nutrition – A Simple View by Allen Bell

The truth about being Consistent

An important character trait with benefits

Why I Love Restaurants

Going to a good dining place could be good for your attitude. My experience was enlightening.

Why restaurants are cool spots.

I love going out to restaurants! Why? Well, not only because of the food offered but the atmosphere too.

For me, restaurants offer three things I value. Food, casual atmosphere and a break from daily responsibilities.

The food offered is definitely a plus for any restaurant. This may seem like an obvious thought but I have been to places that have not offered a tasty array of entrees. There is nothing like going to a dining place to order a steak or pork chop that is not flavorful. It will leave a definite unfavorable imprint.

I love all kinds of food too. Although I’m based in America I do love the taste of Italian and French cuisines. Because I like to eat, I feel it is my duty to credit each respective cultures entrees and gorge…Oops, I mean sensibly try them. Lol.

In addition to the food, I love a restaurants dining experience too. I feel that with all the potential stress life could present it only stands to reason the need to have places help to divert such pressures. For me, they are a cool place to meet and build new friends.

Today, some places offer more than just seats for dining. Many offer TV’s for viewing and even the options for gaming. This in itself can add to an upbeat experience if that is what you are particularly into. I personally love them all and try to get the most out of what is offered.

Lastly, dining places provide an atmosphere that takes your mind away from the stresses of life we encounter. At least for me. Although there are other forms of stress relief, I favor dining out a lot.

I do utilize other forms of stress relief such as shopping, resistance, and cardio training, playing board games, reading an interesting book, watching a good comedy or thriller movie, and of course writing for my blog.

So now you know the reasoning behind why I love to eat out at restaurants! My guess is that you love to eat out at restaurants too. If so, what are your reasons? I would be glad to know.

The Resilient Woman series

Courage, Tenacity, Persistence

Hello Friends! Glad your back!

If you have not tuned in lately, I’d say you’ve missed some valuable information pertaining to the theme “The Resilient Woman“. But don’t fret, there is still time to catch up! The guests have been simply exceptional. All have provided varying life perspectives yet reinforce the fact that courage, tenacity, and persistence are in the Resilient Woman’s DNA.

This weeks’ guest is Tanethia Holden.

Tanethia is a true warrior and this is no lie. Tanethia is an army veteran who has endured her fair share of life trials. She is an unwed mother to her daughter who has embraced the courage to face anything that may rise against her success. Her current job as a Registered Nurse in an ICU embodies the mindset of one who is a quick decision maker and displays a never give up attitude. Read on and receive her thoughts on “The Resilient Woman”

So, Tanethia…

TWH- What is your definition of a strong woman?

A strong woman has learned how to play off of her strengths and leverage her weaknesses.

TWH- A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

I think love makes us resilient. When a woman learns how to truly love herself, she won’t succumb to the pain this world has to offer. Love is very transformative. When I started reading up on self-love and seeing images of women who talked about self-care and love, I started to move and think differently about myself.

I have always considered myself as being resilient because of my flexible nature. I try to be receptive to new ways of thinking and perception. If you’re rigid in your ways and frame of thought, how can you be resilient when there will be a time for a change in your life?

So essentially, love and flexibility are a couple of qualities that a resilient woman possesses.

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the resilient women in action?

If any woman has had a child or children, by nature, she transforms to be the woman she needs to be for her kids. If a woman has ever had her heart broken, she still finds the will to hope for the type of love she is deserving of.

TWH- What barriers if any may a resilient woman encounter?

Sometimes we get beat down with life (work, raising kids, mental/physical/sexual abuse), and it can become difficult for a woman to see the forest from the trees.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

For instance, the Me Too movement has opened the doors for women who felt they didn’t have a voice when egregious things have happened to them. Society doesn’t really recognize a resilient woman. But it doesn’t even fucking matter because we as women are making things happen whether men or society want to acknowledge us or not.

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

I look over my life and see the woman I am becoming and always have been. I look at myself as an example. I don’t know of anyone else’s journey as intimately as I know my own. My grandma is another example. She suffered a stroke and has been in a nursing home for the past several years. I don’t know how she does it, but she speaks as though she is walking and living a full life. She lives in the hope of doing more extraordinary things.

