I'll never capitalize cancer

I have alot going on in my life, more than just cancer and chemo. Sure it's a big part of my life right now, but it's not the most important part of my life. You will never see me spell it with a capital "c".

I'm a Wife and Mom. I love my Family. I have good Friends. We do fun stuff and dumb stuff and sometimes we argue and then we laugh again. We go to work and to the grocery store and we go swimming and have birthday parties and get ready for the first day of school.

I keep saying that I don't want ovarian cancer to define me, but sometimes I just can't help it.

A good friend put it this way for me "cancer may be defining your life for the moment, but it is not your entire life. You seem to just make time for it." That made me feel better.

If you want to see it from the beginning, my cancer story begins in March.

The rest of my story is happening now.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

First Friday in Groves

Look for me under the Advocare tent this Friday December 5 during First Friday in Groves. I'll have Holiday specials like hot Apple Cider Spark, Jingle Slam, Coffeccino, and Chocolate Muscle Gain Truffles.

Chocolate Muscle Gain Truffles
1/4 cup butter or margarine

3 tablespoons honey
2-1.46 oz packets Chocolate Muscle Gain
1/3 cup finely chopped pecans
Melt butter and honey together in saucepan over low heat. Pour into mixing bowl. Add Muscle Gain powder. Beat thoroughly. Shape into one-inch round balls. Roll into pecans. Place on plate. Chill until ready to serve. Makes 16.


Spirit leaders of Port Neches Groves High School will be welcoming in the Holiday season as they kick off First Friday at 6P. Varsity Cheerleaders are set to show off Indian Spirit as they perform a routine with Cherokee.

Santa Claus will be taking some time off from his workshop at the North Pole to come stroll Lincoln Avenue, visiting with the children and listening to their requests. Be sure to bring your camera to snap a shot with the man in red.

Madnonnie.com is blowing up the big screen and featuring the movie The Polar Express. Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. Show time is 730P.


LifeShare Blood Center's bloodmobile will be parked at the intersection of Lincoln and Jefferson from 630 – 830P.


First Friday, a merchant sponsored event, is celebrated the first Friday of every month and provides free family entertainment, special sales, food and door prizes. Most stores along Lincoln Avenue will remain open until 9P. and The Courtyard Café buffet line is open from 530 to 8P. Free street entertainment includes contests and music from DJ Donna Marx sponsored by Selman Chiropractic, balloon animals by Sunny the Clown, and face painting by the Jester.

Be sure to join us this Friday 6 - 9P on Lincoln Ave for First Friday in Groves.

This is What Happens When I Watch The View

I just learned a new word:

Shopportunity

Free Fibo Trim offer ends Tues Dec 2

Check here for a previous post about Fibo Trim. Then be sure to take advantage of this fantastic offer before it ends Tues Dec 2.

I have bottles of Fibo Trim in my purse, in both bathrooms and on the kitchen counter. Taking Fibo Trim is an easy way to add fiber and control your apetite, your weight, your blood pressure and your cholesterol. Along with fresh fruits & veggies and whole grains, get even more fiber from your Meal Replacement Shake (6 grams) and Fiber Drink (10 grams) have a snack with a Fruit & Fiber Bar (5 grams) and you are well on your way to the American Dietetic Association's recommended 20 - 35 grams of daily fiber.

Friday, November 28, 2008

A Very Happy Day

It's Black Friday, and the only shopping I'd planned on doing is online.

I have a list of things I want to get done today. So I need to start early with my Spark, Max Energy and a Meal Replacement Shake.

My Little Sidekick has a playdate this afternoon. I'll be on my own once I drop her off. I had fully intended to come straight home to finish my list - and pick up, do laundry, clean the house. But as I was driving past the Mall ...

There was absolutely no parking space at the Mall. But I went across to Michaels to pick up a few things. And my girlfriend had called earlier to let me know that Talbot's was having a BIG sale. So I stopped in there to see what I could find.

Now, I really like Talbot's, especially when they have a sale, but it's tough to find something that looks right on me. Their clothes just are not made for women built like me. I'm kinda long waisted and a little more curvey. And I wasn't really ready for shopping - ponytail, no make up, sneakers. But I do have a Snack Bar & a Jingle Slam. Recharge. I am determined to find everyday wear from someplace other than Academy.

So I pick a few things off the rack - hmm, too big. Next size - still kinda loose. I am down 2 dress sizes?!

I'm really suprised and this is rather significant, because I have not lost alot of weight. I haven't been dieting or exercising like a fiend either. Of course I pay attention to what I eat, and I stay active but it's nothing special.

I believe that being able to trim down is because I've continued with my daily habits that I learned during Commit2Fit. The most important of those habits has been eating 5 small 200 - 300 calorie meals across the day, each including at least 20 grams of protein. The Meal Replacement Shakes for breakfast and an afternoon snack of Vanilla Muscle Gain and Peaches & Cream fiber drink really have been helpful. Of course CorePlex and Probiotic Restore in my MNS are fundamental. But all that protein really has kept my muscles strong and upped my metabolism while the Catalyst has helped me keep the muscle while I burn fat. I'm sure that's why I have lost dress sizes but not really lost weight.

