Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Single leg exercises to improve core strength and balance

Single leg exercises to improve core strength and balance

Come get soem balance on KUSI Good Morning SD News 9 am on Wednesdays!!

Bunnies in the studio losing their ears and their balance!!! LOL


Hoppin Fun!!!

hugs and hops
"Unhappiness is best defined as the difference between our talents and our expectations"

“'Safe! safe! safe!' the pulse of the house beats wildly. Waking, I cry 'Oh, is this your buried treasure? The light in the heart.'”
-Virginia Woolf

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

I'M STILL HUNGRY AND IT'S LATE...???? HELP???

Get ready for a shocker. You may have heard that anything you eat after 8 p.m. immediately turns into extra pounds. But it’s not true. When you eat isn’t the key. How much you eat is.
 
Too many calories, whether they’re consumed in the morning, afternoon or night will equal weight gain. However, it is best to spread your calories throughout the day. That’s because food is meant to be used for energy—energy you need more during the day while shuttling your kids to practice as opposed to the night when you’re sleeping. Still nervous about eating so close to lights out? Follow these tips to calm your head and curb your hunger. 
 
Reassess Your Day
Waiting too long to eat during the day can cause binging at night. And when you’re looking for a fast hunger fix, it usually comes in the form of chips and dips, cheese and crackers or sweets—all of which have calories that add up faster than you think! Make sure to space out your meals throughout the day so you can avoid a snack attack at night.
 
Avoid Sleep Saboteurs
Sometimes consuming a heavy meal at night that’s full of fat or happens to be spicy can cause you to toss and turn. Caffeinated beverages can also disrupt your sleep, so skip those too.
 
Satisfy Your Hunger Simply
Don’t go to bed with a growling stomach—it could keep you awake. Instead, opt for a small snack such as a banana with peanut butter, a fruit salad with yogurt or a little bowl of cereal with skim milk. That may be all you need to have some sweet dreams and not add any inches to your waistline.
 
Registered dietician Elizabeth Fassberg runs Eat Food, a New York City-based company that designs and delivers custom food and nutrition programs for businesses, organizations and individuals. She’s coaching the Avagliano family through the six-month Healthy Family Challenge.
 
More from Family Circle:

Eating for a Healthy Heart

A Heart-Healthy Diet Plan

-- 
Looking for ways to kick start your heart-healthy lifestyle? Start by looking at your diet. Poor food choices can have a negative effect on your heart, weight and overall health; but making small, sustainable changes to improve your diet can have a lasting impact. There is a lot of misinformation about what foods are or aren't heart-healthy, so it may surprise you to learn that you don't need exotic fruits, imported nuts, or even pricey supplements to take care of your ticker. By making heart smart choices at home, at the grocery and at your favorite restaurant, you can reduce your risk of heart disease.

Dietary DOs and DON'Ts for a Healthy Heart

DO focus on fruits and vegetables. Most American's don't come close to eating the recommended minimum of 5 servings per day, but vegetables and fruits of all kinds and colors should take center stage in a heart-healthy diet. They're rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that promote a healthy heart and body, plus they're filling and low in calories, which can promote weight management. Fresh, frozen, dried, canned (without sugar/syrups or added salt), raw, cooked—all fruits and vegetables are good for you. Here are more tips to fit them into your meals and snacks.

DON'T overdo it on juice and processed "fruit" snacks. The fruit filling in a breakfast pastry is mostly sugar—not a real serving of fruit. And while small amounts of 100% fruit juice can fit into a healthy diet, they're also concentrated sources of sugar (naturally occurring) and calories compared to whole fruits, which also boast heart-healthy fiber while juice does not. Find out how juice can fit into a healthy diet.

DO monitor your sodium intake. Sodium gets a bad rap—and deservedly so. Our bodies do need this mineral, but in much smaller quantities than we normally eat. To prevent high blood pressure and heart disease, a healthy sodium goal to strive for is no more than 1,500 milligrams per day. Keep in mind that sodium doesn't just come from the salt shaker; processed foods, frozen entrees, canned vegetables, common condiments (like ketchup), deli meats (such as salami) and cheeses (including cottage cheese) can be high in sodium, as can many restaurant dishes. Learn how sodium sneaks into your diet and ways to reduce your intake.

DON'T forget about added sugar. Most people know that sugar isn't exactly a health food. It provides quick-digesting carbohydrates, but no real nutrition (think: vitamins and minerals). While many people associate sugar with the development of diabetes, few people realize that sugar plays just as much of a role in heart disease as dietary fat does. One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that individuals who ate more sugar had lower levels of HDL "good" cholesterol and higher triglycerides—markers of increased heart disease risk. The American Heart Association recommends that women consume no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugars (about 100 calories) each day; that number becomes 9 teaspoons for men (150 calories). Just one 12-ounce can of cola has about 130 calories, or eight teaspoons of sugar. Learn more about where sugar lurks in your diet.

