Good Neighbors

I am still trying to do each of the Monday postings taken from everymondaymatters.com. Monday 36 was about being a good neighbor. We've lived in this neighborhood for 13 years. The only neighbors we really know are the family next door. In this neighborhood it seems like no one is ever outside. So we don't get to know or greet anyone. This seems really sad, doesn't it?

So here are some good tips for getting to know your neighbors taken from the mondaymatters website:

"Does your mailman know your neighbors better than you do? It’s not enough to just drive by and wave to neighbors from your car window. To get to know your neighbors, you need to have personal interaction with them. But these days, people spend more time indoors watching TV and surfing the Internet than they do outside playing catch, taking walks, and talking to their neighbors. Change that pattern…

*People spend less than 15 minutes per day doing outside chores and gardening compared to over 3 hours watching TV or movies and surfing on the Internet.
*The average American person or family has friends over for dinner about 45% less often than people (they?) did in the 70s.
*The increased number of fenced backyards, coupled with the disappearance of front porches and verandas, has privatized residences more than ever.

TAKE ACTION TODAY
*Meet a neighbor you’ve never met before. Simply knock on the door and introduce yourself. *Take over something you’ve baked or grown in your garden, or invite them to your house for a *beverage or a snack.
*Make yourself more available to your neighbors.
*Mow your front lawn, wash your car, go for a walk, or play with your children outside. Or, if you see neighbors doing the same, go out and visit.
*Plan a neighborhood yard sale or a block party.
*Write a quarterly neighborhood newsletter.

Remember, you have to be a good neighbor to have a good neighbor. "

We do have someone who printed a neighborhood directory and put it in our mailbox--anonymously--so we can't even thank them. A block party would be fun but since it's October already we will have to wait until next spring or summer. So it looks like I will have to try some of the other tips. What is your neighborhood like? Do you have any other tips for us?

Support for Great Women

I called my sister today to see how she was doing. She is in the middle of a huge project (ourvsn.com website launch). She said it has been stressful but that she really appreciated the support I've given her. I told her we needed to support all the women we knew that are working hard.
Later today I was in a gift shop and saw a sign about women with a clever saying:

"Here's to great women.

We need to know them.

We need to be them.

We need to raise them."

I know many great women in my family. I know many great women in the education field that I am in. I know many great women as friends. As a mother I can say that I have raised two very great women. As a grandmother I can say that I see my two granddaughters being raised to become great women.

There are days when I really don't see myself as being a great woman. Daily stresses at work, in my small business, in my personal and spiritual life seem to point in the other direction. That's why I think it is important to have a network of great women that can mentor you, pray for you and lift you up when you are down. I'd like to say a huge THANKS to all the great women in my life! Some of them I need to thank personally. What about you? Who are the "great women" in your life? Have you thanked them lately?

New Website Published By My Two Sisters!

My two sisters, Dr. Annie Becker and Dr. Mary Minser have collaborated on an amazing project! They have launched a new website called OurVSN.

"OurVSN.com is a social network bringing families together to promote shared caregiving and aging independently. Unpaid caregivers and their families in a virtual support network can track the personal health of every member. OurVSN offers a simple way of tracking health for oneself and loved ones. Because families are better informed, they are more likely to assist in caregiving activities."

Our family has been using this website for some time. I have aging parents and siblings that live in other states. It has been a great way for all of us to keep track of mom and dad's health no matter where we live. My parents are pretty computer illiterate yet they can use the simple commands of Our VSN to fill in data about their blood pressure, how they feel each day and activities they participated in. This data can be specialized for each family member.
If you have family members that you would like to keep in touch with, I highly recommend using this site. It is free and very user-friendly! Go to OurVSN.com or check out PRWeb.com for more information.

Start the Day Right!

Now that summer is over and I am back in the classroom I have to get up at the crack of dawn. (I have a 35 minute commute and have to be at school by 7:30. I usually get there earlier.) My mornings have gone much smoother since I started using these tips...
*Eat breakfast. A healthy breakfast regulates blood sugar levels and gets your body ready for the stresses of the day. Choose a combination of protein and fruit rather than caffeine and carbs.
*Listen to Music. Hearing a few tunes first thing in the morning can energize, refresh, soothe or get you motivated. Research suggests that music can reduce stress and improve your overall health.
*Stretch in the shower. Stretching helps relieve tension and gets your muscles ready for another day. An added benefit is not water loosens mucles for a better stretch.
*Take a walk. Walking first thing in the morning can help you feel good all day. Walking can help you sleep better at night, helps control blood pressure, lower weight and stress and can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
*Practice yoga. Yoga uses a variety of stress management techniques. A 10-15 minute routine can center you for the day ahead.
*Prepare ahead of time. This is especially important if you have kids. Don't leave everything until morning. Pack lunches, even your own, decide what to wear, coordinate bathroom schedules the night before. You'll have more time in the morning to eat breakfast and leave the house much more relaxed.

Teach an Old Dog How to Twitter?

I have been trying to come up with some creative ways to promote my small business--Gathered From The Garden. One way someone suggested was to use Twitter. So I signed up and am now "Tweeting". I have a few followers and I am following only 3. When I look at some of the other "Tweeters" they have hundreds of followers and they are following hundreds!How do they do this?
So I thought I was being pretty techie. Then I found out that you can't just Twitter. You can Twirl, Twellow, you can Twittersearch. There are Twitterpacks and widgets that you can add. It's enough to make my old head spin.
And if that isn't enough, I could be using Plurk, StumbleUpon,Digg,You Tube, Slideshare, Friend Feed, My Space and Facebook. I've probably missed some others. There aren't enough hours in the day to keep up with all of this, blog,work a regular job, eat, sleep,make products and maybe relax a little! So which of these are really worthwhile using?
A little help from those in the know would really be appreciated. I can't be the only "mature" person to feel a little out of the loop. Can you help? Post your recommendations or opinions PLEASE!! Maybe it would be possible to teach an old dog to do more than just Twitter!!

Missed Opportunity
I was catching up on my reading today. I had the August issue of Redbook magazine and I came across an article about change. It suggested going to first30days.com if you needed tips to help you get through any life change.
It sounded interesting so I did check it out. I found out that today was a day to pray for change... Ever wonder what would happen if everyone in the world joined hands and said a prayer for peace at exactly the same time? We can only imagine, but it would have to generate some seriously positive energy!The closest we may ever come to this type of worldwide prayer is the Earthdance Global Peace Festival. This year, participants were supposed to unite in their annual Prayer for Peace at 4PM Pacific Daylight time. In an effort to promote peace and humanitarianism, Earthdance events ranging from living room gatherings to huge concerts were going to take place in 60 countries.
This sounds so great. But alas, I didn't read it until way after 4pm Pacific time. I sure would have liked to have hosted some type of prayer gathering. I am going to mark it on my 2009 calendar and hope that it takes place next Sept.13th! And instead of the gathering, I'll just say my own prayers for peace. Join me?