Hey, I don't care what the scale says, 'cuz I am walking out of a clothing store lookin' good in something other than sweatpants.

Of course we all know the products work, you just need to figure out what combination works best for you. Bonus, the money that I make wth the Advocare opportunity is the reason I am able to spend 3 hours shopping in the middle of a weekday afternoon.

Today is a very happy day.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

I cook like Granma Hanson

You know, a little of this a pinch of that. Granma never used a recipe. Or at least that's what we all thought.

When we went through her things after she passed, we found all the papers and clippngs with lists of ingredients and directions. I think those recipes were just guidelines, then she'd ad lib a bit to make it her own.

I usually start with a recipe, then I get an idea to change it up a bit. It turns out OK, tasty and all, but then I can never get it to taste the same way twice.

This morning I decided to have my Spark and fix pancakes for breakfast. I also needed to make a dish for my favorite Newsman to take to his potluck at work. This all could have been very simple - but nothing is simple in my world.

I wanted to be festive and healthy. I fixed up hot apple cider orange Spark, protein pancakes with Berry Meal Replacement Shake, and low carb smashed sweet potatoes with butternut squash. Still pretty easy. Until I started to change stuff.

I'll share the recipes that I started with, but then I added a little more of this and a pinch of that, plus some of those over there.

Hot Apple Orange Spark
Heat 1/2 cup apple cider and 3/4 cup water, mix in 1 scoop mandarin orange Spark

Berry Pancakes - a tasty low fat way to sneak in extra protein, calcium and fiber as well as vitamins and minerals. I make a bunch of these to reheat later.
mix 1 1/2 - 2 cups water with Berry Meal Replacement Shake, use this to replace the milk to add to any quick pancake mix. I used a gluten free mix. You may want to adjust more or less liquid depending on how thick you want your pancakes. Try with spray butter and sugar free fruit spread instead of syrup. But really they're tasty as is. They make great travel snacks for the car.

Smashed Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash
This is a low carb low calorie version of candied yams with marshmallows. A variation on this mashed potato recipe.
1 medium butternut s
quash (2 pounds), halved lengthwise and seeded
1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and quartered
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup hot milk
1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon salt
Pinch of cayenne

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a jelly-roll pan with foil. Place the squash halves cut sides down on the foil. Bake 1 hour, or until tender. Turn the squash over and let cool.
2. Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and add enough cold water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and cook 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain the potatoes.
3. In a small skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Cook until browned, about 2 minutes, and set aside.
4. Return the hot potatoes to the pan. Mash with a potato masher until smooth. Add the milk and mash until blended. With a spoon, scoop the squash into the potatoes. Add half of the browned butter, the orange zest, salt, and cayenne. Mash until blended. Reheat over low heat, stirring constantly, until hot. Turn into a serving dish and make indentations with the back of a spoon. Drizzle the remaining butter over the top.


I couldn't help myself, I added a bit more cayenne, and some brown sugar (not so low carb anymore!)

And be sure to mix it all with your hands, makes it taste better - just like Granma's!

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Rock & Roll Reader

Recently, I put up a post about Advocare Endorser Vince Vance. Since then, this site has been getting alot of hits from folks Googling Vince Vance & the Valiants. So I decided to take a closer look at some of the other sites that Google was bringing up. I discovered that recently they have had a 35th Reunion concert in Dallas, have been to Paris (Paris, Texas), performed at the Empty Stocking Benefit, and Vince Vance has written a children's book.

Rock & Roll Reader has gotten great reviews. I am sure my Little Reader would enjoy it. I definitely will put it on The List.

Wouldn't it be fun to have Vince Vance & the Valiants perform at Success School?

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Advocare Endorser Phil Dawson lifts Cleveland over Buffalo

Greetings Team AdvoCare!



One could argue that AdvoCare endorser Phil Dawson completed a triple play last night! No it's not baseball, but Phil accomplished three great feats last night in Cleveland's 29-27 win at Buffalo ... (read more)

Monday, November 17, 2008

This is what happens when I'm not around

This past weekend I was pretty busy with Advocare business. I set up at a table at a couple of Holiday Market events.


In Kountze for Christmas at Stone Creek Lodge, Friday and Saturday.




Then Sunday for Groves Christmas Tree Trail at Memorable Moments at Maggie's off Hwy 73.


Mostly Moms with hobbies, showing and selling what they have made. I always am amazed at the creativity and diversity. Great Christmas gifts. Also a Travel Agent, Cosmetics Consultant, Food Items, an Author and Me.

And it's interesting that most of these Women are not just selling their arts & crafts for the fun of it. Some of them have other full time jobs as well.

We all take it seriously. This is a real business that supplements the Household income. But the cool thing is it's OUR business. We can make our own rules.