DO cut back on fat. To reduce your risk of heart disease you need to choose the right types of fat, and make sure that you're not eating too much fat in general. Most adults eat too much fat, regardless of the source, so cutting back on dietary fat is a good first step to a heart healthy diet. That's why choosing low-fat products, baking or broiling instead of frying, and reducing or omitting the fats that recipes call for (think: oil, shortening, lard) are important first steps to get your fat intake in line. Avoid fats that elevate your cholesterol levelstrans fats(hydrogenated oils found in baked goods and many margarines) and saturated fats (usually found in high-fat meats and dairy products, including beef, lamb, pork, poultry, beef fat, cream, lard, butter, cheese and dairy products made with whole or 2% milk, as well as baked goods and fried foods that contain palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil). About 25-35% of your total calories for the day should come from fat sources. For someone eating 1,500 calories per day, that's about 41-58 grams of fat. SparkPeople's meal plans and nutrition rangesmeet this guideline, so if you track your food and are within your daily fat goal, you are meeting this recommendation.

DON'T fear all fats. Not all fats are bad for you. In fact, certain types of fat, such as monounsaturated fat andOmega-3s, actually promote heart health. Once you've gotten your fat intake in line, focus on making heart-smart fat choices to meet your daily recommendations. Fats found in nuts, olive, soybean and canola oils, fish and seafood.

DO imbibe in moderation (if you drink). Research indicates that a moderate alcohol intake has been associated with a decreased risk for certain cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease. A moderate alcohol intake is defined as up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men. To find out if a moderate alcohol intake is appropriate for you, talk to your doctor about your consumption of alcohol, medical history, and any medications you use. Learn more about alcohol and your heart.

DON'T start drinking alcohol if you aren't already a drinker. There are other, healthier ways to reduce your risk of heart disease rather than drinking alcohol, which also comes with its own set of risks and can lead to problems. If you don't drink now, don't start. Other healthy habits (like not smoking, eating right, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight) can also help you reduce your risk of heart disease.

DO fill up on fiber. A high fiber diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Certain types of fiber may help lower LDL "bad" cholesterol. Adults should aim for 20-30 grams each day. To meet your daily quota, select a variety of unprocessed plant-based foods each day, including whole grains, (oats, whole-wheat bread/flour/cereal fruits and vegetables and beans.

DON'T forget about cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance made in the liver and cells of animals. It is therefore found in animal products (meat, poultry, dairy and eggs), but not plant-sourced foods. A high intake of dietary cholesterol can contribute to heart disease. For the prevention of heart disease, limit your intake of dietary cholesterol to less than 300 milligrams each day. If you already have an elevated LDL cholesterol level or you are taking a cholesterol medication, this goal is even lower: 200 milligrams daily.


While it may seem like there are a lot of "rules" to follow to protect your heart, it all boils down to making smart choices on a consistent basis. Focus on the foods that you know are good for you—whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean protein choices, and healthy fats—and limit or avoid the types of foods that don't do anything for your health (think empty calories, fried foods, sugar and sweets, and high-fat meats and dairy products). When you focus on the good stuff and make healthful choices most of the time, you'll be doing your body—and your heart—well.
"Life is about becoming more than we are."
Oprah Winfrey

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Yhetii

Yhetii

you gotta hear this guy...amazing and gifted!!

Come Down Love

Come Down Love

Great Vocal from DEVIN BABCOCK........KEEP YOUR EYE ON THIS ONE!!!

HEART ATTACK

HEART ATTACK

Here is another sleek sound from my boy Devin......my man rather.....beautiful sound and quality vocal on guitar...pass it on....it's a gift!

Friday, October 26, 2012

I am a quote JUNKIE.....feed my mind reminders!!

"There is no scarcity of opportunity to make a living at what you love; there's only scarcity of resolve to make it happen."
Author, Wayne Dyer

Tuesday, October 16, 2012


Drop the Fatitude and Get a Winning Attitude!

Change Your Thoughts to Win the Weight-Loss Game

--Kathy Babcock
SparkPeople advertisers help keep the site free! Learn more
If permanent weight loss were as simple as eating less and moving more, you wouldn’t be reading this article—you’d be off somewhere enjoying your fit, trim self without a thought in your head about the difficulties of weight loss.

But here we are—because things just aren’t that simple. Despite all our scientific knowledge about how people gain and lose weight, there is no one-size-fits-all approach that guarantees your success if you just follow the rules. The fact is that no one else is exactly like you, biologically or psychologically, and there is no pre-existing map for your individual weight-loss journey. You are an “experiment of one” when it comes to figuring out what will work for you, and you’re the one running the experiment.

