Break in the Blog

Well just on here to tell everyone that I will be having a break in the blogging for a while.  I have already lapse a bit since shifting and realized tonight that I really need to crack on and get my qualifications completed so that I can get this business up and running.

See you all in a couple of months.

All shifted

Well we are finally here - Yay!!!!! After a week of cleaning and still not completing the job everything is in the new place and out of the old.  It is great wandering around the garden, picking oranges while watching the kids exploring, climbing trees and running around.  

As I write this Himself is trying to light our first fire.  There are still mountains of jobs to do however the place is ours and we can do it in our own time.  Just happy to be in our own home again, with land, a view and close to nature.

Freedom?

"You can't separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom." Malcolm X

This quote is ringing particularly true for me at the moment as I struggle to be free from past demons and obtain peace of mind.  It just reminded me of the connection we have to everyone - even through generation and cultural gaps - and that everyone is more or less on the same path.  We are all obtaining peace my rid ourselves of something to obtain freedom in our lives.  Be it segregation, weight, prejudice, mental anguish, war, conflict,  poor health, or just negative people around us we are all on the same journey.

Roll on the 6th

Now that we are all signed and sealed with the new property we are just waiting to hand over the cash and to move in.  I know that moving day is at the end of the week and yet the motivation to actually pack anything ready to move is mysteriously absent.

With all our other moves I've begun sorting, clearing and packing weeks ahead of shifting so I'm at a bit of a loss as to why on this occasion I just can't be arsed - to put it nicely.  Maybe it is because unlike other moves we are still going to be in the same community so I haven't needed to do the cutting ties and moving on thing.  We are still actively going to playgroup and the International Women's Group I've formed has its first gathering this week.  There are just too many other good things happening to worry about stinky old packing!

Luckily being in a fully furnished rental there isn't that much to pack up and most of our stuff is overloading the garage already to go. I know I get there eventually -otherwise himself may feel its his duty to intervene - so for know I'll stay chilled, relaxed and calm. 

Useful Sites

I am one of those people who loves to record all the interesting books and websites I find - just in case I need them later.  I have a collection of bits of paper carefully noting all the addresses, titles and authors.  I thought that it may be a good idea to track them here as well, no the paper trail will not disappear, so that everyone can use them.  I will keep adding to this list as I find good sites.

http://www.emark.co.nz/
Meal plans and food calculators
http://www.organicpathways.co.nz/
Recipes, food outlets and news
http://www.rubbishfree.co.nz/
Blog with ideas to be rubbish free
www.fedupwithfoodadditives.info/information/additivesall.htm
Information on food additives
www.nzfloweressences.co.nz/index.html
New Zealand Flower Essences
www.alaskanessences.com/index.html
Alaskan Flower Essences
http://www.aumhimalaya.com/prodflow1.htm
Himalayan Essences
http://www.baileyessences.com/cgi-bin/atoz_bailey.pl?bailey
Bailey Essences
http://www.greenmanshop.co.uk/acatalog/Online_Catalogue_Tree_Essences_2.html
Tree Essences (Green Man Essences)
http://www.rainbowcrystal.com/bach/calif.html
Californian Flower Essences
http://www.ausflowers.com.au/shop/scdproducts.asp?catid=1
Australian Bush Essences
www.positivehealthsteps.com/
Calorie information
http://shtrainer.com/
free exercise an diet plans
http://www.bachcentre.com/
Bach Flower Remedies
http://www.wholehealthmd.com/ 
Information about food, nutrition and natural healing
http://www.chetday.com/
Natural Health articles
http://www.livingnutrition.com/
Ezine
http://www.eftuniverse.com/
Emotional Freedom Technique
http://www.bcominghealthy.com/
Free natural health consultations and information

Half full or half empty?

A wee while ago I put some extra effort into creating less rubbish in a bid to help the planet and our wallet.  Our council bags continue to increase in price so that they now supersede a box of beer! My efforts seem not to be coming to much as we are still having to put a new rubbish bag in the bin each week - well that's what I believed anyway.

Himself normally prepares the recycling and rubbish ready to take down the drive and to be honest I try and avoid any contact while he is in the midst of preparations least I'm asked to help!  Last night however himself was busy earning a bit more cash to get those beers and rubbish bags so I decided I would do the wifely thing and organize the rubbish.  When I got to the rubbish bag replacement part low and behold the bag was  half empty.  Yay!!! I cried to myself finally my efforts are working.  Although I couldn't quite work out why this week was any different.

Upon arriving home I did a little investigating with himself.  'Yeah it's normally like that' he says nonchalantly, 'it's almost full so I just put it out.'  This week the half full/half empty bag has stayed put to see if we can get two weeks out of it.  Hmmmmm

20 Super Foods

Here is a list of 20 great antioxident foods that help fight disease and keep your body fighting fit.

1. Asparagus

Cousin of the yellow onion asparagus is a valuable source of antioxidants Vitamin C, bioflavonoid rutin and beta carotene. High in folate it is good for lowering the risk of birth defects, colon and cervical cancer. It is a good detoxifier and immune builder as well as reducing fatigue.

2. Beets
Having edible roots and leaves beets are a good brain and anti-fatigue food rich in beta carotene and betaine. Beets have been used for centuries medicinally and as part of many staple diets. Containing calcium, potassium, iron and vitamins A and C they are also valuable to a healthy heart.

3. Berries
While there are many to choose from all berries are a wonderful cool down food. Blueberries are a powerful bacteria fighter against infections of the urinary tract and kidneys as are cranberries. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C as well as 20 different anti-aging trace minerals and cancer fighting flavonoids.

4. Carrots
Related to parsnip and celery, carrots provide more protein, calcium, iron and vitamins A, C and B than most other vegetables. They contain cancer fighting flavonoid antioxidants, and are the second highest source of pro-vitamin A beta carotene. Carrots are great for colds, diarrhoea (as soup or juice) and arthritis.

5. Cabbage
Rich in two antioxidants sulfaphane and the flavonoids complex, cabbage offers more anticancer benefits than any other vegetable family. It is one of the top 5 sources of vegetable fibre to help reduce cholesterol, risks of coronary artery disease and preventing blood clotting. Cabbage juice is also a powerful healer.

6. Celery
Celery has been used medicinally for centuries, having a reputation of a laxative, diuretic, gallstone nostrum and an antibacterial agent. It contains Vitamin C, B complex, phosphorus, sodium, potassium and more fibre than parsnips. Celery’s crunch has stress reductive properties and it is also a great body balancer after overindulgence.

7. Garlic
With over 100 healing ingredients, garlic is a natural antibacterial and antifungal plant which contains vitamin A, B and C, calcium, potassium, iron, antioxidants, carotenes, germanium, selenium, and garlic’s all important sulphurous compounds. Garlic helps to restore metabolic equilibrium, blocking free radicals, which weaken immune systems, helping to prevent disease.

8. Ginger
Ginger provides more protein than green beans and is rich in Vitamin A, calcium, iron phosphorus, potassium and riboflavin. It has been used for centuries medicinally for nausea, indigestion and as a poison antidote. Ginger also is an effective antibacterial killing salmonella and inhibiting the fungi that produces a carcinogen.

9. Grapes
Enjoyed fresh, as a juice or dried as raisins, grapes are a good source of fibre, potassium and Vitamins A, B and C. Both dried and fresh grapes have been used in healing dyspepsia, liver and kidney disorders, tuberculosis, haemorrhoids and venous disorders due to their flavonoid antioxidants.

10. Kiwifruit
Originating in China, Kiwifruit is a rich source of Vitamin C (120% of your daily quota) fibre, magnesium, and potassium. Kiwifruit in your diet can help in lowering cholesterol, maintaining stronger arteries and protecting skeletal growth and repair. The high vitamin C content in kiwifruit also aids in oral care.

11. Lemons
One of the top seven sources of potassium lemons are good for promoting clear thinking. An excellent source of Vitamin C, one tablespoon is one tenth of the daily requirement; Lemons have been used as a remedy against scurvy. It is a natural cleanser and therapy for treating fever.

12. Nectarines
Rich in beta carotene, Vitamin A, potassium and magnesium, nectarines are a great heath giving and tasting fruit. They can help with lowered immunity, kidney stones, poor vision and protection against pollution. Nectarines also contain 12% of your RDA of ascorbic acid and can be used cooked or fresh.

13. Nuts
Nuts are a rich source of antioxidants selenium and the polyphenols, which assist in preventing cancer. They are rich in protein, topping cheese, milk and eggs depending on the variety. Nuts provide high levels of Essential Fatty Acids which the body needs for energy and a healthy heart.