For example, I'm able to bring my Little Associate along with me. She likes being a part of the "Spark Team". Friday she came along and helped me set up, mingled some with other Vendors and their kids, then camped out under a table with her DVD player and some dolls.

Saturday and Sunday while I was out, my Helper stayed home with her Dad. She mentioned that they were going to get a gas card and see a movie, which I later figured out meant they were going to see "Madagascar the Movie".




And it appears that they also found time to be Rock Stars.





Hmm - last week she was a Fairy Princess Mermaid with a pet Unicorn.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Vince Vance and the Valiants

And speaking of great Chrismas songs, I see that Vince Vance of Vince Vance and the Valiants is the latest of Advocare's non paid Endorsers.

What? You don't know about Vince Vance and the Valiants?

Well check this out:



Have you seen this guy? He is totally high energy, and he's no spring chicken. Don't get me wrong, it is what it is, but he looks great and he still is touring and performing live. And that's a tough gig.

I had the good fortune to meet Vince Vance and his Valiants when they helped out with a benefit Lock Up for the Muscular Dystrophy Association in Rockwall just east of Dallas. Wow, that was in 1995 ... We had such a great time.

Nevermind the hair and crazy get up - it's show business, man - he is a genuinely nice guy. I'm excited that he's part of the Advocare team.


Just for fun, here's another one:

A Busy Weekend

The Holiday Season is upon us.

Look for me with Advocare in Kountze for Christmas at Stone Creek Lodge, Friday and Saturday.

Then Sunday for Groves Christmas Tree Trail at Memorable Moments at Maggie's off Hwy 73.

We'll be listening to my new CD of Christmas songs by
Michael W Smith that I got for FREE with my 2 boxes of Jingle Slam.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

This is how Great Fibo Trim is

FiboTrim and CarbEase are what I call my "911 products" - take 'em when you have a diet emergency. This time of year, I carry them in my purse. Anyone who knows me, knows how much I appreciate a Holiday Buffet.

FiboTrim has insoluble fiber and chitosan and other ingredients that will help curb your appetite by giving you a slight feeling of fullness and it's a fat grabber. When you've over indulged on your favorite fatty foods, FiboTrim will grab some of that fat and pull it right on through before it gets absorbed into your system and moves on over to your thighs or belly.

Now don't confuse FiboTrim with other products that are fat blockers. You won't have to worry about bringing along an extra pair of pants in case you sneeze & poo at the same time. I know that may sound gross, but Alli actually lists that in the treatment effects.

This time of year, when we have lots of Holiday parties, is a good time to pack along FiboTrim and CarbEase. CarbEase is a carb blocker. Each capsule actually blocks 3 grams of carbohydrates. Dr Harry Preuss, a member of the Advocare Sci/Med Board, has written a fantastic article explaining how this all works.

Now, some secondary benefits of each of these products. These have not been proven by any scientfic study and as always we have our disclaimer, but here is what I have found from personal experience. FiboTrim together with OmegaPlex contribute to reducing cholesterol. Type 2 diabetics have experienced good results with CarbEase.

I actually have genetically high cholesterol. It runs in my family. One day I was talking to my
Dad about supplements and Advocare in particular, and he said, "I'm already taking so many pills, my liver is about to explode". Well Dad, let's try something new. So, just to show him a thing or two, I started on a regimin of 6 to 9 OmegaPlex throughout the day and 6 FiboTrim at night before bed. I know that may sound like alot, but I was still nursing at the time and was considering getting pregnant again, so I could not take Lipitor or Zocor or any of the other prescription cholesterol lowering drugs.

I didn't really change up much else in my diet or exercise routine. I did take a blood test when I started this little experimant and again 6 mos later. I dropped my cholesterol 40 points!

Again, this was not a scientific study, but it is what happened to me. The added benefit was that I really trimmed up my waistline.

CarbEase - well consider that it is a carb blocker. Just imagine how that can affect your daily blood sugar levels. Now combine CarbEase with Max Appetite Control, which contains ingredients that regulate your blood sugar levels to help control your appetite. A person who checks their blood sugar daily definitely will notice a difference.

Get a head start on your New Year's Resolution and try it for yourself. This month you can buy 3 FiboTrim and get another bottle FREE.

And remember - it all comes with a money back guarantee.

Monday, November 3, 2008

Learning to Listen

Probably the #1 area where we fall short in Advocare is Listening.

Here's an opportunity to be taught by the Best - Rick Loy. Rick's Webinar/Teaching on Listening is one of the most sought after trainings out there. Register for this webinar to be held on Wednesday 11/5 at 8:30P CST

Thanks to Michelle & Real Andrews for this generous invitation.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Look what the FedEx guy just brought me!

Holiday Jingle Slam!

It really is like Christmas - this is the cutest little bundle of energy. It's in a green & red box with little jingle bells ... so festive.

It's so new, I don't even a picture to post.

