Saturday, December 26, 2009
The Lemon Detox Diet
Preparing to do the Lemon Detox diet - must eat all of the left overs in the fridge. I heard today that it is International Left-overs Day and that left overs are a big contributor to global methane emmisions. Be creative, curries, soups, etc..
Sunday, December 20, 2009
GIVING is one of the strongest symbols of Christmas, but research suggests a majority of Australians don't think too much about donating to those less
PRESS RELEASE
According to the Westpac Community Markets Give Differently survey, just 21 per cent of respondents say Christmas is a time when they most think about making donations to charities.
While 92 per cent of people say they have donated to a charity in the past 12 months, only 33 per cent say it was during the holiday period.
More than half of all the donations were in reaction to national disasters such as last summer's Victorian Bushfire Appeal.
Sole parent of 3, Sam Beau Patrick from the Gold Coast would like to change these statistics and encourage others to follow suit. Sam has written 2 books in 2009 and is donating part proceeds of the sales to her 2 favorite charities: Paradise Kids and Bravehearts.
“. . I want to help as many people as possible but being a sole parent means I have to be smart about how and where I divide my time and energy. Writing the books and then donating part of the sales to charity is a great win-win for the charities, the people purchasing the books and I know I am helping people who have a genuine need…” Sam said.
Sam organised for 2500 boxes of clothes (boxed, washed and sorted) to be shipped to the Victorian Bush Fire Survivors and FNQ flood survivors in February this year, so donating to charity is strong in her heart and passions.
Sam would like to see other businesses follow her lead and donate part of the sales profits back to charity. With 92% of Australians donating to charity this year (and over 50% being the Bush Fire Appeal), Sam would like to see the generosity and act of giving continue.
Sam’s 2 books can be purchases on line from www.byebyebridget.com.
Her books are: HOT TIPS for the BUSINESS TRAVELLER
And BEAUTY AND THE BEAST WITHIN
According to the Westpac Community Markets Give Differently survey, just 21 per cent of respondents say Christmas is a time when they most think about making donations to charities.
While 92 per cent of people say they have donated to a charity in the past 12 months, only 33 per cent say it was during the holiday period.
More than half of all the donations were in reaction to national disasters such as last summer's Victorian Bushfire Appeal.
Sole parent of 3, Sam Beau Patrick from the Gold Coast would like to change these statistics and encourage others to follow suit. Sam has written 2 books in 2009 and is donating part proceeds of the sales to her 2 favorite charities: Paradise Kids and Bravehearts.
“. . I want to help as many people as possible but being a sole parent means I have to be smart about how and where I divide my time and energy. Writing the books and then donating part of the sales to charity is a great win-win for the charities, the people purchasing the books and I know I am helping people who have a genuine need…” Sam said.
Sam organised for 2500 boxes of clothes (boxed, washed and sorted) to be shipped to the Victorian Bush Fire Survivors and FNQ flood survivors in February this year, so donating to charity is strong in her heart and passions.
Sam would like to see other businesses follow her lead and donate part of the sales profits back to charity. With 92% of Australians donating to charity this year (and over 50% being the Bush Fire Appeal), Sam would like to see the generosity and act of giving continue.
Sam’s 2 books can be purchases on line from www.byebyebridget.com.
Her books are: HOT TIPS for the BUSINESS TRAVELLER
And BEAUTY AND THE BEAST WITHIN
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
How Can Take-Aways Be Safe?
The following are some commonly purchased foods and their ingredients. All 3 companies list their ingredients panels as chemical names (not numbers) so normally you would see a string of numbers. Do these ingredients have health effects? Of course. Down the bottom I have put a link to the safety data listed for one of the ingredients : sodium acid pyrophosphate. It actually lists it as poisonous if ingested! All have been cut and paste sections direct from their websites.
KFC
Gravy
Food Starch-Modified, Maltodextrin, Enriched Wheat Flour (Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Chicken Fat, Wheat Flour, Salt, Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Monosodium Glutamate, Dextrose, Palm And Canola Oils, Mono and Diglycerides, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Natural and Artificial Flavor (With Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Milk), Caramel Color (Treated With Sulfiting Agents), Onion Powder, Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate, Spice, Spice Extractives, With Not More Than 2% Silicon Dioxide Added As An Anti-caking.
Contains Milk, Wheat and Soy.
OR
Wheat Flour, Modified Corn Starch, Monosodium Glutamate, Salt, Dextrose, Soybean Oil, Onion Powder, Spice, Caramel Color, Torula Yeast, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Turmeric, Autolyzed Yeast, Oleoresin Paprika and Natural Flavoring.
Contains Wheat and Soy.
*Will contain one of the Ingredient statements above, depending upon regional suppliers
FOR FULL ARTICLE: http://www.byebyebridget.com/wysiwyg/addons/docs/files/Take_aways.pdf
the Health Queen
KFC
Gravy
Food Starch-Modified, Maltodextrin, Enriched Wheat Flour (Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Chicken Fat, Wheat Flour, Salt, Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Monosodium Glutamate, Dextrose, Palm And Canola Oils, Mono and Diglycerides, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Natural and Artificial Flavor (With Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Milk), Caramel Color (Treated With Sulfiting Agents), Onion Powder, Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate, Spice, Spice Extractives, With Not More Than 2% Silicon Dioxide Added As An Anti-caking.
Contains Milk, Wheat and Soy.
OR
Wheat Flour, Modified Corn Starch, Monosodium Glutamate, Salt, Dextrose, Soybean Oil, Onion Powder, Spice, Caramel Color, Torula Yeast, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Turmeric, Autolyzed Yeast, Oleoresin Paprika and Natural Flavoring.
Contains Wheat and Soy.
*Will contain one of the Ingredient statements above, depending upon regional suppliers
FOR FULL ARTICLE: http://www.byebyebridget.com/wysiwyg/addons/docs/files/Take_aways.pdf
the Health Queen
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
PRESS RELEASE
Gold Coast Hormone Expert confirms that females are becoming men! Testosterone levels in females is on the rise.
“..One in ten women of childbearing age has PCOS… PCOS leads to high levels of androgens.. ”
http://www.womanshealth.gov.au
Since the 1970s ladies have been entering the work force in large numbers and over time have managed to scale the same corporate ladders as their male counterparts. During the same time period, women are engaging in more physical, and previously male dominated sports, such as cricket, soccer and rugby!
But were woman biologically designed to climb ladders or mug each other on a footy field?
Sam Beau Patrick, The Health Queen, suspects not. What Sam is finding in her clinics (in ladies aged 20-50) is a phenomena that would medically be termed PCOS (High testosterone) is on the rise. Not in a little way, but at an alarming rate.
“..up to one in three ladies in my clinic have elevated testosterone levels..” and “they are having feelings associated with this – anger, rage, acne, excessive facial hair and are finding it very hard to relax and be happy..” said Sam from her Health Queen clinic.
The other physical changes these ladies are experiencing are insulin problems (so weight control is difficult), changes to cortisol levels (stress hormone) so that they always feel tired, and anxious.
Sam would like to see a move to change the current term and diagnosis of poly cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as it is misleading. Sam prefers to refer to the condition as Female Hormone Disorder (FHD) as not all ladies experience ovarian cysts (as the title PCOS implies). Many doctors not trained in this area often only look for the ovarian cysts and miss the diagnosis and tell ladies there is “nothing wrong” which makes them feel even more frustrated.
The medical hormone tests she runs, supports the finding that females are becoming men. Testosterone levels are higher than they have been in previous decades.
The hormone testing is a simple test able to be done at home from saliva. Results take up to 2 weeks and can be ordered on http://www.byebyebridget.com/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=Self%20Test%20Kits&stk_category=Hormones and costs from $95.
Contact Information:
Sam Beau Patrick, nurse, naturopath and author practices from her home clinic 314 Rio Vista Blvde, Mermaid Waters. Ph 0405 669 135.
Websites: www.healthqueen.com.au and www.byebyebridget.com
Saliva hormones cost from $95 and test estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and others can be tested on request.
“..One in ten women of childbearing age has PCOS… PCOS leads to high levels of androgens.. ”
http://www.womanshealth.gov.au
Since the 1970s ladies have been entering the work force in large numbers and over time have managed to scale the same corporate ladders as their male counterparts. During the same time period, women are engaging in more physical, and previously male dominated sports, such as cricket, soccer and rugby!
But were woman biologically designed to climb ladders or mug each other on a footy field?
Sam Beau Patrick, The Health Queen, suspects not. What Sam is finding in her clinics (in ladies aged 20-50) is a phenomena that would medically be termed PCOS (High testosterone) is on the rise. Not in a little way, but at an alarming rate.
“..up to one in three ladies in my clinic have elevated testosterone levels..” and “they are having feelings associated with this – anger, rage, acne, excessive facial hair and are finding it very hard to relax and be happy..” said Sam from her Health Queen clinic.
The other physical changes these ladies are experiencing are insulin problems (so weight control is difficult), changes to cortisol levels (stress hormone) so that they always feel tired, and anxious.
Sam would like to see a move to change the current term and diagnosis of poly cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as it is misleading. Sam prefers to refer to the condition as Female Hormone Disorder (FHD) as not all ladies experience ovarian cysts (as the title PCOS implies). Many doctors not trained in this area often only look for the ovarian cysts and miss the diagnosis and tell ladies there is “nothing wrong” which makes them feel even more frustrated.
The medical hormone tests she runs, supports the finding that females are becoming men. Testosterone levels are higher than they have been in previous decades.
The hormone testing is a simple test able to be done at home from saliva. Results take up to 2 weeks and can be ordered on http://www.byebyebridget.com/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=Self%20Test%20Kits&stk_category=Hormones and costs from $95.
Contact Information:
Sam Beau Patrick, nurse, naturopath and author practices from her home clinic 314 Rio Vista Blvde, Mermaid Waters. Ph 0405 669 135.
Websites: www.healthqueen.com.au and www.byebyebridget.com
Saliva hormones cost from $95 and test estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and others can be tested on request.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Preparing for a DUST STORM
As the Eastern Boarder of Australia is on high alert for winds and dust storms, it is important to protect your health and your property. Here are a few pointers:
Health
1. Purchase face masks for the family (pharmacy, hard ware shop)
2. Don't plan things for the outdoors if you suffer with asthma or hayfever (Eg delay BBqs, have planned gatherings inside eg cafes, pubs, homes)
3. Carry ventolin puffers on you (and purchase one if you can't find yours)
Home
1. Pack everything possible up and drape other items with cover sheets if you have them
2. take clothes off the line
3. pull pool covers over swimming pools
4. pick up all lose items and bring inside
5. lock sheds
6. bring cars into undercover parking if possible
7. Close all the windows in the house
Good luck
Health
1. Purchase face masks for the family (pharmacy, hard ware shop)
2. Don't plan things for the outdoors if you suffer with asthma or hayfever (Eg delay BBqs, have planned gatherings inside eg cafes, pubs, homes)
3. Carry ventolin puffers on you (and purchase one if you can't find yours)
Home
1. Pack everything possible up and drape other items with cover sheets if you have them
2. take clothes off the line
3. pull pool covers over swimming pools
4. pick up all lose items and bring inside
5. lock sheds
6. bring cars into undercover parking if possible
7. Close all the windows in the house
Good luck
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Female Hormone Disorder – The 21st Century Endemic
Female hormone disorder (FHD) is the new, and aptly named by the Health Queen, hormone phenomena that is seizing modern day woman.
The modern day lady is typically smart, educated, goal driven, committed in whole to their partner; their kids; their netball team and girlfriends. They are usually working 30 hours per week, exercising to some degree, drinking wine, consuming lots of love-giving-serotonin-promoting chocolate, and managing the household budget.
What a bucket load of stress!
What is changing….
Ladies have the following measurable changes in their blood tests or saliva tests:
1. Elevated estrogen
2. Elevated testosterone
3. Insulin and glucose intolerance (which is the crux of the whole FHD). Or impaired glucose intolerance (which currently affects 1 in 4 Australian adults)!
Ladies experience:
1. Excess abdominal fat, bulging layers like cream cascading over a waterfall
2. A hairy chin or moustache
3. Stressed facial expressions
4. Short breathing pattern (look at the lady side-on to see her chest rise, or watch the way they talk – garbled, frantic words, suppressed giggles because it takes up too much oxygen).
What the ladies are feeling:
1. Angry, irritable, revengeful, anxious and stressed
2. Embarrassment about their physical appearance
3. Annoyance and frustration about not being able to rationally control their binges, their decisions in general and their paralysis at taking pro-active control
4. Isolated
The simple 4 point answer (which is a very simplified , and a primate way to address the very complex, evolving being that I refer to as “Bridget”)
1. Relax, breathe, breathe, and then tell yourself “ in the big picture, it doesn’t matter”
2. Positively recall everything that works in your day – you wake up with your partner/husband/a clear head – you have someone somewhere that thinks of you last before you go to bed and that you have missed at least 2 new opportunities today due to unsolved baggage
3. That life should be easier
4. That your life choices are 100% in your hands. If you are stressed, it’s because you are buying into stress.
To have your say, and to be a part of understanding this phenomena go to .
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Midges
Midges can pose a delimma for some who people who suffer reactions from their bite.
Try some of the suggestions below. I have heard very good feedback from people using vitamin B1.
Midge facts
• Biting midges are not sandflies.
• They are not known to be vectors of any human disease in Australia.
• In overcast humid weather, they are known to bite all day and night.
• Only the female bites: she needs a blood meal to fertilise her eggs. They are known as pool feeders because they use their proboscis like a saw to create a tiny hole in the skin into which a pool of blood can flow. Saliva is injected into the pool to help the flow of blood. It is this saliva that causes the allergic reaction and itching.
• Remember that biting midge numbers increase around the time of the full and new moons; it is advisable not to plan outdoor functions that coincide with these times.
Useful tips
• a hot bath may provide temporary relief
• anti-itching creams or lotions (tea tree or lavender) can be effective
• it has been observed that Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Hydrochloride) taken
over a period of more than 30 days before exposure to midges, can reduce
the severity of some people’s reaction to bites (this is not true of everyone
and always consult your Gp, or the “ HEALTH QUEEN” before taking any vitamins)
How to protect yourself
• Anything you can do to reduce humidity, increase light and air movement will make your house and garden less attractive to midges. Midges hide underneath the leaves of the plants and shrubs in your garden.
• Closely mown lawns, sparse vegetation around your house and minimal surface water in the garden will decrease humidity, increase air movement so as to minimise the resting places for midges.
• Avoid gardening or watering in the afternoon and early morning.
• Increase air movement in the house by using electric fans
• Spraying residual (surface) insecticide on your flyscreens will help deter midges from entering your home.
• Burning mosquito coils inside can also reduce numbers.
• Most insect repellents are effective against midges and should be used whenever you are outside the house, alternatively an equal part mixture of baby oil, Dettol and Eucalyptus oil is useful.
• Long sleeve shorts and long trousers made of closely woven materials give good protection; when gardening, a hat and gloves are also a big help.
Natural Organic insecticides
If you are reluctant to use chemicals in your garden, organic insecticides can be made up and applied. These will be capable of killing the adult midges, however repeated applications may be necessary.
Some useful organic insecticide formulations are:
Garlic spray : 85 grams unpeeled garlic, two (2) tablespoons mineral oil, 600 millilitres water and seven (7) grams of soap dissolved in solution. Mix solution and place in trigger sprayer.
Derris spray: 120 grams soap in 4.5 litres of water solution. Mix in 60 grams of derris powder (from garden suppliers) and mix an additional 4.5 litres of water. Dilute entire mixture in 12 litres of water and place in trigger sprayer.
Outdoor repellents: Gardening or hosting a barbecue? Parrafin oil or perfumed lamp oil can be mixed with either Citronella or Lavender oil and burned in 'Polynesian' bamboo lamp burners placed upwind of your activity.
Ref: http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/t_standard.aspx?PID=61
Try some of the suggestions below. I have heard very good feedback from people using vitamin B1.
Midge facts
• Biting midges are not sandflies.
• They are not known to be vectors of any human disease in Australia.
• In overcast humid weather, they are known to bite all day and night.
• Only the female bites: she needs a blood meal to fertilise her eggs. They are known as pool feeders because they use their proboscis like a saw to create a tiny hole in the skin into which a pool of blood can flow. Saliva is injected into the pool to help the flow of blood. It is this saliva that causes the allergic reaction and itching.
• Remember that biting midge numbers increase around the time of the full and new moons; it is advisable not to plan outdoor functions that coincide with these times.
Useful tips
• a hot bath may provide temporary relief
• anti-itching creams or lotions (tea tree or lavender) can be effective
• it has been observed that Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Hydrochloride) taken
over a period of more than 30 days before exposure to midges, can reduce
the severity of some people’s reaction to bites (this is not true of everyone
and always consult your Gp, or the “ HEALTH QUEEN” before taking any vitamins)
How to protect yourself
• Anything you can do to reduce humidity, increase light and air movement will make your house and garden less attractive to midges. Midges hide underneath the leaves of the plants and shrubs in your garden.
• Closely mown lawns, sparse vegetation around your house and minimal surface water in the garden will decrease humidity, increase air movement so as to minimise the resting places for midges.
• Avoid gardening or watering in the afternoon and early morning.
• Increase air movement in the house by using electric fans
• Spraying residual (surface) insecticide on your flyscreens will help deter midges from entering your home.
• Burning mosquito coils inside can also reduce numbers.
• Most insect repellents are effective against midges and should be used whenever you are outside the house, alternatively an equal part mixture of baby oil, Dettol and Eucalyptus oil is useful.
• Long sleeve shorts and long trousers made of closely woven materials give good protection; when gardening, a hat and gloves are also a big help.
Natural Organic insecticides
If you are reluctant to use chemicals in your garden, organic insecticides can be made up and applied. These will be capable of killing the adult midges, however repeated applications may be necessary.
Some useful organic insecticide formulations are:
Garlic spray : 85 grams unpeeled garlic, two (2) tablespoons mineral oil, 600 millilitres water and seven (7) grams of soap dissolved in solution. Mix solution and place in trigger sprayer.
Derris spray: 120 grams soap in 4.5 litres of water solution. Mix in 60 grams of derris powder (from garden suppliers) and mix an additional 4.5 litres of water. Dilute entire mixture in 12 litres of water and place in trigger sprayer.
Outdoor repellents: Gardening or hosting a barbecue? Parrafin oil or perfumed lamp oil can be mixed with either Citronella or Lavender oil and burned in 'Polynesian' bamboo lamp burners placed upwind of your activity.
Ref: http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/t_standard.aspx?PID=61
Friday, August 21, 2009
Gluten Free Cafe- DARE
It's challenging find a healthy take-away option.
It's even more challenging finding a healthy take away cafe that offers gluten free options.
Well I have discovered a gem. It's called Dare - Delicious and Responsible Eating, located in Playfair st, The Rocks, Sydney.
It's great wandering the street and finding yummy and healthy places to eat.
This cafe offers open air eating, yummy gluten free slices, kebabs and meats, innovative and delicous salads and WINE for when it's becoming a longggg day with the kids.
I will certainly be making it one of my favorite cafes to visit when I come to Sydney.
It's even more challenging finding a healthy take away cafe that offers gluten free options.
Well I have discovered a gem. It's called Dare - Delicious and Responsible Eating, located in Playfair st, The Rocks, Sydney.
It's great wandering the street and finding yummy and healthy places to eat.
This cafe offers open air eating, yummy gluten free slices, kebabs and meats, innovative and delicous salads and WINE for when it's becoming a longggg day with the kids.
I will certainly be making it one of my favorite cafes to visit when I come to Sydney.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Today Tonight's story - Diet Blitz
Today Tonight (channel 7) ran a story tonight, about the AMA and the Australian Dietician's Assoc. wanting all diets, fads, weight loss programs regulated. They are saying Canberra should take a hold of the industry as there are over 3000 different, promoted weight loss methods in Australia.
With some 8 Million people struggling with muffin tops, back fat, fat booties and generally being over-weight and unhealthy, it's pretty obvious to me that the currently promoted Health pyramid: is either not being adhered to , or recommends too many carbs (you be the judge).
The AMA (as with all medical treatments) are demanding retrospective, evidence-based-studies and recommendations (for 2 years). This is marvellous if you want to spend the next 10 years setting up committees (who then have to work out their in house policies, laws, regulations and what ever else it is they have to attend to) and then roll out a study on 3000 diets, which will take at least another 2 years, and then add another 2 years for number crunching, parliment to motion, agree and pass on the findings - which will lead to the 2023 Diet Recommendations - which will be SO out of date and irrelevent as it will referring to things that are a decade old.
The people who request "evidence-based-medicine and facts" are conservative academics. (Trust me, i have worked along side doctors for years and have taught them to demand for "evidence " when i was a drug rep - that's how we won our debates over other drug companies).
What we need are pioneers, bio-chemists, people who make sense, and have results to support their techniques.
Let me elaborate on the current evidence and diet recommendations in Australia:
THE FACTS:- The Australian Dieticians Assoc has been promoting the healthy pyramid model for the last 15 years. (The USA dropped the pyramid in 2002!)
- Since promoting the pyramid - we have produced a nation rampant with diabetes, obesity and metabolic diseases.Now at least 1 in 2 people is overweight.
- Not suprisingly the doctors - who send patients to dieticians - (and have even ensured their dieticians professional success by introducing a program in 2002 called Enhanced Primary Care. This means that a GP can refer to dietician and the patient can claim through medicare. This system does not include nutritionist nor naturopaths), receive a financial renumeration (YES THEY GET PAID) for doing this.
- The pyramid's incongruencies have not been addressed despite a multitude of studies demonstrating that refined carbohydrates cause inflammation and metabolic disease (ie the pyramid advices against best medicine and the evidence).
Am I being political here? Yes!
Have I bitten my tongue for years? YES!
Why am I saying something now.... Because I am sick of Australia, one of the great democratic nations only telling it's people one side. And with most health issues in Australia - medical doctors are the only ones who have the "ultimate say". They have little idea about food and nutrition.
There are many facets to the obesity debate.
As with most things in life, the true pioneers and usually the most successful people (as they are seeking for win-wins) are the ones who come under the most critism.
My advice to you
Gather information. Talk to people who have tried different fat reduction techniques. See what is successful.
Have realistic expectiations. Talk to professionals in fat loss - this is NOT your personal trainer - (who has done a 9 week course),it is not to a pharmacists, it is not a mum your mum's group. It is someone properly trained, who looks like they walk the talk, who explains things comprehensively and someone that you relate to.
Results can take awhile - stay strong. Stay committed to your HEALTH goals. Think of where you will be in 12 months time, not what you would do if you had a magic wand for next week.
If fat loss was easy, I wouldn't be battling my own person see-saw of fat cometh, fat goeth away. I know hundreds of fat loss tips. But as with most people, fat loss is complex.
Fat loss encompasses:
- issues of self esteem, why we eat, why we over eat,why we binge eat, why we get hooked on sugary foods , why we find alcohol relaxing,eating in restaurants, eating take aways, hormone imbalances, stress, food chemicals, marketing to kids (to entice eating), and on and on it goes.
Good luck and i welcome any stories or feedback on my natural medicine site. I will have a forum soon.
for now send any comments to sam@healthqueen.com.au and say if you are happy for me to publish on this blog site or not.
Health Queen
With some 8 Million people struggling with muffin tops, back fat, fat booties and generally being over-weight and unhealthy, it's pretty obvious to me that the currently promoted Health pyramid: is either not being adhered to , or recommends too many carbs (you be the judge).
The AMA (as with all medical treatments) are demanding retrospective, evidence-based-studies and recommendations (for 2 years). This is marvellous if you want to spend the next 10 years setting up committees (who then have to work out their in house policies, laws, regulations and what ever else it is they have to attend to) and then roll out a study on 3000 diets, which will take at least another 2 years, and then add another 2 years for number crunching, parliment to motion, agree and pass on the findings - which will lead to the 2023 Diet Recommendations - which will be SO out of date and irrelevent as it will referring to things that are a decade old.
The people who request "evidence-based-medicine and facts" are conservative academics. (Trust me, i have worked along side doctors for years and have taught them to demand for "evidence " when i was a drug rep - that's how we won our debates over other drug companies).
What we need are pioneers, bio-chemists, people who make sense, and have results to support their techniques.
Let me elaborate on the current evidence and diet recommendations in Australia:
THE FACTS:- The Australian Dieticians Assoc has been promoting the healthy pyramid model for the last 15 years. (The USA dropped the pyramid in 2002!)
- Since promoting the pyramid - we have produced a nation rampant with diabetes, obesity and metabolic diseases.Now at least 1 in 2 people is overweight.
- Not suprisingly the doctors - who send patients to dieticians - (and have even ensured their dieticians professional success by introducing a program in 2002 called Enhanced Primary Care. This means that a GP can refer to dietician and the patient can claim through medicare. This system does not include nutritionist nor naturopaths), receive a financial renumeration (YES THEY GET PAID) for doing this.
- The pyramid's incongruencies have not been addressed despite a multitude of studies demonstrating that refined carbohydrates cause inflammation and metabolic disease (ie the pyramid advices against best medicine and the evidence).
Am I being political here? Yes!
Have I bitten my tongue for years? YES!
Why am I saying something now.... Because I am sick of Australia, one of the great democratic nations only telling it's people one side. And with most health issues in Australia - medical doctors are the only ones who have the "ultimate say". They have little idea about food and nutrition.
There are many facets to the obesity debate.
As with most things in life, the true pioneers and usually the most successful people (as they are seeking for win-wins) are the ones who come under the most critism.
My advice to you
Gather information. Talk to people who have tried different fat reduction techniques. See what is successful.
Have realistic expectiations. Talk to professionals in fat loss - this is NOT your personal trainer - (who has done a 9 week course),it is not to a pharmacists, it is not a mum your mum's group. It is someone properly trained, who looks like they walk the talk, who explains things comprehensively and someone that you relate to.
Results can take awhile - stay strong. Stay committed to your HEALTH goals. Think of where you will be in 12 months time, not what you would do if you had a magic wand for next week.
If fat loss was easy, I wouldn't be battling my own person see-saw of fat cometh, fat goeth away. I know hundreds of fat loss tips. But as with most people, fat loss is complex.
Fat loss encompasses:
- issues of self esteem, why we eat, why we over eat,why we binge eat, why we get hooked on sugary foods , why we find alcohol relaxing,eating in restaurants, eating take aways, hormone imbalances, stress, food chemicals, marketing to kids (to entice eating), and on and on it goes.
Good luck and i welcome any stories or feedback on my natural medicine site. I will have a forum soon.
for now send any comments to sam@healthqueen.com.au and say if you are happy for me to publish on this blog site or not.
Health Queen
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
20% of QLD children are overweight or obese!
Well, having finished reading the QLD Government's "Healthy Kids Queensland Survey 2006" I feel vaguely sick.
The report was commissioned by QLD Health and of course had a massive steering committee who no doubt relished in the importance of conducting a labour-intensive survey accross students in QLD and their eating and exercise habits.
I will regurgitate some of the relevent points over the next few days. Much of it interesting and needs addressing.
The first thing I would like to comment on is the fact that 19.5% of boys and 22.7% of girls aged between 5-17 were overweight or obese.
Do you think it may have anything to do with the following:
The NHMRC 2003, recommends that children and adolescents have 5 - 11 serves of cereals/breads/rice/pasta or noodles per day! With one serve equalling 1 cup of cereal, or 2 slices of bread, or 1 cooked cup of rice,pasta or noodles.
This means that 22 slices of bread, or 1 box of rice bubbles, or 11 cups of cooked pasta a day is OK.
I know I am a nutritionist, but given the fact the 1 in 5 QLD kids are struggling with weight, surely we should decrease the amount of carbs we are recommending!!!
How about 1-2 serves of these carbs per day!
For a healthy eating pyramid look at www.byebyebridget.com under the TIPS section.
The report was commissioned by QLD Health and of course had a massive steering committee who no doubt relished in the importance of conducting a labour-intensive survey accross students in QLD and their eating and exercise habits.
I will regurgitate some of the relevent points over the next few days. Much of it interesting and needs addressing.
The first thing I would like to comment on is the fact that 19.5% of boys and 22.7% of girls aged between 5-17 were overweight or obese.
Do you think it may have anything to do with the following:
The NHMRC 2003, recommends that children and adolescents have 5 - 11 serves of cereals/breads/rice/pasta or noodles per day! With one serve equalling 1 cup of cereal, or 2 slices of bread, or 1 cooked cup of rice,pasta or noodles.
This means that 22 slices of bread, or 1 box of rice bubbles, or 11 cups of cooked pasta a day is OK.
I know I am a nutritionist, but given the fact the 1 in 5 QLD kids are struggling with weight, surely we should decrease the amount of carbs we are recommending!!!
How about 1-2 serves of these carbs per day!
For a healthy eating pyramid look at www.byebyebridget.com under the TIPS section.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Food Additives can affect your Health!
It is increasingly harder to discern between what is natural and safe for you and your family and what was historically called JUNK or treats! Companies either ignorantly or knowingly exploit labeling laws and therefore the consumer. It seems like regulatory bodies are losing focus or control in this exploding area and if we (the parents) don’t become better informed our children will suffer diseases we don’t even have names for today!
Substances added to food are classified as additives, chemicals, preservatives, colours.
Listed and documented side effects include: behavior changes (aggression, defiance, acting out), sleep problems, hyperactivity, rashes, eczema to name a few.
If something is added to a food substance (or fluid) it is an additive. That is, it normally is not present in the food in its natural form. Baring in mind, some foods are not natural such as margarine, as one example, so the entire food source can be considered with the same principles as additives, ie artificial.
Natural or synthetic added substances can be equally as dangerous. Just because something says no “artificial ingredients” only “natural colours” etc…, still indicates that the product has been altered from it’s natural state.
A “natural” food source such as an apple that has fallen from a tree into your hand (and has been grown in the Huon of Tasmania with organic soils and pure water), is vastly different to apple left-overs, mulched , squeezed into funky plastic wrap, with preservatives added so it won’t go rancid and coloured to look brighter and sweetened to ensure kids get hooked (even though the packet-apple mulch mentioned maybe marketed as natural) and tooted as being “apple”.
This is the first article in a many to help you understand the mind-boggling, but pertinent area of food, beverages and additives.
Here are 9 guidelines to decrease your exposure to additives and chemicals:
1. Where possible try to buy “virgin” produce. Eg fruit, vegetables
2. Shop more regularly, rather than trying to do one big shop per week. There for your need to long-life products decreases
3. Start reading labels and become familiar with common terms (more info on www.byebyebridget.com web site)
4. Avoid foods that have numbers in the ingredients panel
5. Avoid foods that have things that you have no idea what they are; Eg: hydrolyzed vegetable protein (as it’s likely to be an additive)
6. Avoid foods and drinks that have bright colours (natural colours can be beautiful, but colour-enhancers, such as green, can have diabolical side effects for your child).
7. Make it your business to stay up-dated with changes in the food and beverage industry.
8. Subscribe as a follower to www.thehealthqueen.blogspot.com and as I add things you will be up-dated as well.
9. Join www.byebyebridget.com for chemical free recipes and lunch ideas
Substances added to food are classified as additives, chemicals, preservatives, colours.
Listed and documented side effects include: behavior changes (aggression, defiance, acting out), sleep problems, hyperactivity, rashes, eczema to name a few.
If something is added to a food substance (or fluid) it is an additive. That is, it normally is not present in the food in its natural form. Baring in mind, some foods are not natural such as margarine, as one example, so the entire food source can be considered with the same principles as additives, ie artificial.
Natural or synthetic added substances can be equally as dangerous. Just because something says no “artificial ingredients” only “natural colours” etc…, still indicates that the product has been altered from it’s natural state.
A “natural” food source such as an apple that has fallen from a tree into your hand (and has been grown in the Huon of Tasmania with organic soils and pure water), is vastly different to apple left-overs, mulched , squeezed into funky plastic wrap, with preservatives added so it won’t go rancid and coloured to look brighter and sweetened to ensure kids get hooked (even though the packet-apple mulch mentioned maybe marketed as natural) and tooted as being “apple”.
This is the first article in a many to help you understand the mind-boggling, but pertinent area of food, beverages and additives.
Here are 9 guidelines to decrease your exposure to additives and chemicals:
1. Where possible try to buy “virgin” produce. Eg fruit, vegetables
2. Shop more regularly, rather than trying to do one big shop per week. There for your need to long-life products decreases
3. Start reading labels and become familiar with common terms (more info on www.byebyebridget.com web site)
4. Avoid foods that have numbers in the ingredients panel
5. Avoid foods that have things that you have no idea what they are; Eg: hydrolyzed vegetable protein (as it’s likely to be an additive)
6. Avoid foods and drinks that have bright colours (natural colours can be beautiful, but colour-enhancers, such as green, can have diabolical side effects for your child).
7. Make it your business to stay up-dated with changes in the food and beverage industry.
8. Subscribe as a follower to www.thehealthqueen.blogspot.com and as I add things you will be up-dated as well.
9. Join www.byebyebridget.com for chemical free recipes and lunch ideas
Thursday, July 23, 2009
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty molecule, produced by your body to do the following:
Make cell membranes
Conduct the heart impulse through your heart
Precursor for sex hormones
For skin and new regrowth
Is used in inflammation
The types of Cholesterol
Cholesterol or lipids (fats) are transported around the body on protein molecules called Lipoproteins. An increased in blood cholesterol (particularly LDL and triglyerides) has been associated with a greater risk of heart disease. In Australia, Lipid lowering drugs are currently the highest expenditure of all drugs. Modifying cholesterol does at times need medicating, however lifestyle and diet can play a dramatic role keeping it low.
HDL – high density lipoproteins are cardioprotective (protect your heart) and focus can be on raising these
LDL – low density lipoproteins are have a higher fat:protein ratio and are considered bad cholesterol
Triglyceride – fat ingested from diet, is considered to be bad cholesterol and is often elevated in diabetics.
(There are other forms of cholesterol, however the 3 mentioned above are the most commonly measured in blood tests.)
National Heart Foundation (2001) recommends:
LDL
< 4.0 mmols/L in high risk patients
< 2.5 mmols/L in low risk patients
HDL
> 1.0 mmols/L all people
> 1.0 mmols/L all people
Triglycerides
< 2.0 mmols/L all people
< 2.0mmols/L all people
Total Cholesterol
< 6.0 mmols/L in low risk patients
< 4.0 mmols/L in high risk patients
Lowering Cholesterol
Exercise: Exercising should be part of your daily routine -Walking or low impact exercise min. 3-5 times/week will increase HDL significantly
keep your weight in normal ranges
Managed your stress levels or see someone that can help
Talk to someone about controlling anxiety levels
Make cell membranes
Conduct the heart impulse through your heart
Precursor for sex hormones
For skin and new regrowth
Is used in inflammation
The types of Cholesterol
Cholesterol or lipids (fats) are transported around the body on protein molecules called Lipoproteins. An increased in blood cholesterol (particularly LDL and triglyerides) has been associated with a greater risk of heart disease. In Australia, Lipid lowering drugs are currently the highest expenditure of all drugs. Modifying cholesterol does at times need medicating, however lifestyle and diet can play a dramatic role keeping it low.
HDL – high density lipoproteins are cardioprotective (protect your heart) and focus can be on raising these
LDL – low density lipoproteins are have a higher fat:protein ratio and are considered bad cholesterol
Triglyceride – fat ingested from diet, is considered to be bad cholesterol and is often elevated in diabetics.
(There are other forms of cholesterol, however the 3 mentioned above are the most commonly measured in blood tests.)
National Heart Foundation (2001) recommends:
LDL
< 4.0 mmols/L in high risk patients
< 2.5 mmols/L in low risk patients
HDL
> 1.0 mmols/L all people
> 1.0 mmols/L all people
Triglycerides
< 2.0 mmols/L all people
< 2.0mmols/L all people
Total Cholesterol
< 6.0 mmols/L in low risk patients
< 4.0 mmols/L in high risk patients
Lowering Cholesterol
Exercise: Exercising should be part of your daily routine -Walking or low impact exercise min. 3-5 times/week will increase HDL significantly
keep your weight in normal ranges
Managed your stress levels or see someone that can help
Talk to someone about controlling anxiety levels
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
PROTECT YOURSELF and STAFF from Swine Flu!
This is a swine flu up-date compiled by Health Queen, Sam Beau Patrick. Circulate to staff and friends to help them prevent exposure to this virus.
“From Monday 22 June, Queensland, along with the Commonwealth and all other Australian states and territories, will enter a new phase to manage the outbreak of Human Swine Influenza. The new phase is called PROTECT. The PROTECT phase recognises that Human Swine Influenza is not as severe for the general population as originally envisaged. Most people are making a rapid and full recovery. The new phase focuses on protecting those people who are most at risk of developing severe illness from Human Swine Influenza.Health care workers who develop an influenza like illness will be required to stay away from work for 7 days or until their symptoms have resolved, which ever is longer.” (Ref: http://www.health.qld.gov.au/swineflu/)
While the government is focusing on its PROTECT phase, I strongly urge you to have your own PROTECT plan in place! I have heard reports that 95% of all flu cases in Victoria are currently the H1N1 strain. Flu (of all varieties) is responsible for 2500 deaths each year and countless days off work for employees in Australia alone.
To PROTECT yourself and your staff you need to be doing the following:
Prevent the spread of the virus and ask employees to stay at home if they are experiencing flu like symptoms.
Reduce your exposure by staying at least 1 meter from people with coughs and colds, don’t visit people if you know they are unwell.
Offer tissues, hand wipes and immune boosters, at work stations, near key boards, till-check outs and other places where multiple people share the same equipment.
Throw out tissues (definitely don’t use handkerchiefs), throw out one use-items, eg cups, don’t share cigarettes or lipsticks
Encourage people to take preventative measures such as immune boosting supplements (you may choose to offer them to staff at a discount rate or send this email on so they can order supplements for themselves)
Communicate with your staff about the strategies you are taking in the workforce and what you expect of them (ie in regards to staying at home if they feel unwell)
Take supplements every day to boost your immune system, eat lots of vegetables and drink lots of water.
Immune Boosting Pack
$68.90 inc. delivery in Australia. Enough for 6-8 weeks
Zinc & Vitamin C
A Blue Chip Supplement with Immune boosting herbs, proven to boost your immune system
You can order an immune booster pack from Sam 2 ways:
Email: sam@sanxing.com.au and she will forward the order form for you. Overseas (non Australian addresses) will incur a greater postage fee, but i will let me know on request.
Phone Sam on 0405 669 135 and she will arrange the pack for you.
HOW MUCH IS 1 day of missed work worth to you?
If it is more than $70 bucks then you had better call or email me.
“From Monday 22 June, Queensland, along with the Commonwealth and all other Australian states and territories, will enter a new phase to manage the outbreak of Human Swine Influenza. The new phase is called PROTECT. The PROTECT phase recognises that Human Swine Influenza is not as severe for the general population as originally envisaged. Most people are making a rapid and full recovery. The new phase focuses on protecting those people who are most at risk of developing severe illness from Human Swine Influenza.Health care workers who develop an influenza like illness will be required to stay away from work for 7 days or until their symptoms have resolved, which ever is longer.” (Ref: http://www.health.qld.gov.au/swineflu/)
While the government is focusing on its PROTECT phase, I strongly urge you to have your own PROTECT plan in place! I have heard reports that 95% of all flu cases in Victoria are currently the H1N1 strain. Flu (of all varieties) is responsible for 2500 deaths each year and countless days off work for employees in Australia alone.
To PROTECT yourself and your staff you need to be doing the following:
Prevent the spread of the virus and ask employees to stay at home if they are experiencing flu like symptoms.
Reduce your exposure by staying at least 1 meter from people with coughs and colds, don’t visit people if you know they are unwell.
Offer tissues, hand wipes and immune boosters, at work stations, near key boards, till-check outs and other places where multiple people share the same equipment.
Throw out tissues (definitely don’t use handkerchiefs), throw out one use-items, eg cups, don’t share cigarettes or lipsticks
Encourage people to take preventative measures such as immune boosting supplements (you may choose to offer them to staff at a discount rate or send this email on so they can order supplements for themselves)
Communicate with your staff about the strategies you are taking in the workforce and what you expect of them (ie in regards to staying at home if they feel unwell)
Take supplements every day to boost your immune system, eat lots of vegetables and drink lots of water.
Immune Boosting Pack
$68.90 inc. delivery in Australia. Enough for 6-8 weeks
Zinc & Vitamin C
A Blue Chip Supplement with Immune boosting herbs, proven to boost your immune system
You can order an immune booster pack from Sam 2 ways:
Email: sam@sanxing.com.au and she will forward the order form for you. Overseas (non Australian addresses) will incur a greater postage fee, but i will let me know on request.
Phone Sam on 0405 669 135 and she will arrange the pack for you.
HOW MUCH IS 1 day of missed work worth to you?
If it is more than $70 bucks then you had better call or email me.
The Health Queen
Monday, July 20, 2009
Low energy levels? Candida could be the problem
Are you lacking energy?
Do you suffer with headaches or bloating?
Then you could suffer from a very common condition caused by candida. Candida albicans is a common yeast that grows in the gastrointestinal tract of every person. Occasionally the environment in the gut changes and an overgrowth of this yeast occurs.
Some causes for the change in the gut environment can be
Use of antibiotics
Long term use of pill
A diet high in carbohydrates
Hormone imbalances
Stress
Traveling
Sickness including operations
Yeast allergy
Symptoms vary for each person but typical symptoms include
Fatigue
Cravings for sugar, bread or alcohol
Digestive problems, bloating, wind or burping
Short term memory failure and concentration issues
Aches in the body, joints and muscle,
Extreme tightness in the shoulders
Hyper-acidity or reflux
Brown coloured mucous in the back of the mouth or white coated tongue
Unrefreshing sleep
Dark circles under the eyes
Chronic sinusitis
Headaches
Dental problems
Over - sensitivity to perfume, tobacco, insecticides
Psychological symptoms may include
Depression
Irritability
Anxiety
Panic attacks
Mood swings, recurring obsessive thoughts, paranoia
More physical symptoms
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Gluten and casein intolerance
Thrush
Allergies, hayfever
Menstrual problems including PMS
Jock itch, athlete’s foot, toenail or fingernail fungus
Tinnitus
Weight changes
Low libido
If left untreated Candida causes very serious immune problems and organ dysfunction such as hypothyroidism, infertility, impotence, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and the list goes on.
Treatment
This usually takes a minimum of 3-6 months. Often vaginal thrush is treated with pessaries and creams but this does not address the candida growing in the gut.
Microcurrent:
Frequency specific microcurrent sends frequencies to the candida which kill it .
Herbals
Oral herbals either in liquid or tablet form are my preferred way of treating candida. Often I will start you on an intense program then reduce the number or tablets with time.
Supplements and homeopathics
There are other supplements that maybe needed to help your body fight the infection caused by candida. Occasionally I will use homeopathics to desensitize you to the yeast. When your gut settles, I will start you on a probiotics. These are friendly bacteria that settle into your gut and protect you from re-invasion from candida.Many herbs have anti-candida properties and are essential in treatment.
Diet
Candida loves yeast and sugar however I find most people with candida find it very difficult to cut these foods out of their diet. I have also noticed that when the bug is being starved, cravings become more severe. I believe it is easier for people to have supplements to kill the yeast and modify dietary impactors secondary.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Candida can mimic 140 conditions. You can order a self-test kit from http://www.byebyebridget.com/ecommerce.php.
Some general advice
You need to be motivated to kill this yeast. And tackling it head on is the best way to go. Often if one person has it, so will there partner and they will need treating aswell.If you think you have a candida infection, give me a call to see me as a client or see a naturopath close to you.
Do you suffer with headaches or bloating?
Then you could suffer from a very common condition caused by candida. Candida albicans is a common yeast that grows in the gastrointestinal tract of every person. Occasionally the environment in the gut changes and an overgrowth of this yeast occurs.
Some causes for the change in the gut environment can be
Use of antibiotics
Long term use of pill
A diet high in carbohydrates
Hormone imbalances
Stress
Traveling
Sickness including operations
Yeast allergy
Symptoms vary for each person but typical symptoms include
Fatigue
Cravings for sugar, bread or alcohol
Digestive problems, bloating, wind or burping
Short term memory failure and concentration issues
Aches in the body, joints and muscle,
Extreme tightness in the shoulders
Hyper-acidity or reflux
Brown coloured mucous in the back of the mouth or white coated tongue
Unrefreshing sleep
Dark circles under the eyes
Chronic sinusitis
Headaches
Dental problems
Over - sensitivity to perfume, tobacco, insecticides
Psychological symptoms may include
Depression
Irritability
Anxiety
Panic attacks
Mood swings, recurring obsessive thoughts, paranoia
More physical symptoms
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Gluten and casein intolerance
Thrush
Allergies, hayfever
Menstrual problems including PMS
Jock itch, athlete’s foot, toenail or fingernail fungus
Tinnitus
Weight changes
Low libido
If left untreated Candida causes very serious immune problems and organ dysfunction such as hypothyroidism, infertility, impotence, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and the list goes on.
Treatment
This usually takes a minimum of 3-6 months. Often vaginal thrush is treated with pessaries and creams but this does not address the candida growing in the gut.
Microcurrent:
Frequency specific microcurrent sends frequencies to the candida which kill it .
Herbals
Oral herbals either in liquid or tablet form are my preferred way of treating candida. Often I will start you on an intense program then reduce the number or tablets with time.
Supplements and homeopathics
There are other supplements that maybe needed to help your body fight the infection caused by candida. Occasionally I will use homeopathics to desensitize you to the yeast. When your gut settles, I will start you on a probiotics. These are friendly bacteria that settle into your gut and protect you from re-invasion from candida.Many herbs have anti-candida properties and are essential in treatment.
Diet
Candida loves yeast and sugar however I find most people with candida find it very difficult to cut these foods out of their diet. I have also noticed that when the bug is being starved, cravings become more severe. I believe it is easier for people to have supplements to kill the yeast and modify dietary impactors secondary.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Candida can mimic 140 conditions. You can order a self-test kit from http://www.byebyebridget.com/ecommerce.php.
Some general advice
You need to be motivated to kill this yeast. And tackling it head on is the best way to go. Often if one person has it, so will there partner and they will need treating aswell.If you think you have a candida infection, give me a call to see me as a client or see a naturopath close to you.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Queensland High Schools Suspension rates Rocket
Well it's no suprise to me (and to any parent, or citizen witnessing kids and young adults) that school suspensions and expulsions have rocketed in the last 3 years.
The Education Department attribute it to the tougher "responsible Behaviour Plans" at each school and good on them. They are also cited in the local paper to say it is more the rise in physical misconduct that has lead to this rise.
Some schools have experienced over 200 suspensions (that is 1 per day of EACH school day) shouldn't we be looking to WHY kids are becoming more physical?
There is a state wide "Behavious Committee" with reps from principles, teachers unions and parents - BUT no health or paediatric experts.
LOOK at the cantteen. Look at what the kids eats. LOOK for the reasons. It's not all social - it's not all mobile phones and internet access. A lot of it, is chemicals in foods making kids experience anger, rage and anxiety.
Clean up the diets of our kids please!
The Education Department attribute it to the tougher "responsible Behaviour Plans" at each school and good on them. They are also cited in the local paper to say it is more the rise in physical misconduct that has lead to this rise.
Some schools have experienced over 200 suspensions (that is 1 per day of EACH school day) shouldn't we be looking to WHY kids are becoming more physical?
There is a state wide "Behavious Committee" with reps from principles, teachers unions and parents - BUT no health or paediatric experts.
LOOK at the cantteen. Look at what the kids eats. LOOK for the reasons. It's not all social - it's not all mobile phones and internet access. A lot of it, is chemicals in foods making kids experience anger, rage and anxiety.
Clean up the diets of our kids please!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
2 minute noodles and Gravox maybe causing you a sleepless night
For a long time I have been skeptical about labelling - no artifically added preservatives, colours and chemical labels can be VERY misleading!
A friend of mine has problems sleeping so I have just gone through their pantry. The 2 minute noodles, the Red Nong Shim and Gravox could all be leading to his insomnia.
Interestingly MSG (monosodium glutamate) is a form of salt. It occurs naturally and can also be added to foods. AS with most salts, it augments the flavours of the food, hence known or referred to as "flavouring".
If you see this on packaging your alarm bells should ring. The food you are about to eat, has been ENHANCED. Naturally or otherwise doesn't matter. You are training your taste buds to become accustomed to food that needs enhancing otherwise you will think it is "Bland".
When you read the ingredients beware of the wording :
natural flavour
hydrolysed vegetable protein (HVP) is naturally very high in glutamates and is a stimulant to the brain
and 621, 627, 631 and 635
MSG (621) can lead to anaphylaxis (your throat swells and breathing is restricted - I once looked after a 12 year old asthmatic who died after eating Chinese take away - which was high in MSG). It can leads to headaches, insomnia, fuzzy thinking, dry mouth, nausea to name a few. And it is a salt so can raise your blood pressure.
Return to using garden picked herbs or sea salt for some flavour enhancement if you like it. Avoid gravies, noodles and their "flavour loaded" sachets.
Train yourself and your family to love natural foods - unadulterated with sauces!
Simple foods often taste the best!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Salt levels are high in stock cubes
As a practitioner, I continually learn new things from books, experience in the clinic, seminars and from you, my clients and friends.
The statistics and biochemical impact of table salt, sodium chloride is frightening. And yet as a society we say "It's ok food manufactorers. Keep using high levels of salt because i like the salt hit and will keep buying your foods. Surely if it wasn't safe a government-run health watch dog would say something. And surely you guys have a community conscience."
Unfortunately - don't think the above will eventuate.
SALT (look for sodium levels on the food panel).
Your daily consumption should be under 2000mg per day. Some Australians and Americans average 6000mg per day. Most MacDonald's burger meals contain all your sodium needs for one day. Exceed this amount and the following can take place:
The statistics and biochemical impact of table salt, sodium chloride is frightening. And yet as a society we say "It's ok food manufactorers. Keep using high levels of salt because i like the salt hit and will keep buying your foods. Surely if it wasn't safe a government-run health watch dog would say something. And surely you guys have a community conscience."
Unfortunately - don't think the above will eventuate.
SALT (look for sodium levels on the food panel).
Your daily consumption should be under 2000mg per day. Some Australians and Americans average 6000mg per day. Most MacDonald's burger meals contain all your sodium needs for one day. Exceed this amount and the following can take place:
- Fluid retention (you can gain as much as 2-3kg per day if you exceed your daily salt intake)
- increased cellulite due to fluid retention
- raised blood pressure
- swelling in your fingers and feet
What we all need to start saying is "can you please starting using less salt to help me with my taste adaption. I also would be grateful to you by not sending EVERYONE else's Blood pressure (and the associated heart and renal disease) through the roof as we all will financially and emotionally end up paying for it!"
Read labels carefully. Watch stock cubes, soy sauce, packet soups, packet sauces, gravy, bread, canned foods, cheeses and biscuits/crackers.
If you are making soups - use a whole chicken carcus or bacon bones. Put in a deep saucepan and cover wtih water. Boil for 30 mins, then simmer for 1 hour. You can use ginger, onion and parsley in the chicken stock (drain the fagments), then add vegies and creamed corn. Bacon bones are full of flavour on their own!
I was looking up salt contents of foods with a client the other day and am alarmed (although not suprised) at some of the salt levels in foods.Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Chemicals in Kids foods is driving me NUTS
This is pertinent for all parents, people who suffer with anxiety and anyone who cares about the lack of involvement (or jurisdictive powers) our food regulation watch dogs have. No, I;m not trying to enter a political arguement with Uncle Tobys, Nestle, Mac Donalds or any other reverred child food provider, but i am very disappointed that they continue to feed our kids rubbish (including dangerous chemicals) and still advertise that they are responsible food makers.
Point in case: Le Snak cheddar Cheese with crispbread
35 Ingredients.
The following chemicals: 471, 304, 306, 339, 452, 234, 306, 307, 500, 503
It's meant to be cheese and a biscuit.
Kids (and adults for that matter) do not have receptor sites in the gut (this area of medicine is called nutri-genomics) and all these chemicals (preservatives, additives, colours - whatever, natural or not) cause stimulation of our immune system in the gut wall.
With time this heightened inflammation is the unsticking of what otherwise was a healthy body.
In 20 years time in our kids, we will see an unbelieveable rise in inflammatory conditions and diseases we don't even have names for at this point.
Put 4-5 plain rice crackers, organic corn chips with some real cheese in a lunch box for your kids. Look after them and your health.
Being a mum of 3, I know the food thing is a massive challenge - but BE STRONG.
Health Queen
Point in case: Le Snak cheddar Cheese with crispbread
35 Ingredients.
The following chemicals: 471, 304, 306, 339, 452, 234, 306, 307, 500, 503
It's meant to be cheese and a biscuit.
Kids (and adults for that matter) do not have receptor sites in the gut (this area of medicine is called nutri-genomics) and all these chemicals (preservatives, additives, colours - whatever, natural or not) cause stimulation of our immune system in the gut wall.
With time this heightened inflammation is the unsticking of what otherwise was a healthy body.
In 20 years time in our kids, we will see an unbelieveable rise in inflammatory conditions and diseases we don't even have names for at this point.
Put 4-5 plain rice crackers, organic corn chips with some real cheese in a lunch box for your kids. Look after them and your health.
Being a mum of 3, I know the food thing is a massive challenge - but BE STRONG.
Health Queen
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Queensland Up-date on Swine Flu
As the prevalence of Swine-Flu-affected-persons increases in Queensland , over 50, as of this report (Tuesday 9th June 2009), I thought it pertinent to give you an up-date on what natural measures you can do to avert this virus. I am not going to call it a deadly virus – even though people have died from it – it generally runs the course of a normal “flu”.
In May and June of every year, there is an increase in croup, colds, flus and chest infections. The more aggressive the virus or bacteria (or virulent – this means the virus or bacteria can survive for a long time and is easily transmitted), – the more severe the symptoms experienced. IF your immune system is compromised (ie you are over worked and stressed, you are a child or an elderly person), the more likely the chances of developing complications from these nasty microscopic things.
Typical complications and symptoms from chest infections, croup and the flu include the following:
- pneumonia
- prolonged fatigue
- asthma like symptoms (chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheeze, spasm)
- other secondary infections
- pneumothorax (when you end up with a collapsed lung from coughing)
- weight loss (from decreased appetite)
If you are a parent – a prolonged chest infection means lots of worry about your child’s health, sleepless nights , and some one having to stay at home with the child.
If you are a worker (employee) this means you need to take sick leave, or leave without pay and try to recuperate.
If you are an employer, self-employed, or tradie, you will need to find some one to take over your job, or keep working despite feeling very sick and risk getting sicker, or cop a loss of income whilst not working.
If you are a student, you risk getting behind with the curriculum, behind with assignments and definitely no social life!
All in all, a day sick = a day lost.
Let’s talk about preventative strategies.
I suggest with cooking in winter months using the following potent immune boosters:
- garlic
- cayenne
- turmeric - horseradish
- foods high in Vitamin C (don’t over cook them or the Vitamin C is destroyed)
- eating foods high in zinc (nuts and seeds, shell fish)
Other proven strategies for boosting your immune system include taking a probiotic. I have practitioner only brands (very potent) or Inner Health, is OK for an over the counter purchase. (NB yogurts etc.. are very low in friendly bacteria).
Have a look at this youtube clip that I made
http://www.youtube.com/my_videos_edit?ns=1&video_id=lcLK7kNum_w&next=%2Fmy_videos%3Fpi%3D0%26ps%3D20%26sf%3Dadded%26sa%3D0%26sq%3D%26dm%3D2 (or found under byebyebridget1)
On a personal note
I received a letter from my daughter’s school this week which stated:
“.in the event of a confirmed case of Influenza H1N1 (Human Swine Flu) in a student attending your school, the school will be closed for up to seven days.”
This week, on the news, a school in Brisbane closed because a student’s sister (that didn’t attend the school ) was confirmed to have contracted the H1N1 virus. So clearly the education department is not running any chances. Parents this is serious! Isolation, which is the current strategy employed by the health department – then giving Tamiflu Vaccine is called “re-active”. I like to think that we are smarter than that and can be pro-active and pre-cautionary.
Personally I can’t afford (nor want my kids to be vulnerable) to this virus. I am boosting their immune systems.
I suggest getting yourselves and your children onto an immune boosting agent, such as Vitamin C, Echinacea or astragalus.
If you have Glandular Fever in the past, Ross River Virus or are elderly or young, you really should catch up with me so we can put in place a preventative strategy. If I was self-employed or had a job that involved contact with lots of people (ie: service industry, hospitality, travel or airlines) I would also be taking be taking preventative measures.
If you have an appointment with me in the next 3 weeks (ie until 27th June 2009) , I will give you FOR FREE, a proven immune boosting agent. It’s value will be insurmountable! Surely, like me , you can’t afford you or your family to be sick this winter.
I don’t want to become unwell and I don’t want any of my patients becoming unwell.
If you know someone that is currently not a patient and is at risk of catching the flu (ie self employed, run down, stressed, a child or elderly) I will give you 50% off your next to me for your referral.
Can you afford not to stay well this winter? I know I need to be fit and healthy and will definitely be taking an immune booster!
Give me a call if you are worried (0405 669 135 Australia or email sam@sanxing.com.au) or call your local hospital if you think you have Swine Flu.
NB : What I have discussed is my own research and generated for your own information.
There is more information on the QLD health department at :http://www.health.qld.gov.au/swineflu/
Yours in Health, the HEALTH QUEEN
In May and June of every year, there is an increase in croup, colds, flus and chest infections. The more aggressive the virus or bacteria (or virulent – this means the virus or bacteria can survive for a long time and is easily transmitted), – the more severe the symptoms experienced. IF your immune system is compromised (ie you are over worked and stressed, you are a child or an elderly person), the more likely the chances of developing complications from these nasty microscopic things.
Typical complications and symptoms from chest infections, croup and the flu include the following:
- pneumonia
- prolonged fatigue
- asthma like symptoms (chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheeze, spasm)
- other secondary infections
- pneumothorax (when you end up with a collapsed lung from coughing)
- weight loss (from decreased appetite)
If you are a parent – a prolonged chest infection means lots of worry about your child’s health, sleepless nights , and some one having to stay at home with the child.
If you are a worker (employee) this means you need to take sick leave, or leave without pay and try to recuperate.
If you are an employer, self-employed, or tradie, you will need to find some one to take over your job, or keep working despite feeling very sick and risk getting sicker, or cop a loss of income whilst not working.
If you are a student, you risk getting behind with the curriculum, behind with assignments and definitely no social life!
All in all, a day sick = a day lost.
Let’s talk about preventative strategies.
I suggest with cooking in winter months using the following potent immune boosters:
- garlic
- cayenne
- turmeric - horseradish
- foods high in Vitamin C (don’t over cook them or the Vitamin C is destroyed)
- eating foods high in zinc (nuts and seeds, shell fish)
Other proven strategies for boosting your immune system include taking a probiotic. I have practitioner only brands (very potent) or Inner Health, is OK for an over the counter purchase. (NB yogurts etc.. are very low in friendly bacteria).
Have a look at this youtube clip that I made
http://www.youtube.com/my_videos_edit?ns=1&video_id=lcLK7kNum_w&next=%2Fmy_videos%3Fpi%3D0%26ps%3D20%26sf%3Dadded%26sa%3D0%26sq%3D%26dm%3D2 (or found under byebyebridget1)
On a personal note
I received a letter from my daughter’s school this week which stated:
“.in the event of a confirmed case of Influenza H1N1 (Human Swine Flu) in a student attending your school, the school will be closed for up to seven days.”
This week, on the news, a school in Brisbane closed because a student’s sister (that didn’t attend the school ) was confirmed to have contracted the H1N1 virus. So clearly the education department is not running any chances. Parents this is serious! Isolation, which is the current strategy employed by the health department – then giving Tamiflu Vaccine is called “re-active”. I like to think that we are smarter than that and can be pro-active and pre-cautionary.
Personally I can’t afford (nor want my kids to be vulnerable) to this virus. I am boosting their immune systems.
I suggest getting yourselves and your children onto an immune boosting agent, such as Vitamin C, Echinacea or astragalus.
If you have Glandular Fever in the past, Ross River Virus or are elderly or young, you really should catch up with me so we can put in place a preventative strategy. If I was self-employed or had a job that involved contact with lots of people (ie: service industry, hospitality, travel or airlines) I would also be taking be taking preventative measures.
If you have an appointment with me in the next 3 weeks (ie until 27th June 2009) , I will give you FOR FREE, a proven immune boosting agent. It’s value will be insurmountable! Surely, like me , you can’t afford you or your family to be sick this winter.
I don’t want to become unwell and I don’t want any of my patients becoming unwell.
If you know someone that is currently not a patient and is at risk of catching the flu (ie self employed, run down, stressed, a child or elderly) I will give you 50% off your next to me for your referral.
Can you afford not to stay well this winter? I know I need to be fit and healthy and will definitely be taking an immune booster!
Give me a call if you are worried (0405 669 135 Australia or email sam@sanxing.com.au) or call your local hospital if you think you have Swine Flu.
NB : What I have discussed is my own research and generated for your own information.
There is more information on the QLD health department at :http://www.health.qld.gov.au/swineflu/
Yours in Health, the HEALTH QUEEN
Monday, June 8, 2009
Swine Flu
Hi are you worried about Swine Flu?
I haven't been particulaly worried about Swine flu, but I am concerned about people contracting it and the ramifications on thier work, their kids, our schools, our daily lifestyle!
I have put together a short film on Youtube http://www.youtube.com/my_videos_edit?ns=1&video_id=lcLK7kNum_w&next=%2Fmy_videos%3Fpi%3D0%26ps%3D20%26sf%3Dadded%26sa%3D0%26sq%3D%26dm%3D2 so you can do every thing you can to avoid getting it.
I am also running a special for Sanxing Patients - if you see me from 10 - 27th June 2009 I will be giving you FOR FREE - an immune boosting agent. Call me on 0405 669 135 to arrange an appoinment.
Take care
Health Queen
I haven't been particulaly worried about Swine flu, but I am concerned about people contracting it and the ramifications on thier work, their kids, our schools, our daily lifestyle!
I have put together a short film on Youtube http://www.youtube.com/my_videos_edit?ns=1&video_id=lcLK7kNum_w&next=%2Fmy_videos%3Fpi%3D0%26ps%3D20%26sf%3Dadded%26sa%3D0%26sq%3D%26dm%3D2 so you can do every thing you can to avoid getting it.
I am also running a special for Sanxing Patients - if you see me from 10 - 27th June 2009 I will be giving you FOR FREE - an immune boosting agent. Call me on 0405 669 135 to arrange an appoinment.
Take care
Health Queen
Monday, June 1, 2009
6 secrets to a good soup
Bridgets
I love a good soup! The advantages of making soups are enormous:
1. healthy
2. easy to digest
3. warm us up
4. cheap
5. easy to make
I believe soups are some of the most versatile foods to make. I will often recommend soup for when people are detoxing, feeling heavy with the flu, have upset tummies or just want a change from the meat and veg thing.
Here are 6 of my secrets:
1. Buy a good carcus or off-cut of meat instead of stock cubes. I use chicken carcuses (from butcher/chicken shops), shanks, bacon ribs or bones, (I think ribs make the best soup bones) and any other meat boney bit! Cover with water , add an onion and boil for approx 1 hour. Now you have a perfect base for ANY soup.
2. Buy vegies that are in season. Yesterday I bought the freshest, biggest head of celery i have ever seen. Straight into the soup for that one.
3. Use sea salt or celtic sea salt and herbs to enhance natural flavours. Don't use cream. It makes the soup less healthy, fattier and takes away from the yummy vegetable flavours.
4. Leave soup for general consumption to the following day if you can. The flavours are yummier and the soup tends to thicken.
5. Make enough for left overs. There is something sad about coming to the end of a good bowl of soup. Always make extra for the next day.
6. Soups freeze really well and make a great emergency meal.
Enjoy Bridgets,
I love a good soup! The advantages of making soups are enormous:
1. healthy
2. easy to digest
3. warm us up
4. cheap
5. easy to make
I believe soups are some of the most versatile foods to make. I will often recommend soup for when people are detoxing, feeling heavy with the flu, have upset tummies or just want a change from the meat and veg thing.
Here are 6 of my secrets:
1. Buy a good carcus or off-cut of meat instead of stock cubes. I use chicken carcuses (from butcher/chicken shops), shanks, bacon ribs or bones, (I think ribs make the best soup bones) and any other meat boney bit! Cover with water , add an onion and boil for approx 1 hour. Now you have a perfect base for ANY soup.
2. Buy vegies that are in season. Yesterday I bought the freshest, biggest head of celery i have ever seen. Straight into the soup for that one.
3. Use sea salt or celtic sea salt and herbs to enhance natural flavours. Don't use cream. It makes the soup less healthy, fattier and takes away from the yummy vegetable flavours.
4. Leave soup for general consumption to the following day if you can. The flavours are yummier and the soup tends to thicken.
5. Make enough for left overs. There is something sad about coming to the end of a good bowl of soup. Always make extra for the next day.
6. Soups freeze really well and make a great emergency meal.
Enjoy Bridgets,
Friday, May 15, 2009
Warning about Carrageenan side effects
Bridget mums - warning about any FOOD label that lists itself as being: ALL NATURAL , NO PRESERVATIVES etc. as it can be misleading.My kids had a reaction to the chemical number 412, 407 in the Lactose Free Milk. Then they had a reaction to the other All Natural Milk.
The ingredients listed in the all natural milk are such, milk, sugar, malt, cocoa , carrageenan. As a general rule I only glance now days for numbers eg. 631, 621, 481 etc... but many companies get around this by listing the botanical name.
In this instance, Carrageenan, a natural product, but not naturally found in milk, turns into a jelly like form and helps bond the chocolate and milk together. It is an extract from a sea weed and very similar to agar.
What is undesirable about it , is the fact it stimulates glutamate in the body and is similar to MSG or any sodium glutamate. Personally they make me thirsty, snappy, give me a headache and i wake up like i had a glass of wine too many. Obviously in my kids it leads to hyper-activity and silliness. Oh yes, they all immediately go to the toilet after they have any thing with it in.
So be ware of chocolate milks, yogurts, milo and icecream as they are often used in those products. if your kids play up after eating those things, look for carrageenan, or 407, 412 on the indredients list and you will know the kids have an intolerance to that additive.
good luck mummy and daddy bridgets
What is undesirable about it , is the fact it stimulates glutamate in the body and is similar to MSG or any sodium glutamate. Personally they make me thirsty, snappy, give me a headache and i wake up like i had a glass of wine too many. Obviously in my kids it leads to hyper-activity and silliness. Oh yes, they all immediately go to the toilet after they have any thing with it in.
So be ware of chocolate milks, yogurts, milo and icecream as they are often used in those products. if your kids play up after eating those things, look for carrageenan, or 407, 412 on the indredients list and you will know the kids have an intolerance to that additive.
good luck mummy and daddy bridgets
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Yummy new salad and Kangaroo
Bidgets
try this meal -
Kangaroo meat - that's right - skippy. Leanest red meat, less carbon emissions than beef, no hormones, no caging etc....
Salad -
1 beetroot (raw)
1/4 Cos lettuce
1/2 cup milleil cheese or parmesan
splash of salad dressing - we used soy, extra virgin organic olive oil
would also lend itself to finely chopped ginger root, garlic and mint.
Health - extremely high
Taste - sensational!
Time to prepare - 10 minutes (5 mins for roo meat to "Sit")
Zone combo - protein 40 : carb 30, fats 30.
Calories - who cares!
Give it a go Bridgets - it's yummy,
Bridget
try this meal -
Kangaroo meat - that's right - skippy. Leanest red meat, less carbon emissions than beef, no hormones, no caging etc....
Salad -
1 beetroot (raw)
1/4 Cos lettuce
1/2 cup milleil cheese or parmesan
splash of salad dressing - we used soy, extra virgin organic olive oil
would also lend itself to finely chopped ginger root, garlic and mint.
Health - extremely high
Taste - sensational!
Time to prepare - 10 minutes (5 mins for roo meat to "Sit")
Zone combo - protein 40 : carb 30, fats 30.
Calories - who cares!
Give it a go Bridgets - it's yummy,
Bridget
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Kids are coming of age very quickly
Bridgets hold onto your hats,
No amount of warning, education or speculation can prepare you for the unexpected from your 9 year daughter.
Naive your's truly asked her what lesbians (as she had mentioned the word in her current little ditty).
Her response: "Mummy lesbian are girls who are married together." Like Kicking and Screaming - thanks Will Farell.
Kids are very matter of fact. My heart rate is still zipping around like a bee but hers has well and truly moved on.
enjoy motherhood, Bridgets
No amount of warning, education or speculation can prepare you for the unexpected from your 9 year daughter.
Naive your's truly asked her what lesbians (as she had mentioned the word in her current little ditty).
Her response: "Mummy lesbian are girls who are married together." Like Kicking and Screaming - thanks Will Farell.
Kids are very matter of fact. My heart rate is still zipping around like a bee but hers has well and truly moved on.
enjoy motherhood, Bridgets
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Swine Flu
Bridgets,
boost your immune systems!
This is one of those times in the history of the human race, that we are potentially under threat.
I am all for putting things into context. So let's look at some facts:
1. The number 1 killer in the world is gastro and diarrhoea (due to large numbers in Africa)
2. Large numbers of people (from every nation) die from "flu" (which is influenzae) and other viruses every year
3. Large numbers of people die from bacterial and protozoan infections every year (eg strept B, malaria)
4. Singapore is battling a Denghue fever outbreak with 432 new cases diagnosed just last week! That's 4027 cases this year, compared to 1679 cases for the same period last year.
What can you do:
a. Avoid Mexico (sorry pretty obvious)
b. Boost your immune system (see www.sanxing.com.au for more info)
c. Eat well, drink lots of water and rest if you are feeling run down or have swollen glands and achy joints, fevers
d. Avoid people whom have the "flu"
e. try to ventilate your home and work area where possible.
f. seek a medical opinion if you are concerned you are contaminated - letting the receptionist know when you call. They may wish to do a home visit so you don't contaminate the waiting room
Take care, rest well and be careful who you kiss,
health aware Bridget
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Why wine signals the end of the "thinking part" to our day
Bridgets
i have been giving some thought to all my patients, myself and girlfriends and why we all love a drop of wine. Especially as the government recommends no more that 1-2 glasses per night, 1-2 nights per week.
Drinking wine can be a double-edge sword - it relaxes us, gives us a sugar hit and i think signals to ourselves that "we have knocked off" from whatever it is we started and can chill out and put on a different mask. Our happy, non serious, "just me" mask.
This is all well and good if we don't develop a habit or a need to have a wine to feel the above (ie do you drink to feel relaxed, feel its ok to be you, or to give yourself a little confidence high to go out). If so, then the 1-2 (3-5 glasses of wine a night) can become a problem. I talk first hand of course and i am sure many will relate to this.
The above paragraphs are something i will research with time. In the meantime i would ask that you do 2 things:
1. when you go to have your next glass of wine, ask "why am i having this- is it to relax - am i anxious, irritable, nervous?"
2. self reflect when you drink. Do you change when you have a drink? Are you more relaxed, nicer or is that just what you think happens. Ask people around you. Maybe the opposite happens - maybe you become aggressive, vocal and opinionated. Find out.
With time we will put together the pieces of this jigsaw puzzle. The answer may not be to have wine, every single time. There maybe other options (like chocolate - ok that was meant to be a joke).
have a great day,
ponderous Bridget
i have been giving some thought to all my patients, myself and girlfriends and why we all love a drop of wine. Especially as the government recommends no more that 1-2 glasses per night, 1-2 nights per week.
Drinking wine can be a double-edge sword - it relaxes us, gives us a sugar hit and i think signals to ourselves that "we have knocked off" from whatever it is we started and can chill out and put on a different mask. Our happy, non serious, "just me" mask.
This is all well and good if we don't develop a habit or a need to have a wine to feel the above (ie do you drink to feel relaxed, feel its ok to be you, or to give yourself a little confidence high to go out). If so, then the 1-2 (3-5 glasses of wine a night) can become a problem. I talk first hand of course and i am sure many will relate to this.
The above paragraphs are something i will research with time. In the meantime i would ask that you do 2 things:
1. when you go to have your next glass of wine, ask "why am i having this- is it to relax - am i anxious, irritable, nervous?"
2. self reflect when you drink. Do you change when you have a drink? Are you more relaxed, nicer or is that just what you think happens. Ask people around you. Maybe the opposite happens - maybe you become aggressive, vocal and opinionated. Find out.
With time we will put together the pieces of this jigsaw puzzle. The answer may not be to have wine, every single time. There maybe other options (like chocolate - ok that was meant to be a joke).
have a great day,
ponderous Bridget
April Fools day - gotta love a joke
Bridgets, do you like a joke about yourself? I love a joke at my own expense myself, if I'm in a good mood of course. Today was a classic. My Mr Big sent an sms through saying "today is a great day, as Shane Warne is coming out of retirement." Well I took the bait and about 3 sms later realised he was taking the "piss" as they say. Well I licked my wounds and had a big fat giggle. I mean really, Shane Warne, HAH! Shane who... That is, afterall , what April Fools day is all about. Having a giggle - sometimes at someone's else's expense but often at your own. love Bridget
Bridget Jones' anthym
Bridgets - All by myself - is one of those very unifying songs. I love it... and yes, I like, you, didn;t realise at the time of watching Bridget Jones (feeling like a freak because i thought i was watching myself being played out on the big screen) and then finding out that all females between the ages of 30 - 40 yo feel the same!I know we all need the valleys so we can have the mountains - the ying and yang etc, but somewhere in between would be much easier to adhere to and less traumatic on the scales, on the chocolate and on one's self esteem. You know- why can't we just be "moderate-high-happy" all the times, as aposed to majorly flat (ok depressed even), so that we can be "off the richter" happy and cheery for days on end! Moderation - an enigma.adios bridgets
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Bridget sometimes you have to cut your losses
Bridgets - a big day for bridg here. I am going to overhall the byebyebridget site . I have learned a lot about web design, the internet industry (it is currently very difficult to know whom to trust) and how to bring a concept to reality.
Check it out over the next few weeks, lol Bridget
Check it out over the next few weeks, lol Bridget
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Bridget fesses up
Bridgets
is it bad to sneak and eat your children's Easter Eggs to satisfy a do-or-die chocolate urge?
Bridget
is it bad to sneak and eat your children's Easter Eggs to satisfy a do-or-die chocolate urge?
Bridget
Thursday, April 2, 2009
SMS etiquette
Bridgets, TGIF!
(That's thank-god-its-friday).... Don't know why I say that as everyday is a hoot, but there is a certain air of anticipation, expectation and excitment on a Friday.
Today I wanted to urge all sms uses to apply some courtesy as this week I have encountered some breeches in the "yet-to-be-put-in-stone" SMS etiquette laws. Until then, I think the following should apply:
1. SMS at reasonable times. It's not OK to sms someone with something trivial at 11pm. Do it in the morning.
2. Always sign off with your name
3. If someone is clearly asking for feedback or a response - do so. If it is only a reminder sms - you don't need to respond, unless your plans change
4. sometimes it is appropriate to call someone (ie discussion) rather than sms. If you are unsure send the person a "sounder-outera" EG "hey, is it ok if i give you a call or do you mind me sms about something..". The person will let you know what suits at that point
5. Some people prefer sms and others don't. Personally I use sms alot as I sendat least 50 every day to different people, so for me it saves time (if i made 50 phone calls, there's the 1 minute good bye etc... and i would lose an hour each day). Work out who likes sms or calling. It's as easy as asking "do you mind if I sms or would you prefer I call".
So Bridgets, have a brilliant TGIF and wonderful week-end,
love Bridge x
(That's thank-god-its-friday).... Don't know why I say that as everyday is a hoot, but there is a certain air of anticipation, expectation and excitment on a Friday.
Today I wanted to urge all sms uses to apply some courtesy as this week I have encountered some breeches in the "yet-to-be-put-in-stone" SMS etiquette laws. Until then, I think the following should apply:
1. SMS at reasonable times. It's not OK to sms someone with something trivial at 11pm. Do it in the morning.
2. Always sign off with your name
3. If someone is clearly asking for feedback or a response - do so. If it is only a reminder sms - you don't need to respond, unless your plans change
4. sometimes it is appropriate to call someone (ie discussion) rather than sms. If you are unsure send the person a "sounder-outera" EG "hey, is it ok if i give you a call or do you mind me sms about something..". The person will let you know what suits at that point
5. Some people prefer sms and others don't. Personally I use sms alot as I sendat least 50 every day to different people, so for me it saves time (if i made 50 phone calls, there's the 1 minute good bye etc... and i would lose an hour each day). Work out who likes sms or calling. It's as easy as asking "do you mind if I sms or would you prefer I call".
So Bridgets, have a brilliant TGIF and wonderful week-end,
love Bridge x
Monday, March 30, 2009
Ethical eating of chocolate
Bridgets, as if there isn't enough guilt associated with indulging in one of life's greatest delights, eating chocolate, then here is something else to think about.
When i was in the UK, I noticed that this is a BIG issue. It will become more of an issue here in Australia, for us, less refined, convicts, in the next year or so, i imagine. That is the big issue of FAIR TRADE chocolate.
For a product to receive the FAIR TRADE stamp of approval, the Cocoa must be grown and cultivated in a manner that doesn't include child slavery (as one example). Apparently many cocoa beans come from Africa, with 58% coming from Ghana and the Ivory Coast, who are not FAIR TRADE COUNTRIES. This puts one in a delimma. Well maybe it doesn't.... Maybe we should all take the correct stance and say "no" to non-FAIR TRADE countries. I really don't know the ramifications of denying this countries their income - I really don't . I know ethically, morally and as a mum, it doesn't sit right, but there is more at stake for these struggling countries.
For now, maybe we should err towards buying FAIR TRADE. And as i know more, I shall post away.
I need to go back to my chocolate now, it is late, my head is hurting and i know sweet chocolate, FAIR TRADE or otherwise will heal the soul.
Nitey nite Bridget
When i was in the UK, I noticed that this is a BIG issue. It will become more of an issue here in Australia, for us, less refined, convicts, in the next year or so, i imagine. That is the big issue of FAIR TRADE chocolate.
For a product to receive the FAIR TRADE stamp of approval, the Cocoa must be grown and cultivated in a manner that doesn't include child slavery (as one example). Apparently many cocoa beans come from Africa, with 58% coming from Ghana and the Ivory Coast, who are not FAIR TRADE COUNTRIES. This puts one in a delimma. Well maybe it doesn't.... Maybe we should all take the correct stance and say "no" to non-FAIR TRADE countries. I really don't know the ramifications of denying this countries their income - I really don't . I know ethically, morally and as a mum, it doesn't sit right, but there is more at stake for these struggling countries.
For now, maybe we should err towards buying FAIR TRADE. And as i know more, I shall post away.
I need to go back to my chocolate now, it is late, my head is hurting and i know sweet chocolate, FAIR TRADE or otherwise will heal the soul.
Nitey nite Bridget
Monday, March 23, 2009
Psyching up to detox
Bridgets
this is the best time of the year, down under, without a doubt. The sun is resting and sleeping in at least until 5am, the nights are cooler and balmy (about 20 degrees) , there is no wind, the days are magic - (25 degrees) and things are perfect. I am psyching up to do a detox. I know I need to (!@!) but I need to have the right frame of mind to carry it through.... it will happen any day now... Anyone want to join me? "uncommitted-but-nearly-there" Bridget
this is the best time of the year, down under, without a doubt. The sun is resting and sleeping in at least until 5am, the nights are cooler and balmy (about 20 degrees) , there is no wind, the days are magic - (25 degrees) and things are perfect. I am psyching up to do a detox. I know I need to (!@!) but I need to have the right frame of mind to carry it through.... it will happen any day now... Anyone want to join me? "uncommitted-but-nearly-there" Bridget
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Australians love to hate Pauline - but they do love her
Bridgets- their is a nasty element in our society that will exploit others, despite, the other person's contribution to that society. What i mean is that people, I imagine, must feel some sort of power or just cause, by putting others down.
I am not necessarily a Pauline Hanson voter, but I really feel for her and how the media has ostracized her and these silly photos. Who cares if it is her and who cares if it isn't. It hasn't nothing to do with her current policies. It is gossip and scandal!
Instead of responding to the $10,000 bounty Channel 9 have put up for the person in the photos to come forward, and instead of the lie detector testers, the forensic people filling our minds with doubt/fact or otherwise,give the lady a break. What if she did pose nude? Give her a break. She is a woman who has a life. Leave her be...
bridget
I am not necessarily a Pauline Hanson voter, but I really feel for her and how the media has ostracized her and these silly photos. Who cares if it is her and who cares if it isn't. It hasn't nothing to do with her current policies. It is gossip and scandal!
Instead of responding to the $10,000 bounty Channel 9 have put up for the person in the photos to come forward, and instead of the lie detector testers, the forensic people filling our minds with doubt/fact or otherwise,give the lady a break. What if she did pose nude? Give her a break. She is a woman who has a life. Leave her be...
bridget
Monday, March 16, 2009
Centrelink forms and bureaucracy
Bridgets - i couldn't even spell bureaucracy (nor could spell check), that's how much red tape is choking society!
Tonight I am embarking on a paper trail, carefully and strategically mapped out by some Bachelor in Arts graduate from the Public Service, on claiming some insignificant child allowance. I forfeited many such allowances in the past , as the paper work is enough to make sitting on the Hume Highway at midnight look appealling compared to filling in the endless questions...
For example (this is the exact wording on the front of the Claim for Child Care Benefit 30 page application):
"..You should have received the booklet Information booklet about your claim for Family Assistance with this form. In this form, this booklet will be referred to as the Information Booklet. If you don;t have this booklet, call the FAO.."
After reading it a few times I understand what it means, but isn't there a more simple way of saying things.
I would write:
"...there is an accompanying guide for filling in this load of .... you will pull your hair out if you don't have the guide. Don't bother calling to get one as you will be placed in a long queue and then the person will only baffle and upset you even more. If you are really keen to persist with this allowance application, pay some Uni student to do it for you.."
Jaded Bridget
Tonight I am embarking on a paper trail, carefully and strategically mapped out by some Bachelor in Arts graduate from the Public Service, on claiming some insignificant child allowance. I forfeited many such allowances in the past , as the paper work is enough to make sitting on the Hume Highway at midnight look appealling compared to filling in the endless questions...
For example (this is the exact wording on the front of the Claim for Child Care Benefit 30 page application):
"..You should have received the booklet Information booklet about your claim for Family Assistance with this form. In this form, this booklet will be referred to as the Information Booklet. If you don;t have this booklet, call the FAO.."
After reading it a few times I understand what it means, but isn't there a more simple way of saying things.
I would write:
"...there is an accompanying guide for filling in this load of .... you will pull your hair out if you don't have the guide. Don't bother calling to get one as you will be placed in a long queue and then the person will only baffle and upset you even more. If you are really keen to persist with this allowance application, pay some Uni student to do it for you.."
Jaded Bridget
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Single mums you are doing great!!!
Bridgets et al, especially those that are single (or solo) raising kids.... {which by the way is the latest way to raise kids in separated families - the biological parent does the disciplining and the "new" parent just supports and backs up}.
... you have done a fantastic job today if they are roughly the same as they were 2 days ago , ie alive...
....you have done a handsome job if your children were fed vegetables, and some meat....
.... you are a legend if you told them you loved them....
....and you are marvellous if you did an activity that was soley for their benefit and they secretely loved....
...if you have more than one child and you did this par 2, congratulations...
..if you have 3 kids and you still did this.. "you are nominated for mother-of-the-year"....
WELL DONE, solo mum bridgets....
That's all we need on a Sunday night - just a well done mum, you're the best....
Solo Bridget
... you have done a fantastic job today if they are roughly the same as they were 2 days ago , ie alive...
....you have done a handsome job if your children were fed vegetables, and some meat....
.... you are a legend if you told them you loved them....
....and you are marvellous if you did an activity that was soley for their benefit and they secretely loved....
...if you have more than one child and you did this par 2, congratulations...
..if you have 3 kids and you still did this.. "you are nominated for mother-of-the-year"....
WELL DONE, solo mum bridgets....
That's all we need on a Sunday night - just a well done mum, you're the best....
Solo Bridget
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Red Mars Bars?!
Bridgets don't get conned!!
Mars bar have brought out a "red bar" apparently with half the fat.
"Does that mean we can have 2?", (of course we all want to know)....
It is that similar to "low calorie" Blonde beers?
"Does that mean we can have 2 beers instead of one"?
It's all working on our vulnerable sub-conscience. Don't fall for it Bridgets....
Some other things that don't equate bridgets...
- being in a relationship doesn't always equal double (or even more) happiness...
- having a nicer looking house doesn't always equal double the assets than someone else. It usually means, double the debt and mortgage!
- being continually busy and having a hundred and one engagements doesn't always equal multiple friendships, increased popularity etc.. it often means: loneliness and not wanting to be alone all week-end!
No, Bridgets! Be strong, look hard, and off-set your vodka with soda, your mortgage with a tenant or man and always keep your friendships going, even during those times when you are madly in love and have forgotten that the rest of the world exists.
PS and maybe 1 1/2 of Mars Reds instead of 1.
Ciao for now, Bridget
Mars bar have brought out a "red bar" apparently with half the fat.
"Does that mean we can have 2?", (of course we all want to know)....
It is that similar to "low calorie" Blonde beers?
"Does that mean we can have 2 beers instead of one"?
It's all working on our vulnerable sub-conscience. Don't fall for it Bridgets....
Some other things that don't equate bridgets...
- being in a relationship doesn't always equal double (or even more) happiness...
- having a nicer looking house doesn't always equal double the assets than someone else. It usually means, double the debt and mortgage!
- being continually busy and having a hundred and one engagements doesn't always equal multiple friendships, increased popularity etc.. it often means: loneliness and not wanting to be alone all week-end!
No, Bridgets! Be strong, look hard, and off-set your vodka with soda, your mortgage with a tenant or man and always keep your friendships going, even during those times when you are madly in love and have forgotten that the rest of the world exists.
PS and maybe 1 1/2 of Mars Reds instead of 1.
Ciao for now, Bridget
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
bye to prague
bridgets, how magnificient is Prague?! I have had 5 wonderful days here, experiencing fairy lights on castles, fairy lights in the black theatres, amazing food and a generous culture in people and value. One can be ripped-off here - yes that has happened - but over all this is a good place to come to get a taste of old, cold and gold! Ha, just made that up. Yummy mulled wine and hot chocolates too.
The biggest tips while travelling for me is to always learn how to say please and thank-you. I cringe hearing other people demand instructions and orders, with no please or thank-you, even in their own langauage. it's not hard to make the effort.
bye, bridget abroad
The biggest tips while travelling for me is to always learn how to say please and thank-you. I cringe hearing other people demand instructions and orders, with no please or thank-you, even in their own langauage. it's not hard to make the effort.
bye, bridget abroad
Friday, February 20, 2009
Bridget goes back to London and freezes..
Bridgets, life it settling back into some irrational, chaotic, fun, random, yet planned inside out, routine. I'm off to Paris tonight - just had to write that, as i can probably , yes, actually, i have never been able to say that before....
Darlinks, I am off to Paris tonight. Whooaaa. Giddy up, tres bonne - i'd better polish up on some french on the plane - language that is...
A few days there, then over to the UK. It's all very exciting. I'm hoping to be swept off my feet by paparazzi wanting to take photos and exclusives because Richard Branson decides to back my book. Why wouldn't he - master piece, a literal gem, am some money is going towards charity (alot if i can get it right).
http://www.byebyebridget.com/dotnetnuke/default.aspx
So take care, bridgies.... i will check in and remember, we are here for a good time, not a long time.
love Bridget
Darlinks, I am off to Paris tonight. Whooaaa. Giddy up, tres bonne - i'd better polish up on some french on the plane - language that is...
A few days there, then over to the UK. It's all very exciting. I'm hoping to be swept off my feet by paparazzi wanting to take photos and exclusives because Richard Branson decides to back my book. Why wouldn't he - master piece, a literal gem, am some money is going towards charity (alot if i can get it right).
http://www.byebyebridget.com/dotnetnuke/default.aspx
So take care, bridgies.... i will check in and remember, we are here for a good time, not a long time.
love Bridget
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Gold Coast Emergency Relief Centre Thurs 19th Feb
Gold Coast Emergency Relief Centre for Wednesday 18th Feb. (Typos and all - just to authenticate).
Positives-
We have dispatched 1844 boxes to date. Its difficult to put this in perspective but would visually look the same as a box high over a football oval or equivalent to emergency relief (ie 4 boxes of goods) for 450 families.- We believe we have had approx 300 different volunteers (but many have been coming for a few days now)
- The feedback from Golden Wish List recipients is wonderful. If everyone's work felt as good as this, we could abolish the word "work" from our vocabularly. I feel truly priveladged to have been able to help, no matter how small the scale
- With some 1500-3000 donations (difficult to tell, as many trailer loads of donations with some representing an entire school collection, RSPCA etc)- today we sent 2 large boxes of striped bags to the Whittlesea Camp for fire survivors to use as storage for their clothing (instead of cupboards etc)
- we have sent 94 boxes to the flood victims in FNQ
Plan-
- We will be closing it down when the last of the boxes leaves Thursday or Friday .
- There is a core of people and volunteers on the Gold Coast who would like to continue with the Golden Wish Lists and sponsor a town.
- Golden Wish Lists will be received by Carole Becker and distributed from Miami Storage King
CONTACT numbers for the Victorian Bush Fires
http://www.byebyebridget.com/dotnetnuke/default.aspx
Thank-you (s)
- Miami storage King
- Australian Air Express
- Carole Dennis
- Tanya from the Gold Coast Bulletin
- Judith and other volunteers
- Alistair from the Surfers Paradise AFL club for letting us reside there for 9 days now.
Positives-
We have dispatched 1844 boxes to date. Its difficult to put this in perspective but would visually look the same as a box high over a football oval or equivalent to emergency relief (ie 4 boxes of goods) for 450 families.- We believe we have had approx 300 different volunteers (but many have been coming for a few days now)
- The feedback from Golden Wish List recipients is wonderful. If everyone's work felt as good as this, we could abolish the word "work" from our vocabularly. I feel truly priveladged to have been able to help, no matter how small the scale
- With some 1500-3000 donations (difficult to tell, as many trailer loads of donations with some representing an entire school collection, RSPCA etc)- today we sent 2 large boxes of striped bags to the Whittlesea Camp for fire survivors to use as storage for their clothing (instead of cupboards etc)
- we have sent 94 boxes to the flood victims in FNQ
Plan-
- We will be closing it down when the last of the boxes leaves Thursday or Friday .
- There is a core of people and volunteers on the Gold Coast who would like to continue with the Golden Wish Lists and sponsor a town.
- Golden Wish Lists will be received by Carole Becker and distributed from Miami Storage King
CONTACT numbers for the Victorian Bush Fires
http://www.byebyebridget.com/dotnetnuke/default.aspx
Thank-you (s)
- Miami storage King
- Australian Air Express
- Carole Dennis
- Tanya from the Gold Coast Bulletin
- Judith and other volunteers
- Alistair from the Surfers Paradise AFL club for letting us reside there for 9 days now.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Saturday 14th Valentines Day
Me at headquarter for the centrebridgets - how did you all fair? I received a card from my daughter (but it was really meant for her father apparently) and a that was all. Boo hoo.
Actually has been a great day. things are really moving along for the Gold Coast Emergency Relief Centre and I will post my most up-date that i send through to the media
The following is an up-date on today's activities:
Positives to date
- A total of over 500 boxes have now been dispatched from the centre to various locations and to various individual families, via our Golden Wish Lists
- We have been in contact with someone from the Salvation Army who is co-ordinating supplies to the relief camps. We will be now store goods in their respective boxes (e.g., baby nappies, toiletries, ladies and men's clothes, towels, linen, toys, bags, suitcases, animal needs and many other items that we have been given). Then when the request come from either Victoria or FNQ, we shall be able to send the boxes to them using Australian Air Express.
- we have at least 500 boxes of goods ready to go with probably another 300 boxes still to sort and pack.
- regular volunteers are now coming to assist and we have a very productive system going
- we have established contact with FNQ flood relief area - the local councilor was very grateful to receive our call and after a meeting on Monday - we shall look at how we can assist up north
- we are continuing to offer residents of the Gold Coast to fill in our "Best Wishes" book - we will send these down in a few weeks
Negatives
- still no local media to support and relay the great work of the volunteers (there have been over 250 different volunteers through the centre now)
- still no local or interstate media to relay our wonderful 24 hour turn around (FREE) service of the Golden Wish Lists
- I still am supplying lunch for all the volunteers using my own funds
- people are still dropping goods off every day (approx 20 today - despite the fact we are trying to turn them away)
- I am disappointed that Matt at the news room at the Bulletin said he would definitely return my call and never did
People to thank today
All these people are helping because they are in a position to - not because they have been "employed to do that job description". Many people that we ask are saying No. These people, listed below are saying "YES - what else can I do, how can I help".
Steve Jenke again at Coles, Healesville . We will now be in liaison with The Salvos and their dispatch store (which they have established), but Steve has been an integral link in making this happen.
AAE (Australian Air Express) I will never use anyone else again except these guys for courier services, (Sean Patterson, David Neylon and Leo - the driver) have been polite, efficient and very obliging.
Corporate Express for dropping in 100 boxes for us to use
Helen from Hope Island Vet Clinic (again for coming in when she was sick) and offering to chase up QLD Vet Assoc and find out what needs their are north and for letting us know in Victoria - all the vet clinics are well stocked at this stage. But will let us know if they need supplies.
And all the volunteers again for their tireless efforts. (ESP Carole Dennis, Ethel, Nicole Holland, Debbie, Vicky, Olivia, Lisa... And the other 50 people who helped out today)
Alistair Mitchell (Licensee of CBD - estate agents) for his tireless support and tolerance for us using their (flooded and leaking) AFL club rooms
The next steps
- I am going to Sydney to collect the first run of my book (taking it overseas next week to promote) and will be back Tuesday
- Carole Dennis is filling in for me while I am away
- we are locating people that have been interviewed on television and are offering our Golden Wish Lists.
- our Golden Wish Lists are being received with great joy and I imagine in the next few days we will have multiple amounts of requests arriving
- we are already to assist as need with the flood situation up north
- we are honored to assist with the Salvation Army down south
My Wish List
- for the media to start thanking the volunteers and people who have assisted to make this happen
- for the media to start promoting the wonderful service of the Wish Lists
- for the people in immanent danger again in the hills of Healesville to be safe and not to suffer any more property or personal loss
Kind regards and let's all remember it was only last week that majority of the people who died were going through their ordeal at this time.
My book "Hot Tips for the Business Traveler " comes out this week. I am going to Sydney tomorrow to get it from the printers. It's like awaiting the birth of a baby- except I pretty much now what it will look like. But I have no idea how it is going to feel, having my own book, in my own little hands - time will tell.
Have a lovely Valentine's day and I hope you scored some chocolates! Bridget
Friday, February 13, 2009
BUSH Fire relief is here
Bridgets - I am sorry I have done a cut a paste of my meagre attempt at doing a "press release" for tonights posting - it is self explanatory.
Hi all
And I have totally forgotten that today was Friday 13th! And that tomorrow is Valen--who- day's.
This is an up-date on today's movements (once again - excuse grammar, typos)
Positive
We had approx 80 volunteers through the footy club/donation centre
We packed approx 500 boxes
We have 3 golden wishes lists today
We found out we are the only national group , providing this service. (I discussed with head office, Red Cross and they are only able to take financial donations and are struggling keeping up with that) .
So we are the national centre now where people can call for relief centre specific deliveries and families can ring for their personal needs (via Golden Wish Lists)
Negatives
Telstra - only fixed fax approx 430pm today (will see if it works tomorrow)
The Gold Coast Bulletin and Sun are not interested in coming down to take photos and let the public know what we are doing (despite us having over 1000 donors now), nor are they interested in promoting the Golden Wish Lists for people that need help. They just wanted us to find a "pregnant lady" in one of the relief centres for them so they could do a story on her.
No one turned up with lunch despite hot tomato broadcasting and advertising.
People to thank for todays efforts
All these people are helping because they are in a position to - not because they have been "employed to do that job description". Many people that we ask are saying No. These people, listed below are saying "YES - what else can I do, how can I help".
These people are the 3rd and 4th line people behind this massive rescue and rebuilding mission and I hope one day they are truly recognised for what they are doing . And I can tell you now, none of these people are doing it for publicity. They don't even know, until they receive this tonight , that I am doing this.
Steve Jenke again at Coles, Healesville (gave me the heads up at 73oam that the relief centre was being relocated so we could stop BIG drop off) and his off sider Dustin for stepping in as Steve's replacement
Kim Hocking - rounding up Marysville town folks and spreading the word about the Golden Wish Lists
Corporate express for dropping in masses of packing tape
Sue Yates from Coomera pharmacy for their donations
Marilyn BRuton from Fastway - for her lovely individual care
Sandra Bostock principle Bostock and Frazer Lawyers (these ladies are amazing - sorry Sandra - I hope you don;t mind if I keep asking you to fill "golden wishes")
Helen from hope Island Vet Clinic
Hot tomato for our broadcasts
Australian Air Express for giving us an account to freight things free of charge to anywhere in VIC for Fire victims
And all the volunteers again for their tireless efforts. (ESP Gary Waldon, Nicole Holland, Debbie, Vicky, Olivia.... And the other 75 people)
Alisdair Mitchell, president from the AFL club. I don't think Alisdair realised, (I certainly didn't)what we were getting in for
The next steps
1. We are delivering the boxes to Healesville relief centres tomorrow.
2. We are hoping you can let the relief camps know that we have mass -stocks of all sorts of items and with radio broadcasts have the ability to collect all sorts of items
3. We are anticipating the Golden Wish Lists to increase in requests by Monday
4. We are now, going to see how we can assist Wildlife rescue, domestic pets (via AVA), and funerals (we have a collective group of celebrants available to assist with funerals - after the 23rd Feb - we just need an airline prepared to pay and help in transporting to the funeral homes)
5. I need some more support - i.e. Either from you guys ( I have been disgusted with the Bulletin in case that wasn;t obvious) and I am surprised their isn't a national body or government agency doing what we are doing
6. Recruit more volunteers
7. Try to get the word to ACA, Today tonight and ABC 774 that we are doing this fantastic service (not red cross) - but if red cross want to take it on, its all theirs.
8. We are setting up an on-line order system for individuals and the camps
My wish list
1. The Herald, and The Sun to get behind the Golden Wish Lists
2. The website to get up and running ASAP
3. Someone to pay my mobile bill (making 300+ phone calls a day)
4. For a valentines to declare themselves for me tomorrow (sorry my humour not very funny when I am tired - that was a joke)!
5. To have Tania Major hear about our cause and to become involved.
6. To find a contact for Matt Falla (in press release about CBA and his mortgage) and Sam (the dad shown on the news ) who lost his wife and children
My absolute highlight today (photos attached) have been
1. Watching my daughter, Mischa , assisting everyone in packing, sorting, mingling and so happy she can help victims of the fires
2. Watching the volunteers, lead by Debbie, put together Golden Wish Lists - we feel we know the people. We received one late tonight for 2 men who have lost their familes. They are men of the Land - they are humble folks. We have tried to match clothes to what we think they would like. The vollies and myself feel very connected to these people.
And I have totally forgotten that today was Friday 13th! And that tomorrow is Valen--who- day's.
This is an up-date on today's movements (once again - excuse grammar, typos)
Positive
We had approx 80 volunteers through the footy club/donation centre
We packed approx 500 boxes
We have 3 golden wishes lists today
We found out we are the only national group , providing this service. (I discussed with head office, Red Cross and they are only able to take financial donations and are struggling keeping up with that) .
So we are the national centre now where people can call for relief centre specific deliveries and families can ring for their personal needs (via Golden Wish Lists)
Negatives
Telstra - only fixed fax approx 430pm today (will see if it works tomorrow)
The Gold Coast Bulletin and Sun are not interested in coming down to take photos and let the public know what we are doing (despite us having over 1000 donors now), nor are they interested in promoting the Golden Wish Lists for people that need help. They just wanted us to find a "pregnant lady" in one of the relief centres for them so they could do a story on her.
No one turned up with lunch despite hot tomato broadcasting and advertising.
People to thank for todays efforts
All these people are helping because they are in a position to - not because they have been "employed to do that job description". Many people that we ask are saying No. These people, listed below are saying "YES - what else can I do, how can I help".
These people are the 3rd and 4th line people behind this massive rescue and rebuilding mission and I hope one day they are truly recognised for what they are doing . And I can tell you now, none of these people are doing it for publicity. They don't even know, until they receive this tonight , that I am doing this.
Steve Jenke again at Coles, Healesville (gave me the heads up at 73oam that the relief centre was being relocated so we could stop BIG drop off) and his off sider Dustin for stepping in as Steve's replacement
Kim Hocking - rounding up Marysville town folks and spreading the word about the Golden Wish Lists
Corporate express for dropping in masses of packing tape
Sue Yates from Coomera pharmacy for their donations
Marilyn BRuton from Fastway - for her lovely individual care
Sandra Bostock principle Bostock and Frazer Lawyers (these ladies are amazing - sorry Sandra - I hope you don;t mind if I keep asking you to fill "golden wishes")
Helen from hope Island Vet Clinic
Hot tomato for our broadcasts
Australian Air Express for giving us an account to freight things free of charge to anywhere in VIC for Fire victims
And all the volunteers again for their tireless efforts. (ESP Gary Waldon, Nicole Holland, Debbie, Vicky, Olivia.... And the other 75 people)
Alisdair Mitchell, president from the AFL club. I don't think Alisdair realised, (I certainly didn't)what we were getting in for
The next steps
1. We are delivering the boxes to Healesville relief centres tomorrow.
2. We are hoping you can let the relief camps know that we have mass -stocks of all sorts of items and with radio broadcasts have the ability to collect all sorts of items
3. We are anticipating the Golden Wish Lists to increase in requests by Monday
4. We are now, going to see how we can assist Wildlife rescue, domestic pets (via AVA), and funerals (we have a collective group of celebrants available to assist with funerals - after the 23rd Feb - we just need an airline prepared to pay and help in transporting to the funeral homes)
5. I need some more support - i.e. Either from you guys ( I have been disgusted with the Bulletin in case that wasn;t obvious) and I am surprised their isn't a national body or government agency doing what we are doing
6. Recruit more volunteers
7. Try to get the word to ACA, Today tonight and ABC 774 that we are doing this fantastic service (not red cross) - but if red cross want to take it on, its all theirs.
8. We are setting up an on-line order system for individuals and the camps
My wish list
1. The Herald, and The Sun to get behind the Golden Wish Lists
2. The website to get up and running ASAP
3. Someone to pay my mobile bill (making 300+ phone calls a day)
4. For a valentines to declare themselves for me tomorrow (sorry my humour not very funny when I am tired - that was a joke)!
5. To have Tania Major hear about our cause and to become involved.
6. To find a contact for Matt Falla (in press release about CBA and his mortgage) and Sam (the dad shown on the news ) who lost his wife and children
My absolute highlight today (photos attached) have been
1. Watching my daughter, Mischa , assisting everyone in packing, sorting, mingling and so happy she can help victims of the fires
2. Watching the volunteers, lead by Debbie, put together Golden Wish Lists - we feel we know the people. We received one late tonight for 2 men who have lost their familes. They are men of the Land - they are humble folks. We have tried to match clothes to what we think they would like. The vollies and myself feel very connected to these people.
LOL Bridget
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Gold coast Bush Fire Response
Bridgets, the last 2 days have been truely moving and rewarding.
I have been fortunate enough to be involved with one of the biggest relief efforts I have seen in my life. On the Gold Coast we had 500 drops off yesterday - some modest individual toys from kids, others had truck loads - literally.
With the help of over 100 volunteers (just in one day) we have sorted, packed and posted off 240 boxes. We are deploying another 200 boxes in the morning to a refuge set up outside of Healesville and continueing with our Golden Wish Lists. these are a form we have sent out to people so that they can give us their shoes, bra, pants and top sizes for the whole family and we are sending boxes to where they are being housed. these wish lists will increase dramatically in the next few days.
so far we are focusing on domestic pet goods (there are many cats and dogs in the tent cities with no collars, leads, drink bowls etc..), toiletries, loo paper, blankets, towels, clothes, baby goods, shoes, socks and undies. i have attached some photos to give you an idea of the magnitude of the event.
we are also assisting with the flood relief up north. volunteers still needed;
come to Surfers Paradise AFL club house, Ashmore Rd, Bundall.
We will be going all week=end and next week.
this guy is a well wisher signing the "I just want to wish you well book" that we are sending to the camps from the Gold Coast.
Other things being organised. I am trying to organise long stem roses for the camps tomorrow for the guys to give to the ladies for Valentine's Day. I am typing and sending bravery awards for the kids in the camps. Mike Bennet and his mates are offering to do gigs for free.
If you have any ideas that will make a difference please contact me on sam@sanxing.com.au
We are after a few boxes of Cadburies chocolate (no - not for me, bridgets - tisk tisk) but for all my fellow bridgets in the camps.
lots of love, Bridget
Monday, February 9, 2009
GOLD COAST BUSH FIRE DONATIONS
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=50261151167
This is a link someone set up for me (Judie) about donations. Thanks Bridget
This is a link someone set up for me (Judie) about donations. Thanks Bridget
Sunday, February 8, 2009
GOLD COAST BUSH FIRE DONATIONS
Red Cross are asking that people only donate money at this stage.
However many residents of the Gold Coast would like to donate clothing, nappies, linen etc...
I have arranged a drop off for these goods Tues 11th, Wed 12th FEb at :
Surfers Paradise australian Football Club
Cnr Carrara and Ashmore Rd, Benowa.
8am - 6pm.
We will then have the goods transported to FASTway Couriers who are delivering the goods FREE of charge to Fastway in Bendigo. he is a CFA and is going to help with distribution on the ground. Call me if you need more details 0405 669 135,
thanks Bridget
However many residents of the Gold Coast would like to donate clothing, nappies, linen etc...
I have arranged a drop off for these goods Tues 11th, Wed 12th FEb at :
Surfers Paradise australian Football Club
Cnr Carrara and Ashmore Rd, Benowa.
8am - 6pm.
We will then have the goods transported to FASTway Couriers who are delivering the goods FREE of charge to Fastway in Bendigo. he is a CFA and is going to help with distribution on the ground. Call me if you need more details 0405 669 135,
thanks Bridget
Monday, February 2, 2009
Summer sport nearly over
Bridgets, where did Christmas go? Can I have it all again please - I mean seriously - where have the last 6 weeks gone.
I have a theory about time (I have found out that some other dudes, Eckhart Tolle and Paul Wilson also came to the same conclussions as yours truely, Bridget). My theory is that Time is not a reality. It's not substance, you can't catch it, you can't see it, you can't smell, hear or even feel it. It is ellusive, independent and totally unbothered by anything.
I believe that if we as a global mass keep wishing time to hurry up (because we have something we are so excited about lying in the future that we wish time to travel quick), then I believe it obliges. I really think people can influence the speed at which time passes. At the risk of sounding like a total loop head, I believe that we can also slow down time.
A positive, enjoyable experience usually results in time passing quickly (or is it our perception) and a dull, monotonous experience travels slowly.
In bringing this back to some "real" experiences. I would have to agree with the masses that kids don't stay little for long. Their first 5 years really goes quick. Christmas time goes quick, balls go quick and holidays go quick.
Things that take forever to pass are paying off Visas and debts, The US election (but what a fantastic outcome), pregnancy and finding Mr Right (that was a joke).
This photo is of my oldest baby. Good grief - she wore my shoes out the other day!
Have fun bridgets and remember not to stress about time. Enjoy the moment, the mood and the event for what it is, fun or otherwise. Adios Bridget
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Jimmy Courier HOT?
Bridgets - is it hormones? Is it the humidity? or maybe 72 hours non-stop with my son and i will not tell You how many days since you know when!!! Anyway, my darling son is kicking me with his frog-like feet while I try to shield the computer so I can type. He is extremely happy and I am sure I must be burning more calories than if I just sat down and watched Federer go down. Come on Roge!!!!
Anyway the highlights of the last 3 days have been laughing with Kalani (and cuddling as he has been sick) and day dreaming, whilst listening to Jimmy Courier - I mean, please, (no offence if you ever ever read this Jimmy), but he's not really the first person Wiki would throw at you to search words tennis spunk. Alas ,when you really listen to the way he thinks and not the words, but more the stories - he is WAY cool.
Anyway, I must return to Jimmy and to cooking darling son some dinner. He has just blocked me into the office with 2 cars and one really cool looking sand dune buggy thing! I used to love boy toys so much more than girls things...
anyway, i think the same still applies, which is good to re-affirm at my age and being single and all. That was a joke. Bridget
Anyway the highlights of the last 3 days have been laughing with Kalani (and cuddling as he has been sick) and day dreaming, whilst listening to Jimmy Courier - I mean, please, (no offence if you ever ever read this Jimmy), but he's not really the first person Wiki would throw at you to search words tennis spunk. Alas ,when you really listen to the way he thinks and not the words, but more the stories - he is WAY cool.
Anyway, I must return to Jimmy and to cooking darling son some dinner. He has just blocked me into the office with 2 cars and one really cool looking sand dune buggy thing! I used to love boy toys so much more than girls things...
anyway, i think the same still applies, which is good to re-affirm at my age and being single and all. That was a joke. Bridget
Friday, January 23, 2009
Desperate times for Bridget
Bridgets I must be getting desperate. Even the South African cricket players are looking good looking. !#@##$% Confused and desperado Bridget
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Damn the Swiss
Bridgets, Damn the swiss for making such devine and indulgent chocolate!
Damn hormones for my insatiable appetite and Damn myself for lack of self control.
Thank god for supermarkets on every corner, fuel prices coming down and easy access to devil's food.
Contemplative bridget
Damn hormones for my insatiable appetite and Damn myself for lack of self control.
Thank god for supermarkets on every corner, fuel prices coming down and easy access to devil's food.
Contemplative bridget
Home and Away returns (again!!)
Bridgets - you know Christmas is officially over when Home and Away comes back on telly! What is the go with Jack dying. I am running out of reasons to watch the show. With Jack gone - well - I can't think of any reason to watch it now. Desperate Housewives is at least 2 weeks away- what am I to do?
That's OK, the tennis is on, so for now, my balmy nights are filled with grunts and groans (coming from the telly). Slash Chris Everett (sorry love) and let's listen to Jimmy Courier ALL night and there's one great night of entertainment. He is one funny dude. Even the way he walks on to court to do his "after match interviews" is funny.
I have moved Sanxing back home. It's an end of an era and the start of something sleek, new and very chic! I am so excited in my job. It's so not a job. My clients inspire me and hopefully I can coach them in return. I shall be sending a newsletter out next week with some irresistable offers! (go the sales pitch).
There is so much to add to byebyebridget - sorry it has been slow taking off. I have learned alot about running a website. I am sure it will be better than Obama's talk tonight, (well maybe more relevent to everyday life, ie managing kids, husbands and social calendar) when I get things ticking over. Hang in there and I will give every one the green light when it is in full swing!!
Well back to grunting and groaning and enjoy this time of year.
adios Bridget
That's OK, the tennis is on, so for now, my balmy nights are filled with grunts and groans (coming from the telly). Slash Chris Everett (sorry love) and let's listen to Jimmy Courier ALL night and there's one great night of entertainment. He is one funny dude. Even the way he walks on to court to do his "after match interviews" is funny.
I have moved Sanxing back home. It's an end of an era and the start of something sleek, new and very chic! I am so excited in my job. It's so not a job. My clients inspire me and hopefully I can coach them in return. I shall be sending a newsletter out next week with some irresistable offers! (go the sales pitch).
There is so much to add to byebyebridget - sorry it has been slow taking off. I have learned alot about running a website. I am sure it will be better than Obama's talk tonight, (well maybe more relevent to everyday life, ie managing kids, husbands and social calendar) when I get things ticking over. Hang in there and I will give every one the green light when it is in full swing!!
Well back to grunting and groaning and enjoy this time of year.
adios Bridget
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Hugh Grant and SPAT group
Bridgets I am watching a funny movie with Hugh Grant and he is pretending to be a single parent so he can swoon in on single mothers. He attends Single Parents Alone Together (SPAT ) groups to try to score. very funny. bridget
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Don't feed your kids chocolate
Bridgets - what was a thinking - the kids have now gone bonkers after their little chocolate experience - Don't feed your kids chocolate - Maybe the hand-me-down-Bridget-secret-tradition-of teaching kids to eat chocolate could be replaced with teaching them to clean a toilet bowl... disillusioned me signing off, Bridget
Teaching children to eat chocolate
Bridgets and mini bridgets, I have just been honored by my middle child to teach her how to eat chocolate. It's one of those true quintesential moments in life, like when a dad first teaches his boy how to use a cricket bat, like going fishing with your grandfather and like learning to cook an apple pie from your grandma.
Mums teaching children to really, really eat chocoalte is magic.
I know her life will never be the same again - now that the Bridget's Secret is out.
I was just about to divulge the REAL way to eat chocolate but you all know.
And I can't believe I confessed to just eating chocolate - tiny santas too - yummy. Well I lasted 14 days.. bye from naughty but content, Bridget
Mums teaching children to really, really eat chocoalte is magic.
I know her life will never be the same again - now that the Bridget's Secret is out.
I was just about to divulge the REAL way to eat chocolate but you all know.
And I can't believe I confessed to just eating chocolate - tiny santas too - yummy. Well I lasted 14 days.. bye from naughty but content, Bridget
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
over coming fear # 2
birdgets - have you been taking everything on board as feedback? I have - much better. I feel less defensive, less offended, more gratiful - bizarre that such a little change in how I filter things can make such a massive difference.
Well there is even more to work on...
And this one is another of my Demons - I think and imagine an idea and go full on, full out and feel slashed to the knees if I draw a blank or negative response. Know what I mean?
For example, since I have been single over the last 7 months, I have asked 1 guy (only 1 guy), if he wanted to catch up (as a mate mind you) and he deflected my request to the keeper - How devasting - I am now bound to solitary confinement and feel about the height of an ant in the "ask a boy out stakes"!
So really I should take his non-communicado as "feedback". Haha - Aussie blokes - that's another kettle of fish.
Anyway back to everyday failures and successes. The take home lesson is Be persistant. I remember the old saying "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again.." baring in mind the definition of a fool is "doing the same thing and expecting a different result". So persist but mix it up, try something different. Try coming in from the side.
It's also very important, as I am learning, not to take things personally. Most people make decisions based on what';s in their head, not on what you have presented. And what people think and interpret is totally out of your control - (to a degree). I am trying to not be as hard on myself and see things are experiences not judgements of my personality.
As Don and Anton will both ask if you see them as coaches is what was the mistake?,why did it happen, and what could you do better next time. Just try to take the lessons and don't beat yourself up.
Then find the silver lining and move on.
have fun bridget
Well there is even more to work on...
And this one is another of my Demons - I think and imagine an idea and go full on, full out and feel slashed to the knees if I draw a blank or negative response. Know what I mean?
For example, since I have been single over the last 7 months, I have asked 1 guy (only 1 guy), if he wanted to catch up (as a mate mind you) and he deflected my request to the keeper - How devasting - I am now bound to solitary confinement and feel about the height of an ant in the "ask a boy out stakes"!
So really I should take his non-communicado as "feedback". Haha - Aussie blokes - that's another kettle of fish.
Anyway back to everyday failures and successes. The take home lesson is Be persistant. I remember the old saying "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again.." baring in mind the definition of a fool is "doing the same thing and expecting a different result". So persist but mix it up, try something different. Try coming in from the side.
It's also very important, as I am learning, not to take things personally. Most people make decisions based on what';s in their head, not on what you have presented. And what people think and interpret is totally out of your control - (to a degree). I am trying to not be as hard on myself and see things are experiences not judgements of my personality.
As Don and Anton will both ask if you see them as coaches is what was the mistake?,why did it happen, and what could you do better next time. Just try to take the lessons and don't beat yourself up.
Then find the silver lining and move on.
have fun bridget
Monday, January 12, 2009
Overcoming Fear of Failure
Bridgets, wow - this topic has been one of my little demons that i am working through. And I think I am coming out the other side thanks to Don Power (author of byebyedemons) and my business coach, Anton.
I don't know if you can relate to some of this and for me, I think it is more fear of success rather than failure. Either way, I think the self-sabotaging takes over. As part of my "homework" with Anton I had to google "Fear of Failure" and this is what I have learned (great site; www.goal-setting-guide.com) ...
Fear of failure is one of the greatest fears and is similar to criticism and rejection. People who are "successful" overcome these fears. Aparently the LAW of FEEDBACK states there is no failure, there is only feedback (I like this one). One needs to view mistakes as merely a result and learn and refine and move on.
I guess most of us know that we don't achieve a pinch of what we are capable of because we are scared of failure. But the only way to be successful is to cope these knocks. So bring 'em on!!! they are after all only feedback.
I have a sticker on my fridge that says "what would you do if you knew you could not fail". It's provocative, dynamic and keeps momentum moving forward.
There is a lot more but I will continue tonight or tomorrow.
That's enough to digest for one Tuesday avo.
By the way, bridgets, I have had wine for 4 days !!!! OMG! and i haven;t had chocolate for a week or more. I was inspired by two patients on Friday who are detoxing this week. Go girls and if anyone is thinking of detoxing drop me an email. It's so much easier in a "team".
Here's to lots of feedback, critisicm and successes!! Bridget
I don't know if you can relate to some of this and for me, I think it is more fear of success rather than failure. Either way, I think the self-sabotaging takes over. As part of my "homework" with Anton I had to google "Fear of Failure" and this is what I have learned (great site; www.goal-setting-guide.com) ...
Fear of failure is one of the greatest fears and is similar to criticism and rejection. People who are "successful" overcome these fears. Aparently the LAW of FEEDBACK states there is no failure, there is only feedback (I like this one). One needs to view mistakes as merely a result and learn and refine and move on.
I guess most of us know that we don't achieve a pinch of what we are capable of because we are scared of failure. But the only way to be successful is to cope these knocks. So bring 'em on!!! they are after all only feedback.
I have a sticker on my fridge that says "what would you do if you knew you could not fail". It's provocative, dynamic and keeps momentum moving forward.
There is a lot more but I will continue tonight or tomorrow.
That's enough to digest for one Tuesday avo.
By the way, bridgets, I have had wine for 4 days !!!! OMG! and i haven;t had chocolate for a week or more. I was inspired by two patients on Friday who are detoxing this week. Go girls and if anyone is thinking of detoxing drop me an email. It's so much easier in a "team".
Here's to lots of feedback, critisicm and successes!! Bridget
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
I read this regularly - I love it
I don't know who the author is.
There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror
and notied she had only three hairs on her head.
"well," she said, "i think I'll braid my hair today"
So she did and she had a wonderful day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror
and saw that she only had two hairs on her head.
"Hmmm" she said,
"I' think I will part my hair down the middle today"
So she did and she had a grand day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed
that she only had one hair on her head.
"well," she said, "today I'm going to wear my hair
in a pony tail."
So she did and had a fun, fun, day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed
that there wasn't a single hair on her head.
"YAY," she exclaimed.
"I don't have to fix my hair today!"
Attitude is everything.
Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Live Simply,
Love generously,
Care deeply,
Speak kindly,
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass....
It's about learning to dance in the rain.
There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror
and notied she had only three hairs on her head.
"well," she said, "i think I'll braid my hair today"
So she did and she had a wonderful day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror
and saw that she only had two hairs on her head.
"Hmmm" she said,
"I' think I will part my hair down the middle today"
So she did and she had a grand day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed
that she only had one hair on her head.
"well," she said, "today I'm going to wear my hair
in a pony tail."
So she did and had a fun, fun, day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed
that there wasn't a single hair on her head.
"YAY," she exclaimed.
"I don't have to fix my hair today!"
Attitude is everything.
Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Live Simply,
Love generously,
Care deeply,
Speak kindly,
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass....
It's about learning to dance in the rain.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
2009 Amnesty
Bridgets, Ok, before we declare our long-thought-out D & Ms and New Year's Resolutions - I have decided to rid my 2008 baggage by returning all items borrowed. (And I would love it if people did the same) .
Imagine - maybe a "Return-all-loaned-items-amnesty-day" where we all , without shame, just handed back stuff we have been loaned or borrowed. And we could be promted or prompt people with an email or sms, or if it $, a big dirty fat note.
I am thinking of returning a few books seeing as I am not reading many at the moment. I would feel much better borrowing them again at a latter date . I am sure that will deminish some of the guilt I feel whenever I see the items.
And if you have any of my tupperware bowls (and lids) you know who you are!!!!, can I please have them back.
I am about to scrap my "tupperware draw" which was as iconic to me as owning a Victa lawn mower - sigh I worked so hard for my beautiful plastic and flash features - but now , unless I see a few things come back, i am going to liberate myself and scrap it. Gone, banished...actually it feels really liberating just entertaining the idea. Maybe 2009 is the year to return tupperware to it's rightful owners... step forward you Tupperware Queens - I am sorry - I think I was masquerading s a tupperware princes, and wasn't totally up for the long haul. I find cheapies suit me fine now days ...shame....
So if you have borrowed any items, loaned , leant or otherwise - I say we declare 9/1/9 National "return-any-items-borrowed-day" to their rightful owners.
Bridget
Imagine - maybe a "Return-all-loaned-items-amnesty-day" where we all , without shame, just handed back stuff we have been loaned or borrowed. And we could be promted or prompt people with an email or sms, or if it $, a big dirty fat note.
I am thinking of returning a few books seeing as I am not reading many at the moment. I would feel much better borrowing them again at a latter date . I am sure that will deminish some of the guilt I feel whenever I see the items.
And if you have any of my tupperware bowls (and lids) you know who you are!!!!, can I please have them back.
I am about to scrap my "tupperware draw" which was as iconic to me as owning a Victa lawn mower - sigh I worked so hard for my beautiful plastic and flash features - but now , unless I see a few things come back, i am going to liberate myself and scrap it. Gone, banished...actually it feels really liberating just entertaining the idea. Maybe 2009 is the year to return tupperware to it's rightful owners... step forward you Tupperware Queens - I am sorry - I think I was masquerading s a tupperware princes, and wasn't totally up for the long haul. I find cheapies suit me fine now days ...shame....
So if you have borrowed any items, loaned , leant or otherwise - I say we declare 9/1/9 National "return-any-items-borrowed-day" to their rightful owners.
Bridget
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