14. Onions
Coming from the same Allium family as garlic, onions share many of the same healing qualities. They have been used for centuries medicinally helping with tuberculosis, coughs, hypertension and cancer as well as in beauty recipes for the hair. Onions provide beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamins B1, B2 and Vitamin C.

15. Oranges
Oranges have long been used to improve people’s health. Rich in Vitamin C, bioflavonoids, phenolic acids and fibre oranges are good for preventing free radical damage and neutralizing carcinogens as well as stabilizing blood cholesterol and treating respiratory disorders. Oranges also make a good alcohol-free germicidal gargle and mouthwash.

16. Parsley
Parsley has long enjoyed a reputation as a healing and sacred herb. Containing Vitamin A, folate, chlorophyll (an age slowing nutrient) Vitamin C and antioxidants; courmarins, flavonoids, monoterpene and polyacetylene, it can assist in iron deficiencies, strengthening immune systems, stomach disorders, rheumatism and act as an anti PMS aid.

17. Peppers
Having between 150 – 200 varieties, peppers belong to the nightshade family. They are effective painkillers when used in the form as capsaicin cream for the treatment of a variety of illnesses. Peppers are source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, folate, Vitamin A, phosphorous, iron, sodium, magnesium and silicon.

18. Rice
Unrefined Rice is an excellent source of nutrients such as B-complex vitamins, iron and calcium. Rice also contains high levels of protease inhibitors which help prevent or retard the growth of tumours. It has been used medicinally for centuries to treat infant diarrhoea, rehydrating the body and bulking stool volume.

19. Soybeans
Soybeans are packed full of nutrients which makes them valuable in helping reduce cholesterol levels, cancer-proof the body, act as a natural appetite suppressant and an antidepressant. Prepared in various ways soybeans contain more potassium and iron than milk, Vitamins A and E, Vitamin C, zinc, calcium, protein and B12.

20. Tomatoes
One of the richest known sources of lycopene, an anticancer antioxidant; tomatoes are a good way to cancer proof your body and boost your health. Tomatoes contain Vitamin C, Vitamin A antioxidants P-coumaric, 2-phenol and cholorogenic acid. They are natural healers for kidney disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, hypoglycaemia and diarrhoea.

Thought for the day

Thought for the Day:

"When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all of your thoughts break their bonds: your mind transcends limitations, your consciousness expands in every direction and you find yourself in a new, great and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive and you discover yourself to be a greater person than you ever dreamed yourself to be." Patanjali - Indian Philosopher

Kapiti International Women's Group

Well I have finally taken the bull by the horns and organized a place for the Kapiti International Women's Group to meet.  That is when we get the group established!

I have written before about belonging to an International Women's Group in Lichfield, England and just how valuable I found it.  Thinking about it more and after a few phone calls I realized that there is a need here that is currently not being fulfilled by any groups.  I have asked a few 'International' women that I know and they are all keen so fingers crossed we can get it up and running.  I have booked a room with the Kapiti Women's Centre for every second week and am looking forward to our first meeting on 5th August 2010.

Now comes the tricky part - promoting it!! I have made up a flyer and will be busy over the next few weeks giving this out so that the first meeting has more than me and the kids there.  Local groups that I have spoken to are all very supportive so hopefully the word will get around.  It is very exciting and unlike anything I have ever done.  It is all part of me becoming the person I want to be though - taking action and following through on ideas.

Another break through

Well I went to my EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) session last night and can already feel a difference.  It is amazing how just saying things out loud and 'tapping' on body parts can actually make things connect, make sense and clear out. 

My main focus was my overeating to cope with emotions brought up from childhood abuse.  Even during the session I was thinking about eating!!!  Eating is one of those things that I do whatever the emotion, it makes me feel occupied and happy while pushing down the upsetting issues that I really need to deal with.  The after effects however are miserable as I feel disgusted at my excess and physically unwell.  Today, while I have overeaten a little, I have felt far more in control of my eating along with noticing the lack of the nagging voice that talks about the food constantly.

Normally I am thinking about the next meal before I have consumed the first - never satisfied  with what I have!  I just want to eat 'normally' what ever that means, with food providing energy rather than zapping my energy due to emotional, spiritual and physical overload.   I think that EFT may just help me along that path. Check it out for yourself  http://www.eftuniverse.com/

It's the little things that count

Taken from New Idea Health Page http://nz.lifestyle.yahoo.com/new-idea/health/article/-/7568217/60-second-weight-loss-secrets/

Losing weight doesn't have to be complicated. It's often the small, quick things you do that can make a difference to your weight and shape. Here, diet and fitness experts share their fast – but effective – weight-loss secrets.


1. Go disco
Put on some energetic dance music in the morning to get you in a move-faster mindset. 'Often we get out of bed and we drag ourselves to the bathroom and to the kitchen and we feel slow,' says psychologist Meredith Fuller. 'If you're woken by fast music while you get ready, you can't help but move faster – that effect can last all day.' And anything that gets you moving, and moving faster, helps to burn fat.
2. Stand up for yourself
Can you take that phone call standing up rather than sitting at your desk? Could you read that report on your feet? 'Standing recruits more muscles than sitting, so you burn more fuel or fat standing,' says Leigh Brown, an exercise physiologist at RMIT University School of Medical Sciences in Melbourne. 'Try and stand up as often as possible and at least stand up and walk for a few minutes for every hour or two that you sit at work. It will help your posture, too.'
3. Prepare ahead
If you've got a big day at work tomorrow, or if you know you're going to be on the run for most of the day, prepare healthy snacks and a nutritious lunch to take with you – you will easily save about 1255kJ a day this way. Also, keep some nuts in your handbag to snack on – they're brain food!
4. Take the stairs
It's an obvious but quick and effective way to lose around 2.7kg a year. Take the stairs instead of the lift as often as you can. Walking up two flights a day is the equivalent of that 2.7kg weight-loss, says registered dietitian Areli Hermanson.
5. Cut down on sugar
If you have two teaspoons of sugar in your latte every morning, try having just one. If you halve your daily sugar intake you can easily save yourself about 420kJ a day – which will equate to around 4.5kg of lost body fat a year. And the more sugar you consume, the more you crave it. So break that sugar cycle today.
6. Get some fresh air
Do you really need to eat that muffin mid-afternoon or would some kilojoules-free fresh air be enough? 'Often we binge on comfort food when we're tired,' says psychologist Meredith Fuller. 'Sometimes all we need is some oxygen in our body.' So during that slump, open a window or go outside and breathe in some fresh air.
7. Go round the outside
'When you go to the supermarket, always remember to go “round the outside, round the outside,”' says Scott Williams of Succeed Personal Development in Canberra. 'All the food we don't need is situated in the middle aisles – and all the good food we should be eating to help with weight loss is, as the Malcolm McLaren [Buffalo Gals] song goes, “round the outside”.'
8. Push yourself
Increase the intensity of your gym workout and do it in less time. This will help you to burn fat and lose weight faster. 'Do multiple exercises without resting in between to elevate your heart rate,' says trainer Scott Williams. 'This will speed up your metabolism over the rest of the day, which means you'll burn more body fat when you're resting, too.'
9. Get the picture
'Stick a photograph of yourself at your stunning best in the kitchen – either in the pantry or on the fridge,' says psychologist Meredith Fuller. 'It might be a picture of you in your 20s or 30s, as a teenager, or on your wedding day.' Keep that photo visible to help motivate you to lose weight during moments of weakness or when you feel a bit discouraged.
10. Read the fine print
Take 60 seconds to read the wrapper before you eat something,' says trainer Scott Williams. 'At a quick glance that chocolate bar, bottle of juice, bag of chips or nuts appear to contain 920kJ. But a closer look might show those products provide two or more servings, which more than doubles those kilojoules.'

Winter Sun

One of the great things about being at home is enjoying the classic kiwi winter days of a hard frost followed by a clear blue sky and sunshine.  I just love these days - cold as they may be to start the body motor cranking!  There are few things better than hanging the washing out on a crisp clear morning and knowing that you have the whole day of sunshine ahead.

Today we headed out to the park for a swing and climb on the juggle-gym before exploring through the native bush reserve that adjoins it.  The kids loved traipsing over the bridges and looking into the rivers and trees for any animals. They were both worn out at the end and asleep before lunch.  Gotta love being home!

Ice cream treats

Part of us becoming sustainable, organic and healthier in general is making more stuff myself so that we know exactly what is in it.  It is a slow ongoing process of finding a new item that I can make easily with a few simple ingredients to replace what we normally buy.  First it was the bread then the muesli bars, biscuits, houmous and now my latest is ICE CREAM.