A Beautiful Mind

Looking after the health of your mind is an important part of your road to balance and well-being. Maintaining mental health is extremely important. Here are some ways to make your mind beautiful to match your beautiful body.
Improve your diet: What you eat and drink can protect against feelings of anxiety and depression. Cut back on refined sugar, white flour and alcohol.
Maintain friendships: Just listening and talking to friends who are feeling down can make a huge difference-for you and for them. With email and cell phones you have no excuse not to!Exercise: The effects of exercise on mood are immediate. Whether it is a workout in the gym or a simple walk or bike ride, exercise is uplifting and a can be a great social activity.
Rest: Sleep is essential to our health. Sleeping is the time when the body can renew and rebuild its physical and mental energy. If you have problems relaxing and falling asleep, perhaps our Sleep Well Blend (essential oils) can help you find your peace.
Laugh: A good laugh does amazing things for the mind and soul. Cry: It's good to let everything out of your system and to release pent up feelings. Most of the time, we feel much better after we have allowed ourselves to cry.
Take a bath: The mental health benefits of a comforting bath are well known. Allow yourself to escape in a soothing aroma infused bath. It will help you reset and re-energize. Try our Stress Relief Blend in your ritual and experience the power of the bath.
Make time for you: Make time for your hobbies and interests. Scheduling time for yourself is sometimes hard, but it will increase a positive attitude and self image. Remember, work isn't everything!
As I head back to my classroom, I’ll try to remember that!

Go Ahead, Save a Tree
Delicious Living magazine says that in 2008, each office worker living in a Western Country will use more than 10,000 sheets of paper. Doesn't that seem incredible? That's about 1.2 trees per person, per year. Maybe that doesn't seem like much but think how long it takes a tree to mature!
The magazine also lists some tips for us to cut down on our paper usage. Here are a few of them:
*Print only when necessary.
*Use 100 percent recycled paper when possible.
*End the flow of junk mail by registering on greendimes.com or catalogchoice.org
*Learn which paper-product companies use sustainable practices at nrdc.org/land/forests/gtissue.asp
What do you do with used wrapping paper, cereal boxes and magazines? I reuse wrapping paper whenever I can (much to the chagrin of my family). We recycle cereal boxes and other cardboard. Our library has magazine drop boxes. You can drop off your magazines and pick up ones that others have left. This is great for me. I love to look at magazines! This way I don't have to subscribe to a ton yet I can read lots!
Here at Gathered From The Garden we are trying to cut down on our paper use too. We get many cardboard boxes. We reuse them to pack bigger orders. Like most of you, we are trying to be ever earth friendly.

Monday Mornings


Check out this website : everymondaymatters.com It will give you a list of something to think about or work on for the 52 Mondays in a year. Since today is Monday I decided to give it a try. This is the 32nd Monday of the year so the topic for today is Safe Driving-Slowing Down. Here are a couple of statistics they list on their website:

The #1 killer of people ages 4 to 37 is car accidents
75% of drivers admit to driving over the speed limit
Over 43,000 people die in car accidents each year, and 2.7 million are injured.

I am usually pretty good about following the speed limit when I drive around in town. When I am driving country roads on my commute I tend to have a little heavier foot. I am going to really try to slow down and use my cruise control more.

On Monday's website they tell us that "You can’t get a speeding ticket if you don’t speed. It costs you nothing to slow down, and you might even save money on gas and brakes. Also, you set a good example for other motorists and for anyone who is in the car with you. The accident you prevent or the life you save just may be your own."

Be Your Own "Safe Driving" Diva! Slow down, obey posted speed limits and leave early to allow yourself more time. With all that extra time you can check out Gathered's new aromatherapy blends on our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Words of Inspiration from JKRowling

I have to admit I did read all of the Harry Potter books and have seen all of the movies made so far. I really enjoyed them but I know of some who didn't or some who had no desire to attempt them. Even if you aren't a Harry Potter fan, you should read the commencement address JK Rowling gave to Harvard Grads last spring. To find the address she gave go to: www.news.harvard.edu/gazette/2008/06.05/99-rowlingspeech.html
Along with giving some of her writing background she has some pretty good advice for grads that also applies to most of us. This is my favorite quote from her speech "As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters. "
Gathered has added some new aromatherapy blends to our website. Check them out at gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Cupcake in the Microwave?

This just seems too cool! A cupcake made in the microwave. I haven't actually tried it but it looks great. Here is the recipe. For more info go to widowspeak.livejournal.com


Microwave Rum Cake in a Mug Recipe

Glaze first:1/4 cup rum (dark Bicardi in this case)

3 Tbsp. butter

1-2 Tbsp., or 1/8th cup if you can manage it,

sugar (turbinado raw cane sugar here)

In a pyrex measuring cup, heat this mixture in microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring in between each cycle. You're looking to achieve a uniform slightly translucent simple syrup mixture here. Just keep mixing and heating until it is homogeneous solution in consistency. (Do NOT take your eyes off the microwave for this. You WILL have boil-overs if you do not take great care here.)

Once that has been achieved, set aside and get to the cake part.

Cake:1 cup yellow cake mix

1/4 cup Bicardi rum (clear)

1 egg

a couple pats of butter

In a microwave-safe heavy-duty mug or bowl NO LESS THAN 16-oz in capacity, combine cake mix and rum until well blended. Add in the egg and mix again until well blended. Cut pats of butter into cubes and fold into batter. Place mug in microwave and cook for 4-minutes at 70% power. (Worry not, it *is* supposed to puff up like that. Trust me.) After that, zap it on high for another 50 seconds.

Remove from microwave and let sit for 1 minute.Turn out onto plate.
Carefully.Poke holes in cake with bamboo skewer or fork. Gently spoon 1/2 the glaze onto cake. Let sit for at least 1 minute to let the glaze soak in. Or, douse the whole cake in the glaze and immediately DECIMATE FOR INSTANT NOM.

Nuts are optional. Enjoy. :)

How To Stay Young
I found this article in an old newspaper clipping. There is no author listed. I think it has great ideas for any age...