TWH– Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

I think a woman is a fool if she thinks being strong all day long, 24/7/365 is the business. Being strong all the time is a limitation in itself. It takes me back to my earlier point about a resilient woman knowing how to leverage her weaknesses. That’s why it’s essential to at least have good, reliable people in your life to help you get through life’s up and downs.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I always lend an encouraging word. Or I would be frank about my evaluation of a situation if my sister-friend needed advice. I will provide the support that she would need. My support would be loving but limited because I vowed not to be strong for others for the sake of my sanity and mental health.

Tanethia, thanks so much for participating and sharing your thoughts on “The Resilient Woman”

Well, I told you, folks. Her thoughts are definitely energizing and should provoke you to handle business as you originally planned. Don’t hold back but press and go after it!

Tanethia is quite active on social media too. Connect with her weekly to be inspired.

Tanethia Holden- Social media information below

Twitter: www.twitter.com/OMG_its_misst/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladytanethia/

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tanethia/

Blog/website: queendomreigns.com

The Resilient Woman

In her DNA is Courage Tenacity Persistence

Hello Friends! Continuing on with the theme “The Resilient Woman”, this weeks’ interview is from one of your sweetest travel bloggers, Dianna Allen.

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The previous post, highlights the reason behind the theme and its intentions.

Dianna has had her share of tough circumstances. Growing up, she encountered bouts of racism in addition to handling a tough home life. Through it all, she has learned to be gentle but tough skinned when necessary. Overcoming these challenges has also helped her to see the world differently by not being afraid to accept responsibilities and clearly handling business in life when necessary. Dianna likes to have fun, loves to travel and always encourages a smile.

So Dianna,

TWH-What is your definition of a strong woman?

Dianna-To me, a strong woman means fearless and determined. Strength comes in the form of overcoming hardships and not being afraid to do what must be done is required. Because of this, being determined comes naturally when you’re fearless.

TWH-A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

Dianna-Being resilient means that you are not affected by the negative. Holding your head high every day and keeping a positive attitude is key when it seems like your world is falling apart.

TWH-Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the Resilient women in action?

Dianna-I can name quite a couple just from my own life. I’ll start with when I was 18. I actually was living in a tough household, I won’t get into too many details, but for my own mental health, I needed out. I didn’t know how to live on my own at the time, but I made it work. I balanced college and working full-time to ensure I was still able to create the best life for me. Even though those years were tough, in the end, I made the right decision. And not only did I save myself, but I also saved relationships with my family because of my actions.

On a smaller scale, I remember times I’ve been faced with racism. Being part Asian and a woman, I’ve received my fair share of racial and woman jokes. My resilience in these situations has always been to not let rude remarks affect me, however, do not allow it to be tolerated either. If it’s uncalled for, I let that be known and walk away from the situation. Trust me, you should never surround yourself with negativity. You can always walk away.

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TWH-What barriers if any may a resilient woman encounter?

Dianna-Doubt. People will doubt you, it’s inevitable. Don’t take it personally. Instead, see it as an invitation to prove them wrong!

TWH-Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

Dianna-Society is definitely recognizing resilient women across the world! Let’s talk about current events and look at Meghan Markle, for example. That is a woman who has defied many odds through her life. From re-directing her character roles from being over-sexualized to actually respected personas and of course, how she has married into the British Royal Family as an American.

This day in age has been all about women. They are more empowered and respected than ever, and they are making sure their voices get heard.

TWH-Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

Dianna-For me, a strong woman is, of course, my mother. For reasons that are similar to me. When she was 23, she left her home in the Philippines and immigrated to America. An accomplishment that no one else in her large family had ever done. If that’s not fearless, then I don’t know what is! I’ve been traveling for many months now, mostly in Asia, and seeing the world she came from has truly opened my eyes to how courageous she chose to live her life.

She’s also strong because now she has to deal with missing me on the other side of the world. 😉

TWH-Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

Dianna-None. Never.

TWH-If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

Dianna-Don’t ever let someone tell you can’t do something. And in those times where you feel like you can’t do something, do not let it discourage you. Do not give up.