After watching a programme the other night on Italy and the fantastic gelato they have there himself very kindly suggested that I could do that for us.  He is so thoughtful - really!  Anyway after a bit of face contortion I actually looked in the good old Edmond's cookbook where I found to my surprise a simple recipe to bring homemade Ice cream into our home.   I had always thought that you needed to be taking it in and out of the freezer to create the correct texture, this recipe though is the kind I like - mix it all up and shove it in a container. 

It takes about 2-3 hours to freeze and low and behold delicious creamy ice cream without any of the additives.  Definitely one that I will repeat and one that you too could try (see below for recipe).  Can't wait to try it with our own fresh eggs!

Homemade Ice Cream

4 eggs
1/4 cup Castor sugar
1/4 cup Castor sugar
300ml cream
1tsp vanilla essence

Beat egg whites till stiff then add first measure of the sugar 1 tablespoon at a time until dissolved.  In another bowl beat the yolks and second measure of sugar till it is thick and pale yellow then add vanilla essence.  Fold yolks and white together.  In a third bowl whip the cream.  Fold into the egg mixture.  Put in container and freeze for 2 hours or until firm. Enjoy

Starting the business

Ever since I began my study a few years ago I've thought I would come home and practice naturopathy. I'd also have a few 'granny' flats that people could stay on, all of which would be organic and sustainable.  After going to see a woman from Business Network the other day I am suddenly doubting whether any of it is possible or worth while.

I know for a profitable and good business you need to have a specific market in mind, you need to find your niche and market well to get the customers coming in.  All of this felt fine until I was suddenly faced with the fact that I would have to organise all of it and actually DO something. The main concern is that the market for natural therapist feels a bit flooded as loads of people have come to this area for the same thing I have.

 It was a good eye opener and good motivator.  It has made me realise that I actually need to have more organized, written down and in place before I even begin to start my actual business.  One positive was that she seemed impressed that I had a website and business cards organized!  I think the plan for now(without any start-up capital) is to finish the study, write and business plan and keep handing out my cards for the odd free consultation.

Additives

I have made a bid to make our diet as natural as possible and slowly but surely we are moving there.  We now have organic homemade bread and organic homemade houmous.  Our potatoes are also organic, very delicious too I must say, all within our tight budget.  I have just achieved 7 full cloth nappy days and our rubbish is slowly reducing without the use of glad wrap and the like.

However the other day it suddenly struck me that I am more than a little blazé about the E numbers that lurk in the small print of all those products we buy.  I decided to do a little research into the ingredients of the custard I was about to make for the kids and was horrified to learn that it included E102, a yellow food colouring, which is linked to hyper-activity, itching and hives.  The more I read the sides of things in our fridge and cupboard the more I found E-numbers that had some kind of controversy surrounding them.

I'm interested what effect the lack of these E's with have on the kids health and behaviour not to mention mine.  I aim to cut as many out as possible by selecting wisely and making more myself. If nothing else at least my grandmother with now recognise everything we are eating!  Check out what some of the E-numbers are and which should be avoided on; http://www.fedupwithfoodadditives.info/information/additivesall.htm

We have a home!

Finally contracts have been signed!!!! Yay we have somewhere to focus on.  It should all go un-conditional this month and exchange early next month.  Can't wait to get into the garden, get some chickens and get the kids some play gear up along with getting all our stuff out of the boxes of course.  Being kind of rural and close to the river and sea I'm looking forward to taking another step forward to the organic and sustainable lifestyle I dream about.

EFT

Lately my good starts to each day are self-sabotaged by bad decisions regarding food in the afternoon or evenings.  My guilt over this then causes me to feel emotional and temperamental.  I am planning to deal with a few issues, the root of the self-sabotage behaviour, with a therapy called EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) and am hoping for a break through.

I have tried this therapy before when I was planning a home birth and had a lot of fear around tearing my perineum.  It worked wonderfully and everything stayed intact for that birth and the next.  I really need something to clear all this emotional crap as I constantly feel on the edge of a massive black hole - one minute stumbling in and the next find a nook to hold on to. 

Check out the website for more information, free articles and a free guide as to how to preform this yourself, http://www.eftuniverse.com/ , and I'll keep you updated as to how it is going for me.

New Record

Completed my 10 km race today and I am so so so happy with my results!!  58.12 mins.  This is a personal best and it felt really good running it, which just goes to show that I can up my pace quite easily.  I am really proud of myself for preparing and running such a good race.  Now I am tied though so it is a shower, no I haven't had one yet as I was showered on for the whole run, and off to bed.

Sugar coated facts to chew on

Found this interesting article in an old edition of 'Her Business' Issue 58 July 2005.  It all makes good sense no matter how delicious the stuff is - and how hard it is to give up!

1. One can of Coke raises blood sugar to five times its normal level for four hours.
2. The indigestibiity of sucrose means the initial buzz you feel on chugging that coke down is simply the 'fight or flight' adrenal reaction of the body.
3. Sucrose blocks digestion 'tricks' the body into accommodating ever-higher levels of contaminants and sticks to proteins like meat, forming new complexes that enzymes can't break down.
4. Sucrose destroys the 'good' bacteria (flora) in the intestinal tract producing a half-digested carbohydrate mass that seeps into the bloodstream, causing problems in joints, muscles and organs.
5. Sucrose disrupts the alignment between phosphorus and calcium, which can lead to osteoporosis, and permits calcium to solidify in the organs in the form of gall, liver and kidney stones.
6. Sucrose is also a factor in asthma because undigested sugar can lodge in the bronchioles of the lungs.
7. Sucrose depletes muscle mass because the body's elimination attempts use up valuable calcium, magnesium, and chromium.
8. Drugs, in the form of synthetic insulin have never cured anyone of diabetes: the only way to reverse adult onset diabetes - the most common type - is giving up all sucrose, alcohol included.
9. Alcohol places an enormous strain on the body because it's essentially refined sugar; bypassing the digestive system altogether, it's absorbed immediately into the bloodstream and speeds up the ageing process.
10. And finally, lest you thought is was safe to crack open the sugar substitute, consider this: two of the three core molecules that make up aspartame - the #1 food and beverage additive in the world - are aspartic acid, a major neurotoxin linked to a variety of neurological disorders and methanol (wood alcohol) which converts to formaldehyde in the body!

Food rules

Not that I advocate the use of strict rules when it comes to nutrition these 6 'ideas' are definitely worth thinking about and incorporating into a healthy lifestyle.

Taken from 'New Zealand Women's Health' April 2010

1. Don't eat anything your great grandma wouldn't recognise.   Go back to basics with simple food.
2. Avoid foods containing ingredients you wouldn't keep in the pantry. 
3. Eat only food that will eventually rot, i.e. unprocessed food.
4. Treat meat as food for a special occasion. This with help your wallet and your health.
5. Eat sweet foods as you find them in nature.  Whole fruit rather than juices are best.
6. Eat all the junk food you want as long as you cook it yourself.  Find good recipes and bear in mind the 5 previous ideas.

Almost there?

Well we've just gone back with another offer on one of the properties that we're interested in.  Fingers crossed once again!! We've started collecting for the new place - wherever that may be - and just had a massive donation from a sister that is moving house.

It is amazing how someone else's unwanted gear can be my new treasure.  Her boxes are filled with all sorts of stuff we need and I want.  We also got a great table and chairs on Trade-me which I am lovingly cleaning and sanding.  It is great!!!  A real rustic large farm one that seats 6-8.  Every time I look at it I can't believe that we got it and the chairs for $40

The garage is getting fuller and fuller with pianos, linen, pots, couches, fridges and numerous other goodies that I've yet to sort through.  Now we just need the house to put them in!

Silence is golden

When we first begun Steiner I remember reading that they didn't encourage t.v, computer games or recorded music. Agreeing whole-heartedly with the first two I had to ponder a little on the third.  What was so wrong with recorded music?  Surely it was OK to let children hear music - especially classical - and let it enrich their world.

I often think about this and it wasn't until the other day that I realized its value.  Always being one to have the radio or music on as background noise I've often noticed that there have been times it has been a distraction to what we are doing however I never changed my habits as I was never challenged.  Lately our house has been absent of radio or recorded noise though just to see what it was like.  At first it just felt strange then, as most things, the more it occurred the more normal it felt.  We have been playing more guitar, other instruments and singing songs with ease and without distractions.  We are now able to break into song or have a conversation at a quite volume without completing with a conflicting tune or presenters talking. The kids have been singing more to themselves or maybe I able just able to hear them more because they create the atmosphere rather than others outside of our home.

