tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29925020941206799912024-03-14T03:24:58.607-06:00Chic Fit GeekCook, read, and keep fit.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.comBlogger670125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-67088735180190725822014-01-26T15:59:00.003-07:002014-01-26T15:59:50.879-07:003/20: Healthy at 100 by John Robbins<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16695.Healthy_at_100" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Healthy at 100: The Scientifically Proven Secrets of the World's Healthiest and Longest-Lived Peoples" border="0" src="https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1388805728m/16695.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16695.Healthy_at_100">Healthy at 100: The Scientifically Proven Secrets of the World's Healthiest and Longest-Lived Peoples</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10177.John_Robbins">John Robbins</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/522841495">2 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
From Goodreads: <i>In this revolutionary book, bestselling author John Robbins presents us with a bold new paradigm of aging, showing us how we can increase not only our lifespan but also our health span. Through the example of four very different cultures that have the distinction of producing some of the world’s healthiest, oldest people, Robbins reveals the secrets for living an extended and fulfilling life in which our later years become a period of wisdom, vitality, and happiness. From Abkhasia in the Caucasus south of Russia, where age is beauty, and Vilcabamba in the Andes of South America, where laughter is the greatest medicine, to Hunza in Central Asia, where dance is ageless, and finally the southern Japanese islands of Okinawa, the modern Shangri-la, where people regularly live beyond a century, Robbins examines how the unique lifestyles of these peoples can influence and improve our own.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Bringing the traditions of these ancient and vibrantly healthy cultures together with the latest breakthroughs in medical science, Robbins reveals that, remarkably, they both point in the same direction. The result is an inspirational synthesis of years of research into healthy aging in which Robbins has isolated the characteristics that will enable us to live long and–most important–joyous lives. With an emphasis on simple, wholesome, but satisfying fare, and the addition of a manageable daily exercise routine, many people can experience great improvement in the quality of their lives now and for many years to come. But perhaps more surprising is Robbins’ discovery that it is not diet and exercise alone that helps people to live well past one hundred. The quality of personal relationships is enormously important. With startling medical evidence about the effects of our interactions with others, Robbins asserts that loneliness has more impact on lifespan than such known vices as smoking. There is clearly a strong beneficial power to love and connection.</i><br />
<br />
Another textbook done! <br />
This was a good book with good information. The studies that were done for the longest-living cultures were fascinating but I didn't feel they were well related back to today's society. There were a lot of good points about the differences in diet and definitely showed WHY some cultures live longer than the average North American, I just didn't feel a connection. Perhaps because what was being said seems very basic to me. Eat whole, natural foods. Limit saturated and trans fats. Stay away from hydrogenated oils and fats. All things that people should do anyways. <br />
I did enjoy reading the studies and the connection between food, mind and body. It was interesting, but nothing I haven't learned before.<br />
<br />
What I did appreciate most about this book was the view on aging. It is a natural process that is feared by so many. We all age, but we have a choice whether we get old. There is a difference. I believe that when we are not afraid of aging, but embrace the changes, we are happier and healthier. The choices we make TODAY and in the future, will make a difference for how we age and how long we live.<br />
<br />
Are you afraid to get old? Is it because of the media? Some cultures have the utmost respect for their elderly. They are not shoved away in a home, they are revered as wise and the most important resource in the community. We grow old because society tells us we have to. There is so much "ageism" in our world that as we age, we conform to the negative image ourselves. What would happen if we broke that image?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" height="65" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-23215301158442937012014-01-21T09:12:00.001-07:002014-01-21T09:12:23.164-07:002/20: The Complete Guide to Sports Nutrition by Anita Bean<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17073428-the-complete-guide-to-sports-nutrition" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Complete Guide to Sports Nutrition" border="0" src="https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1382943711m/17073428.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17073428-the-complete-guide-to-sports-nutrition">The Complete Guide to Sports Nutrition</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/284829.Anita_Bean">Anita Bean</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/522841186">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
From Goodreads: <i>"The Complete Guide to Sports Nutrition "is the definitive practical handbook for anyone wanting a performance advantage. This fully updated and revised edition incorporates the latest cutting-edge research. Written by one of the country's most respected sports nutritionists, it provides the latest research and information to help you succeed. This seventh edition includes accessible guidance on the following topics: maximising endurance, strength and performance, how to calculate your optimal calorie, carbohydrate and protein requirements, advice on improving body composition specific advice for women, children and vegetarians, eating plans to cut body fat, gain muscle and prepare for competition, sport-specific nutritional advice.</i><br />
<br />
Really enjoyed this book for my course. It was informative in a way that took some knowledge I already knew and gave me reasons and justifications. It was simple to follow for anyone interested in sports nutrition. It's not a book for just the athlete, but for anyone that does some form of activity, whether that be once or twice a week at the gym or an occasional runner. <br />
<br />
I especially liked the calculations and formulas it provided to calculate your calories needed as well as how much of those would be carbohydrates, protein and fat. It really puts a great perspective on things.