OK, I'm opening it now ... it smells like a Glade Holiday candle ... and it tastes amazing! Just like Chrismas.

What? You don't know about
Slam?

It's 2 oz of portable, pre-mixed, good for you energy without a bunch of sugar and caffeine.

Jingle Slam will be available for a limited time beginning Oct 15. Buy 2 boxes of Jingle Slam and get a FREE Christmas CD from AdvoCare Endorser
Michael W. Smith.

I am buying up tons of Jingle Slam - I'll add it to my Holiday punch. And with all the CD's, now my Christmas gift shopping is done.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

90 Days to Success with Coach Wade

Wed Oct 8 830P CST

Another great Webinar that you can join from anywhere that you have an internet connection and a phone signal. Even if you cannot get online, dial in for the audio.

Register Here

If you are serious about Advocare or even curious. You don't want to miss the chance to be trained by one of the most successful Business Builders in the World of Advocare.

Coach Wade was one of the 1st to build a Million Dollar Legacy not to mention he walked the Earth with our founder Charlie Ragus. It is like been trained By Charlie himself as Coach Wade shares from the journals he kept while learning from the best.

The seminar will be open to questions at the end.

If you would like to participate you will need to log on as well as call in. LEADERS PLEASE FORWARD TO YOUR TEAM and YES YOU CAN INVITE ANYONE TO OUR TRAININGS.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Trying new things

It's just like Christmas when I come home and see an Advocare box sitting on my doorstep!

Today, I got just a few very important products - a cannister of Cherry Spark, cannister of Chocolate Muscle Gain, a box of Chocolate Meal Replacement Shakes, and my first box of MNS Max 3!

Meal Replacement Shakes and Spark are a given. For us it's just part of our everyday groceries.

Muscle Gain is a product that at first I did not think I would be buying. I saw that it was in the Performance Elite line and figured I needed to be some super workout athlete to need to drink protein shakes. But it has become one of the most important products that we use in our home. That big ol' cannister lasts a long time! We have both Vanilla and Chocolate flavors sitting on the counter next to the blender. I add Vanilla Muscle Gain to pancakes, cookies, oatmeal, mac & cheese, whatever I think needs a good nutritious protein boost. I've mentioned before how great it would have been while I was pregnant. And with 25 grams of easily digestible protein per serving, Muscle Gain has been great for helping to boost my metabolism and get over the weight loss plateau. Vanilla Muscle Gain mixed with Peaches & Cream Fiber Drink is a perfectly balanced low cal snack.

The Chocolate Muscle Gain is a great snack as well. It makes way more sense than mixing up chocolate milk with Hershey's or even Ovaltine. My Husband & I both like Muscle Gain before we go to the gym.

Now, this last box that I am about to open is MNS Max 3. It's very cool looking with 2 weeks worth of convenient, easy to use strip packs.

I usually go back and forth on the different Metabolic Nutrition Systems. During my Commit2Fit program, I learned that I have high sugar cravings, and the MNS Max Apetite Control helps keep that in check. But, alot of times I want more energy. On those days I add ThermoPlus or take MNS Max Energy. I am looking forward to seeing how the new MNS Max 3 sustained release formula works.

The ActoTherm SR provides both an energy component and an apetite suppressant. So altogether in the MNS Max 3 daily packets I get the ActoTherm SR, CorePlex Multi, ProBiotic Restore and now added Calcium Plus, Amplify AT and an additional OmegaPlex. I take all those additional products anyway, so this will be fewer bottles on my shelf.

I'll start on the new MNS Max 3 Friday. This will be a good test drive, because with First Friday in Groves and The Oak Tree Festival in Clear Lake, I have a pretty full weekend ahead of me.

First Friday in Groves


First Friday in Groves, 6-9P, is honoring Mary Barnes, known as the good witch of Groves, Oct 3. There will be a costume contest to parade other good witches.

In addition, October is National Fire Prevention Month. Groves Fire Department personnel and volunteers will be on hand to discuss their duties and show off the fire truck.

There is no entry fee, and no residency requirement for the Good Witch of Groves costume contest. Only two age categories, 3 to 12 and adult 13 and up. Prizes for each age category include best costume and most original. Contest judging will begin at 7:30.

Also scheduled to attend is the Wild Horse Mustang Club. Their membership began in 2004 and has grown to over 45 members, living all over the Golden Triangle and parts beyond. The classic Mustangs range from 1965 to 2008. A family oriented group that love to drive and show off their cars.

First Friday, a merchant sponsored event, is celebrated the first Friday of every month and provides free family entertainment, special sales, food and door prizes. Most stores along Lincoln Avenue will remain open until 9 p.m. and The Courtyard Café buffet line is open from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Free street entertainment will include contests and music from DJ Donna Marx, balloon animals by Sunny the Clown, face painting by the Jester, and a Moonwalk sponsored by Selman Chiropractic.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

When Dr Hackman Speaks ...

You want to be there to listen!