I can see that kids viewing who is making the music is far better than recorded.  It encourages them to try playing instruments and sing as their role models do.  The added benefit is that they are only listening to what is appropriate for their age group, there are no surprises that suddenly pop up.  All this said though the benefits of recorded music are in the ability to dance freely and enjoy moving, exploring space which is exactly what we all did this morning to some good old NZ pop.

Cutting back to get ahead

Well as the title says I'm cutting back.  Cutting back on blogging to get ahead in studies that is.  I've decided that every second night, my bath night's for the kids, will be my blogging night and the other, Himself's turn to bath the kids, will be when I get some study done.

I really have been procrastinating over my study and feeling a bit guilty.  Finding time when the kids aren't around or I'm not spending time with Liam is becoming increasingly difficult, especially with the house hunt going on.  I'm hoping that this plan will at least get my moving.  

I love the study and really look forward to the time that I will have my business running which means that I need to get the paperwork part completed.  Bcoming Healthy, the business,  is a long slow journey as is me becoming healthier mentally, spiritually and physically.  It is a journey I am thoroughly enjoying though no matter the pace.

Learning Gems

Seemingly out of no where our eldest began a science experiment into water levels today, comparing her drink to her brother's before and after having a drink, estimating whether it would be more or less than his after either of them had a drink.  It was fantastic to see!

Since beginning our Steiner playgroup, where they have glasses and water poured from a jug, both kids have wanted to continue this at home.  We managed to find a wee glass jug that just fits enough in for their two glasses and that the oldest can carry.  I've been impressed by the way that the youngest has managed drinking from a 'proper' glass and the way the eldest has been pouring the water at each meal time. 

Today was such a wonderful moment for me as a parent and as a teacher.  Seeing a child interested and eager to experiment was so good that it actually gave me hope for home schooling in the future.  I can well imagine that the rewards of seeing this kind of intrigue, even if it is only every now and again, would make it well worth any of the off days.  Food for thought.

Bend it, shape it

I love doing crafts with our kids, they always amaze me at how they can play for ages squashing and shaping play dough, painstakingly cutting till their hearts content or drawing over and over again.  The other week I wanted to try something a little different and found a great recipe for modelling clay.  The kids and I had a great time making little people, mice, letters and beads to bake in the oven.  Once the baking was over we all painted them and now they are presented beautifully on our shelf.  It was such a success that I'm thinking about creating Christmas presents with another batch in the form of decorations. 

Modelling Clay

1 Cup of salt
1 Cup of boiling water
2 Cup of Plain White flour

1. Slowly stir the salt into the boiling water until it dissolves.
2. Add Flour.
3. Knead on a work surface until smooth.  Add more flour if required.
4. Shape into what ever you wish.
5. Bake at 100 degrees Celsius for up to 2 hours (depending on thickness) or Microwave on high for 1 or 2 minutes. 
6. Apply paint, then protect and shine with a coat of clear nail polish or varnish.

Destressers

Sometimes life just gets on top of us and before you know it you're stress or at the very least uptight.  Try these little beauties to remove some of that stress.

1. Get moving.  Exercise is proven to help relieve stress and other negative emotions such as depression.  Any kind of movement is good so pick one that you love.
2. Have a laugh.  Laughing creates a euphoric effect that will instantly release any tension you have.
3. Count to 10.  Taking deep breathes and a wee bit of time out is an age old classic that costs nothing and is very effective.
4. Meditate.  Even 5 mins a day of meditation will help stress levels. This doesn't have to be a big deal just find a quite spot,  look downwards and with unfocused eyes clear your mind of as much as you can.
5. Essential oils.  Lavender is the most popular relaxant but there are plenty others to try.
6. Stretch.  A good stretch out can help with the physical symptoms of stress.  Try a class of yoga or even a basic stretch at your desk.
7. Flower remedies.  These can target the source of your negative emotions helping to increase the positive.

The waiting game

Well one tender has closed and while we were the only interested party and the vendor has not accepted our offer he hasn't refused it either!!??  Right now he appears to be AWOL so the wait continues. Mean while thinking that we were not going to our second first choice we have rung the agent about our second choice to put an offer in.

Trouble is without the vendor actually refusing our offer and the agent unable to contact him we are in limbo a wee bit.  The plan now is to sit tight on the contracts for our second choice until next week and then make an offer.  Fingers crossed we know by then!

Fruit

Thought this e-mail summed up this point just as well as I would so did a bit of cut and paste here.  ;)

We all think that eating fruit means just buying fruit, cutting it and popping it into our mouths. It's not as easy as you think. It's important to know how and when to eat. What is the correct way of eating fruit?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUIT AFTER YOUR MEALS! FRUIT SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities. FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD.

Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so. In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil....

So please eat your fruit on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining — every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc — actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Greying hair, balding, nervous outbursts, and dark circles under the eyes - all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing that some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from cans. Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI
Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fibre. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

APPLE
An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY
Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood-vessel clogging free radicals.

ORANGE
Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessening the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON
Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene — the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA
Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content.. Guava is also rich in fibre, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.

Simplicity

It has really hit home today that less is definitely more.  I've noticed that the weeks where we are less busy, relaxing at home and with family are usually the most settled times for our kids.  They just seem to to be 'better' when we are at home doing things around the house with me spending quality time with them rather than rushing around.

We were talking at Steiner Play group about sensory overload and how it contributes to the occurrence of ADHD and other behaviour disorders.  Recent studies suggest that the more T.V. children watch the more likely they are to have one of these disorders or to move up the Austic spectrum.  The reason for this is the fast based nature of t.v with its constant 'changes' in order to keep the viewer hooked.  This pace is not matched by real life and so children, and adults, constantly feel that there is not enough to simulate them and hence create their own stimulation. 

I had already noticed the difference in the way our two play since stopping Play centre, where there are at least 16 areas of play out each session.  They are know much happier to play with things for longer and really get into whatever they are doing.  They also play much more with each other as we are home more often and the playgroup we do go to is small so they have to interact with each other. 

I constantly go between wanting just the basics for our kids (minimal living so that their imaginations have space to grow) and guilty feelings over the possibility that I am depriving them of all the things other kids have.  Reality is that most kids in the world have less that what ours have and at the end of the day it is about the atmosphere they grow up in, not the toys, that matters.  For us we prefer life without t.v, close to nature and together as a family.

Knit one, Purl one

As you can guess by the title I've ventured to find the knitting needles and get them click, clacking away.  I confess that I actually enjoy knitting, and any other handcraft for that matter, even though it seems a bit of a Nana thing to do.  There is nothing quite so rewarding as watching an item grow from your own handy work and then see it worn by others. 

I'm definitely not the world's greatest knitter, in fact I'm no where near that, as my skills pretty much extend to 'peggy squares' and any other item that doesn't require shaping i.e. scarfs.  I remember once as a teenager knitting a jersey with the help of my mum and feeling so proud that I had completed all the pieces.  'Man this isn't as hard as it looks' I confidently stated.  My confidence soon abandoned me though as I began to sew the said pieces together.  One arm was long and loose fitting, the other short and tight.  The front with obvious missed stitches and the back, well actually the back was pretty damn perfect!!  Anyway that was the end of my knitting until 2 years ago.

My latest project is a scarf for my youngest, the eldest got one last year, and so far so good.  I have decided that after this I will actually attempt a jersey again although this time it will  be a kid's one and the most basic pattern I can find.  Being a big fan of hand crafts and with the experience of 20 plus years since my last knitting escapade I know I've got a lot more patience to see the project through till the end and with a good end at that.

Arohanui
Y
www.becominghealthy.co.nz

Valuable Vinegar

A few weeks ago my Mum gave me a book 'Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary things' which has fantastic tips for both saving the dosh and the planet.  After deciding to put more effort into creating the life I want i.e. more sustainable, less waste, back to basics, as natural and organic as possible I've browsed this book with great interest.  My most recent decision is to start making my own cleaning products and found that vinegar and baking soda are the key ingredients.  White Vinegar has so many uses (180 at least) that I just couldn't resist sharing some of them here.

Vinegar around the house:

Get rid of smoke smells, and other strong odors, by placing a shallow bowl, about 3/4 full,  of white or cider vinegar in the room where the scent is the strongest and the smell should be gone in a day.

Unclog and deodorise drains with a combination of vinegar and baking soda.  Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of vinegar down drain and when the foaming subsides flush with hot tap water.  Wait 5 mins then flush with cold water.

Erase ballpoint pen marks by wiping them  off with a sponge and full strength vinegar.

Remove carpet stains with a mixture of 2 tablespoons of salt dissolved in 1/2 cup of white vinegar rubbed into the stain.  Leave to dry and then vacuum.