A big part of this experiment involves learning more about what makes you tick. For most people, just figuring out how much we need to eat and exercise to lose weight doesn’t necessarily make it easy for us to do it. Chances are, you’re going to have to work pretty hard at changing some long-standing habits, assumptions, feelings, and attitudes that influence your relationship with food and shape your lifestyle. So, where do you start? How do you figure out what will work for you? How do you know what's standing in your way and which habits you need to work on changing? One good way to find out is to look at the characteristics shared by people who succeed at long-term weight loss.
Continued ›

Friday, October 12, 2012

"Do not take life too seriously. You will never get out of it alive."Writer and Philosopher, Elbert Hubbard
"You never know who your real friends are until adversity overtakes you."Author, Napoleon Hill

Wednesday, October 10, 2012


I’ll Be Happy When…
Haven’t you been a victim of the saying: “I’ll be happy when…” (fill in the blank)?
Well, I know that I have. Happiness is not a result of getting the when. When I lose 10 pounds,then I’ll be happy. Or perhaps when I get that promotion at work or when I meet the man of my dreams, then I will be happy. It’s bull-“you know what”. We all have a tendency to do that and it creates restrictions and reservations in our lives.
 Life is so much better when you have an open heart, being grateful for everything you have NOW. When you embrace all that you are- the good, the bad and the ugly- you feel better, you get to experience a happier existence, you meet very like-minded people and life just starts to make sense. Isn’t it time to get out of our own way, living your life with love in your heart just because? If you decide to live this way, I can almost guarantee the “fill in the blank(s)” will just run off the page with events and things that are even better than you imagined.
Over the weekend I went to see one of the greatest movies I have seen in a long time, and I strongly recommend you see it as well. It’s a French film called The Intouchables. It‘s based on a true story of two men and the relationship they form. One man is an uptight, Caucasian billionaire who is handicapped from the neck down. The other is a poor, Senegalese caretaker who’s full of life and unconventional. These men become best friends and companions in spite of their differences. They share in the joy and pain of each other’s lives, making us laugh and cry at the same time. The message you walk away with is: open your heart and let true love find its way in. Living in this way will make you appreciate everything as it is, instead of waiting for the “fill in the blank(s)” to make you happier.
 So start now and open your heart. See all the happiness you will find. It’s right there, so just be and let it shine through…

I am going to DANCE IN THE RAIN TODAY!!! LIFE IS NEVER PERFECT....MARRIAGES GET OLD, CHILDREN ARE UNHAPPY, RESENTMENTS BUILD AND LOYATY WAINS.....AND YET .......WE DON'T LET THEM STEAL OUT JOY TODAY!!

Monday, October 8, 2012


Eating for a Healthy Heart

A Heart-Healthy Diet Plan

--
SparkPeople advertisers help keep the site free! Learn more
Looking for ways to kick start your heart-healthy lifestyle? Start by looking at your diet. Poor food choices can have a negative effect on your heart, weight and overall health; but making small, sustainable changes to improve your diet can have a lasting impact. There is a lot of misinformation about what foods are or aren't heart-healthy, so it may surprise you to learn that you don't need exotic fruits, imported nuts, or even pricey supplements to take care of your ticker. By making heart smart choices at home, at the grocery and at your favorite restaurant, you can reduce your risk of heart disease.

Dietary DOs and DON'Ts for a Healthy Heart

DO focus on fruits and vegetables. Most American's don't come close to eating the recommended minimum of 5 servings per day, but vegetables and fruits of all kinds and colors should take center stage in a heart-healthy diet. They're rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that promote a healthy heart and body, plus they're filling and low in calories, which can promote weight management. Fresh, frozen, dried, canned (without sugar/syrups or added salt), raw, cooked—all fruits and vegetables are good for you. Here are more tips to fit them into your meals and snacks.

DON'T overdo it on juice and processed "fruit" snacks. The fruit filling in a breakfast pastry is mostly sugar—not a real serving of fruit. And while small amounts of 100% fruit juice can fit into a healthy diet, they're also concentrated sources of sugar (naturally occurring) and calories compared to whole fruits, which also boast heart-healthy fiber while juice does not. Find out how juice can fit into a healthy diet.

DO monitor your sodium intake. Sodium gets a bad rap—and deservedly so. Our bodies do need this mineral, but in much smaller quantities than we normally eat. To prevent high blood pressure and heart disease, a healthy sodium goal to strive for is no more than 1,500 milligrams per day. Keep in mind that sodium doesn't just come from the salt shaker; processed foods, frozen entrees, canned vegetables, common condiments (like ketchup), deli meats (such as salami) and cheeses (including cottage cheese) can be high in sodium, as can many restaurant dishes. Learn how sodium sneaks into your diet and ways to reduce your intake.