This guy is great - He gets so excited about Advocare products. Especially the super duper ingredients. Yeah, that's the way he talks. Dr Hackman is brilliant, and I am sure that he could blab on way over my head about Advocare, but he doesn't. When Dr Hackman talks about Advocare products it totally makes sense to me.

Of course you'll hear some of the physiology and some big medical terms, but you also get to hear Dr Hackman talk about how he travels to China or Siberia or Paris and finds a new herbal ingredient, and his face just lights up as he shares his stories and describes the new formulation and how it will contribute to better health. And he says it all in a way that I can understand and even repeat again later.

And he is genuinely a nice guy.

So be sure not to miss this opportunity hear Dr hackman speak in the DFW area Thur Oct 9 at the Hilton garden Inn on 121 in Lewisville 7P - 9P.

Dr Hackman also will be in Houston Oct 11, Austin Oct 14, and San Antonio Oct 16.

Introduction To Advocare Webinar

PUSH TO 3 STAR GOLD!
Thursday Oct 2 800P CST

All you need is a phone line and a computer with an Internet connection. This is a fully interactive opportunity for your prospects to see what Advocare is all about; the 4 relationships anyone can have with Advocare, the advantages of being an advisor and how to get paid 5 different ways!
Register
here

Even if you do not have internet access, dial in for the audio.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

I Blew Out my Flip Flop

A casualty of Hurricane Ike.

I don't know which is harder - finding ice after a Hurricane or finding a new pair of flip flops after Summer.

This song keeps going through my head.


Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Salt Water

Got a taste of the Gulf while I was brushing my teeth this morning! Can't boil that away.

We had been notified to boil water before consumption. More people coming back to the area has put increased burden on the lift stations, most of which are operating on generator power.

I suppose this would be the reason to stock up on bottled water.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

What I am doing with all this free time ...

Surfing the internet!

I found a very funny political skit from SNL. Tina Fey as Sarah Palin and Amy Poehler is Hillary Clinton.

Barack Obama was suppose to host Saturday Night Live this past Weekend. He cancelled because of all of the devastation from Hurricane Ike.

I was able to find a good deal on a hotel room in San Antonio. Just 5 blocks from the Alamo! WiFi and laundry facilities!

I think that tomorrow I will see if there is something that I can do that is more constructive. My Little Distraction has kept alot of my attention, but I should be able to find something that she can come along on - handing out ice, cooking up and serving hot meals, something.

I still haven't cleared
and organized the closets. Perhaps lack of time is not the reason that it has not been done. D'ya think?

Monday, September 15, 2008

After the Storm

We decided to stay in Beaumont after all. We live in a safe location and we were pretty sure that the TV station would be up on generator and we could go there if we needed.

Hurricane Ike came in Friday night and about 1AM Saturday our power went out. We were very fortunate. Others not so much.

We spent the weekend grilling up the meat in our freezers and standing around looking at all the downed trees. Sunday, we picked up branches and swept off the porch and moved the plants back. A grocery store was open so we were able to buy charcoal and snacks. It's funny, I wanted to stock up on junk that I never buy at any other time - chips and Little Debbie snack cakes!

Sunday afternoon the generator was running and power was on at the station. So we have been hanging around here. But we are getting a bit antsy. Laying around watching DVD's and playing video games is fun for about a day - tomorrow we need to find some activity. My daughter's little friends all have scattered to other cities and we cannot escape to Chik Fil A or the park, or even meander through HEB or the Mall.

This weekend I am booked to work in San Antonio. My favorite Newsman and Wiggles will be coming along too. I haven't booked a hotel yet, I had planned to
priceline.com this week and get a good price. I found a great site to check hotel availability during disasters. I hear that alot of people evacuated West. I am hoping they are not all booked this weekend.

I am taking some pictures, to post about how we are doing.

Driving around feels kinda like a Sunday afternoon. I am surprised how many people are in town. No traffic lights, though. You have to really pay attention. I think they are finally putting huge Stop signs up at the intersections - you can't miss 'em.

My favorite Newsman is working long days. He is doing the morning show and gathering News and reporting during the day. He was in Orange and Bridge City today. One of the photographers went up in a Helicopter this afternoon and got aerial footage. So I would say that the best place to get information and really good pictures is at
KBMT12.com. You also can find useful links like Entergy's site for outage information. I am hearing that power already is coming on around the area.

I am sitting here now in the newsroom. It's quiet and I can get on line here. Earlier it was all very busy getting the late newscasts together. Soon the morning crew will be in. These guys really take the news and weather seriously. They work hard to stay on top of things to get the latest info and keep everyone up to date. It is so exciting when new info comes in that is helpful - FEMA and Entergy spokepeople, Carmen Apple, Judge Thibodeaux, lots of people taking time to come in and go on the air to answer questions.

Fortunately a cool front blew in. A good thing since we have no air conditioning. It's a bit chilly out tonight. I opened my windows earlier to let the cool breeze through; my bath towels and sneakers finally are dry.