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. (Keep this in mind if you are one of the grouches.)
3. Keep learning: learn more about your computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let your brain get idle.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath or cry. If you have a friend who makes you laugh, spend lots and lots of time with him/her.
6. The tear happen: endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life is yourself. LIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love: whether it's family,pets,keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home should be your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. It if is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

New Hope For Beating Breast Cancer

I was at my sister-in-law's house on Sat. and I saw half a dozen pink roses on her table. She explained they were from her daughters in honor of the anniversary of her breast cancer surgery. She has remained cancer-free for seven years now so it is indeed worth celebrating!

Coincidentally, I was reading the Sept./Oct. issue of AARP magazine. (aarpmagazine.org). There is an article about new research findings and breast cancer. It lists how to lower the odds of your getting this illness. Here are some things to try:

Lose weight--a Harvard study suggests that losing weight and keeping it off after menopause will cut your breast cancer rate by 57%.

Exercise--it also reduces your risk and it's never too late to start.

Love those fruits and veggies--Survivors who exercise and eat five servings of these a day are less likely to have a recurrence than those who don't.

Dim the lights--(this one is really news to me) Women who live in brightly lit cities at night are 73% more likely to get breast cancer. So keeping your bedroom dark might protect your health.

Get those mammograms!--Mammography offers survival benefits even to women in their 80's. Men should also report any lumps to their doctor.

Speak up--ask your doctor about all your options and seek a second opinion if necessary.

AARP Magazine says that 89% of women with breast cancer will survive without a recurrence for at least five years. That's a good percent but I'm thinking it should be better. Pass this info along to the women in your life and for more info check out the article in the AARP Magazine.

If you've read our blog or checked out our website (gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com) you know that pink is our favorite color!

Bonjour!

Jerry and I just spent the most awesome week in Paris. We saw most of the tourist sites, ate French cheese and pastries and of course had some wine. We observed many differences and similarities in the French people and Americans. The French lifestyle is marked by frequent family gatherings, an appreciation of life's small celebrations, a love of good food, wine and healthy living. (They do however, smoke a lot.) Being that we are in the beauty and skin care business we had to check out some French beauty tips for you.

French Skin Care
Compared to the average American woman, the French view investing in their appearance as an absolute necessity, not an optional luxury. They're more inclined to pamper themselves. Their biggest focus is on developing a beautiful, glowing complexion. French women take pride in their skin, whether that means getting regular facials or buying the best moisturizer their budget allows. (I think this in part to combat the effects of their smoking.) They use sunscreen religiously. Fighting cellulite is a big deal for French women—much more so than for Americans. Any Parisian drugstore is stocked with various creams, lotions and other products meant to minimize cellulite. The French are known for preferring a natural face over a "done" one. While French women do wear makeup, they do so in a way that isn't necessarily obvious. So while you might start with foundation (to give a flawless-skin finish), you'd go easy on the blush, dab on some mascara and a light lip gloss. We rarely saw eyeliner/shadow at all in Paris. At night, they might favor a little bolder look but still less is more.
The French in major cities (Paris, Nice, etc) tend to be much thinner than their American counterparts in major US cities because they walk everywhere. We felt like we had walked miles and miles each day. Using the metro requires many staircases and lots of walking to get to your train! The French utilize portion control, and don't snack. We never went hungry at any café or restaurant we ate at but we didn’t need a doggie bag when we left either. We never saw a sign to “super-size” anything!

*****So-- to look as fabulous as some of the French women we saw, we recommend using Gathered’s Facial Moisturizer, Toner and Clay/Dead Sea Masks to give your skin a beautiful, glowing complexion. Don’t smoke, use sunscreen, go easy on the make-up and snacks. Add some extra steps to your daily rountine. Check out our products: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

People Are People...

I just got back from a fabulous trip to Paris. We visited all of the tourist spots and explored some side streets on our own. The food was delicious--from crepes to pastries and of course wine! We especially enjoyed being able to sit at a sidewalk cafe and people watch for hours.

In the course of a week we met many people. Some were native Parisians, some visitors like us and a wonderful American who had moved to Paris 20 years ago. He helped us navigate the menu at a cafe one afternoon along with giving us tips about Paris. We saw young professionals, the elderly and families with small children.

Although their language is different I think people in Paris are basically the same as Americans. For the most part they were friendly and we had people stop on the street willing to help us find our way. One waiter at our hotel was very up on current events in the U.S. Interest in the Olympics was evident. We saw the French enjoying each other's company, hurrying off to work in the morning, shopping, touring Paris on their "holiday" and worshiping in the churches we visited. Such common threads woven in the pattern of daily lives.

We truly enjoyed seeing another culture and learning from it. While there are things about the French we didn't agree with (seems like everyone there smokes) we could still appreciate the differences and similarities. It just doesn't seem so important in the grand scheme of things to let those differences and similarities keep us from enjoying each other. Why can't people in the world recognize that?

I had such a great time. I hope that I can travel abroad again to see more of the world. It does make you appreciate home so much more. Have you traveled abroad? What were your experiences?

Gathered From the Garden products made it to France too. We took some along with us to be sure we could pamper ourselves after a long day of sightseeing. Our foot products were especially appreciated after a long day of walking. Check out our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Tired of the Evening News?

If you are like me, sometimes you just get tired of all of the bad news on tv, radio and the newspapers. I found a site that helps to combat that. It features only "happy news" and hence their site: happynews.com

It's refreshing to just read about news that is uplifting. Check out their website and see what good things are happening today. By the way, have you done some giving today? See Monday's post...

Be Your Own "Giving" Goddess

On a website promoting women's businesses I read an article about giving. There is a movement called "29 Gifts". The idea is simple. Give something away every day for 29 days. The author's premise was that if you give-- you will also receive. You can sign up to join other givers at 29gifts.org

Here is a quote from the website on why you should give:

"Why? Because to see the world change, we have to do something to change the world. Plus, the best way to attract abundance into your life is to be in a perpetual state of giving and gratitude. Be an important part of the global giving movement that inspires more generosity on our planet."

I have already signed up to commit to giving for the next 29 days. I don't think it will be that hard to think of something to give someone. I'm kind of excited to see what I can come up with and where it takes me! What do you think? Are you going to give it a try? You don't need to sign up (although they are trying to get 2000 people commited to this by the end of July). Let us know if you sign up and share any stories of your giving with us. If you need some good gift ideas to give others check out gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Just Some Personal Musings...
My son Jon from FL was here this week along with my daughter Rana from CO. Jon was scheduled to go to Afghanistan the first part of August so this was to be a trip to see family before he left. As it turns out he doesn't have to go with the mobile group of Marines. He may have to go in Sept. but that would be for a short duration probably to much safer Kabul. We realize the power of prayer and thank God! We had a great visit because that Afghanistan trip wasn't hanging over our heads!!
Even though my children are all grown it still is so incredible to have our whole family together again. Seeing everyone including my grandchildren and son-in-law around our kitchen table is overwhelming joy! Everyone should be so lucky.
Jon and Rana have gone back to their lives in FL and CO. Thank goodness for cell phones and email. (I haven't picked up texting yet!) I sure miss both of them but it's wonderful to stay in touch. I can't wait until they are "home" again.