DON'T forget about added sugar. Most people know that sugar isn't exactly a health food. It provides quick-digesting carbohydrates, but no real nutrition (think: vitamins and minerals). While many people associate sugar with the development of diabetes, few people realize that sugar plays just as much of a role in heart disease as dietary fat does. One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that individuals who ate more sugar had lower levels of HDL "good" cholesterol and higher triglycerides—markers of increased heart disease risk. The American Heart Association recommends that women consume no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugars (about 100 calories) each day; that number becomes 9 teaspoons for men (150 calories). Just one 12-ounce can of cola has about 130 calories, or eight teaspoons of sugar. Learn more about where sugar lurks in your diet.

DO cut back on fat. To reduce your risk of heart disease you need to choose the right types of fat, and make sure that you're not eating too much fat in general. Most adults eat too much fat, regardless of the source, so cutting back on dietary fat is a good first step to a heart healthy diet. That's why choosing low-fat products, baking or broiling instead of frying, and reducing or omitting the fats that recipes call for (think: oil, shortening, lard) are important first steps to get your fat intake in line. Avoid fats that elevate your cholesterol levelstrans fats(hydrogenated oils found in baked goods and many margarines) and saturated fats (usually found in high-fat meats and dairy products, including beef, lamb, pork, poultry, beef fat, cream, lard, butter, cheese and dairy products made with whole or 2% milk, as well as baked goods and fried foods that contain palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil). About 25-35% of your total calories for the day should come from fat sources. For someone eating 1,500 calories per day, that's about 41-58 grams of fat. SparkPeople's meal plans and nutrition rangesmeet this guideline, so if you track your food and are within your daily fat goal, you are meeting this recommendation.

DON'T fear all fats. Not all fats are bad for you. In fact, certain types of fat, such as monounsaturated fat andOmega-3s, actually promote heart health. Once you've gotten your fat intake in line, focus on making heart-smart fat choices to meet your daily recommendations. Fats found in nuts, olive, soybean and canola oils, fish and seafood.

DO imbibe in moderation (if you drink). Research indicates that a moderate alcohol intake has been associated with a decreased risk for certain cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease. A moderate alcohol intake is defined as up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men. To find out if a moderate alcohol intake is appropriate for you, talk to your doctor about your consumption of alcohol, medical history, and any medications you use. Learn more about alcohol and your heart.

DON'T start drinking alcohol if you aren't already a drinker. There are other, healthier ways to reduce your risk of heart disease rather than drinking alcohol, which also comes with its own set of risks and can lead to problems. If you don't drink now, don't start. Other healthy habits (like not smoking, eating right, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight) can also help you reduce your risk of heart disease.

DO fill up on fiber. A high fiber diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Certain types of fiber may help lower LDL "bad" cholesterol. Adults should aim for 20-30 grams each day. To meet your daily quota, select a variety of unprocessed plant-based foods each day, including whole grains, (oats, whole-wheat bread/flour/cereal fruits and vegetables and beans.

DON'T forget about cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance made in the liver and cells of animals. It is therefore found in animal products (meat, poultry, dairy and eggs), but not plant-sourced foods. A high intake of dietary cholesterol can contribute to heart disease. For the prevention of heart disease, limit your intake of dietary cholesterol to less than 300 milligrams each day. If you already have an elevated LDL cholesterol level or you are taking a cholesterol medication, this goal is even lower: 200 milligrams daily.


While it may seem like there are a lot of "rules" to follow to protect your heart, it all boils down to making smart choices on a consistent basis. Focus on the foods that you know are good for you—whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean protein choices, and healthy fats—and limit or avoid the types of foods that don't do anything for your health (think empty calories, fried foods, sugar and sweets, and high-fat meats and dairy products). When you focus on the good stuff and make healthful choices most of the time, you'll be doing your body—and your heart—well.

Sources
American Heart Association. "Nutrition Center: Healthy Diet Goals," accessed March 2011. www.heart.org.

American Heart Association. "Saturated Fats," accessed March 2011. www.heart.org.

HelpGuide.org "Easy Tips for Planning a Healthy Diet and Sticking To It," accessed March 2011. www.helpguide.org.

25 Ways to Get Fit for Less Than $25

Work Out Without Going Broke


Everyone's holding their wallets and purse strings a little tighter these days. But that doesn't mean that you have to give up on getting fit just because times are tight. Exercise can be easy to fit into your day, just as it can be inexpensive, even free! Check out these 25 ways you can get fit for less than $25. Whether you're just getting started or want to refresh your routine without going broke, there's something for everyone!

1. Resistance band (or tube) $15 This is by far the most versatile piece of equipment you can buy. I've long touted the benefits of bands, which you can use to strength training every single muscle in your body, whether you're a beginner or advanced exerciser, at home or on the road.Watch this video to learn more.

2. SparkPeople's free workout videos $0 We're constantly adding to our library of online workout videos, which give you precise instructions and options to make every workout easier or harder to fit your level. You'll find strength, aerobics (cardio), Pilates, flexibility and more so you can constantly change up your routine without spending a dime on new workouts.

3. Walking and running $0 Provided that you already have a good pair of shoes, walking and running are great ways to fit in cardio—you don't have to fight the crowds at the gym (let alone pay for a membership), and you can adapt your routine in distance, time and speed as you get more fit. Need ideas? Get walking workouts and running programs from SparkPeople.

4. Pedometer $15-$20 Studies show that when people wear a pedometer, they tend to take more steps throughout the day. A pedometer can be a really motivational tool, allowing you to set goals (aim for 10,000 steps per day) and try to increase your steps over time. If walking alone doesn't sound fun to you, this little gadget just may provide the motivation you need.

5. Gliding discs $20 You may have seen these discs at the gym or on TV. They are a fun way to add new exercises to your strength training repertoire, and most discs come with a pamphlet with instructions and exercise ideas. Of course, you'll need more than gliding discs alone to get in shape, but if you're looking for something new that doesn't break the bank, they can be a fun option. You can also you paper plates as a free substitute for commercial discs.

6. Library $0 Believe it or not, your local library provides lots of fitness options, from DVDs to VHS tapes and fitness books. Use your library to try new fitness DVDs all the time! You can switch as often as you'd like, which is a great way to avoid a plateau.

7. Stability ball $15-$20 Like resistance bands, stability balls (also called physio, Swiss or exerciseballs) are extremely versatile. They can be incorporated into cardio routines, yoga, Pilates, stretching, and of course, full body strength training (whether used alone or in combination with bands or dumbbells). Here's an introduction to using the ball, which also links to workouts and fitness ideas.

8. SparkPeople's Workout Generator $0 Our Coaches have designed over 100 strength training workouts for every fitness level and goal. Whether you have no equipment at all, or use of small items like dumbbells, you'll find plenty of ways to reach your goals (and easily track your workouts) using our Workout Generator.

9. DVD $5-$20 If you prefer to exercise at home, fitness DVDs are always a great option. Some are better than others, so always read reviews from other consumers (check out Amazon.com) before you buy. You can get them cheaper by buying used whenever possible. When you get tired of your own DVDs, sell them to someone else who wants them and put that money towards a new title. BUY IT! SparkPeople's new Cardio and Strength DVDsfeature 10-minute workouts you can do at home!

10. Pilates or yoga session $10-$25 Even without being a member, most gyms will let you pay to take classes. If you're looking for new workout ideas or just to try something new, you could spend your $25 on a single group or semi-private yoga, Pilates or Pilates Reformer session with an experienced instructor. A splurge like this could also be a fun way to reward yourself monthly or semi-annually for all your hard work!

11. Personal trainer in training $0-$20 When I was in college and training to become a personal trainer at my campus recreation center, members could "train" with me either for free or for a discounted rate. It's a win-win situation for the trainer and the trainer-to be (and the facility itself). Find out if your local gym or university offers such a program, which helps personal trainers get valuable experience. You can use the time to ask questions, get exercise ideas, or just simply get a great workout for less money.

12. Jump rope $5-$10 Get your cardio on by jumping rope! It's inexpensive, fun and a super calorie burner. Check out this workout video for jumping rope ideas you can follow along with or use on your own.

13. Aerobics step (used) $25 You can make up your own cardio step routine, buy (or borrow) an inexpensive step DVD, or incorporate the step into your strength training exercises (such as lying on it as a bench, adding inclines to lunges, adding declines to pushups and more). These are expensive items when new (near $100), but I've seen many used ones for sale for around $20—a great buy!

14. Community recreation center $10-$25 Your local community recreation center might not be bright and shiny like a big box gym, but they often have some exercise options, like cardio and strength training machines and access to dumbbells, swimming pools, basketball courts and more. Check it out and find out what yours has to offer. Membership is usually a low, annual rate that you may find more worthwhile than the high cost of a gym.

15. Garage sales $1-$25 Garage sales are notorious for selling gently-used exercise equipment, videos, and even bigger ticket items (like bikes and treadmills) for a fraction of the cost. Check your local classifieds for key "fitness" words and show up early to snag a deal!

16. Craigslist $0-$25 Visit www.craigslist.org to find local people selling their stuff and giving it away for free. Pay with cash and pick it up yourself. You'll save on everything from home gyms to yoga mats.

17. YouTube $0 SparkPeople's workout videos are on YouTube, but so are many others. Have a favorite video instructor? Want to try that Tae-Bo workout everyone has been talking about? Search for keywords on YouTube and you just may find the whole workout you're looking for—for free!

18. Mini ball $10-$13 You may have seen infomercials for the "Bender Ball," but these mini fitness balls have been used among instructors and trainers for years. If you're an intermediate to advanced exerciser, you can probably discover countless ways to incorporate this ball into your strength training routines. If not, you can buy the Bender Ball and accompanying abs DVD for under $13.

19. Podcasts $0 If you use iTunes already, then finding Podcasts will be easy for you. Most are free, and you can get audio or video podcasts that you can download to your computer or iPod—everything from yoga routines to cardio workouts. Other websites offer workout podcasts, too. Just do an Internet search for what you're looking for, such as "Free Pilates podcast" and see what turns up!

20. Playground $0 They're not just for kids—they're full of fitness opportunities for adults, too! Try pull-ups on the bars, dips on the benches, climbing across the monkey bars or whatever you can think of. Who ever thought exercise could be this fun?

21. Park $0 I love walking and hiking in my local park. It's a great way to enjoy the nice weather, meet new people, and get fit all at once—especially if your park is hilly.

22. Sports equipment $10-$25 Remember how fun it was to play sports like basketball, volleyball, soccer and more? Grab your family and friends; pick up a ball, and play!

23. Join a sports league $25 Most adult sports leagues cost a small fee to join. You'll get access to fields and gyms where you can practice with your team and play a sport competitively, which can be a great workout, depending on your sport.

24. Balance trainer $15-$25 There are a lot of balance trainers out there, from balance boards to bubble-shaped discs, which can improve core strength and add intensity to your standard strength training moves. Some smaller, inexpensive models are available, and these can add variety, challenge and fun to your routine.

25. Stairs $0 Do you ever find it strange that people will drive to a gym to endlessly climb a Stairmaster machine? Take your cardio workout to the stairs in your house, office or another building that you have access to. Whether you walk, hop or run up them, at least you're paying nothing and going somewhere!

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Getting Older is a Good Thing!
As I’ve grown into being me, I have learned to become kinder and less judgmental of myself. I’ve become comfortable in my own skin. I really enjoy spending time with myself. I used to feel sad if I didn’t have plans on a Saturday night, but now I enjoy a quiet night at home. I have seen too many wonderful people leave this world way too soon, before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging and feeling happy. To feel that inner calm with one-self is the truest gift of happiness.
Really, I must ask you, whose business is it anyway if I choose to read, play on the computer until 4 AM, or indulge in a pint of Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia ice cream directly out of the container, spoon in hand? Or sleep until noon for that matter? If I choose to weep over a lost love, I will! Maybe I’ll dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60’s, 70′s and 80’s.That is my choice and my decision.
Maybe I just feel like walking along the beach in a swimsuit that is stretched over my not so perfect figure, with a few bumps and wrinkles, and the not so pretty cellulite that has come with age. But it really doesn’t matter because I will dive into the waves with abandon, and it feels so good! Even if I get the disapproving glances from the perfect jet-set crowd, who the hell cares? Their turn will come too! We all age and that is the beauty of life. As my mother say’s, “the alternative to aging stinks!”
As I have gotten older, I have so much trouble remembering new names. Even the ones I know very well, I still forget quite often! Finding my house keys takes forever. And they’re always in the same place…go figure. But if this is the worst of it, so be it!
My heart has been broken over the years and that is okay. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, a relationship fails, a child suffers, or when somebody’s beloved pet passes away? It is, however, having the broken hearts that give us strength, empathy, understanding, and compassion into our lives and ourselves. As the saying goes, “It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” A heart that has never been broken is cold and sterile, and will never know the joy of being imperfect. To love and be loved is the greatest gift of all.
I am so grateful to have lived long enough to have my hair turn gray. Yes, it’s an added expense to get it colored (which I do only a few times a year), but really, is this a big deal? I even like my wrinkles. They give me character, showing that I have lived and laughed. Katharine Hepburn was so elegant and beautiful with her wrinkles and all. She never touched her face and yet her beauty and life still shined through. I admire that.
As you get older, it is easier to be more positive. You care less about what other people think. I don’t question myself anymore. I’ve even earned the right to be wrong. I like being older. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, so while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been. Nor will I worry about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day if I feel like it. Sometimes I may even change it up and eat dessert as my entree. I just love that I have choices and growing older has taught me this.
Aging is about feeling great and embracing the real you. You have become older and wiser, clearer and calmer. Getting older is a GOOD thing, so enjoy the process!
Dear Friend,

At the presidential debate on Wednesday night, Governor Romney revealed President Obama’s tired rhetoric for what it is: a weak attempt to mask a record of failure.
But the first signs that the President's luck was about to change didn’t come with Governor Romney’s excellent performance on Wednesday — they came in that morning’s New York Times.
As a left-wing president, you know you’re in trouble when you’ve lost liberal columnist, Maureen Dowd, on national security.
On op-ed page of Wednesday’s Times, Dowd alleged that “The Obama administration sidestepped Al Qaeda ties in the case of the Libyan attack to perpetuate the narrative that the president had decimated Al Qaeda when Osama bin Laden was killed, and to preclude allegations that they were asleep at the switch on the anniversary of 9/11. Better to blame it all on a spontaneous protest to an anti-Islam video on YouTube.”
In fact, fallout from the Obama administration’s response to the crisis in the Middle East may be only just beginning. The more we learn about what actually happened surrounding the attacks of September 12, 2012, the more the administration’s response looks nakedly political.
We now know that the administration realized within 24 hours that the assault which killed our ambassador and three other Americans was almost certainly a terrorist attack linked to Al Qaeda. As an American intelligence official told Yahoo News, “’In this case, the intel has been spot-on from the beginning’… American intelligence reached the conclusion that the assault on the consulate was terrorism ‘on Day One’ and ‘the Brits, the French, Italians all said the same thing … within 48 hours.’”
Twenty four hours. That would be right around the time President Obama began cracking jokes at his Las Vegas fundraiser.
Inexplicably, the administration spent more than a week trying to convince the public that the attack in Benghazi was actually a protest of an obscure anti-Islamic movie that simply got out of hand.
White House Press Secretary Jay Carney was amazingly determined to drive the idea that “the cause of the unrest was a video,” as he told questioners repeatedly. Our U.N. ambassador, Susan Rice, went on the Sunday shows to repeat this bizarre yarn, long after the administration apparently knew it was false.
The same day, Libyan National Congress President Mohamd Magariaf told interviewers that the version of events the administration was pushing publicly was “completely unfounded and preposterous.”
But Carney continued to insist the attacks were a response to the cartoonish video until September 20, when the administration abruptly shifted and said it was “self-evident” that the attack was a terrorist incident.
We know now that, as Fox News reported, “There was no major protest in Benghazi before the deadly attack which killed four Americans.”
For the full timeline we’ve put together of the Obama administration’s dishonesty about what happened in Libya, click here.
The administration’s unwillingness to level with the American people about vital matters of national security raises very serious questions. If, for political reasons, our leaders willfully deceived us about an Al Qaeda-linked terrorist attack that killed American citizens, not only is it utterly shameful but it proves they are unfit to guarantee our safety.
Meanwhile, as it ignored the implications of the Libya attack, the administration announced its intention to send another half-billion dollars in foreign aid to Egypt, where on September 11 our embassy was breached, our flag torn down, and an Islamist banner raised.
This is a country whose Prime Minister was asked the other week on the BBC if he thought the U.S. should modify its laws to prevent people from insulting Islam, and he said, "We have to do all it takes to stop [insults] from happening. I'm calling on them to take the necessary measures to ensure insulting billions of people, one-and-a-half billion people and their beliefs, does not happen and people pay for what they do and at the same time make sure that the reflections of the true Egyptian and Muslims is well in the Western media."
Thus while attempting to diminish an Al Qaeda-linked attack on our consulate in Libya, the Obama administration is funding a government whose leaders advocate shredding the first amendment of the American Constitution.
And what did Egypt’s president, Mohamed Morsi, have to say to the New York Times about America's generous aid to Egypt?"
Thank you?
Far from it: “Successive American administrations essentially purchased with American taxpayer money the dislike, if not the hatred, of the peoples of the region.”
Since 1946, American taxpayers have sent more than $70 billion to Egypt.
Since 2001, we have sent $18 billion. This year, we will send another $1 billion.
To purchase, they tell us, ‘their dislike, if not their hatred.’
It’s time to stop sending the money of hardworking American taxpayers to governments who would destroy our free speech and who are telling us our money has done more harm than good. And it’s time to elect a president here at home who tells us the truth about our national security.
Your Friend,
Newt



Just Released: Land of the Pilgrims' Pride

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

What Are You Committed To?
I have found that when I am committed to doing something and have incredible passion for it, it makes me feel good and truly happy. Being committed to something means having clarity of what you want to do and how you want to go about doing it. It’s being consistent and having conviction in how you tell your story. We all have experiences in life. It’s the memories, the actions and the doing in your life that truly make you happy. It’s not material things, but the people and relationships that you create for yourself.
 Just this past week, my father was honored with The Torch of Liberty award for A.D.L. (The Anti-Defamation League). It was really incredible to see 350 people stand up and applaud my father. His very good friend, Marvin, presented him with the award. Marvin spoke about how my father has been committed to the community by creating awareness for the day school, serving on boards and raising substantial amounts of money for juvenile diabetes. He was also the president of an organization that gives summer-camp-scholarships to less fortunate children, as well as serving on the board at Saint Raphael’s Hospital.
 What was so beautiful about Marvin’s speech was when he talked about how my father is so committed to making a difference in the community, truly helping people have better lives. How he does all of this because he cares. It’s not for the award or the prestige, but because he is committed to helping and caring for people, bettering their community.
 What really struck a chord with me was a text my dad received from my nephew (his grandson) Marc the day after the event. He said: “Hey papa, I had a great time last night & I’m so proud of u. It was very impressive 2 have all those people there just 4 u. I hope that when I’m older I can do what u do & maybe u’ll come 2 a dinner like that 4 me.”

 When we help out and reach others, we naturally feel better about ourselves. There is an effortlessly calming and satisfying feeling that comes over us, knowing we are making a difference. Maybe this is something that you want to consider. What is it that you are committed to? Is it your job, your children or your relationship, or contributing to your community?
 Being committed to something puts you on a path that leads you in a positive, forward direction. Perhaps you can take a moment and consider where you want to make a difference. As I said, experiences create happiness. Aren’t you ready to be happy?

Kathy Babcock

Monday, October 1, 2012


Help Yourself Over Exercise Hurdles

Make Options Instead of Excuses

-- By Liz Noelcke, Staff Writer
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It’s the time of year when those New Year’s Resolutions are getting more difficult to keep, and the winter weather isn’t making it any easier. You probably had a lot of enthusiasm for the first few weeks—you joined the gym, exercised regularly, probably even improved your endurance and strength by now. But as the weeks go by, more obstacles start to creep in. Don’t be dismayed! The good news is that there are plenty of helpers to get you over those exercise hurdles.

Hurdle #1: "I don’t have enough time to exercise." Helpers:
  • Take your gym bag to work and exercise during lunch. Having your gear with you will also make it easier to go straight to the gym after work.
  • Exercise in smaller intervals of time. Three 15-minute "mini workouts" spread throughout the day can be just as effective as one 45-minute session. Try to fit in a mini workout first thing in the morning, during breaks, at lunch, and after dinner. Don’t have 15 minutes? Any interval (even 5 minutes) is better than none.
  • Do your workout first thing in the morning, when you are less likely to be distracted by other daily tasks.
  • Find ways to squeeze extra activity into your normal routine. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, stretch at work, or ride the stationary bike while watching TV. Do crunches and other strength exercises during commercial breaks.
  • Instead of meeting your friends for lunch this weekend, meet them for a leisurely walk or nature hike.
  • Spend time with your family and kids doing fun activities. Instead of going to dinner and a movie, try: miniature golf, riding bikes, playing at a park, ice skating, playing in the snow, or practicing your child’s favorite sport with them. Geocaching can be a fun activity for the whole family.
Hurdle #2: "I'm discouraged since I don’t seen immediate results." Helpers:
  • Set challenging, yet attainable, short-term and long-term goals. Don’t forget about The Importance of Setting Medium-Term Goals.
  • Track activity on a daily basis (what you ate, your activity level), but measure results (weigh-in, inches lost) every week or two in order to accurately observe progress.
  • Use more than just weight loss to measure success. For instance, look for positive changes in your energy, stress, endurance, strength, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. All of these should improve when you implement healthier habits.
  • Set rewards for meeting daily, weekly and monthly goals. Whether it’s a massage, video rental, or a vacation, pick something that is meaningful (and financially affordable) to you.
Hurdle #3: "I’m experiencing 'burnout' on my current program." Helpers:
  • Change your routine! Workout in the morning or midday instead of the evening. If you usually exercise outdoors, bring it inside and try a new piece of cardio equipment or fitness video. Take a class at your gym. Even just changing the order of your exercises can fight boredom.
  • Set simple goals at first—ones that may even seem easy like walking for 5 minutes. Gradually build up by adding more difficult goals. Increase activity (time, distance) and intensity (speed, resistance, incline) as you gain success and momentum.
  • Find a fitness buddy who has similar goals; make regular appointments to exercise together. A buddy can also be comforting when you’re afraid to try something new like join a gym or take that Yogilates class.
  • Do things you enjoy! Exercise doesn’t have to be a "work" out. Play soccer, basketball or another game instead of just jogging or riding the stationary bike. Learn karate or tae kwon do. Take a ballroom dance class with your partner.
Hurdle #4: "I don’t have the support of my family and friends." Helpers:
  • Join a support group on the Message Boards. When you’re going through similar challenges together, you can encourage and make each other accountable.
  • Ask a co-worker, friend, neighbor, or fellow gym member to be your workout buddy.
  • Speak positively about your healthy nutrition and exercise routine.
  • Develop a reward system for yourself. If others won’t congratulate you, congratulate yourself!
  • Tell them how important these changes are to your health and happiness—and how that affect their lives too. Your loved ones should be there to support you, not sabotage you. Ask them for support, even if they may not be willing to change their own habits.
 Bottom-line
...... .Bottom-Line you have what it takes! Kathy