I keep thinking about all the times that I have said "If only I could have a couple of days with nothing to do - I could finally clean out these closets and organize these scrapbooks!"

The not knowing is difficult. How long til things get back to normal? Postal Service? Bank open? School? Laundry? And it's hard to create and adjust to a new schedule.

I'm not complaining, just wondering - we're safe, and that is everything. And now my little girl has another adventure to add to her little lifetime.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Hurricane Ike update

very cool Hurricane tracker

We have been getting several phone calls from Friends & Family asking how we are doing. I see that some have been checking here for an update so I guess I should post something.

It's just quiet busy activity around here. Most of us have got our Hurricane evacuation routine down. I'm not worried. My daughter is kind of excited about it all. No big drama. In her little world she knows there's a storm coming. Everyone is acting a bit different. Eventually we'll be packing up the car to go visiting.

I have a theory about rainy weather and how it affects me. When the low pressure moves in I get an incredible headache and get really sleepy. I don't have time for either, so first thing I do is mix up a double Spark and grab MNS Max Energy and an extra Probiotic Restore. Catalyst is helpful, too. The amino acids give me an energy boost, and I think the L-arginine helps with my headache. I'll mix up a Rehydrate and some Arginine Extreme and put it the fridge for later. I have a Meal Replacement Shake for breakfast.

I filled up at the gas station this morning then went to HEB to get a few things. That was probably the most stressful part of the day. I only needed milk and eggs, and my Sidekick wanted sushi for lunch. So we picked up what we needed then got in an incredibly long check-out line.

Can't they tead? It says EXPRESS CHECK-OUT 20 Items or fewer. OK, now we are getting into naptime, and Wiggles & I both are getting fussy.

It's amazing all the people at the grocery store. I wonder what they're stocking up for? Really - if you think it's going to be that bad, leave town. And if you are leaving town, buy stuff when you get there. I suppose travel snacks and some drinks for the road trip are a good idea, and I guess I could have waited on the milk & eggs.

My favorite Newsman will be staying in Beaumont as long as it is safe. My daughter & I probably will be visiting some friends in Louisiana. I had thought Lake Charles, but now I think we may be going on to Lafayrtte or even Baton Rouge. Our only real concerns are losing electricity, and the horrible traffic along I-10.

I need to throw the laundry in the dryer, take a couple of Nightime Recovery and a Zzz's and get some sleep. I'll get up early with the News and Weather, mix up a Spark and check DOTD traffic cams for my trip to Louisiana.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Fruit & Vegetable Formula - buy 2 get the 3rd just $5



Fruit & Vegetable Formula is about to be discontinued.


That's too bad, because I like this product. It's an easy way to sneak in all your veggies for the day.

  • Contains whole powders from 14 fruits & vegetables
  • 4 capsules supply the antioxidant equivalent of 5 servings of fruits & vegetables
  • Higher ORAC value than most other fruit & vegetable supplements on the market
  • Includes fruits & vegetables from each color group
  • Freeze-drying technology ensures higher nutritional content than other similar supplements
  • Contains a wide range of phytonutrients for maximum antioxidant benefit*

Fruit & Vegetable Formula is a powder in a capsule form, so you can just swallow a couple or empty them into your shake or even mix a few into soup or salsa or spaghetti sauce.

Be sure to stock up at this great price, because when it's gone it's gone.

Wednesday, Sep 10 - AdvoCare Coaches Conference Call - Hydration

Wednesday Sep 10, you are invited to call in and listen to the latest AdvoCare Coaches Call.

This call will be dedicated to the subject of hydration and will be hosted by Joe Hadachek.

Joining Coach Hadachek will be AdvoCare Sports Advisory Council Member Murphy Grant (University of Kansas Football), Coach Mike Murray (Illinois Wesleyan), and Rob Graf AdvoCare Director of Endorsements.

Time of Call: 8 PM CST
Encore: 10 PM CST
Dial In Number (Listen-Only): 866-427-1344

There is limited space available for each time slot, so make sure you get plugged in early!

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

On a Clear Day ...

Look at the moon, Mom. It's almost round.

You're right, Honey. Looks like it's about ... 3/4.

Mom, you can't put quarters in the moon!

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Wow - More Great News!

For all of you who just can't quite make up your mind, AdvoCare is now offering a Spark Variety pack!

A box of Spark with 14 individual packets in a variety of flavors so you can try them all.

Even better, for a limited time and while supplies last, you can get 2 boxes of the new AdvoCare Spark Variety pack for just $38 retail. That's a $5 savings.

This is available right now, until Monday at Noon, only to distributors. And you will get your additional 20% - 40% discount on top of the already great special pricing.
So stock up, and if you are not yet a distributor, give me a call.

Breaking News

I just got some news - Due to Hurricane Gustav, we had some schedule changes and Advocare's Marketing bus "the AdvoBus" will be in Lake Charles Thursday & Friday from 10A–5P at Anytime Fitness 630 W Prien Lake Rd

There will be plenty of ice cold Spark to try and you can find out more about products that have helped our family have more energy, lose weight and just feel better.

Oh yeah, I have been able to make enough money with Advocare, that I was able to quit my job, take my daughter out of daycare, and still work on paying off our debt. I will be in Lake Charles Friday, call or email me if you are coming by.

It will be fun and definitely worth your time.

I will be in Lake Charles Friday. Let me know if you will be coming by.

Muscle Fuel

Muscle Fuel is some great stuff!

And this month we have it on special - with a cool new shaker!

I love the new shaker 'cuz it fits in your car's drink holder and in the drink holder on the treadmill. So you can proudly show off your
Advocare and everyone can know why it is that you are looking so incredibly awesome these days.

Now about the Muscle Fuel, a question I get asked often, "How does it taste?" Muscle Fuel tastes like fizzy fruit punch Spark.

Use
Muscle Fuel together with Arginine Extreme for even better results.

Arginine Extreme tastes like citrus Rehydrate.

Here is a quick little video that one of the members of our
Sci/Med board put together.



Some of the benefits Dr. Kraemer mentions:


  • More total work (exercise/weight training) can be done with AdvoCare® Muscle Fuel.*
  • Lower levels of creatine kinase in the blood, indicating less muscle damage caused by a workout.*
Bonus information about Advocare Muscle Fuel - A friend of mine got on product to help relieve symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Muscle Fuel is her absolute favorite. She is an RN and works the long night shift on her feet. She also likes Clear Mood, Probiotic Restore, A Supreme, Zzz's and Nighttime Recovery.

AdvoCare® Muscle Fuel is now certified by the Banned Substances Control Group.

First Friday in Groves

It's that time again!

First Friday in Groves, on Lincoln Avenue between Washington and Coolidge from 6P to 9P

Look for me Friday night under the Advocare tent. You'll be able to find out more about Advocare products and the opportunity. Pick up an MNS Max Apetite Control Kit or Max Energy Kit. Learn about the new MNS Max 3.
I'll have plenty of Spark on hand and other samples like Excel Gel, Muscle Fuel, Rehydrate, Fruit & Fiber Bars and Snack Bars.

LifeShare Blood Center and First Friday will co-host a community blood drive. The LifeShare bloodmobile will be parked at the intersection of Lincoln and Jefferson from 6:30P to 8:30.

Gingerbread Square's annual yard sale will begin early at 5P lasting until 8P and will be open again on Saturday 8A to 3P.

Get your Texas Pecan Festival Mega Passes early. Available inside the Courtyard Gift Mall, 6P to 8:30P. Passes are $35 per pass, cash or check only, valid at the Texas Pecan Festival September 18-21, 2008. Child must be present for picture in order to purchase Mega Pass. The pass will provide unlimited riding on all festival rides for the length of the festival.

Three Women participating in The 3-Day 60 Mile Walk to Help Fight Breast Cancer will host a cakewalk in the entertainment area beginning at 6:30P in front of The Courtyard Café, and more walks will take place at random intervals throughout the evening.

First Friday, a merchant sponsored event, is celebrated the first Friday of every month and provides free family entertainment, special sales, food and door prizes. Most stores along Lincoln Avenue will remain open until 9P. and The Courtyard Café buffet line is open from 5:30P to 8P. Free street entertainment will include contests and music from DJ Donna Marx, balloon animals by Sunny the Clown, face painting by the Jester, and a Moonwalk sponsored by Selman Chiropractic.

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

New AdvoBus Schedule

I know it was a HUGE storm, but fortunately for me, Hurricane Gustav was just an inconvenience. I had planned to be working in Houston anyway. A mandatory evacuation was called for Beaumont to begin at 6AM Sunday. So Saturday night after my event I drove home to pack some things and pick up my daughter Traffic on Westbound Interstate 10 could have been fine, just a bit heavy, except for the car wreck and that had things backed up for miles! Fortunately I was travelling East.

At home, I moved stuff away from the windows and lifted some things off the floor. But our place is really pretty safe. Our big concern is the power going out.

Sunday morning I packed a few things, put my daughter in the car with the DVD player and some coloring books, and headed back to Houston.

In Houston it was still pretty much business as usual. My daughter spent the day in the pool with my cousin & her kids. I was working a booth at the Texas Music Festival.

The weather did affect the AdvoBus schedule. I am sorry that they will not be stopping in Beaumont, but excited to see that they will be in my old stomping ground Lake Charles and continuing on across Louisiana.

I talked with the driver of the AdvoBus, and here is the new schedule:

Friday, August 29, 2008

ABC's of Back to School

I have been half heartedly preparing for a possible Hurricane evacuation. I looked through the pantry to see what we should eat now in case we lose power and refrigeration; and what kind of snacks we would need for a road trip. I suppose if we absolutely have to, we could survive on Meal Replacement Shakes, Spark, Muscle Gain, ReHydrate - Just add water. Throw in some Snack Bars and Fruit & Vegetable Formula and we're good to go!

This also got me thinking about having to pack lunches for school again. Of course, my daughter only has school a couple of times a week, but still, I want to be sure she gets the good stuff - and LIKES it!

Maybe I am overthinking it, but I remember when I was in school and sometimes my tummy would get all rumbly, or I would get sleepy or cranky and just not be able to pay attention.

Sure, I have a few ideas, but I also want variety. A couple of my listed Blog favorites have some great recipes.

Recently, our friends at Advocare have written some great articles relevant to Kids and Back-to-School. They can be found on SupplementalScience.com. Here is one that offers some guidelines for helping Kids make healthy choices.

As our long, hot summer draws to a close; it’s time to start making those plans for back to school. Today, we would like to make available Dr. Lisa Hark’s advice on the ABC’s of back-to-school nutrition for parents and children. “Learning to enjoy nutritious foods and be physically active in fun ways are life lessons that parents can teach their children to help them develop healthy habits they will carry through their school years and on into adulthood,” Lisa advises.

  • ACTIVITY is essential to staying healthy
Limit TV and video game time to less than 2 hours a day. Studies show that the more children are exposed to TV ads for junk food and sweetened drinks, the more likely they are to consume large amounts of unhealthy food.
Work in at least one hour of activity every day. Children spend most of the school day sitting, so get them outside for some play time after school. To get moving, choose activities like baseball, frisbee, jump rope, dancing, hula-hoop, and tag.
Use weekends for active family bonding outings. Hiking, biking, walking, and sports all count, so get out, get moving, and have some fun!

  • BALANCE your meals throughout the day

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Some healthy choices to start the day off on the right foot are low-sugar cereal with 1% low-fat milk and fruit, or whole grain waffles with low-sugar syrup and a small glass of orange juice, or one slice of whole wheat toast with peanut butter and jelly and a glass of 1% low-fat milk.
Don’t rely on school lunch options. Pack a healthy lunch at least 3 times a week. Healthy choices include whole wheat bread or a small whole grain wrap with turkey, ham or tuna salad, low-fat yogurt, fruit, and a water bottle.
After school is a great time to get children to eat their vegetables because they are so hungry. Try baby carrots, cut up cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, or celery with low-fat ranch or French dressing. You will be surprised at what they eat!
Everyone is busy at the end of the day, but it is important to plan ahead and prepare a healthy dinner at least 3 times a week. Include fresh vegetables and salads, lean meats such as poultry or seafood, and whole grains such as brown rice or whole wheat pasta. Skip the soda and juice and serve either water or 1% low-fat milk every night.
A healthy meal and time with the family is a great way to end the day, teach children about socialization, and catch up on the day’s activities!

  • COOK and shop with your children

Create a healthy shopping list with your children at home before going to the market. Before you leave, help children understand that, “If it’s not on the list, we’re not buying it.” Remember that it is okay to take control and say no to your children, especially when it comes to junk food and sweets. You are the boss.
Make shopping a fun and educational outing. Use the produce section to teach young children about colors, shapes, and expand their vocabulary of fruits and vegetables. They will be more likely to try new fruits and vegetables when you get home.
Get children involved in safely preparing healthy foods such as vegetables for salads, scrambled eggs, turkey burgers, and smoothies. Children will be excited to eat what they’ve made and proud to share with others, as well!

“Children and teenagers are experiencing medical complications, such as high blood sugar levels, diabetes, and high blood pressure at alarming rates due to sedentary lifestyles and consuming too many calories,” says Hark. “By setting a good example, providing healthy foods in as many settings as possible and being active with their children, parents can play a huge role in improving their children’s health now and in the future.

Follow the ABC’s for a wonderful 2007-2008 school year.

Dr. Hark, PhD, RD, is Director of the Nutrition Education Program at the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Medicine, hosted TLC’s show “Honey, We’re Killing the Kids”. PENN Medicine consists of the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Medicine (founded in 1765 as the nation’s first medical school) and the University of Pennsylvania Health System.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Just for Fun

When you just have absolutely nothing better to do, check out these Bears and move your cursor over them.

Another Amazing Weekend!

Do you know about the AdvoBus?

It's a HUGE Rock Star bus filled with sample products and ice cold, free flowing Spark! Great Marketing and just alot of FUN.

Well, this rolling Advocare sign and on board party is in Houston this weekend and will be travelling east down Interstate 10.

Look for the AdvoBus in Humble, Clear Lake, Houston Memorial, Beaumont, Lake Charles, Lafayette, New Orleans, Spanish Fort AL, and Pensacola. Then back along Interstate 20 to Monroe LA and Shreveport before heading to Dallas.

Oh yeah, Hurricane Gustov also is heading toward Interstate 10. I will keep you posted if any of the events are cancelled.

Never a dull moment around here!