One of my favorite quotes comes from Harry Potter and ever since I heard it, I always think about it when times seem rough. Maybe it will help out the next person who hears it as well:

“Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light.”

Thanks so much for participating and sharing your thoughts on “The Resilient Woman” Dianna.

There you have it, friends! Another unique perspective. Please show some love for Dianna. If you need the motivation to travel, Dianna can share a tip or two.

Dianna’s contact and social media information:

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Twitter https://www.twitter.com/outglobing/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diannamallen/

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/diannamallen

Blog/website https://www.outglobing.com

Strawberries The Heart-shaped fruit

Strawberries are a nice addition to any lunch as a snack. Their claim to fame is being high in Vitamin C.

Hello there! Glad you found me. If you have, then let me fill you in.

If you have not followed me then here is the scoop. Last year I decided to make a change. A life change that directly impacted my health.

I decided to change for the better by eating healthier and getting into better physical condition. So far so good and I am excited! Excited that I made up my mind to eat healthier and take care of my well being.

Why?

Well, to feel better, live longer, and enjoy the rest of this life I have been gifted with. If you feel the same way then you definitely know the feeling.

In this process, I have accepted a better eating plan and fitness regimen that encourages healthy eating, increased energy, and improved stamina. My eating plan includes lean meats, potent vegetables, and tasty fruits. The posts I share are about my journey with better eating. In them, I highlight a few of the foods I have included in my daily eating plan.

In this posts, I share how including strawberries in your diet help to fight against cardiovascular disease and encourage good blood flow.

Strawberries are a nice addition to any lunch as a snack. Their claim to fame is being high in Vitamin C. You would not think of it as compared to an orange but strawberries are a worthy proponent of being high in Vitamin C., In fact, eating about a serving of strawberries (about 8) provides more Vitamin C than what an orange provides. This is good to know as this offers a bit of variety for us especially if you do not care for oranges.

The first clue that strawberries encourage good heart health is the fact that they are shaped much like a heart. Who knew!

Strawberries possess a unique variety of compounds that help lessen the formation of whats called excessive platelet aggregation(coagulation). This, in short, is the ability of the body to naturally form clots which is a healthy function; Especially with an injury. But there is an unhealthy condition that causes overactive clotting and this could potentially lead to a more serious issue when in conjunction with cancers and certain blood diseases.

Strawberries complex mix of polyphenols also make it a serious anti-oxidant competitor and a great anti-inflammatory agent. The anti-inflammatory properties assist with allowing more blood flow through veins and arteries which ultimately leads to sufficient oxygen and nutrients being delivered throughout the body.

Strawberries are a low fat zero trans fat product with a decent amount of fiber which is a potent combination for weight loss management. They are composed of about 91% water which can aid in digestion.

One of the best healthy points of including strawberries in your diet is it has one of the best Glycemic index numbers around. Compared to many fresh fruits such as apricots, bananas, watermelon, cantaloupe, or pineapple, strawberries have a number of 40. This is great! Especially for combating blood sugar spikes and the regulation of insulin.

Strawberries can be consumed a variety ways.

Strawberries can be included in smoothies
As a dessert topping on cakes, pies, ice-cream
Sliced atop your favorite pancakes or waffle
Sliced topping on your favorite meat dish
Slivered in salads
In your favorite pie
Wrapped in vegetable or fruit wrap
Made into a bread
Jellied and canned
Made into a strawberry mousse
Added to your favorite cereal

So including Strawberries in your daily food consumption can be a definite healthy choice. Maybe you are a regular with including this fruit in your diet or maybe not so much. Whatever the case I hope this finds you well and encourages you to at least begin a regimen to include.

Disclaimer:

Many thanks to those sites who provided information to encourage this post. This post was written with the intent to encourage and enlighten one to the benefits of strawberries with regards to eating healthy. I have no professional license, certificate or degree in nutrition or dietary matters.

Credits: Giphy, Google images, Associated links

Cauliflower-a formidable weight-loss agent

Cauliflower, that formidable weight-loss agent is a must to include in any meal plan. Have you tried?

How are you, friends? Hope you are doing good. I am well!