Disinfect chopping boards by spraying with undiluted white vinegar after each use.

Get rid of ants by pouring equal parts of water and vinegar into a spray bottle and spraying around areas you see ants. 

Clean windows with a mixture of water and vinegar in a spray bottle.  For best results wipe of with newspaper.

Have a go!

Stink!!!!

Well we missed out on our top pick - STINK!!!!  We are a bit gutted to say the least but we were beaten by nearly $100,000 so there is no way that we were even in the running.  I'm a big believer in things  happening for a reason so obviously this just wasn't the right place for us.  Onwards and upwards to the next possibility.

Fingers crossed

Well we have finally submitted a tender on a property!!  After 4 months of searching each weekend we have found a place that we like, and can imagine ourselves in, within our price range.  It is a very nerve wrecking experience - finding out all the information, assessing how much we could spend, working out how much we actually want the property and there for how much we are willing to pay, filling out all the documents, getting the deposit cheque and now waiting till the tender closes to see if we have it.

It is a good size property so we have great plans for it.  It would be an awesome in between step from residential living to lifestyle block.  Ultimately we want to get a few acres but for now half an acre in the 'burbs' would be great.  We have done a bit of WWOOFing in our time so we're keen to get into this again, only as a host this time.  Checking out the requirements it isn't something that we can do straight away, more of a down the road plan once we have extra accommodation set up and know what we are doing.  I love this stage though - endless planning without any of the restrictions.  My trouble is the action after the plan.  Luckily this is where himself comes in as he is great with just getting on with things.

The budget will definitely be tight, that is half the fun.  Working out how we can create what we want on a shoestring, recycling were possible, getting our hands dirty and seeing our dreams become reality.  Anyway before I get too excited about the whole thing we have to win the tender!! Fingers crossed that after 3pm tomorrow it is ours.

Internal workings

Today we ventured out early without breakfast in order to get a scan for my oldest after she has be complaining of and waking up with abdominal pain.  It was all fairly painless, except for the gnawing feeling in our tummies, and was interesting having a reminder of where all the organs are.

After a discussion with family about all the abdominal complaints they have suffered from and more to create a list for myself I thought I'd outline the purpose of some main organs.  Remember though this is a very basic and incomplete outline.

Appendix - aids in immune system, stores useful bacteria for colon
Gall Bladder - aids digestion and stores bile produced by the liver. 
Heart - pumps blood around the body
Intestines - absorbs nutrients and water.  Breaks down molecules that body has not been able to
Kidneys - filter for blood, removes wastes, part of urinary system, important in balancing blood pressure
Liver - vital organ which amongst other things detoxifies, synthesises proteins and produces bio-chemicals for digestion
Lungs - transport oxygen into the blood stream and release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Pancreas - creates important hormones such as insulin and digestive enzymes.
Spleen - important part of immune system, removes old red blood cells, recycles iron in the body

Back in the swing

Finally got myself out of bed in time to have a morning run and it felt great.  The weather has been so horrible lately that I haven't had the courage to venture out in the rain.  My 10km race is only 3.5 weeks away now and while I am running that distance each weekend the lack of weekday runs is taking its toll.

It is amazing how starting the day with a run makes me more motivated to do other things during the day and today was a good example.  Not only did the kids and I entertain guests, make bread, soup, sausage rolls and pizza bread we also finally collected the Playcentre guitar.  It felt like such a productive day that even the rain couldn't dampen it.  The muesli bars are in the cupboard, the nappies on the line (the rain will add to absorbency) and I've only had only coffee - truly a day of miracles.

As himself mends the guitar, we got another more loved one than the one I was using, I am looking forward to finishing my book and having a delicious liquorice tea.  Life is good!

Freecycling

After 4 months of still receiving e-mails from my Freecycle group in England, and deleting them constantly, I have finally joined the local Freecycle group.  Yay!  Better than that is the fact that I have already collected a treadmill off there, a much needed item with all the rain we've had.

Freecycle is a Yahoo group which allows people to offer and receive goods for free.  It not only keeps usable items out of the landfill, it helps reduce the amount of resources used in the world by recycling items with plenty of use left in them.  I am a huge fan, both with its reason for being and the fact I get great things for free.

I'm a big believer of using things for as long as possible.  I would create a bag out of an old pair of jeans, doll's clothes out of ripped items or even create a patchwork quilt before things are deemed ready for the dump.  That's why I love Freecycle, and second hand shops, so much.  Just looking for funky items and bargains, things that I can use to make something is great fun and much more enjoyable than shopping for new items.

Check out your local Freecycle or create a group of your own.  You never know what is out there! http://www.freecycle.org/search

Body Beautiful

Found this in Good, issue 12, page 45.  'Kate's top ten tips for natural beauty'.

1  Moisturize
2. Exfoliate
3 Cleanse your skin daily
4. Exercise daily
5. Get enough water
6. Go easy on alcohol and coffee
7. Use face masks
8. Use natural products
9. Smile
10. Eat for beauty

Zero waste?

In the UK, with a greater population and more competition, organic food was easily accessible and reasonably priced.  We were able to have 90 % organic products in our cupboards while still maintaining the monthly budget.  My ideal is to become at least 90% organic again however our budget is tight at the moment with saving for a house and the price of organic goods in NZ is high.  I have decided then to focus on another plan - try and create a little less waste in our lives and at the same time a little more money. 

Rubbish bags in our area are expensive and small.  At the moment, even with recycling, composting and cloth nappies, we still manage to fill a bag a week.  Most of this is packaging and other non-compostable food scraps.  The foods scraps will have to wait till we get some chickens, the packaging on the other hand is in my line of fire. I have two steps in mind at the moment. My first step is to start making muesli bars for himself and ourselves, this will reduce between 6-12 plastic wrappers from the rubbish.  The second is to buy some more cloth nappies so that I have enough for the week, currently we are 5 days on and 2 off due to shortages and drying times. 

I'm hoping that these two steps will make a big difference both to the amount of waste we create and to the amount of money we are forking out for bags every 5 weeks.  Every little bit helps in the end.

Life Coaching

When I first chose to complete a Life Coaching course it was as an easy option that would earn me a bit of money while continuing with my 'real' study.  How wrong I was to think that all Life Coaching entailed was to tell other what to do with their lives!

Life Coaching is like being a personal trainer where you assist your client to create the life they want through their own hard work.  A Life Coach helps get your thinking into shape, making it more positive, enabling you to cope with whatever life brings you. Life Coaching aims to move you forward to a point where you are confident and happy to 'go it alone'. It is not intended as a never ending appointment which leaves you with a never ending expense.

A Life Coach is someone who helps you to achieve all those goals and dreams you have. They specialize in bringing out the power and skills already inside you so that you are more focused and proactive.  Through good questioning and SMART goal setting clients can achieve the life they dreamed of or at least move a bit further towards it.

I've only just started to try out all the techniques and skills I have learnt through having a few free clients.  It is a very empowering process which I am enjoying practicing on myself too.  It isn't always as easy as it seems and then again it isn't half as hard as having no direction or goal at all.

Planting out

I've never really been a keen or good gardener,  I create desert effects very well though!!  I really enjoy doing clearing gardening, where you can see instant results of the effort you've put in and not so hot on the day to day maintenance kind.  However as age increases so does my interest in creating my own garden. Part of it is probably just having my own garden to tend rather than helping Mum with hers, a chore that I had to partake in, and part is wanting to have an edible garden with natives to have native birds around. 

Today I took the biggest step forward in my gardening career - I actually planted some seeds!!  This is the first time I have tried to propagate my own plants, grass head men excluded, and it felt wonderful.  The kids and I collected some Kowhai seeds from around our house for growing and planting in our new home, where ever and when ever that may be.  After a little research on how to do it we now have 12 seeds planted in an old egg carton - recycling at work - with some homemade compost and a small collection on wet paper sheets.  Making an experiment out of how the two groups go will keep me focused on actually checking them and caring for them.  I have also placed them in a prominent spot so that they are not forgotten.

The thought of one day telling people that the trees planted on our property are ones that we collect, planted and cared for is very exciting.  I'll keep you all posted on their progress.

Nature's First Aid

A wee while ago I decided to clear out all of the allopathic medicines from my first aid box, I hardly ever used them so thought it was a bit pointless to hold onto them.  I have slowly been building up a more natural and holistic first aid kit.  I saw an article in 'Good' magazine, issue 12, which outlined a natural first aid kit (most of which I had in mine - Yay!) which has prompted me to put it on here.