<br />
<br />
I did the calculations at the end of the book as a project for my course on my husband. He was shocked to find out he was trying to lose weight by eating way below his Resting Metabolic Rate. That means his body wasn't letting go of weight because it thought he was in a famine or starving. Eating below his RMR caused his body to hold onto everything it had rather than burning. Now that we have him on a different plan, I am eager to see what his results will be in the next 3 months.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" height="65" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-81241306520081698002014-01-09T10:42:00.001-07:002014-01-09T10:42:42.919-07:001/20: The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11394.The_Thinking_Woman_s_Guide_to_a_Better_Birth" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth" border="0" src="https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1388185316m/11394.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11394.The_Thinking_Woman_s_Guide_to_a_Better_Birth">The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/316061.Henci_Goer">Henci Goer</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/774783321">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
From Goodreads:<i> The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth helps you compare and contrast your various options and shows you how to avoid unnecessary procedures, drugs, restrictions, and tests. The book covers: Cesareans, breech babies, inducing labor, IVs, electronic fetal monitoring, rupturing membranes, coping with slow labor, pain medication, episiotomy, vaginal birth after a cesarean, doulas, deciding on a doctor or midwife, choosing where to have your baby, and much more</i><br />
<br />
This book was amazing. I loved how there were studies cited, data to back things up and a nice overview of all the interventions that could be offered for birth. Listing the pros and cons for each intervention, whether that be for a vacuum delivery, saline injections or a TENS machine, it was very thorough. <br />
It was biased towards natural childbirth, which for me is perfect because that's what we are aiming for. It was nice to read a book that showed all of the options to consider so that my husband or I have more information to make an informed decision. I feel it's important to go into birth (this being my first one) knowing what options are available and decide beforehand which ones we would consider, and which ones would be an absolute no.<br />
This book really made me more grounded in my decisions for our birth plan, but also gave me the information I may need in order to adjust and be flexible. Birth doesn't happen as you plan it, so I think it's important to know the alternatives and which ones are most closely related to your plan and which ones you may or may not be ok with using.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-89275043522343890532014-01-06T11:47:00.000-07:002014-01-09T11:47:58.669-07:002014 is going to be exciting!My blogging sort of fell off after September. A lot of things happened in the summer/fall of 2013 and rather than rehash everything, I'm going to start 2014 off fresh.<br />
I have a few goals to accomplish this year in my personal life and work life. Big changes made me reevaluate what was important last year and gave me a really great focus for the new year.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. Be a healthy pregnant lady and have a healthy baby.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am currently 23 weeks pregnant. I have loved every minute of it. The aches, the pains, the joy, the kicks, the crazy emotions, the love. Every moment is worth it. We are due in early May. I won't give the exact date because most people know babies make their debut into the world when they damn well please. I eat fairly healthy and want to continue to do that during the pregnancy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Be a fit mom</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After the baby is born, I want to continue with the healthy eating, and be physical. There are so many programs for moms with little ones. By December I want to be in shape. Not pre-pregnancy, but better. My family has a tendency to lose baby weight quickly, so for me, the goal will be to tone and build muscle. It would be awesome to start running again. I really miss it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. Write and pass my Nutrition Final</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have until January 2015 to complete my courses and write my final. My goal is to finish my courses before baby. Deadline is April. I will have to do case studies after the baby is born. Hopefully write my final exam in November.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. Read 20 books</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had a hard time relaxing and reading last year. I want to get 20 read this year. It's the lowest goal I've had for reading, but I'm going to be really busy. I have multiple devices to read on, so I figure while I nurse, I should be able to read a little... right?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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5. Travel</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We have a couple trips planned already. Palm Springs in February, Fairmont Hot Springs (annual family vacation) in July. We are even thinking of a bigger trip in October when baby is still very portable and we've figured out this parenting thing. We'll see where finances stand.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<img alt="chicfit" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" height="65" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-21974651595828412572013-10-28T09:36:00.004-06:002013-10-28T09:36:50.248-06:00Been too longI seem to keep forgetting I have this blog. Things have been so crazy busy with life!<br />
I also haven't read a "fun" book in months. Everything I read is either school related or bible study. I'm itching to read something but I have other things that are a priority.<br />
<br />
Something exciting has happened in the last few months and I'm finally able to share. Frenchie and I are expecting our first child! I am 13 weeks today and feeling amazing. I've started a branch off blog so this one stays as it is for books, food and fitness.<br />
Visit <a href="http://andbebemakesfive.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">And Bebe Makes Five</a> for all the pregnancy details. I'm tracking each week and will start to post some bump photos more consistently.<br />
<br />
As for the rest of life, piano lessons are in full swing. I love teaching and now that we're entering November soon, that means I can dig out Christmas carols in preparation for the Christmas recital. I'm hoping that I can get at least one student to do a duet this year.<br />