As a recap, for the last couple of post, I have presented information about my journey. My health and fitness journey.

Here, you will see that I’ve shared a few nuggets on why I changed my eating habits and adopted a structured physical fitness plan. If you search for my blog entitled “So why the change” I go into some depth as to why. Check it out here!

Cauliflower pronounced Cau·li·flow·er is a vegetable that is a member of the cruciferous family that includes broccoli, cabbage, kale, turnips, and host of others. It is white in color and develops as a combination of compacted florets(curd) as compared to broccoli.

Nutritionally, cauliflower comes as a surprise boasting a serious stat sheet. Normally, it is accepted that color in any fruit or vegetable signifies that item as being a definite producer in the fight against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and aging. Cauliflower is the exception.

Its stat sheet shows it to be high in Vitamin C, K, and Manganese. It is a serious producer of Folate and fiber too while being high in antioxidants and phytochemicals.

What makes Cauliflower different from its close sister broccoli is the fact that it contains sulfur-based compounds called Glucosinolates. There are a few and more in-depth study of them is ongoing. So far, these compounds are being regarded as formidable agents in the supporting good health.

Here’s what it brings to the game:

Regulates Blood Cholesterol-Studies show that cauliflower helps to regulate cholesterol levels by binding cholesterol bile acids to pass into the intestines. Processed foods lack many of the essential properties that help to activate this.
Improves digestion–Studies show that sulforaphane found in the glucosinolates within cauliflower helps to remove the harmful bacteria within the stomach walls. This ultimately leads to improved digestion within the digestion tract. In addition, the fiber assists with more bulkier and softer stools as compared to watery or hard ones.
Anti-cancer agent-In short, the Sulforaphane compounds released from the consumption of Cauliflower release additional compounds that assist with the binding away of cancer-causing agents. The properties help to control the harmful free radicals associated with degenerative diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory helper-Cauliflower has Omega 3 fatty acids and a healthy amount of Vitamin C which help to inhibit an enzyme responsible for inflammation. It also has a few powerful anti-oxidants to boast. Cinnamic acid, ferulic acid, and quercetin are just a few to name that help to keep inflammation at bay. This ultimately leads to better circulation of blood and air passages.
Aids in weight loss-Cauliflower is low in calories, low in sugar and high in fiber which makes for a nice combination to help one feel full. Definitely, need to add in any weight loss plan.

So what are the ways to consume Cauliflower:

Sprinkled in and over salads
Minced and stir-fried lightly-add in a dish of your choice.
Pulverized in a Smoothie.
Minced or quartered in a soup of your choice. The vegetable is my favorite.
Add on a vegetable tray
Hummus Dip
Casseroles-all varieties

So there you have it! If you have not included this vegetable into your meal plan shame on you. This is definitely a go-to vegetable. Unless under doctors orders you have other instructions.

I know, I know! Its white, dry looking and admittedly not that appealing. I had to get over that too. It’s not that bad, though. Lol.

This is how I look at it. When I went through my change, of course, I had to change the way I thought. I had to reprogram the way I perceived eating ALL foods. So, I had to refocus on the nutritional benefits as opposed to the appearance. The taste buds could be manipulated. Haha!

Now, I will try almost anything.

If you fall into this, try your hand at expanding your food sources. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Cauliflower is a great addition to any meal plan. It is loaded with phytochemicals and antioxidants that help with everything from encouraging proper digestion in the gut area to encouraging good vascular circulation. Today, with the foods being processed and losing much of the anti-inflammatory properties, including Cauliflower into your meal plan is definitely a plus.

Thanks for reading and stay tuned! Next, we’ll look into how asparagus stacks up on the meal squad.

Did you miss last posts notes on how Arugula may help in maintaining strong bones?

Credits: Google Images, Associated links.

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Arugula-the other green leaves

Arugula, the other green leaf is packed with beneficial nutrients. Include in your next spring mix salad.

Hello Friends! How are you? Hope all is well.

As promised, let’s continue on with sharing a few of the healthy foods I have adopted into my health and wellness plan.

If you need to catch up just do a search for “Why the Change” and you will quickly find my motivation for launching on this path of renewed health and wellness.