Arnica - this can be in cream or pill form and is great for decreasing bruising and pain after all those bumps and falls that kids seem to have.

Chamomilla - this is the main ingredient of teething powders. Easiest form is globules (tiny round pills).  It is great for an unsettled and grizzly baby.

Pulsatilla - another good one for teething babies or children who are weepy, clingy and whiny.  Good for conjunctivitis and colds with yellow-green discharge. 

Calendula Cream - good for cuts and grazes.  Can also be used for nappy rash.

Rescue Remedy - this is a good one to have in cream and liquid form.  For any shocks, such as a bump to the head, burns or allergic reaction it can calm instantly.

Tea Tree oil - natural antiseptic which can be used to treat cuts.  It is also good for treating head lice.

Echinacea - this is good for the start of a cold or illness.  A few drops in a small amount of water several times a day.

Dried sage leaves - this is to make into a tea for sore throats.

Honey - great for coughs and sore throats.  Can be had with raw garlic, lemon tea or just by itself.

Nux Vomica - great for curing symptoms of over indulgence of food, alcohol, coffee or tabacco. Also good for flu, colds, headaches and travel sickness.

Take time

I was reminded over the weekend just how precious time can be and how important it is to make the most of every moment, especially with the ones you love.

All too often we focus on what should be done rather than the people around us.  Taking more time to start and finish jobs than spending quality time with others, telling them how much we love them.  Life can be gone in an instance and when it is taken that's it - no more chances to give that hug, tell someone you love them or just be.

Tell people that are important to you exactly that.  Tell them how much you love them and how many great things they bring into your life.  It will only make you and them happier.

Flower Remedies

A flower remedy is a treatment that is derived from particular plant’s flowers; these plants are of a higher order and have genuine healing powers. The flower essences can be combined depending on the individual’s energy blockages and are then mixed in mineral water to be taken regularly by the person.  They are mainly used to deal with negative states of mind and can be combined with most other therapies.

The history of the Flower Remedies we use today begins with Dr Edward Bach as he discovered them over the course of many years of research; dealing with healing plants that would help bring a natural balance of energy in the system. Although in use for more than 60 years Bach’s Flower Remedies potential is just beginning to be tapped into as a safe way to heal that can be used by all.

Rescue Remedy is a combination of five key flower remedies (Star of Bethlehem, Rock Rose, Impatiens, Cherry Plum and Clematis) which assist in dealing with trauma. It has saved many lives through its ability to restore calm, balance and confidence to both those experiencing and/or witnessing traumatic events. Whether it is metal, physical or emotional, Rescue Remedy can assist in alleviating symptoms of shock, stress and anxiety. It is a must in any first aid kit, especially for children.

‘Heal Thyself’ is the principle behind Bach’s remedies. It relates to the body’s ability to heal itself no matter what the disease or problem and also to the fact that Flower Remedies can be used by anyone willing to help themselves or others.

Free play?

It feels like the whole of early childhood is divided.  Playgroups think Playcentre is too demanding of parents, Playcentre thinks Kindergarten is too structured for kids and the ratios too high, Kindergarten thinks Steiner is too structured and Steiner feel that Montessori creates mini business tycoons.  Well that is my summation after discussions lately.

We are still finding our way since arriving back in NZ as to the best choice of groups for our kids.  As mentioned in our blogs we have decided not to continue with Playcentre as, for me, the dynamics at our centre and the lack of any structure (Free Play) just didn't fit well.  Our oldest also goes to Kindy, one day of which we've dropped due to starting our Steiner playgroup, and we all seemed really happy with it.  That is until a second incident occurred within the 10 weeks that she has been going.

I understand that things happen and you can't always be there it was just the way that all, except one, teacher reacted to it that shocked me.  In discussing it with them they basically told me to not think about it and the more I did the more my child would 'feed' me what ever story I wanted!!! Along with this was an explanation of how different Steiner and Kindergarten are and that only doing one day at Kindy would be hard on our oldest.  She wouldn't be able to settle or know names lectured one teacher while the next told me that I just had to deal with the fact that accidents happen and re-settle her.  The mixture of free play at Kindy and structure at Steiner would be confusing said one while the other re-iterated how cunning and quick to adjust to situations kids can be.

My big question is has the term 'free play' now just become an excuse for letting the kids do whatever they want whenever they want even when it disturbs or disrupts others?  Why is it that educators feel that they can talk to parents as if they are idiots while building up a wall to ensure that they are not accountable for anything? Their talk of free play just equates to lack of interest on their behalf to act as educators.

Amazing cucumbers

This information was in The New York Times several weeks ago as part of their "Spotlight on the Home" series that highlighted creative and fanciful ways to solve common problems.

1. Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.

2.Feeling tired in the afternoon, put down the caffeinated soda and pick up a cucumber. Cucumbers are a good source of B Vitamins and Carbohydrates that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.

3. Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance.

4. Are grubs and slugs ruining your planting beds? Place a few slices in a small pie tin and your garden will be free of pests all season long.. The chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminum to give off a scent undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the area.

5. Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or to the pool? Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem area for a few minutes, the phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing the visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles too!!!

6. Want to avoid a hangover or terrible headache? Eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed and wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutrients the body lost, keeping everything in equilibrium, avoiding both a hangover and headache!!

7. Looking to fight off that afternoon or evening snacking binge? Cucumbers have been used for centuries and often used by European trappers, traders and explores for quick meals to thwart off starvation.

8. Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you don't have enough time to polish your shoes? Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick and durable shine that not only looks great but also repels water.

9. Out of WD 40 and need to fix a squeaky hinge? Take a cucumber slice and rub it along the problematic hinge, and voila, the squeak is gone!

10. Stressed out and don't have time for massage, facial or visit to the spa? Cut up an entire cucumber and place it in a boiling pot of water, the chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber with react with the boiling water and be released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma that has been shown the reduce stress in new mothers and college students during final exams..

11. Just finish a business lunch and realize you don't have gum or mints? Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath, the phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.

12. Looking for a 'green' way to clean your faucets, sinks or stainless steel? Take a slice of cucumber and rub it on the surface you want to clean, not only will it remove years of tarnish and bring back the shine, but is won't leave streaks and won't harm you fingers or fingernails while you clean.

13. Using a pen and made a mistake? Take the outside of the cucumber and slowly use it to erase the pen writing, also works great on crayons and markers that the kids have used to decorate the walls!!

The art of story telling

I must admit that I have a tendency to be a bit lazy with my imagination.  Books are all too easy to pick up and let the pictures build up what the words don't say.  Today we went to our Steiner Playgroup for the second time and had the story of 'Billy Goats Gruff' acted out with wooden toys and pieces of fabric while the teacher gave the oral version.  It wasn't a version full of detail by any means however all the children sat memorized by the fact that a story and the toys were in action together.  Coming from a country which has a strong oral tradition is was great to finally encounter story telling without a book in sight.

When talking to the teacher she explained that the reason for the storytelling is to model it for the children, encouraging them to create their own stories with the toys.  It was a big reminder to me that I need to get in there more and model play.  To my credit, modest as I am, I have actually done this once before with our oldest and some play dough.  Once is the key thing here as I never continued with it in different situations and once the youngest arrived the energy and mental ability wasn't there.  I decided today that I would put the teacher's modelling into practice.

We re-told several stories with different toys and objects from outside as well as combining nursery rhymes into stories and creating our own.  The fantastic thing was that after this our oldest was happy for a large chunk of the afternoon, having her own story time.  Often I desperately want our kids to just go and play however it never works like that!  The most successful play is when they continue on from something that I have begun or given them ideas about.

Women together

Part of living away from your home country is that feeling of not quite belonging, of being a slight outsider.  Sometimes this is a good thing and other times a horrible lonely existence.  When we were in England I managed to have the good fortune of being invited to an International Women's group. 

This group was a fantastic mix of nationalities from all over the world, including a few English.  Originally being held in a family home the group, with all the kids in tow, grew so much that it is now held in a children's centre.  It was such a great feeling to be with these women who knew what it was like to have children away from 'home', missing our of family and little things like people using the same expressions as you.  Every second week a creche was organized in one of the rooms while we shared our perspectives on a topic or had someone tell us about their country and culture in the room next door.  It was an eye opening and wonderful learning experience.

I never actually realised, until joining this group, how important it is to have that bonding with other women.  No men around just mothers and women sharing experiences and love.  Even now separated by continents and oceans I still keep in contact, actually while I am writing this, through Facebook and e-mails.  It really did have a huge positive impact on me and my kids.  It's so nice to know that regardless of race, religion or background there are common bonds that hold us all together.