<br />
I fell off the Happiness Project by being busy with other things. It's a shame because I loved the project, but here isn't time in my pregnancy brain for everything and right now my priorities are eating, teaching and studying. The plan is to get as much of my Nutrition diploma done before baby arrives. The sooner I complete the courses, case studies and exam, the sooner I can start my business and start a new chapter in my career.<br />
<br />
Just a quick update that I may not post as often here, but that I'm still around!<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-46219860104405594912013-09-25T14:38:00.000-06:002013-09-25T14:38:07.719-06:00Unintentional Forgetfullness August/SeptemberIt's been such a crazy couple months I almost forgot about my blog.<br />
Life has been busy with lots of changes, ups and downs.<br />
<br />
<b>August Recap</b><br />
Things hit rock bottom in August ending with me on anti-depressants and stress leave. My mental health is definitely on the mend now, but I'm no where near 100%. It's been a long couple months of healing and trying to pick up all the pieces.<br />
My Happiness Project took a backseat to health and wellness. As did organizing the house and exercising.<br />
I did manage to read a couple books for school, and I will try and get some of those reviews up.<br />
<br />
<b>September Recap</b><br />
September has been busier than August and I can't believe it's the end of the month already!<br />
<u>Piano</u><br />
I have 10 students for piano this year which is more than last year. I was a little worried when I lost 3 of my students this summer due to them moving, but I was pleasantly surprised with all my new students. It's so much fun teaching and although I'm busier than last year, I love every minute of it.<br />
<u>Nutrition</u><br />
I have gotten 2 more tests back with my Natural Nutrition diploma. A 91% and a 95%! I am enjoying the learning process so much.<br />
I haven't been great at the Happiness Project this month either but things are looking up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-4976413950603849492013-08-06T10:25:00.001-06:002013-09-04T16:00:59.168-06:00August Happiness Project - Buy Some HappinessAugust is all about buying some happiness.<br />
Money doesn't always buy happiness, true deep and meaningful happiness. The kind that warms your heart for years and you can relive through memories. Money can buy vacations and excursions and those memories are definitely worth buying. Money can buy you temporary happiness in the form of a new object, clothes, etc.<br />
<br />
Frenchie and I like to save our money and spend it when it means something. We saved for a long time to go to France and make memories. Do we never buy anything that is just a big expense for a temporary elation? Of course we do! And this month is a great one for me to "buy some happiness"<br />
<br />
<b>Indulge in a modest splurge</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Buy something that is just for me. </li>
<ul>
<li>Spend a little on upgrading my pens, highlighters and study area. </li>
<li>Buy pictures from the photographer we had done of our family.</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Buy needful things</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Am I an overbuyer or an underbuyer?</li>
<ul>
<li>I'm in the middle. But there are some things that would be nice to have and make life a little easier or a little more enjoyable</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Spend Out</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Use up those things I've been saving for a "rainy day"</li>
<li>Start using the nicer things</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Give something up</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I haven't decided what to give up just yet. Because I don't overbuy, I don't tend to make those purchases I will regret as soon as I'm home. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-52397179393694487622013-08-05T13:46:00.000-06:002013-08-05T13:46:00.229-06:00July 2013<div style="text-align: center;">
July! I feel like July came, went and never really happened<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Highlights of the Month</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Back to teaching piano.<br />
A few life decisions made (you'll have to wait for those until things are official)<br />
<br />
My Happiness Project for July was to "<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/08/july-happiness-project-complete.html">Make Time for Friends</a>"<br />
Another successful month<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Recap</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="2013 Reading Challenge" src="http://d.gr-assets.com/challenges/1357247331p3/940.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What I Read</b><br />
With extra time on my hands, I spent July reading and studying. No "fun" books in the usual sense, but I really enjoyed reading all of these.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239257.Eating_Alive" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" title="Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion">Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion</a> by John Matsen (<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/07/1430-eating-alive-by-jonn-matsen.html">review here</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2841577-healing-arthritis" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" title="Healing Arthritis: Complementary Naturopathic, Orthopedic & Drug Treatments">Healing Arthritis</a> by Penny Kendall-Reed (<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/07/1530-healing-arthritis-by-penny-kendall.html">review here</a>)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/366199.The_Metabolic_Typing_Diet">The Metabolic Typing Diet</a> by William Linz Wolcott (review here)<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/648739.Diabetes_Hypoglycemia">Diabetes & Hypoglycemia</a> by Michael T. Murray (<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/07/1730-diabetes-hypoglycemia-by-michael-t.html">review here</a>)<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2382688.The_Nutritional_Bypass">The Nutritional Bypass</a> by David W. Rowland (<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/07/1830-nutritional-bypass-by-david-w.html">review here</a>)<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What I'm Currently Reading</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11178965-new-optimum-nutrition-for-the-mind">New Optimum Nutrition for the Mind</a> by Patrick Holford<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Monthly Book Spending:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spent: $0.00*<br />
Saved: $0.00<br />
<br />
<div>
*textbook costs are excluded</div>
</div>
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-62074941986252387792013-08-01T13:34:00.001-06:002013-08-01T13:34:32.236-06:00July Happiness Project - Complete!<br />
<b>July is about Make Time for Friends</b><br />
I'm terrible at keeping in touch with people and what better time than summer to get together with friends.<br />
<b><br /></b><b>Bring People Together</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Summer BBQ</strike></li>
<li>Spent a lovely Saturday afternoon/evening with a bunch of friends I haven't seen in a while. It has to happen again before the snow comes!</li>
<li>After work drinks</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Cut people some slack</b><br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Everyone has their own problems to deal with. </strike></li>
<li>I've been in my own world for the past month dealing with my own stuff. It's hard to remember that other people are also dealing with their own stuff. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>No Gossip</b><br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Stop joining in gossipy conversations. Keep things private</strike></li>
<li>I think I've done a good job at this. I've kept myself out of conversations ABOUT people. </li>
</ul>
<b>Remember Birthdays<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><strike>compile a list and wish people a happy birthday, not just when Facebook says it's their birthday</strike></li>
<li>I have put the most important people to me in my calendar. Hopefully when their birthdays roll around next year I'll be more on the ball and be able to send a card or something.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-53981070888159723872013-07-31T10:16:00.000-06:002013-07-31T10:16:03.734-06:0018/30: The Nutritional Bypass by David W. Rowland<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2382688.The_Nutritional_Bypass" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Nutritional Bypass: Reverse Atherosclerosis Without Surgery" border="0" src="http://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nocover/111x148.png" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2382688.The_Nutritional_Bypass">The Nutritional Bypass: Reverse Atherosclerosis Without Surgery</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/897847.David_W_Rowland">David W. Rowland</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/677912295">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
From Goodreads: <i>Did you know that there is a time tested, safe, non-surgical method of removing arterial blockages-without side effects? Severe arterial blockages do not have to lead to coronary bypass surgery or heart attacks. Inside this book is a complete program for successfully reversing and preventing hardening of the arteries. You may be surprised to know that cholesterol is not the cause of heart disease and that polyunsaturated oils may actually be doing more harm than good.</i><br />
<br />
This may be a small book, but it was well worth reading.<br />
The research that has been done on Bypass surgery, and other methods of clearing out plaque from arteries was very interesting. I learned a lot about the methods, what the rates of survival are, and if it really does prolong your life. It doesn't for most people, but only because after they have surgery, they return to their ways before. Without change, your health will return to poor again.<br />
<br />
I didn't think that the Nutritional information was really far out there like you might expect. I was expecting a very limited diet that most people wouldn't follow. It was very easy, something most of us should be doing anyways. The supplement that he suggested had some great nutrients in it, that based on the studies and reviews, I would suggest to a couple people. It doesn't take a lot of change your diet and way of eating if you want to improve your health. Our heart runs our body, and we need to take care of it properly.<br />
<br />
This topic is very near to me and I will be recommending this book to a few people.
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-91448918219114955892013-07-28T08:30:00.000-06:002013-07-28T08:30:01.472-06:0017/30: Diabetes & Hypoglycemia by Michael T. Murray ND<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/648739.Diabetes_Hypoglycemia" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Diabetes & Hypoglycemia: Your Natural Guide to Healing with Diet, Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, Exercise, an d Other Natural Methods" border="0" src="http://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1320559059m/648739.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/648739.Diabetes_Hypoglycemia">Diabetes & Hypoglycemia: Your Natural Guide to Healing with Diet, Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, Exercise, an d Other Natural Methods</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/163015.Michael_T_Murray">Michael T. Murray</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/677903758">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
Read from July 22 to 24, 2013<br />
Format: Paperback<br />
<br />
From Goodreads: <i>Now You Can Combat Diabetes and Hypoglycemia—Naturally!</i><br />
<i>Struggling with frequent headaches, fatigue, irritability, or depression? Your body may be fighting a blood sugar imbalance. Diabetes and hypoglycemia, the major causes of blood sugar imbalance, are the most common of all diseases and can lead to chronic metabolic problems. Often, traditional medications treat only specific symptoms of these diseases without treating the whole body.</i><br />
<br />
Another textbook done!<br />
<br />
I enjoyed this one about Diabetes and Hypoglycemia. As someone who suffers from hypoglycemia, it was great to read about what foods to avoid, what foods to eat and other natural remedies that could help. It's great to know that even if you suffer from either of these blood sugar imbalances, you can get relief from a lot of the symptoms and minimize them leading to chronic metabolic problems.<br />
<br />
The section on dietary suggestions was really interesting. It laid out a series of food groups, what is the best for someone with diabetes or hypoglycemia and includes a few recipes to go on. One thing I learned and didn't know before was that the recommended diet for sufferers is the HCF - High Complex-Carbohydrate, High Fiber diet. Most people, when they think of blood sugar, they think of cutting ALL carbs, which isn't what is best. Eating low on the glycemic index is a better idea as our bodies need carbohydrates. Starving your body of glucose will start to cause more issues. Did you know your brain's main fuel is glucose? You need it! But you need the right kind.<br />
<br />
It was laid out really well for a non-medical person to understand and put into practice. It was written well with enough medical terms and layman's terms to get the point across. For anyone that has blood sugar issues this is a great little book to have around.
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-40851988946163905732013-07-26T10:35:00.002-06:002013-07-26T10:35:48.860-06:0016/30: The Metabolic Typing Diet<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/366199.The_Metabolic_Typing_Diet" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Metabolic Typing Diet: Customize Your Diet To: Free Yourself from Food Cravings: Achieve Your Ideal Weight; Enjoy High Energy and Robust Health; Prevent and Reverse Disease" border="0" src="http://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1320531522m/366199.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/366199.The_Metabolic_Typing_Diet">The Metabolic Typing Diet: Customize Your Diet To: Free Yourself from Food Cravings: Achieve Your Ideal Weight; Enjoy High Energy and Robust Health; Prevent and Reverse Disease</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/209350.William_Linz_Wolcott">William Linz Wolcott</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/522850938">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
Read from May 27 to July 09, 2013<br />
Format: Paperback<br />
<br />
From Goodreads: <i>For hereditary reasons, your metabolism is unique. Cutting-edge research shows that no single diet works well for everyone–the very same foods that keep your best friend slim may keep you overweight and feeling unhealthy and fatigued. Now, William Wolcott, a pioneer in the field of metabolic research, has developed a revolutionary weight-loss program that allows you to identify your "metabolic type" and create a diet that suits your individual nutritional needs.</i><br />
<br />
This is definitely a book a lot of people should read. Your body has a natural set point and a natural way to lose weight. This book helps you find out what that is so you can start a weight loss journey that will be effective (Effective /=/ instant). It's about effective weight loss. Things don't happen overnight, in a week or in a month. They take time, and I think a lot of people don't realize that. To be healthy, and ideal, you need to take time.<br />
<br />
The quiz was enlightening. I am a balanced metabolic type (rather than a protein or a carbohydrate) which I probably could have guessed. Basically, I need to eat a balance between protein and carbs to reach and MAINTAIN my ideal weight. For me, that means keeping the weight on. Most people will read that last sentence and close the page. Keeping weight off and keeping weight on are both difficult depending on you as an individual. Eating the RIGHT combination of nutrients will help you do both.<br />
<br />
This is definitely a book worth reading and putting into practice. No crazy diet, no extreme foods, just healthy eating based on what is right for YOU.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-39981426888830900282013-07-19T16:01:00.001-06:002013-07-19T16:01:49.315-06:0015/30: Healing Arthritis by Penny Kendall-Reed<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2841577-healing-arthritis" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Healing Arthritis: Complementary Naturopathic, Orthopedic & Drug Treatments" border="0" src="http://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1348294988m/2841577.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2841577-healing-arthritis">Healing Arthritis: Complementary Naturopathic, Orthopedic & Drug Treatments</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/352420.Penny_Kendall_Reed">Penny Kendall-Reed</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/519909381">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
Healing Arthritis was a good overview of the different types of arthritis and natural supplements that can assist in healing and pain relief.<br />
<br />
The way the book is laid out was good. They went through the types of arthritis, which I didn't know included so many! Then proceeded to different treatments that can be beneficial, who should stay away from what supplements and treatments and which ones were best.<br />
<br />
The material is dry and the delivery is as well. I did like how they included case studies for a number of the supplements. It gave a nice finish and real world perspective of each one. It's amazing that more people don't take the opportunity to use something natural to reduce their pain and inflammation before turning to drugs that have a long list of side effects.<br />
<br />
I would highly recommend this book for someone who is treating arthritis, knows someone living with the pain, or deals with it on a daily basis themselves. There are treatments to consider before drugs and surgery.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-62783728968618597872013-07-15T07:00:00.000-06:002013-07-15T07:00:09.232-06:0014/30: Eating Alive by Jonn Matsen<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239257.Eating_Alive" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion" border="0" src="http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348892486m/239257.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239257.Eating_Alive">Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/63587.Jonn_Matsen">Jonn Matsen</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/519906921">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
Read from May 27 to July 08, 2013<br />
Format: Paperback<br />
<br />
This was a great book for describing how our digestive system affects our health and how we are damaging it.<br />
<br />
It provides a very high level description of each portion of the digestive system, how it SHOULD function and how it DOES function, because for most people, those are not in sync. Matsen does a great job explaining things in terms that anyone can easily understand, using metaphors and examples. The high level explanations were perfect for an overview with as much detail as needed to get the point across. The illustrations I thought were comical and useful. Humour is a great way to get a point through to people and learning about the digestive system isn't exactly the most thrilling subject.<br />
<br />
It's interesting to read exactly how much of what we eat and how our digestive system works keeps us healthy. The damage that we do to our systems every day is astounding. When you start to read about it, you really start to think about exactly what you're eating and what your body has to do in order to deal with it.<br />
<br />
The only thing I didn't like was the patient letters. It seemed that the point of them was to show how Matsen is great and less about the patient success. I found that annoying and could have done without it.
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-80138247262102477262013-07-12T07:00:00.000-06:002013-07-12T07:00:07.570-06:00July Happiness Project - Make Time for Friends<b>July is about Make Time for Friends</b><br />
I'm terrible at keeping in touch with people and what better time than summer to get together with friends.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Bring People Together</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Summer BBQ</li>
<li>After work drinks</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Cut people some slack</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Everyone has their own problems to deal with. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>No Gossip</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Stop joining in gossipy conversations. Keep things private</li>
</ul>
<b>Remember Birthdays<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>compile a list and wish people a happy birthday, not just when Facebook says it's their birthday</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-81660299534895200482013-07-11T07:00:00.000-06:002013-07-11T07:00:05.813-06:00June 2013<div style="text-align: center;">
June. An incredible month of travelling, discovery, food and wine.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Highlights of the Month</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
FRANCE!<br />
That's all that needs to be said about June.<br />
<br />
My Happiness Project for June was to "<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/07/june-happiness-project-done.html">Get Serious about Play</a>"<br />
I think I was successful!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Recap</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="2013 Reading Challenge" src="http://d.gr-assets.com/challenges/1357247331p3/940.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What I Read</b><br />
I read absolutely nothing over June. I had grand plans of reading on the plane or at a bistro. Neither happened. Too much to see!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What I'm Currently Reading</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239257.Eating_Alive" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" title="Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion">Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion</a> by John Matsen (finished reading)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/415552.Abundance_A_Novel_of_Marie_Antoinette" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" title="Abundance, A Novel of Marie Antoinette">Abundance, A Novel of Marie Antoinette</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5234.Sena_Jeter_Naslund" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Sena Jeter Naslund</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2841577-healing-arthritis" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" title="Healing Arthritis: Complementary Naturopathic, Orthopedic & Drug Treatments">Healing Arthritis: Complementary Naturopathic, Orthopedic & Drug Treatments</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/352420.Penny_Kendall_Reed" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Penny Kendall-Reed</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Monthly Book Spending:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spent: $21.02*<br />
Saved: $1.90<br />
<br />
<div>
*textbook costs are excluded</div>
</div>
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-80314825265344656822013-07-10T07:00:00.001-06:002013-07-10T07:00:09.890-06:00June Happiness Project - Done!<div style="text-align: left;">
June was easy to "Get Serious about Play".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our trip was the perfect place to embrace living in the moment. Getting up, deciding what to do and off we go. We made some wrong turns, wandered aimlessly and tried a ton of foods we've never had here.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I was able to really let go and experience life rather than just getting through the day (sometimes unsuccessfully). It felt amazing to be happy and relaxed.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Live in the moment</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Stop looking at the future - hard to do, but I think I looked less into the future than I do while I'm here</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strike>Make a plan and forget about it until later. </strike></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strike>Live TODAY</strike></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Find more fun<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></b></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strike>Stop doing things that just aren't fun out of obligation. </strike></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strike>Find those things I have fun doing, and do them more</strike></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Go off the path</b><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strike>Try new foods, new places</strike></li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Buy a french book to read - Didn't buy one, but I did always have the french menu in restaurants</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strike>Change the routine</strike></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-88677080483822748442013-07-09T11:17:00.002-06:002013-07-09T11:17:15.050-06:00Bonjour! Hello! I'm Back!Our trip to France was amazing. There are no words to describe exactly how I feel about that country and all the places we went. Life there is so different from here in a lot of better ways. I know it was vacation brain and seeing it through those eyes, but they are far more social than here.<br />
We spent 2.5 weeks (19 days) with each other, 24/7. It was really wonderful and I love that we can travel together so well.<br />
<br />
We flew direct from Calgary to Paris. A nice long 9h 12m flight. We left in the afternoon and arrived in the morning the next day because of the 9 hour time difference. I am terrible at sleeping on planes but managed to get a couple hours in at least. I did end up watching Les Miserables since Frenchie hasn't wanted to see it.<br />
<br />
Things I had to get used to:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Eating light for breakfast - Cafe au lait, croissant / pain du chocolat</li>
<li>Eating late for lunch</li>
<li>Eating a late dinner - the majority of the restaurants don't open until 7:30pm and they usually don't start filling up until around 8:30-9pm. Very strange for this 6pm eater. </li>
<li>Eating BREAD! Yes. I could eat bread and pasta over there with NO symptoms like I get here. I miss it already. </li>
<li>Dogs are welcome - Everywhere. If they aren't, there is a sign. It really made me miss the dogs while we were away.</li>
</ul>
<br />
That was pretty much the extent of it. Eating (which is a big deal for me for blood sugar levels) really threw me for a loop. Once my body adjusted to the time changes I was set. There was always something to snack on and wine to drink. We stopped if our feet were sore for a cafe or macarons.<br />
<br />
We have over 1600 photos and I have finally gotten them all onto the computer. With so many pics I can't pick my favourites so I will do a blog post for each location we went to. In total we stayed in 5 different places around France. Each one was different from the previous and allowed us to see a lot of the West side of France. I keep telling Frenchie we'll have to go back and see the East side and dip into Italy for a bit.<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-2062696117003252622013-06-12T20:20:00.002-06:002013-06-12T20:20:54.362-06:00Au Revoir!! Blog HaitusBonjour!<br />
<br />
We're off to France!<br />
I'll have tons of pictures, adventures and stories to share when we get back.<br />
"See" you next month!<br />
<br />
<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-90193089253317801102013-06-07T08:24:00.002-06:002013-06-07T08:26:07.042-06:00May 2013<div style="text-align: center;">
May. Beautiful May. This month has been a whirlwind and I'm glad it's over.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Highlights of the Month</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Received marks for two exams:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
95% on Symptomatology I<br />
90% on Anatomy & Physiology<br />
Saw Balletlujah with my mom for Mother's Day - The Alberta Ballet was choreographed to the music of K.D. Lang. Absolutely stunning.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happiness Project - I learned to lighten up a little.<br />
Mostly learned to put things in perspective of what is important and what isn't worth stressing over.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Recap</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="2013 Reading Challenge" src="http://d.gr-assets.com/challenges/1357247331p3/940.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have read 13 books toward my goal of 30 books.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am right on track!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pages Read (month): 1510</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pages Read (year): 6238</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What I Read</b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12842115-just-one-day">Just One Day</a> by Gayle Forman (<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/05/1130-just-one-day-by-gayle-forman.html">review</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17156082-hopeless">Hopeless </a>by Colleen Hoover (<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/05/1330-hopeless-by-colleen-hoover.html">review</a>)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10045945-essentials-of-human-anatomy-physiology"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Essentials of Human Anatomy &Physiology</span></a> by Elaine Nicpon Marieb (<a href="http://chicfitgeek.blogspot.com/2013/05/1230-essentials-of-human-anatomy.html">review</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What I'm Currently Reading</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239257.Eating_Alive" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" title="Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion">Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion</a> by John Matsen</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/366199.The_Metabolic_Typing_Diet" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" title="The Metabolic Typing Diet: Customize Your Diet To: Free Yourself from Food Cravings: Achieve Your Ideal Weight; Enjoy High Energy and Robust Health; Prevent and Reverse Disease">The Metabolic Typing Diet</a> by William Linz Wolcott</span></div>
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<b>Monthly Book Spending:</b></div>
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Spent: $21.02*<br />
Saved: $1.90<br />
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*textbook costs are excluded</div>
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<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-8313889298271596392013-06-05T08:50:00.000-06:002013-06-07T08:51:08.141-06:00June Happiness Project - Get Serious About PlayGet Serious about play.<br />
June is about enjoying life. Getting out of my comfort zone.<br />
I'm a routine person and have my life planned out in a lot of detail. It makes sense to me to have plans. But sometimes those plans don't work out and that is a stress for me. Rather than focus on the plans as "written in stone" I need to see things more fluidly. Our trip this month will be perfect for that. Just go with the flow. Enjoy each day. In some cases, just make it through each day and start again tomorrow.<br />
<br />
<b>Live in the moment</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Stop looking at the future</li>
<li>Make a plan and forget about it until later. </li>
<li>Live TODAY</li>
</ul>
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<b>Find more fun<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Stop doing things that just aren't fun out of obligation. </li>
<li>Find those things I have fun doing, and do them more</li>
<ul>
<li>board games, cards, movies, reading, french, dancing</li>
</ul>
</ul>
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<b>Go off the path</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Try new foods, new places</li>
<li>France!!</li>
<li>Buy a french book to read</li>
<li>Change the routine</li>
</ul>
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<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-13093018980336063052013-05-28T07:30:00.000-06:002013-05-28T07:30:00.884-06:00The day I ran a race<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chip time<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>00:36:42</b></div>
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<b>Event Placement<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>875 of 2238</b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hW3oAN-9zWE/UaOEyaAA1jI/AAAAAAAAAdg/mtluT17e8z4/s1600/1369670693663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hW3oAN-9zWE/UaOEyaAA1jI/AAAAAAAAAdg/mtluT17e8z4/s200/1369670693663.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Us with our medals<br />They say "5K Finisher"</td></tr>
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In the winter, my sister invited me to do a 5K with her. I was running at that point and thought it sounded like a good idea. The C25K was a great guide to get me going. I have yet to actually finish the entire program.<br />
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Over April and May, I sort of stopped running. I didn't have the time or the energy to do it in the morning and with my studying getting more intense, the weekends were out. Plus it was raining, which is a lame excuse, I know. I didn't feel ready for the race and it was one thing on a long list that is between France and I.<br />
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Sister and I ran my first 5k (her second) together the whole way and we crossed the finish line holding hands. We did it. Together. I had no clue how fun it would be. There was SO many people running and it took a bit to get going through the crowds. The energy of everyone around was awesome.<br />
I figured we would take around 40 minutes to complete it. We usually did 4.5k in that amount of time when we were training together, so I was thrilled to see we were under that. We might sign up for another!<br />
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<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-88823860867542311762013-05-27T09:35:00.002-06:002013-05-27T09:36:56.340-06:00May Happiness Project: Success or failure?I don't believe this month was a failure. It all depends on how you look at it.<br />
Did I finish my tasks I set out to do? Not at all.<br />
Do I feel lighter? Happier? Absolutely.<br />
<br />
<b>Take time for a project</b><br />
I managed to get my garden going and it is growing like crazy! I'm still waiting for the beans, potatoes and one squash plant to surface, but things are looking good. I can't wait to have fresh veggies late summer/early fall.<br />
<u>Not complete</u><br />
Wedding album photos<br />
Photos of Beta/Taylor into album<br />
<br />
<b>Be a house of memories</b><br />
I unloaded the camera of a bunch of photos that have been sitting on there forever. It's time to remove all the wedding and honeymoon photos that are just sitting on the card. They've been on the computer for a long time now, so there's really no need to keep a card half full.<br />
I have yet to get around to making albums, but perhaps this summer.<br />
<u>Not complete</u><br />
organize memory boxes<br />
Update picture frames<br />
<br />
<b>Pray in the morning</b><br />
I have been praying in the morning and it does lighten the day. It is a good start to let everything go and start fresh.<br />
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<b>How I lightened up in unexpected ways</b></div>
I am learning to let go and I believe a lot has to do with my garden. It's something new. Something I haven't ever done before. It's not up to me for it to grow. I can provide the seeds, the dirt, water and in part, the sun, but I can't actually do the growing. That is left to the plants themselves. If they grow, I'm ecstatic, if they don't, I guess it just wasn't the right.<br />
<br />
When I was in therapy last week, my therapist thought it was interesting that I was able to just let go and not stress over my garden. It will grow or it won't. He also thought it was interesting that I have the same sort of laissez faire attitude towards other parts of life very near to my personal life.<br />
<br />
So why can't I "lighten up" in different parts of my life? My go-to strategy needs to be adjusted for certain situations. I've discovered that I can use the "whatever happens, happens" attitude for things that are internal. Situations that have no influence by someone else, in other words, situations that are under my control.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://developmentcrossroads.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/spheres-of-influence-graphic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://developmentcrossroads.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/spheres-of-influence-graphic.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://developmentcrossroads.com</td></tr>
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A friend of mine sent me that image once and I'm finally starting to see why it makes sense. In my most stressful situations or the ones that I worry about the most, I am in the yellow or the red. I need to shift my focus for those situations to the green and concentrate only on that part. It's a hard task to do for someone who is a nurturer or a giver. I have tendencies towards making other people happy before myself. It's a hard skill to learn, to take care of yourself first.<br />
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I feel lighter in May, even though I didn't get my tasks done I set out to. They'll be done eventually. I am working on reframing how I think of things. Looking at the things I can control and trying to forget about those I can't.<br />
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<b>It's nice to let go.</b> <-- never thought I'd say that!<br />
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<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-84547688221687305832013-05-22T12:15:00.000-06:002013-05-22T13:15:31.841-06:0013/30: Hopeless by Colleen Hoover<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17156082-hopeless" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Hopeless (Hopeless, #1)" border="0" src="http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1355901138m/17156082.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17156082-hopeless">Hopeless</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5430144.Colleen_Hoover">Colleen Hoover</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/513487862">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
Read from April 13 to May 08, 2013<br />
Format: Ebook<br />
<br />
From Goodreads: <i>Sometimes discovering the truth can leave you more hopeless than believing the lies…</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>That’s what seventeen-year-old Sky realizes after she meets Dean Holder. A guy with a reputation that rivals her own and an uncanny ability to invoke feelings in her she’s never had before. He terrifies her and captivates her all in the span of just one encounter, and something about the way he makes her feel sparks buried memories from a past that she wishes could just stay buried.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Sky struggles to keep him at a distance knowing he’s nothing but trouble, but Holder insists on learning everything about her. After finally caving to his unwavering pursuit, Sky soon finds that Holder isn’t at all who he’s been claiming to be. When the secrets he’s been keeping are finally revealed, every single facet of Sky’s life will change forever.</i><br />
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I was not overly thrilled with this book. Mostly because I wasn't aware of the heavy subject matter until it was too late. If someone would have told me what it was REALLY about, I never would have picked it up. That said, I won't be recommending this one to anyone. There is a warning on Goodreads if you view the Kindle Edition that is not there on the paperback.<br />
<br />
I liked the Sky and Holder as characters, but they seemed more mature than I would expect for 17/18 year olds. I would have expected this book to be in university age rather than high school. The seemed to be so much older than they were and it threw me off. Most 18 year olds would not deal with the situations they were thrown into as well as they did. I felt it was a little unrealistic that they both dealt with the realizations as well as they did. Holder sounding like a therapist in parts made me roll my eyes. It seemed like everything was really rushed near the end during discovery and dealing with the past that they didn't have time to really let things sink in.<br />
<br />
The relationship between Sky and Holder was worth reading. The chemistry between them was written really well and I loved that fact that he was a respectful boyfriend. And how many books actually go out of their way to work in safe sex to a scene? Not many because it's awkward and breaks up the scene but it was done well, so that was awesome.<br />
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I'm conflicted with this one. If I had known the content, I would have went in reading it differently rather than just a romance book. I would only recommend this one if the reader was aware of the content rating and was that it is not a YA book as I was lead to believe It is definitely fits better in the New Adult genre. (Which I'm starting to love the more I read of it.)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3029494-laurel">View all my reviews</a>
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<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992502094120679991.post-62295799136338572772013-05-16T07:30:00.000-06:002013-05-16T07:30:04.919-06:00Becoming greener!Ever since my sister started selling Norwex, I've been thinking more and more about how to make our home greener. It takes a little work and buy in from the husband, but it's well worth it. The effects of chemicals on our bodies is astounding and the more we can eliminate the harmful effects, the better our health will be.<br />
We don't do a lot, but every little bit makes a difference.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>No chemical cleaning using <a href="https://robynderdall.norwex.biz/">Norwex </a>cleaning products</li>
<li>Vegetables from the local farmers market</li>
<li>Try to buy hormone free meats whenever possible</li>
<li>Installed a clothesline to dry our clothes - love the smell of sunshine!</li>
<li>Planted a garden - small one for now, but if all goes well we will put much more in next year.</li>
<li>Installed a rain barrel</li>
<li>Programmable thermostat - we shut our furnace off completely in the summer, but the winter it is programmed to only be on when we need it.</li>
<li>No A/C in our house - We cool it down at night with one fan in the basement to pump cool air up and one fan in the upstairs bedroom to pump hot air out. All the windows get opened at night (that are safe to do so) and then close them all during the day. </li>
<li>Frenchie rides a bicycle to work 3 times a week. I take transit daily</li>
<li>Using natural remedies for ailments when possible - the overuse of antibiotics is making our body systems weaker and bugs stronger and resistant. </li>
<li>We cook almost all our meals - healthier!!</li>
<li>I have switched to natural deodorant - surprisingly I sweat less than I did with antiperspirant and do not smell. Plus my white shirts don't have yellow stains anymore.</li>
<li>We recycle - our garbage bin is nearly empty every week</li>
</ul>
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What do you do to be greener?</div>
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<img alt="chicfit" height="65" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5517479653_f9c3aee283_m.jpg" width="199" /><div class="blogger-post-footer">copyright of Chic Fit Geek blog
Do not copy without my permission</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13803234228113832022noreply@blogger.com0