is recalling Natural and Propane Gas Water Heaters. The flue's gas temperature can exceed safe limits. Thus posing a fire hazard by exceeding safe temperatures in the venting unit. Also, the unit's exhaust possibly can leak which creates a carbon monoxide danger.

Serenity Spa Hot Tubs; Gecko Alliance of Quebec, Canada is recalling the spas due to the controls can possibly overheat thus causing a fire hazard.

Helicopter Battery Chargers; Hobby-Lobby International of Brentwood, Tenn. is recalling Lithium-polymer battery chargers and Lithium-polymer batteries due to they can cause a fire hazard by igniting while charging.

Charge-It-All Valets; HSN of St. Petersburg, FL. is recalling all charge-it-all-valets due to the wiring in the powerstrip is the wrong size. Thus causing a fire hazard.

Deck Cleaner; Cabot Stains of Newburypoint, Mass. is recalling Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner due to the fact that it reacts with the packaging by releasing a chlorine gas and heat. Thus it creates a fire and inhalation hazard.

Candle Holders; Walmart of Bentonville, Ark. is recalling Holiday Times Candleholders due to glass holder can break causing cuts, and they can easily tip over causing fires.

Heating and Cooling Units; Goodman Manufacturing of Houstan, Tex. is recalling Gas-Electric Heating & Cooling Units due to the wrong wiring could be installed thus a possibility of a fire could result.

Fire Alarm Control Panel; Gamewell-FCI of Northford, Conn. is recalling Gamewell-FCI 7100 Series Fire Alarm Control Panels due to main circuit board malfunction. Thus when there is a malfunction there is no alert sound to signify it.


Strangulation/Choking Hazard Recalls:

Children's Hooded Sweatshirts; Brents-Riordan of Shreveport, La. is recalling hooded jackets and sweatshirts due to the drawstring through the hood cause a strangulation hazard.

Imaginarium Activity Centers; Toys r Us of Wayne, NJ is recalling Imaginarium multi-sided activity centers and jungle activity centers because the small parts on the toys can come off and children can choke on them.

Plush Insect Toys; Dollar Tree Stores of Chesapeake, Va. is recalling Cuddly Cousins Plush Insect Toys due to their small parts can cause a choking hazard to small children.

Children's Board Book Sets; Dalmation Press of Franklin, Tenn. is recalling Little Builder children's board book sets with toys due to they can cause a choking hazard. The hazard is created because the tailgate of the toy dump truck and the cylinder of the toy concrete mixer can come off.

Magnetic Dart Boards; Henry Gordy of Plainfield, N.J. is recalling Fun 'n Games magnetic dart boards due to the magnets at the end of the darts can come off. If a small child ingests these magnets they can choke, have other problems and sometimes even die.


Lead Paint Recalls:
Lock and Leash Locks; Master Lock of Oak Creek, Wis. is recalling the Lock and Leash Locks due to lead in the red paint exceeds regulations.

Western Rider Push Toys; Santa's Toy Corp. of Los Angeles, Calif. is recalling Western Rider Push Toys due to lead in paint on glove, pants and shirt of rider exceeds regulations.

Seasonal Writing Pens; Michaels Stores of Irving, Texas is recalling all seasonal writing pens= Easter, Flowered, Christmas and Spooky due to their coating exceeds the regulations for lead.

Fake Teeth; FUNTASTIC of Houstan, Texas is recalling Hillbilly teeth due to the gray paint exceeds regulations.

Children's Sunglasses; StyleMark of Osmond Beach, Fla. is recalling Children's Main Street Drag Sunglasses due to orange lettering on temples, of glasses exceeds regulations.

Toy Robots; OKK Trading of Commerce, Calif. is recalling Interchange toy robots due to lead in surface paint exceeds regulations.



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