Ten ways to be happier

Found this on a Yahoo lifestyle page and thought it fitted well with my Life Coaching and had some good tips.

1. BE MINDFUL
Try not to think too much about the past or worry about the future. Focusing on the here and now reduces stress.

2. ROLE MODEL
Be a good role model. If you're happy, your kids are more likely to be happy by watching you lead the way.

3. BE REALISTIC
Perfectionism is a massive happiness killer. Aiming to be ‘good enough' is healthier because it's far more realistic.

4. STAY ACTIVE
There is no doubt that exercise is the best way to ward off depression, so make sure fitness is a part of your routine.

5. KEEP FRESH
Be willing to learn. It's never too late to learn a new language, take up a hobby, or be open to another point of view.

6. OPEN UP
Life is what we make of the opportunities that come our way. If a new suggestion is made, agree to it. If a door opens, walk through it.
7. SHOW COURAGE
Be a risk-taker. Fear holds us back. You don't have to jump out of a plane, but if you don't apply for that job or ask that guy out, you'll never know.

8. TEAM SPIRIT
Humans just love the sense of belonging. If you're in a relationship, work as a team. If you live in a family unit, think as a group and always work together.

9. LAUGH IT OFF
Life can get pretty intense. Laugh, let some things slide and approach issues with a pinch of humour, and you'll feel the intensity decrease.

10. BE EMPATHIC
Empathy means imagining what it's like for someone else given their situation and personality, which will lead you to closer relationships.

Swimming Fun

We were all guns blazing when we arrived back in New Zealand to get down the pools, get the kids swimming, confident in the water and be regular about it.  We've been home 13 weeks now and today was only the second time the pools have been frequented and the first time in ages that the kids have even seen their togs!

Swimming here is so accessible that it is easy to take for granted what a fantastic facility we have.  Most kiwis know how to swim and have been doing so for a long time unlike many Irish or English.  Swimming lessons or just visiting the pools in the UK was expensive hence we never went.  Seeing our oldest so keen to put on her armbands and 'swim' ( I use the word loosely at this point) was a complete thrill for me.  I have great memories of swimming albeit mainly about getting a chocolate fish or teddy afterwards and really want our kids to have that same love and confidence in water.

My big challenge now is to put some of my teacher training to use in order to save us a bit of dosh and to move the kids forward.  BIG CHALLENGE!  I've been scanning a great blog on swimming for all sorts of hints, the best being 18 pages of songs altered for swimming.  I don't even pretend that I can replace a 'real' coach just to get them to a point of enjoying jumping in, submerging themselves and splashing around independently.  That way when they go to lessons it will be for something a parent can't pass on.

Fairtrade Fortnight

Even though it is near the end of Fair Trade Fortnight (1 - 16 May 2010) it's always a good time to check out what it is about and support Fair Trade.  This year's Fair Trade Fortnight Trade Aid is highlighting the positive impact fair trade has on women working in developing countries with the theme for the fortnight being “'Just Women - justice for women by women”.


During Fair Trade Fortnight Trade Aid shops around the country will be:

•running in-store celebrations—product sampling, coffee mornings and more...

•holding community events and talks (request a speaker from your local shop during The Fortnight)

•hosting our Nepalese trading partner, Meera Bhattarai - a leader of the fair trade movement in Nepal, as she tours New Zealand.



Check the activities and events that are happening here: (more events will be added throughout April so check back or talk to your local Trade Aid shop about getting involved). http://www.tradeaid.org.nz/index.php/pi_pageid/78

Loss of a friend

Having given up Play centre today I also had to give up the guitar that I was borrowing from them and strangely enough that felt like a huge loss!!

I've been teaching myself to play guitar for around 13 years now, never seeming to get much better as I have moments of non-stop playing followed by periods of complete silence.  I've had to sell a few of my beloved cheapies in the process of moving countries and homes, none of those separations have had such an impact as today though.  Maybe it is because I had finally got to the point of having a repertoire of songs - kids ones that is - that I was able to play by memory.  Having singing and dance sessions with the kids is a great and smile filled experience that can often make a mental day a little more sane.

I've been searching trade me for a good deal to no avail.  Today as I said good-bye to Play centre I suddenly thought 'hey why don't I just buy this guitar'.  So now I've got my fingers crossed that at the Play centre meeting next week they can agree to sell me the guitar and that it is at a price I can afford.

A step in the right direction

We have a Rudolf Steiner school in our area with a playgroup and ever since we arrived I've been meaning to get there.  Everyone I spoke to assured me that there was a huge waiting list and I'd have to put my name down, even so I thought I'd ring and try to organise something.  Obviously it was our lucky break and someone was looking after us as without any waiting list we were able to go along to a session today.

What a breathe of fresh air!!!  I was  a little worried about taking the kids to yet another place where they had to make new friends.  This was taken care of though as we meet two other Mum's whose children we knew as we arrived.  Our oldest happily went off to play with her new 'old' friend that she hadn't seen in a while and the youngest was more than happy to plod after them.  The session starts with making bread along with some songs, followed by a mat session with songs - something that we do at home but have not had in groups.  It was so nice to see our oldest singing along straight away.  The session was such a great mix of structure and free play without the masses of toys which usually haunt the other groups we go to.  The youngest was mesmerized as the teacher told a story with toys at the end which for me was confirmation that it was a great success.

This was my right decision for the day to move me towards the life I want to live.  For the first time we were with like minded people who raised their kids with similar values to us.  Our aim is to surround ourselves with positive people and today certainly achieved that.

Slight adjustments

For the last few weeks we have been keeping our oldest off dairy in a bid to get her eczema under control.  She has had eczema in varying spots and varying degrees ever since she began on solids and while test show that she is not allergic to anything different foods have a huge effect on her. 

The first clue came when as a baby she would projectile vomit after a breast feed.  Everyone assured us that is was not anything that I was eating and it was perfectly normal - that was until they saw her in action!  It was only after an observant friend noticed the correlation of me scoffing chocolate and baby power chucking that we realised what the problem was.  I stopped chocolate - my life source for the previous 3 months - and hey presto she stopped vomiting much to our relief.

We've gone through stages of cutting everything out.  Stages of leaving everything in and like now isolating one thing.  The trouble before is that I don't think I ever really gave it enough time or was strict enough with things.  Now it has been a strict 3 weeks dairy-free and we are starting to see an improvement.  The itchy is still occurring - the next mystery - however the patches behind legs and on arms look much better.  They are no longer red and angry looking, just dry and a bit uncomfortable.  Yay!!!! I finally feel like I'm getting somewhere with putting my knowledge into practice. 

We have been eagerly changing recipes, substituting milk for rice milk, butter for margarine (not my favourite choice and one that I'm still unsure about) and oil or cheese for tofu - not really a go'er.  Today with a chocolate cake at Play centre to avoid we tried out a chocolate brownie recipe which I really was impressed with.  So without further ado I'll share it with you:

Dairy Free Chocolate Brownies
Mix together 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 egg, 1tsp vanilla essence and 1/2 cup of olive oil.  Whisk well with fork and add 1 cup of flour, 1tsp baking powder and 1/4 cup cocoa (make sure this is pure without milk powder added).  Bake for 10 min on fan bake (20mins in regular oven) in a baking paper lined tin.  Leave for 5 min after cooking before turning out. Cut into square and sprinkle with icing sugar before serving.

Setting an example

Part of setting up a natural health business is that I want to lead by example and be a walking advertisement for what I am 'selling'.  All the information is at my finger tips and I know what I should be doing, where to make improvements or how to achieve my goals however the reality is often quite different.

I'm a great one for those night before declarations - you know the ones "Tomorrow I'll ..... - and then promptly forgetting them until the after I've reneged on them!  With two small kids I often run on auto pilot rather than making conscious choices to go against my promises, which a source of great frustration.  The great thing is that the time between 'relapses' into overeating, eating the wrong food, lack of exercise and general slackness is becoming less and less.  I have become a lot more aware of my behaviour and the possible causes.  I recognize my need to eat when ever the kids are 'doing my head in ' and the feeling of anger that can erupt if I leave things too long, way earlier and often before a crisis point hits.  It feels great to have some control over my actions and therefore be able to control the direction of my life.  It also feels like a huge amount of work!

I try and remind myself that it is all the little decisions I make which end up being my reality, unfortunately I quite often forget this too.  So today I decided to write a reminder on a piece of card and put in eye's view so that I can have a little prompt when I need it.  It reads 'The decisions you make each day become the future you live out.  Take care to make the right decisions to deliver what you want."  From now on I intend to be far more diligent with all those little decisions.