"Hug Now, Don't Save It"

This is a quote from an article on David Pollay's blog. (davidpollay.typepad.com) He writes an inspirational article every Monday morning. On this particular Monday he wrote about the importance of hugging and telling those important people in our lives that we love them. He says you never know if it will be the last chance you get.

I wish I had read this and thought about it earlier. I was at a graduation party for a niece on Sat. My parents were there along with a lot of other friends and relatives. What a great time it would have been for me to do some hugging. I'll have to really keep this in mind. (It really hit home as I found out that a colleague of mine lost her mother over the weekend.)

So, don't wait! Take an inventory of the important people in your life. Who do you love, but have not told recently?Choose at least one of these important people and tell them how much they mean to you, and how much you love them. And if it’s possible to see them in person this week, make sure to give them a hug; it could be one of the most important things you will ever do.

Along with a hug, how about a little something from Gathered From The Garden to show your love? Check out our website for great products. gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Just Plain Silly !
I'm still on the theme of aging...I read this on another blog and I thought it was hilarious! (and of course I had to try it!) 11 year olds say that the skin on your elbow is called a WEENUS (yeah, I know) and that it is a true indication of one's age. Oh, really? Well, if you straighten your arm and pull the fattest piece of that skin away from the body, the speed in which it retracts tells you RIGHT THERE if you are old. If I pull mine out, I have to kind of push it back, because it doesn't snap back very easily. It is slow going. So apparently I failed the young WEENUS test. I am officially old.
I suppose someone could do some research and come up with a formula to determine how fast your weenus should flatten out. Doesn't that sound like a gov't contract just waiting to go out...Anyway, give it a try. If nothing else, just learning a new word has been worth it!

BMI Index
Knowing your BMI is important, because the number indicates whether or not your weight is a threat to your health. The higher the BMI, the more health risks that you incur.
While it is generally accurate, the BMI can read too high for athletes or others with large, heavy muscles. Likewise, it can exaggerate low readings for frail older people who have lost muscle mass. The calculation is the same for both men and women.
If you go to aarp.org/health you can find a BMI index that you can do online. It only takes a few seconds and asks for only two bits of information. It will then give you a range to see where your BMI falls.
I have been power-walking and doing a tiny bit of running each morning to try to get more fit. I was very surprised at how winded I became after a very, very short time of running. I've been at it for a few weeks and I can run a little further. At this point in my life, I am much happier with the power-walking! Have any of you changed your exercise program as you have aged?
You don't have to even leave your chair to go to our website to find great products! Check out gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com. or our blog at gatheredgarden.blogspot.com

Advice For the Young (or Young-at-Heart)

One thing that birthdays tend to make you do is some reflecting. Looking back at the past I know I can't change it but I can learn from it as I look to the future. The June 17 issue of Woman's Day magazine has an interesting article. It gives some advice that might have helped us navigate our youth "If only I knew then..."

Be kind instead of right. This is a great gift for yourself and others.
Wear sunscreen every day. You never think you are going to be that old woman with sunspots--guess again!
Don't be in such a rush. I can't believe time has gone by so quickly! How did I get to be this old? It snuck up on me! I really do need to stop and smell the roses!
If it isn't in your wallet, don't spend it. Use those credit cards wisely!
Love yourself first. Woman are often taught to always put others first. That's easy to do as a wife, mother, sister, (any of the hats you wear). It's really important to treat yourself the way you treat others. I didn't learn this lesson until I was older. It would have saved some heartache if I had learned it earlier.
Don't let anyone make you feel unequal. Being equals with friends or your spouse is the foundation of a good relationship.

These are just some of the pearls of wisdom found in the article. Do you have other advice for those young people reading my blog? Or maybe you young'uns have some advice for us! We'd love to hear from you.
Maybe another bit of advice would be to pamper yourself more. You've heard L'Oreal say "you are worth it". Here at Gathered From The Garden we believe that too. Check out our website for some awesome products to help put You first! gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

A Conscious Aging-Plan

Ah, yes, the sands of time keep falling through that hour-glass! Can you tell I just had another birthday? Time to reflect on the aging process and look ahead to another year.

Tracy Gaudet, M.D. is the author of several books, including Body, Soul and Baby and Consciously Female. She has put together a "Conscious-Aging Plan". Her plan includes these 5 steps:

1. Know your preconceptions. What's your image of an older woman? 10 years older than you? 20 years older? 30 years? What are your greatest fears about your own aging. Take time to explore these...I think my greatest fear is not being able to take care of myself.

2. Do a reality check. Think about the older people that you know and love to be around. What is it about them that you admire? Do you know anyone in their 80's or 90's that is still full of vitality, has a sharp mind and is filled with joy?

3.Visualize your future. Imagine yourself at age 90 vital and glowing--someone that others would like to be around. What does it feel like? What do you look like? How do you feel? Imagine yourself to be the oldest person around that young people gravitate to. Give yourself permission to think of this possibility as reality!

4. Make a list. Think about how many years are between you and 90. How much do you have to ask of your body? What changes could you make in your life that would support your body as it ages? Make a list of these changes.

5. Start now. Look at your list and choose one thing you'd like to work on. Think of it as a baby step that will start you in this direction and go for it! I think I need to work at keeping my mind sharp--more crossword puzzles or maybe learning a new craft. My memory is not as sharp as I'd like it to be.

I don't love the fact that my body is aging but I am ok with it. I feel I am a much more interesting and smarter person now than when I was younger. I've had a lot of life experiences to draw from and I love the fact that I have become a grandmother! I guess embracing aging will make the years ahead possibly my healthiest, most vital and joyous yet.