Staying consistent with the fruit and nutrient-packed vegetables that I now include on a regular basis, I introduce Arugula. pronounced [uh-roo-guh-luh].

Arugula is a green leafy vegetable that is apart of the Brassica family of cruciferous vegetables. It is in the family of vegetables that is likened to broccoli, bok choy, cabbage, kale, and Swiss chard.

It is a vegetable loaded with plenty of vitamins and minerals. Vitamins include Vitamin A, K, and C. The minerals include Folate acid, potassium, Manganese, Iron, and Calcium.

Here is the breakdown nutritionally:

So what health benefits do you receive from eating Arugula?

Weight Loss-since it is nutrient packed with minerals, vitamins and very low in calories, Arugula will meet ones nutritional and satiation needs. No need of feeling like your missing out on meeting those nutritional goals.
Improves eyesight-Arugula being a good source of carotenoids, may help in improving eyesight. Carotenoids have been accepted as being agents for improving eyesight. Arugula is loaded with them. It is considered to be a positive agent against macular degeneration, an age-related condition involving the deterioration of parts of the eye.
Boost Immune system-Vitamin C is abundant in Arugula. It is linked to helping fight against the free radicals within the body. This can lead to helping support your immune system.
Encourages heart health-Vegetables that are high in low calories and anti-inflammatory properties tend to be very good agents for protecting the heart. The anti-inflammatory properties encourage proper circulatory flow and consistent heart rhythms.
Promotes Bone Health-In short, Arugula is a great source of vitamin K which is essential to maintaining strong bones. In some circles, it is a close second to Calcium.

Here are a few ideas on consuming Arugula

In salads mixed with other types of greens.
Used in soups to give it a healthy kick.
Sprinkled atop Sandwiches to boost nutrition count.
Spotted on (vegan style)pizzas. Yes, you have to try it.
Pulverized in fruit and vegetable smoothies.
Added as an edible side piece to vegetable dip trays.

I have tried it in all meal prep situations. My favorite is on sandwiches. I usually add a bit of herbs to give it a kick too. If you have included Arugula in your meal plan, excellent! It is a great addition. If you have not, then the opportunity is here. I would recommend it.

I definitely believe we are what we eat. If we consume high calorie, high fat, low fiber, empty calorie food the body will respond over time lethargically. On the contrast, if low fat, high fiber, nutrient dense foods are consumed the body will respond over time with vibrancy.

Hope you enjoyed!

Thanks for reading and connecting.

Courtesy: Google photos and associated links.

What’s the benefit?

What are in the foods we eat and how they benefit the body.

Hello friends. How are things? I hope all is well.

Got to thinking about writing a series on certain foods we eat and how they benefit the body.

Since I have changed the way and what I consume now, I thought I would share those thoughts with you all.

Why I changed? Well, I shared a bit of it in a previous post entitled “So Why the Change”. Here I kinda talk a bit about how I was feeling and the struggles I endured. I share the decision to make an about face with my whole eating and fitness plan. Yay! Glad I did! I feel absolutely great.

In this post, and the ones to come I want to share a few of the foods I consume as well as a progress report on my fitness journey.

So, here we go!

First, I changed a few of the foods I consume. I included more vegetables. In either a salad, blender or cooked way. One of those is the addition of cucumbers. Let’s see what this fella has to offer.

The Cucumber:

Provides a good amount of water and soluble fiber-Water is always good to include in any diet. It helps with lubrication and flow of any waste or receiving nutrients. The fiber is a plus too. Fiber helps to remove waste from the body(intestines and gut). Kinda like a scrubber. Lol.
Low in calories-A cucumber with the peel offers about 45 calories and is high vitamins and minerals.
Good source of anti-oxidants-Cucumbers offer properties known to be associated with being an excellent source of antioxidants. Without going to chemically deep, in a nutshell, these are properties that help to fight against those molecular forces that encourage breakdown(oxidation), whatever that may be. In the sense of health, these forces(free radicals) are studied and believed to be associated with a few diseases today.
Aid in weight loss-Due to the low-calorie content cucumbers can be a nice way to manage one’s weight. It is always a nice addition to any salad.
Maintain Blood sugar-because of it low caloric value and high vitamin/mineral content cucumbers are believed to help in lowering blood sugar levels.
Reduce swelling/inflammation-Cucumbers have the properties in them that help to reduce inflammation and swelling.