What ever happened to Mummy

I've always been one for using first names.  Even as a child I remember finding it odd if I had to call a friend's parent Mrs something-or-other.  It seemed so impersonal, like I don't know them or care to.  When we were in England himself and I really noticed this cultural difference as it is the norm there to only address people by their title and surname until formally introduced and being given permission to use their given name.  Feels just plain wrong to me!

When I was teaching I was the odd one out in the school, for various reasons, the main one being that I allowed the kids to use my first name.  Many of my colleagues argued that it was a respect issue and that it was like the final frontier had been won if you got all friendly and were on a  first name basis with your class.  Ultimately though my belief that the use of my first or surname made no difference in the respect my class held for me or I held for them and so they called me by my given name.

With Mother's day knocking on the door I thought it was a good time to write about the new name calling in our house.  In the past our oldest as called me by my first name, especially after friends were over, as part of the natural trial of language.  It's never bothered me as I know that she knows I'm Mummy too.  However lately this has all changed as I'm being driven mad by the constant first name calling.  Somehow a repetitive 'Mummy' didn't phase me, a repetitive "Yossarian" does!!  Maybe it's a case of feeling like I'm being nagged at by my mum or maybe that Yossarian said 600 times a day ends up sounding hard and cold where as Mummy brings thoughts of soft and cuddly things, reminding I have little ones. 

We have now got to the point where I'm lucky if I get a "Mummy" once a day and that is usually in the middle of the night.  When I don't respond fast enough I get my full 3 names called out!!  Himself finds it hilarious, probably because he is still "Daddy", and keeps telling me it will stop soon.  I just want to know when, when will I be 'Mummy' again?

Like mother like daughter

I've seen the signs for a while now.  You know the type - standing the same way, coming out with a familiar phrase, biting your lip exactly the same way.  It is the age old terror that haunts every person (in our family anyway) - turning into their parents!!! 

Since we've been in our rental property we've had an on going problem of ants.  Weather doesn't seem to change their constant trails inside to find anything remotely tasty and sweet.  The fact that our youngest views the floor as an extension of his plate probably doesn't help.  Anyway that aside, each morning I go on a squashing and spraying (all Eco and child friendly of course)  spree to rid the shelves of our visitors.  They target the honey and golden syrup even though they are clean and sealed properly so obviously we have X-men type ants that have a mutant sense of smell. Considering this I really did need to take drastic action as I'm not very good at letting nature co-exist indoors with me. 

While we were down staying with my Mum over Easter I had to smile when I was told to go and get the biscuits out of the microwave.  My Mum has used this appliance as a storage spot for years, mostly in an effort to find a spot where her animals couldn't get de-frosting meat.  Nowadays with the animals dwindled to 2 (that come inside that is) the microwave is still in use only now it is a spot where her visitors can't see the goodies easily!!

Today a great void was crossed as I followed a suggest by himself to store the ant's desires in a different place.  My first instinct was to put them in the fridge, the thought of rock hard honey in the morning made my quickly rethink.  Yes, you guessed it I took one look at the microwave, sitting there idle and unused, and thought perfect!! A secure, room temperature safe.  It appears that the saying really is true in this case - Like mother like daughter.

The search continues

Each weekend we have been out doing the open home circuit.  It's true it is a buyer's market and there are loads out there in our price range just none that we have been completely in love with.  Although in saying that there are a few we are keen on and one that we even put an offer in - rejected unfortunately.  We are very open to location, size of house and condition however not on the size of the section.  Ultimately the dream is to have a lifestyle block that I can run the business (http://www.bcominghealthy.com/) from.  When funds allow of course!!  For now we are searching for that iconic 'worst house on the best street' with a decent sized section.

Considering this and the prospects of shoving the kids in and out of car seats for an indefinite amount of Sundays we decided to place an advert in the local paper.  'Wanted to buy home for young family'.  We have had quite a few responses already and it is encouraging to know that people are willing to cut out the middle man.  They are all lovely houses and, it must be said, great size sections but still no clear winners.  The callers do their best to sell it, sharing all the best points and forgetting all the not so good ones like the fact it is across the road from a substation, next to a quarry or in the area of the proposed expressway.

Are we being too picky?  Perhaps, or maybe we're just playing a good game of wait and see what the market brings.  In any case there are a few contenders now and we are getting a really good feel of the true value of places.  Searching this long means that we are aware of homes that have been on the market for a while and thereby have vendors that are more likely to negotiate on price.  For now the searching, shoving and waiting will have to continue.

Cold and Flu fixes

Considering that I am now on the casualty list in this house, with a cold, I thought that I would put on some natural remedies that I find work and some that are mentioned in my course notes.  Try a few, see how they work and let me know.

1. As much rest as possible early on.
2. Plenty of fluids - non fizzy, decaffeinated that is. Herbal teas, clear soups, juices and water are all good.
3. Chopped/crushed raw garlic with a teaspoon of honey.  This is definitely one to do when you not expecting company for a while but it works a treat.
4.  Echinacea - a few drops in water during the early stages of a cold or flu can stop it in its tracks.
5. Sage tea for a sore throat and bronchitis.  This is an antiseptic and analgesic.
6. Hot Lemon and honey drink.  A few slices of lemon and a teaspoon of honey is soothing for the throat and helps eliminate toxins.
7. Honey to soothe the throat and ease coughs. You can also boil onion in it for an added expectorant.  This is taken a teaspoon at a time and stored in the fridge.
8. Grated, sliced or juiced radish for loosing catarrhal congestion.
9. Have a juice day.  Make sure that it is a day when you can lounge around as much as possible and only having juices.  It enables the body to be free of working on digestion while it still gets nutrients.
10. Cherry bark licorice tea for relief from viral infection.
11. Gingko Biloba tea for fighting viral and respiratory infections.
12. Eat spicy food to cut down congestion.
13. Propolis.  This can be taken in lozenge form.

Hope you find these useful.

Natural Health

For us the best decision was not to immunize our children, for now. This decision wasn't taken lightly by any means, months of research (the whole pregnancy of our oldest and more) went into weighing up the pros and cons. It is however a decision that is questioned by many, including ourselves at times.

Many a doctor in Ireland and England gave me the third degree and informed me that I was basically leading our children to an early grave. These words always ring in my ears every time the kids are unwell, keeping me more vigilant than normal. Along with not immunizing we have endeavoured not to start the intervention cycle - where prescribed drugs lead to more illness and hence more drugs. We are trying to strengthen immune systems naturally thereby allowing a fever to run its course rather than mask it with Calpol, encouraging rest, good food, fluids and using natural remedies to assist the body to heal itself.

So far so good and the most we have had to give our kids is Calpol for a fever that stayed longer than I was comfortable with. We are definitely not against Allopathic medicine, often we go to the doctor's for a diagnosis and medication to have on the ready, it has after all cured and saved millions.  It's just that we feel that the human body is so amazing that given the right conditions it can heal itself perfectly, just as Hippocrates believed.  Disease is so often a  product of environmental factors, diet, and living habits that in changing these for the better you can change health for the better too.

Knead a plan

My normal plan of attack when the kids are under the weather is to stay at home having a chill out day with DVDs and books. Recently this has all gone up in smoke as himself forwarded an e-mail article proclaiming that t.v. for under 2's was unacceptable and that with every one hour of t.v. that children (any age) watched their chances of having a behavioural disorders went up 10%. ARRRRGHHH!

And so arrived Monday morning, after a rough night of waking from the oldest, with two kids not really sick just not really well. With breakfast down (some of it re-presenting), dressed and jobs out of the way by 8am the next question was how to maintain calm without the ease of DVDs?

Since we have got back into NZ I've been making my own bread in a bid to give the kids food with the least amount of additives in it. It's been my Monday morning ritual for some weeks, kneading and enjoying the preparation of a loaf. My Easter blip has seen the flour sitting on the shelf lonely for some weeks now and I thought this Monday I would get back into it - this was before I knew about the kids. No fear though, I'd try and start them off on something and then get kneading for 20 min - Ha! Life had other plans obviously and after trying to fight it for a while I eventually went with the flow.

The savages (the pet name himself has for them, which this morning was quite accurate) were instantly calmed as they took turns measuring in the ingredients. We broke the dough out into 3 bits and moved to the table to begin our kneading. I expected the 'thrill' to last about 2 seconds - low and behold however they actually sat there the whole 20 min! Working their dough carefully while watching me for tips, it really was a fantastic experience. The end result? Two beautiful little bread rolls and a lovely loaf which created a brilliant lunch. Going with the flow ay? Who'd of guessed that it would work out so well! P.S. My a... was convinced and 5km are under my belt for another day.