One of the things that also gives me joy is making and using products from Gathered From The Garden. Check out our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Your Real Beauty

For years I envied my tall, blond, thin sister-in-law. I was always a little on the plump side, average height and a brunette. My self-esteem was low all through high school and the beginning years of college. The media didn't help, suggesting that to be popular and well-liked you had to look like Twiggy. (Boy, am I dating myself!)
Although I am happy with my shape today, I think the media still presents an unrealistic standard for physical beauty. Statements related to negative body images are still one of the first things you hear from female adolescents. Fortunately, two new media programs are making positive steps toward helping females accept their bodies in a positive, realistic way.
One is the "Dove Campaign" website (campaignforrealbeauty.com)that mothers and young daughters can use to discuss body image. There are articles and activities just for girls. There are also articles for Moms and Mentors. The other program is a new Lifetime TV show, "How to Look Good Naked".(lifetimetv.com) This show spotlights positive ways for women to view their body images.
I think a goal for us women is to help each other enhance and project our unique personal beauty, regardless of our body shape and size. We can improve our body image through the use of fashion and skin care tips and healthy lifestyles. Letting younger girls see us enjoying who we are instead of complaining about our bodies would be a great example for them! I also think they need to see us practicing healthy lifestyles too. What are your thoughts on this?

Hand, Foot and Skin Care
If you love to dabble in the kitchen here's a great site for you: makeyourowncosmetics.com You'll find lots of really fun recipes for hand, foot and skin care that you can make on your own. Lots of them use ingredients you probably already have on hand.
The one featured there right now is for a Foot Spa using milk, sugar, water and your favorite lotion. (We are sure it's Gathered's Goat Milk and Honey Lotion!) Head on over and see what beauty recipes you can use to feel like a goddess! Let us know if you try some and which ones are your favorite.

Are You Ready for an Adventure?

On the news this week were two dramatic rescues of women who had been hiking in the mts. and became lost. One was in the US and the other was an American woman in the Alps. In both instances the women were resourceful enough to attract attention to get rescued. I'd say they had very adventurous spirits.
I have never been very adventurous. I kind of like the safe and known. But sometimes I think I might be missing out on some very interesting activities. SARK says that adventuring is developed by practice. The more adventures you embark on , the more adventures will begin to seek you out. She says that adventures can by tiny or large, they can be expensive or free. She also says that we are creatures of habit (I know I am) and that we should make a habit of adventures.
So this summer one of my goals is to start breaking out of my safe routines and look for adventure. I probably will look for small ones to start. I will be going to Paris is August and I'm pretty sure that will be a LARGE adventure for me!!! What adventures have you been on? Have you made adventure a habit in your life?
I plan on taking some great Gathered From the Garden products along on my adventures. Check out our website for some products to take with you too! gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

10 Ways To Brighten the Day

For us here in MN I think summer has finally arrived! We had an exceptionally cool and rainy spring that has lasted into June. But hurrah--today's high should be about 80 degrees! So with all of the sunshine today it got me thinking of how to brighten your day and that of others. Here are some ideas:

1. Smile. (at everyone and just because- if no one else is around!)
2. Start your day with a workout or some kind of exercise or stretches.
3. Enjoy time with your family.
4. Call a friend. (It's really better than email)
5. Get outside! Swing in your hammock, garden, bike, go for a walk.
6. Help someone in need. (turn on the news and you will see plenty of others that could use some help! Prayers help those in need too.)
7. Play like you did when you were a child. When was the last time you played hopscotch, hula-hoop, or scooped up sand in the sandbox?
8. Laugh out loud. Tell a good joke. Read the comics.
9. Praise someone. It will make two people happy!
10. Wear bright colors--reflect the glorious colors of nature in summer.

I'm sure you can add to the list. Let us know what other ways we can brighten our day. I could have added "read a blog"...or check out Gathered From The Garden's website. Buying and using any of our wonderful products will surely brighten your day! gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Could You Live To Be 100?

My mom just celebrated her 77th birthday. She was commenting on the fact that she outlived her mother. We got to talking about longevity in my family. My dad's mother lived to be 94. Could we make it to 100?
I read on the AARP website about a fellow who is studying people who live to be 100. He went to Costa Rica and interviewed a wonderful old woman. You can read about his visit with her and watch a short video. It is quite inspiring! (aarpmagazine.org/lifestyle/living-healthy-to-100.html)
He lists several factors that these people have in common. Some are: they have a sense of purpose, they have a focus on family, they eat fewer calories, they have kept hard at work all of their lives, they maintain social networks and they are genuinely likeable people. This particular woman had visitors stop by her house everyday and she was thrilled to see them.
The list doesn't seem complicated or difficult to do. (maybe the fewer calories part...). I'd like to think that reaching 100 is attainable. I'd only want to live that long if I was in relatively good health like the woman in the interview and if I still had people visiting me everyday! She lives by herself but her 80-year-old son does bike over everyday to check on her. :)
What about you? Would you like to live that long? Are you doing any of the things of the list to increase your chances? I think being a 100-year-0ld "goddess" would be awesome!
Speaking of awesome--check out Gathered From The Garden's website for some awesome products for the goddess in you! gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Girls Just Gotta Have Fun

Ladies you need to check out this site: HairMixer.com!

The site has hundreds of celebrity photos where you can magically insert your own image into the face portal section. Supposedly you can use the feature to see what hairstyles look good with your coloring and face, but more importantly it’s just plain fun! I haven't figured out yet how to post pictures of me using hairmixer so you'll have to go there and fool around with your own picture. Let us know which celebrity style was your favorite.

For more fun go to www.gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com where you won't find celebrity styles but products that will make you feel like a celebrity!

Memory Like an Elephant?

A very good friend of mine was telling me about her elderly mother and how forgetful she is. She couldn't remember the name of "that thing that cuts grass" (a lawnmower). My friend was worried that her mother was becoming senile, getting Alzheimers or having side effects of her medication.
As I listened to her tell about her mother I couldn't help think of all of the times I had trouble remembering names, dates etc. For me it's only a temporary lapse (something to do with menopause perhaps?) but it still makes me a little nervous when it happens.
I was reading the March 2008 issue of Prevention magazine. In it they listed several factors that we can control which have been shown to slow "mental decline". (I don't like the sound of those two words.) I've listed some of them here.
*Eat more brain food. Blueberries are especially good to improve short-term memory. Cut saturated fat and eat more fruits, veggies and fatty fish such as salmon.
*Sleep 8 hours every night. Your brain uses the "downtime" to sort and store information. Sleep can also strengthen memory recall.
*Do something new every week. Tackling unfamiliar tasks boosts short-term memory and builds up the part of the brain that encodes info.
*Breathe deeply. Processing new information when we are stressed is tough.
*Make a list of tasks. (I do this all the time--don't always get to everything on the list though.) Sometimes we ask our brain to retain too much information.
*Take it one task at a time. (I am very guilty of multi-tasking!) Trying to do too much at once leads to forgetfulness. A mature brain tends to experience "moments of rest". These pauses are what causes us to draw a blank.
These seem like easy things that I can start doing right away. I guess we have to exercise our brains just like our bodies. It's a little scary when those "senior moments" happen and I would like to keep my mind as sharp as I can. For more good information check out the March issue or go to Prevention.com
One thing I never forget is how good Gathered From the Garden products feel on my skin! Check out our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Call Your Mom

Just a simple thought today as we look towards May. Call your mom. You'll feel great and mom will feel even better. She is probably still the one who knows you best. She is still the one who probably has the smartest advice. In the cycle of life there will come a time when you want to call her and cannot. So look around--where's the phone? Go ahead, call your mom.

While you're at it you might want to hint around for some gift ideas for her for Mother's Day. Gathered From The Garden can help you treat yourself and your mom with luxurious goodies. We can help you feel oh so indulged! gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Just like Jerry Seinfeld
Some times you just have to do what Jerry Seinfeld did...talk about nothing. So here I am basically blogging about nothing! Anyway, read on. I think these facts are fun.

1. Every day more money is printed for Monopoly than the U.S.Treasury.
2. Men can read smaller print than women can.
3. Women can hear better than men.
4. Coca-Cola was originally green.
5. It is impossible to lick your elbow.
6. The average number of people airborne over the U.S. in any given hour : 61,000
7. 111,111,111 x 111,111,111 = 12,345,678,987,654,321 (1-9 forward and backward)
8. If a statue in the park of a person on a horse has both front legs in the air, the person died in battle.
9. If the horse has one front leg in the air the person died as a result of wounds received in battle.
10. If the horse has all four legs on the ground, the person died of natural causes.
11. Half of all Americans live within 50 miles of their birthplace.
12. Bulletproof vests, fire escapes, windshield wipers, and laser printers were all invented by women.
13. Honey is the only food that doesn't spoil.
14. Father’s Day has more collect calls than any other day of the year.
15. “Good Night and Sleep Tight” - In Shakespeare's time, mattresses were secured on bed frames by Ropes. When you pulled on the ropes the mattress tightened, making the Bed firmer to sleep on.
16. “Honeymoon” - It was the accepted practice in Babylon 4,000 years ago that for a Month after the wedding, the bride's father would supply his son-in-law With all the mead he could drink. Mead is a honey beer and because their Calendar was lunar based, this period was called the honey month, which we know today as 'the honeymoon'.
17. “GOLF” – Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden. Many years ago in Scotland , a new game was invented. It was ruled 'Gentlemen Only...Ladies Forbidden'...and thus the word GOLF entered Into the English language.

FINALLY~~ At least 75% of people who read this will try to lick their elbow!

Any silly or fun facts to add to our list? Send us a comment with yours...

You're Never Too Young

This past weekend my two granddaughters ran in their first 1 K race. The older one was very excited to be running. The younger one was too until they got to the race and saw some costumed characters. She was afraid of them and absolutely did not want to be part of the race anymore.

We let her watch the older runners take off. When her age group came up, her mother picked her up and convinced her to just walk behind her older sister and cheer the runners on. That was fine as long as mom held her. So they walked and cheered and about half way through the race, Karalyn turned to her mother and said, "I'm doing it!!" She managed to get to the finish line (although mom had to carry her the WHOLE way--poor mom!) where she received her medal.

This got me to thinking about how many opportunities we pass up because we are afraid. We can be afraid of risk, of failure, of embarrassment etc. But if we would just dive in we might be surprised like Karalyn to find that "we are doing it". I know there are a couple of things I would like to try but fear has held me back. I am going to try to do one of them this week. Hopefully I'll be smiling and saying "I'm doing it!". There's the old saying, nothing ventured, nothing gained...

In case you are out running in races and marathons this Spring, Gathered has some great "Sore Muscle Relief" Lotion to help with those aches and pains. Check out our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

On another note, I apologize for not having indented paragraphs. If anyone has some advice for me on how to do this in my posts--please comment!!

The Big Give

Have you been watching Oprah's "Big Give" tv show? Each week a group of contestants has a mission--give big to someone. There are rules and twists to what they have to accomplish each week and those that don't, get eliminated. It's been interesting watching partly because of their creativity and partly because they do get to work with big amounts of money.

Watching the show got me to thinking about how us ordinary people can give big. We don't have tons of money to spend. We don't have a fancy new vehicle to drive around while we figure it out like those on Ophrah's show. But I think we all have the opportunity to give everyday if we just look around. Here are ways to give right now--they aren't big in terms of money but they could make a big impact on someone' life.

1. Hold the door for someone.

2. Donate blood.

3. Give a compliment.

4. Help a fellow traveler with her luggage.

5. Raise money for a cause you believe in.

6. When you see trash, pick it up.

7. Pass on good news.

8. Tell someone you love them.

9. Give up your seat.

10. Send a thank-you card to someone who has shown you a kindness.

11. Smile at a stranger

12.Say a prayer for someone who's hurting.

13. Teach your children about giving.

14. Praise someone who has done well.

15. Kick bad habits, like smoking, that can harm others.

16. Pamper someone with a gift from Gathered FromThe Garden .gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

What would you add to this list? Let us know so we can keep the giving-going!

Quick Sticky Buns
I found this great little recipe in an old issue of RealSimple magazine(Nov.2007) It's for Quick Sticky Buns. It uses only 5 ingredients to make a straight-from-the -oven pastry: butter, a banana, pecans, brown sugar and a tube of refrigerated buttermilk biscuits. There's nothing better than quick AND tasty!! Go to realsimple.com/myfakeitrecipe. I'm thinking it would be a fun one to try with my little granddaughers.
For another quick trick, try Gathered From The Garden's Petite Perfumes! They are sweet little roll-ons of great fragrances. You can tuck them into your purse or pocket. Go to gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com to check these out.

It's in the Bag

Okay, girls, if you're like me you have a collection of purses. When switching purses what are the essential items you carry with you at all times? See if you agree with the list below:

1. Wallet. Make sure you have your driver's license.


2. Baby Wipes. They clean everything.


3. Mini sewing kit.


4. Pain reliever.


5. Cell phone.


6. Pen.


7. Gum or mints.


8. Pocket mirror.


9. Sunglasses.


10. Lip balm or gloss.

I have everything in my purse except the baby wipes and sewing kit. I also carry a nail clippers, mini-perfume, kleenex, keys, pictures of my grandchildren, glasses and contact case and more! I was invited to a baby shower where one of the games was to weigh your purse. Mine weighed close to four pounds!! (You can tell that I have a problem using a small purse.)What can I leave out? It all seems very necessary and important. The one really necessary and important thing I can't do without is Gathered's purse-size Goat Milk and Honey Lotion. You can get one of your own at gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

What's in your handbag?

What To Do With Your Left-over Easter Candy

There is a great website cakespy.com that you should check out--especially if you like cool cakes and cupcakes. They also have some wacky ideas of what to do with that left-over Easter candy. Jesse Oleson can help breathe new life into your Peeps, jelly beans or chocolate eggs with her suggestions. How about a left-over Easter trifle, Cadbury Creme Egg ice cream or Peep s'mores? Check out all of their sugar-laden suggestions. Normally I wouldn't suggest anything using so much sugar but heck, all things in moderation, right?

The above website is almost as much fun as gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com. We don't have any sugar-laden products but ours are still awfully sweet!

Tell Your Life Story in Six Words

Smith magazine published a book called "Not Quite What I Was Planning, Six Word Memoirs by Writers Famous & Obscure". It lists great life stories told in only six words. Some are humorous: "baby teeth, buck teeth, no teeth", "tons of calories burned, still fat" some are romantic: "found true love, happily ever after", some are inspirational: "fell in mud, got back up" some sad: (this by a cancer patient) "would settle for bad hair day" and some political: "proud of my country, until Bush".
I tried to sum up my life in six words. It's very difficult! I think this may be mine "Life is good, hope it continues". What would yours be? If you've got one you'd like to share, SMITH is going to publish another book. Go to smithmag.net and submit yours and/or share it with us here! We'd love to see how you describe your life story in just six words.
Here are another six words that Gathered FromThe Garden would like you to remember about us: Soothing skin products to pamper everyone! Go to gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com
to find great products for the whole family.

Another Great Blog

I found this blog and have been impressed with the practical information on health it contains. I am always looking for easy ways to improve my diet or lifestyle. Part of "being your own goddess" means being in control of what you eat, breathe, listen to, buy, read etc. Thanks to Dr.Minser for sharing these smart health tips! Go to docminser.com and check it out yourself. Anyone have other blogs to suggest?

Women's History Month
March is Women's History Month where we celebrate the accomplishments of the women who have come before us. Have you ever thought about the women in your own family and how much they accomplished? I had a grandmother who raised 16 children. Many of the years they were growing up she was a single parent. (widowed young) That had to have taken an incredible amount of hard work, patience, perseverance and faith. I think she passed those qualities on to my mother and hopefully to me. Who are the women who have inspired you?
Here is an inspirational movie to view in honor of women. Check out noglassceilingmovie.com It will make you think!
Check out gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com for some great products. You might order some to give to the special women in your life that have made a difference for and to you!

Diva Dolly

I was reading an article in Ladies Home Journal about Dolly Parton. Even if you don't like country western music you have to admit she is quite a woman! She has copywrited some 3000 songs, has an amusement park named after her, started Imagination Library for poor children and runs a pretty big company out of Nashville. She's been married to the same guy for 41 years. (that alone is pretty incredible!)
In the article Dolly was asked about plastic surgery and she admitted to having it done. She said that's why her husband has stuck with her all of these years---he gets a new woman every five! Although I admire her for her talent and good works I just can't agree with her on the bodywork. What' s wrong with aging naturally? She could have been a greater role model if she had said "No, thanks--I'll keep what I have--wrinkles and all." I totally understand wanting to look your best but not with injections and surgery.
How about you? Would you consider having some work done to look younger? Let us know what you think.
Gathered From The Garden has natural face products to help you look your best. Check out our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

I Believe in You

Charlon Bobo writes a weekly email newsletter that I subscribe to. (editproofcopy.com) This week her message was about encouraging others. She reminded me of the responsibility each of us has to encourage, enliven and support others. We are not intended to work alone. We need each other.

Charlon says to never underestimate the power of these words: "I believe in you." They might improve someone's day or inspire them to new heights. They are a gift. And who knows the full range of positive potential impacts?

She says it costs nothing and feels great. So think of someone right now who could use your words of encouragement and send these words to them. You never know how you might make someone's day!

You can also make someone's day by giving them one of Gathered From The Garden's wonderful Goat Milk and Honey Lotions. Check out our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

A New Vision for 2008

It's that time of year again, to start manifesting what we really need and to let go of things we don't. Our secret for getting everything we want starts with a list. After we've written down what we want in 2008 (tropical vacation, help others, live richly), we turn our list into a "visioning board." You can do this too.

Start with a large, card stock sheet of paper, a pair of scissors, a glue stick, a pen and a stack of magazines. Cut out pictures of a hammock suspended between two beachside palm trees, etc. Write or cut out words like play, create, relax,volunteer and place them with the images all over your paper.

Next, put the board in a place where you will see it throughout the year. From time to time imagine that everything you have placed on the board has already happened, and allow yourself to feel grateful. Then stand back and watch the coincidences start to occur, the pieces fall into place, and the magic happen!

We invite you to let us know how doing this simple yet powerful process of manifesting your intentions is working for you this year!

Gathered From The Garden LLC gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Joy and The Bucket List

In the movie "The Bucket List" Morgan Freeman's character suggests that to get into heaven you need to answer these two questions. 1. Have you experienced joy in your life? 2. Have you brought joy to others' lives? Two questions worth some thought even if you don't believe you will be asked this at the Pearly Gates!
Have you experienced joy in your life? It's easy to get so caught up in everyday life that simple joys are forgotten. It's easy to appreciate the good things when life is going good. But I think that we can store up memories of joy to help us through and it doesn't take long to stop and smell the roses. Looking at my own life, my grandchildren have brought me immeasurable joy! To see things again through the eyes of a child, to smell that new-born baby smell, to have someone that wants to cuddle with me--that is true joy! Nurturing--particularly my flowers in the summer. Walking through my backyard and finding some new blossom or unexpected seedling brings me peace and joy. Traveling to a new place--seeing mountains, oceans, deserts--the marvels that God has created brings me joy.
Have you brought joy to others' lives? That's a good one to reflect on...Sure, I could say, I've given lots of presents to others. But is that the same as joy? I have started a new prayer each morning..."Let me be a blessing to someone this day." I'm hoping that will bring someone joy. I don't consciously set out to "bring someone joy" but maybe I should. What a different world this would be if our main goal each day would be to spread joy! I feel we should think small bits of joy to start. (Sharing happy memories and experiences with others is one of the most powerful and effective ways to keep the joy going.)
Being joyful has also been linked to improving health. People with a sunny outlook to aging recover more quickly from illness and actually live longer. People who feel joy in their lives also reported fewer illnesses.
One of the ways I experience a very small bit of joy is to have a piece of dark chocolate :) . So I might have to indulge in that a little more often. Another way to experience a little joy each morning is to start with some of Gathered's wonderful Goat Milk and Honey Lotion on my hands. The fragrance of Raspberry/Lemonade always makes me smile! To bring a little more joy into your life check out our website: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com We have many fragrances that can bring a little more joy to your life. Or share with someone to bring some joy to their life too!!

Extra Pounds or ExtraToes?

There is an article in Fitness magazine about losing weight This article disturbed me. Fitness took a survey of 1,000 women about their thoughts on diet and fitness. The following statistics resulted:

42% of women have used ephedra, hoodia, fen-phen, a diuretic or prescription weight loss pill/other drug to lose weight.

23% of women would spend a week in jail to reach their ideal weight. 23% would shave their head and 21% would trade 10 years of their life.

Women have used desperate measures. 33% have cleared their house of bad food. 24% have drank only liquids for at least a day. 11% have taken laxatives and 6% have purged. 4% have used miracle cleanse.

85% would rather have an extra toe than 50 extra pounds.

To polish that off, most women described themselves as chunky (30%) or curvy (29%).
(This is a fitness magazine so they probably polled women who are a little more shall we say, obsessed with their shape...)

I haven't found myself doing stupid things for weight loss. I've read with interest lots of stupid ideas and wondered if they could possibly work and fantasized what I would look like if they did. It seems you never look fine to yourself. Even the most beautiful women in the world will find themselves unattractive. How do we get over that? We do need to be a healthy weight...

Teachers on the 8th day

On the 6th day, God created men & women. On the 7th day, He rested. Not so much to recuperate, but rather to prepare himself for the work He was going to do the next day. For it was on the 8th day that God created the teacher.

The teacher, though taken from among men and women had several significant modifications. In general, God made the teacher more durable than other men and women.

The teacher was made to arise at a very early hour and to go to bed no earlier than 11:30 PM. With no rest in between. The teacher had to be able to withstand being locked up in an air-tight room with 35 little monsters on a rainy Monday. And the teacher had to be able to correct 103 term papers over Easter vacation.

Yes, God made the teacher tough - but gentle too. The teacher was equipped with soft hands to wipe away the tears of the neglected and lonely student... of the 16 year old girl who was not asked to the prom.

And into the teacher God poured a generous amount of patience. Patience when a student asks to repeat the directions the teacher has just repeated for someone else.

Patience when the kids forget their lunch money for the 4th day in a row. Patience when 1/3 of the class fails the test. Patience when the text books haven't arrived yet, and the semester starts tomorrow.

And God gave the teacher a heart slightly bigger than the average human heart. For the teacher's heart had to be big enough to love the kid who screams, "I hate this class - it's boring!" and to love the kid who runs out of the class at the end of the period without so much as a good bye or a thank you.

And lastly, God gave the teacher an abundant supply of hope. For God knew that the teacher would always be hoping. Hoping that the students would one day learn to spell... Hoping not to have lunchroom duty... hoping that Friday would come... hoping for a free day... hoping for deliverance.

When God finished creating the teacher, He stepped back and admired the work of His hands. And God saw that the teacher was good. Very Good. And God smiled, for when He looked at the teacher, He saw into the future. He knew that the future is in the hands of the teachers.

And because God loves teachers so much, on the 9th day God created.... "SNOW DAYS"

Author Unknown. I found this poem on Skywriting.com

Here in MN teachers and students alike hope for a snowday. Our past winters haven't really cooperated--mostly cold but not much snow. This makes it difficult to keep our skin hydrated. Here at Gathered From the Garden we have some great products to help with dry skin. Our Goat Milk and Honey Lotion is our winter best seller. Check out our website for sizes and fragrances: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Ways to Share the Joy

I have some of H. Jackson Brown Jr.'s books including "Life's Little Instruction Book" and "The Little Book of Christmas Joys". I found an old article from Family Circle magazine that listed "25 ways to share the joy" written by this author. Here are a few of them...
*Mend a broken relationship with a friend or relative during the holidays
*Take a family photo in the same spot each year. You'll have a wonderful record of the
growth of your family.
*Tell your children about Christmas when you were their age.
* Tip someone that doesn't expect it.
* On a clear night, find the bright North Star and recall the story of the Three Wise Men.
* Open Christmas cards as a family each night at the dinner table. Read the messages aloud.
* Write letters to several people who have had a positive influence on you. Thank them for
this gift.
* Don't try to do everything yourself. Remember even Santa has helpers!
* Remember that the greatest holiday gift is a home filled with the people you love.

Gathered From The Garden would like to be one of your helpers. Check out our website for great Christmas gift ideas: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Crazy Sexy Cancer
Maybe some of you saw this gal on Ophrah. If not, it is an inspiration! Kris is a 31 year old actress and photographer who was diagnosed with incurable cancer in 2003. She has documented her journey from the start turning it into a life quest to find a cure as well as finding herself. It's so worth checking out--so take a few minutes of your time now during this holiday season to see what it means to live a life with courage, strength and awareness. Go to crazysexycancer.com

Once you are there, click on the link on the bottom that says 'the film'.
Another good website to check out: gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com

Lessons From the Farm
Growing up the oldest of 10 children on a farm in central MN was a lot of work but at times a lot of fun too. I learned many lessons that I still heed today.
You're never too old to change gears. I saw my mother get a job outside of our home and my dad leave a tough factory job for a job outdoors on a farm. They both took a chance at change and were successful. The time to make change in your life wasn't 10 years ago or 10 years from now. It's right now. Do what feels like you need to do! ( I am working on an aromatherapy degree.)
Friendships, like good rich soil need tending. Don't lose touch with those people that ground you, give you strength and will be with you through the storms in life.
Find something to nurture and get your hands dirty. Too many of us are caught up in the world of technology which usually keeps us indoors. Take a moment to enjoy the world around you. Plant something, tend it and watch it grow!
Hard work never killed anybody or so my older relatives used to say. Thinking back to working on the farm I learned how to share burdens, use humor to brighten the load and to appreciate a job well done. I learned many skills that helped me to become very self-sufficient.
My parents taught us to persevere and to take pride in what we accomplished. Out of the 10 children in my family, two are doctors, one is a cpa and owns his own business, two others farm together in a huge operation, three are teachers, one runs the marketing dept. of a pharmaceutical co. and one is a finance wizard. Hard work helped all of us get to where we are today. We are very proud of it too!
We are working hard at Gathered From The Garden to help make your Christmas shopping a little easier. Check out our website(gatheredfromthegardenllc.4t.com) for some wonderful products to give to the people on your list. Send us an email to subscribe to our online newsletter: gatheredfromthegarden@gmail.com