Although not a complete list, I have highlighted a few benefits to including cucumbers into your diet.

They are always great to have in salads, smoothies, and sandwiches. My favorite is in salads. I eat them with skin or no skin and in the pickled variety too.

Try them if you have not. And if not your favorite, that’s cool, there are a variety of other vegetables to choose from with similar properties.

Glad you read. Stayed tuned for the next vegetable. Arugula.

Credits to Google images and associated links.

The Apple: Definitely add in your fitness and nutrition plan

So in my fitness journey, I promised to share a few personal things that have helped me along the way. One of those things is the consumption of certain foods. Whether it is fruit, vegetables or carbohydrates I promised to share how it has positively impacted me from a nutritive and physical fitness standpoint.

Hello everyone!

Meaning I have found along the way certain foods that have provided maximum nutritional value while minimizing those compounds that can be counterproductive to reaching fitness goals.

In short, there are foods with high calories. These include foods that are high in fat, offer plenty of sugar, are low in fiber, and do not offer much in the way of nutrients. Most of these can be categorized as processed foods.

On the other hand, there are foods that offer just the opposite. They are high in fiber, provide plenty of essential nutrients, offer good fat, and yield naturally occurring sugar.

One of these such foods is the apple. It offers plenty of fiber, provides its own sugar, no fat and is loaded with essential nutrients. Check out its nutritional value!

So how has it helped me you ask? Well

It has helped me to maintain regularity. Yep. Just as it is important to eat well it is extremely important to have good evacuations. Cause we just don’t want anything to hang around that does not need to be there after its used. Kinda like reusing old engine oil that has lost its viscosity. Not good— can lead to excessive friction and heat.
I mentally know I am eating a healthy snack which does wonders for my confidence.
I am receiving a good source of Vitamin C with no sodium which helps to fight against hypertension.
I am receiving the naturally occurring flavonoids which help to contribute to the antioxidant properties which studies show to fight against certain cancers.

These reasons alone help me to know I am contributing positively to my fitness goals of getting lean, increasing my fiber intake, and building my overall fitness confidence.

Hope this personal experience encourages.

All statements are from my personal assessment and not intended to be medical advice for any situation.

Eat Smarter, Live Well!

Is it really about what you eat?? My hunch is that it is. If you care about your health and wellbeing eating the right thing is a must!

Hello there! Welcome back! As promised I want to share a bit about what my lifestyle entails. One of the things I have learned to accept with a positive outlook on life is the fact that we are what we eat. Before I go deep into this let us just look at what should be obvious to us today. Foods today are not what they were say in the early 1900’s. Our culture was one that lived on farms and grew most foods. Whether it was cattle, grain, or vegetable society mainly ate from the fruit of the land with very little manufactured processing. Consequently, most foods kept a majority of their nutritional value. This, in turn, helped mankind to consume a high concentration of foods with plenty of vitamins and minerals.

Fast forward to today, there are far fewer family-owned farms and most foods are processed. Advanced processes in agricultural technology have been the main cause; allowing for greater and quicker yields that are insect and disease resistant. As a result, food today appears to have lost a bit of the full nutritional value to be offered and replaced with fillers.

So with this, one has to eat smarter meaning they must educate themselves about what is consumed. Taking the time to do this will not only reward one with the self-satisfaction of doing well but also reaping the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Eat smarter and live well I say!

Personally, I’ve benefited from eating healthier! From feeling sluggish all the time with no energy to being alert and vibrant I attribute most of the change to eating healthier. This means eating less processed foods to consuming more organic-prepped based foods.

A quick way to gage this is just to look at the label. Are there ingredients on there you cannot pronounce? Hmmm? Far cry from just your plain descriptions.

Let me remind you though, that it has been a journey not always covered with rose petals. I have had to learn over time what promotes a healthy lifestyle and what works against it. This is what I stress. Do what fits you and promotes a healthy lifestyle so that you: