Lupus Awareness Month Day 31

May 31:

As many as 80 percent of people with lupus experience fatigue. For some people with lupus, fatigue is their main symptom and can be debilitating, even to the point of forcing them to stop working.

Lupus Awareness Month Day 30

May 30:

Successful treatment of lupus often requires a combination of medications. Nearly two dozen clinical studies are underway to develop new safe, more tolerable and effective treatments for lupus.

Lupus Awareness Month Day 29

May 29:

Lupus can be expensive to manage and live with. A study found that the average annual cost to provide healthcare for a person with lupus was $12,643 and was nearly $21,000 when lost productivity on the job due to illness is included.

60 Small Ways to Improve Your Life in the Next 100 Days

I read this article today and felt I should share it with my friends.. By all means use what you can to help make things easier in your life.. Everyone can use some kind of change.. I know I can.. 

Hugs and Kisses,
Nicole XOXO  =)

60 Small Ways to Improve Your Life in the Next 100 Days

May 30 by Marelisa

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to make drastic changes in order to notice an improvement in the quality of your life. At the same time, you don’t need to wait a long time in order to see the measurable results that come from taking positive action. All you have to do is take small steps, and take them consistently, for a period of 100 days.
Below you’ll find 60 small ways to improve all areas of your life in the next 100 days.

Home

1.  Create a “100 Days to Conquer Clutter Calendar” by penciling in one group of items you plan to declutter every day, for the next 100 days.  Here’s an example:

• Day 1: Declutter Magazines
• Day 2: Declutter DVD’s
• Day 3: Declutter books
• Day 4: Declutter kitchen appliances

2. Live by the mantra: a place for everything and everything in its place. For the next 100 days follow these four rules to keep your house in order:

• If you take it out, put it back.
• If you open it, close it.
• If you throw it down, pick it up.
• If you take it off, hang it up.

3. Walk around your home and identify 100 things you’ve been tolerating; fix one each day. Here are some examples:

• A burnt light bulb that needs to be changed.
• A button that’s missing on your favorite shirt.
• The fact that every time you open your top kitchen cabinet all of the plastic food containers fall out.

Happiness

4.  Follow the advice proffered by positive psychologists and write down 5 to 10 things that you’re grateful for, every day.
5. Make a list of 20 small things that you enjoy doing, and make sure that you do at least one of these things every day for the next 100 days. Your list can include things such as the following:

• Eating your lunch outside.
• Calling your best friend to chat.
• Taking the time to sit down and read a novel by your favorite author for a few minutes.

6. Keep a log of your mental chatter, both positive and negative, for ten days. Be as specific as possible:

• How many times do you beat yourself up during the day?
• Do you have feelings of inadequacy?
• Are you constantly thinking critical thoughts of others?
• How many positive thoughts do you have during the day?

Also, make a note of the emotions that accompany these thoughts. Then, for the next 90 days, begin changing your emotions for the better by modifying your mental chatter.
7. For the next 100 days, have a good laugh at least once a day: get one of those calendars that has a different joke for every day of the year, or stop by a web site that features your favorite cartoons.

Learning/Personal Development

8. Choose a book that requires effort and concentration and read a little of it every day, so that you read it from cover to cover in 100 days.
9. Make it a point to learn at least one new thing each day: the name of a flower that grows in your garden, the capital of a far-off country, or the name of a piece of classical music you hear playing in your favorite clothing boutique as you shop. If it’s time for bed and you can’t identify anything you’ve learned that day, take out your dictionary and learn a new word.
10. Stop complaining for the next 100 days. A couple of years back, Will Bowen gave a purple rubber bracelet to each person in his congregation to remind them to stop complaining. “Negative talk produces negative thoughts; negative thoughts produce negative results”, says Bowen. For the next 100 days, whenever you catch yourself complaining about anything, stop yourself.
11. Set your alarm a minute earlier every day for the next 100 days. Then make sure that you get out of bed as soon as your alarm rings, open the windows to let in some sunlight, and do some light stretching. In 100 days you’ll be waking up an hour and forty minutes earlier than you’re waking up now.
12. For the next 100 days, keep Morning Pages, which is a tool suggested by Julia Cameron. Morning Pages are simply three pages of longhand, stream of consciousness writing, done first thing in the morning.
13. For the next 100 days make it a point to feed your mind with the thoughts, words, and images that are most consistent with who you want to be, what you want to have, and what you want to achieve.

Finances

14. Create a spending plan (also known as a budget). Track every cent that you spend for the next 100 days to make sure that you’re sticking to your spending plan.
15. Scour the internet for frugality tips, choose ten of the tips that you find, and apply them for the next 100 days.  Here are some possibilities:

• Go to the grocery store with cash and a calculator instead of using your debit card.
• Take inventory before going to the grocery store to avoid buying repeat items.
• Scale back the cable.
• Ask yourself if you really need a landline telephone.
• Consolidate errands into one trip to save on gas.

Keep track of how much money you save over the next 100 days by applying these tips.
16. For the next 100 days, pay for everything with paper money and keep any change that you receive. Then, put all of your change in a jar and see how much money you can accumulate in 100 days.
17. Don’t buy anything that you don’t absolutely need for 100 days. Use any money you save by doing this to do one of the following:

• Pay down your debt, if you have any.
• Put it toward your six month emergency fund.
• Start setting aside money to invest.

18. Set an hour aside every day for the next 100 days to devote to creating one source of passive income.

Time Management

19. For the next 100 days, take a notebook with you everywhere in order to keep your mind decluttered. Record everything, so that it’s safely stored in one place—out of your head—where you can decide what to do with it later. Include things such as the following:

• Ideas for writing assignments.
• Appointment dates.
• To Do list items

20. Track how you spend your time for 5 days. Use the information that you gather in order to create a time budget: the percentage of your time that you want to devote to each activity that you engage in on a regular basis. This can include things such as:

• Transportation
• Housework
• Leisure
• Income-Generating Activities

Make sure that you stick to your time budget for the remaining 95 days.
21. Identify one low-priority activity which you can stop doing for the next 100 days, and devote that time to a high priority task instead.
22. Identify five ways in which you regularly waste time, and limit the time that you’re going to spend on these activities each day, for the next 100 days. Here are three examples:

• Watch no more than half-an-hour of television a day.
• Spend no more than half-an-hour each day on social media sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Stumbleupon.
• Spend no more than twenty minutes a day playing video games.

23. For the next 100 days, stop multi-tasking; do one thing at a time without distractions.
24. For the next 100 days, plan your day the night before.
25. For the next 100 days, do the most important thing on your To-Do list first, before you do anything else.
26. For the next 14 weeks, conduct a review of each week. During your weekly review, answer the following:

• What did you accomplish?
• What went wrong?
• What went right?

27. For the next 100 days, spend a few minutes at the end of each day organizing your desk, filing papers, and making sure that your work area is clean and orderly, so that you can walk in to a neat desk the next day.
28. Make a list of all of the commitments and social obligations that you have in the next 100 days. Then, take out a red pen and cross out anything that does not truly bring you joy or help move you along the path to achieving your main life goals.
29. For the next 100 days, every time that you switch to a new activity throughout the day stop and ask yourself, “Is this the best use of my time at this moment?”

Health

30. Losing a pound of fat requires burning 3500 calories.  If you reduce your caloric intake by 175 calories a day for the next 100 days, you’ll have lost 5 pounds in the next 100 days.
31. For the next 100 days, eat five servings of vegetables every day.
32.  For the next 100 days, eat three servings of fruit of every day.
33. Choose one food that constantly sabotages your efforts to eat healthier—whether it’s the decadent cheesecake from the bakery around the corner, deep-dish pizza, or your favorite potato chips—and go cold turkey for the next 100 days.
34.  For the next 100 days, eat from a smaller plate to help control portion size.
35. For the next 100 days, buy 100% natural juices instead of the kind with added sugar and preservatives.
36. For the next 100 days, instead of carbonated drinks, drink water.
37. Create a list of 10 healthy, easy to fix breakfast meals.
38. Create a list of 20 healthy, easy to fix meals which can be eaten for lunch or dinner.
39. Create a list of 10 healthy, easy to fix snacks.
40. Use your lists of healthy breakfast meals, lunches, dinners, and snacks in order to plan out your meals for the week ahead of time. Do this for the next 14 weeks.
41. For the next 100 days, keep a food log. This will help you to identify where you’re deviating from your planned menu, and where you’re consuming extra calories.
42. For the next 100 days, get at least twenty minutes of daily exercise.
43. Wear a pedometer and walk 10,000 steps, every day, for the next 100 days. Every step you take during the day counts toward the 10,000 steps:

• When you walk to your car.
• When you walk from your desk to the bathroom.
• When you walk over to talk to a co-worker, and so on.

44. Set up a weight chart and post it up in your bathroom. Every week for the next 14 weeks, keep track of the following:

• Your weight.
• Your percentage of body fat.
• Your waist circumference.

45. For the next 100 days, set your watch to beep once an hour, or set up a computer reminder, to make sure that you drink water on a regular basis throughout the day.
46. For the next 100 days, make it a daily ritual to mediate, breath, or visualize every day in order to calm your mind.

Your Relationship

47.   For the next 100 days, actively look for something positive in your partner every day, and write it down.
48. Create a scrapbook of all the things you and your partner do together during the next 100 days. At the end of the 100 days, give your partner the list you created of positive things you observed about them each day, as well as the scrapbook you created.
49. Identify 3 actions that you’re going to take each day, for the next 100 days, in order to strengthen your relationship. These can include the following:

• Say “I love you” and “Have a good day” to your significant other every morning.
• Hug your significant other as soon as you see each other after work.
• Go for a twenty minute walk together every day after dinner; hold hands.

Social

50. Connect with someone new every day for the next 100 days, whether it’s by greeting a neighbor you’ve never spoken to before, following someone new on Twitter, leaving a comment on a blog you’ve never commented on before, and so on.
51. For the next 100 days, make it a point to associate with people you admire, respect and want to be like.
52. For the next 100 days, when someone does or says something that upsets you, take a minute to think over your response instead of answering right away.
53. For the next 100 days, don’t even think of passing judgment until you’ve heard both sides of the story.
54. For the next 100 days do one kind deed for someone every day, however small, even if it’s just sending a silent blessing their way.
55. For the next 100 days, make it a point to give praise and approval to those who deserve it.
56. For the next 100 days, practice active listening. When someone is talking to you, remain focused on what they’re saying, instead of rehearsing in your head what you’re going to say next. Paraphrase what you think you heard them say to make sure that you haven’t misinterpreted them, and encourage them to elaborate on any points you’re still not clear about.
57. Practice empathy for the next 100 days. If you disagree with someone, try to see the world from their perspective; put yourself in their shoes. Be curious about the other person, about their beliefs and their life experience, and about the thinking process that they followed to reach their conclusions.
58. For the next 100 days, stay in your own life and don’t compare yourself to anyone else.
59. For the next 100 days, place the best possible interpretation on the actions of others.
60. For the next 100 days, keep reminding yourself that everyone is doing the best that they can.0

Lupus Awareness Month Day 28

May 28:

Eye disease occurs in approximately 20 percent of people with lupus. The disease can affect the eyeball, the retina, and the muscles that control eye movement.

Lupus Awareness Month Day 27

May 27:

Approximately 95 percent of people with lupus suffer from some form of oral involvement that will affect their mouth or gums. Ulcers on the roof of the mouth or in the nose can be a sign of lupus among people who are not yet diagnosed with the disease.

Depression

I read this and Hate to post it... If you feel you need help please speak to your doctor..

The information contained on this page is not intended to replace the services of a physician. Information on this web site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Depressionby Julie Jessen
Why couldn't I read the signs? It made perfect sense what the therapist said to me as she sat, sweetly smiling, in a chair across from me. "You're a classic case of clinical depression." You might add it was also a classic case of denial. Although depression had run in my family for generations, including my maternal grandfather, who desperately took his own life, and my mother, who was diagnosed with clinical depression when I was in college, I just didn't believe it was happening to me. In fact, I was determined not to let it happen to me. I saw what depression had done to my family. There was guilt and shame and secrecy associated with depression. Thankfully, that view of depression has changed dramatically in recent decades as more light has been shed on the taboo subject.

Depression is a common but serious medical condition that affects millions of people each year. Depression is an equal opportunity illness that can happen to men and women of any age, race, ethnic group, or economic level. Although, studies do show that depression occurs twice as frequently in women as in men. There are different types and causes of depression, including chemical imbalances in the brain, hormonal changes, or life events and situations, to name a few. Everybody gets a case of the "blues" at one time or another; it's just a fact of life. However, major depression, also called clinical depression, is a mental illness that can be diagnosed by a health care professional when a person demonstrates at least 2 weeks of depressed mood accompanied by additional symptoms of depression. Fortunately, in the majority of cases, it can be successfully treated.

Sadly, many people suffer with major depression but do not seek help. Why? It took me two years to finally get the help I needed. I was uninformed and did not recognize the signs, nor did I want to believe they were real. I was a skeptic when it came to clinical depression. I thought what I was experiencing was normal and would eventually pass. Yet, I continued in a downward spiral. I felt tired most of the time and lacked motivation. I suffered frequent headaches and stomachaches. I struggled with anxiety and coping skills. Concentrating and making decisions, big or small, was almost impossible. Thoughts of escape entered my mind and I wished the Lord would come and take me in my sleep. Knowing I needed to do something, I tried to "fix" myself. I made some changes that I thought would improve my spirits. I began to exercise on a regular basis and dropped 40 pounds. I volunteered my time to worthwhile causes. I prayed fervently and dug deep into the Word. Although these things are good, I still had an overwhelming sense of dread and hopelessness. The joy of living was gone. I believed it was because of my human weakness or lack of faith that I couldn't pull myself up by my bootstraps. From all outward appearances, my life was great. What did I have to be depressed about? Feeling guilty, I did my best to put on a smile and hide what I was going through from friends and family.

Then one day, while driving alone in my car, I imagined stepping on the gas pedal and slamming into a telephone pole on the side of the road. After talking to my husband, he strongly encouraged me to reach out for professional help. The Lord ordered my steps to a wonderful Christian therapist who has helped me understand this illness. "It's not your fault," she told me during one of our first sessions. That was exactly what I needed to hear! She was right. I didn't sign up for this. I wasn't being punished by God for something I had done. I wasn't a bad person and I wasn't going crazy. I was clinically depressed and needed treatment.

After finding the correct dosage of the right medication, combined with professional counseling, I am enjoying life again. The reason I share my story with you is to help dispel any myths or misconceptions about clinical depression. As with any illness, there is a healthy way to respond to it. Last year, a friend of mine was diagnosed with breast cancer. She didn't try to deny or hide her illness, nor did she refuse treatment. She had a double mastectomy as well as chemotherapy and radiation. She faced it head on with courage and grace. She rarely complained and every time I saw her, she had a beautiful smile on her face. She willingly accepted the love and support from family and friends. Most importantly, she is now able to console and encourage other women who are facing the same disease. I want to be like my friend.

II Corinthians 1:3-5 reads, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows." (NIV) Amen.

Julie Jessen currently live in Wilmington, North Carolina. She has been married to Steve, a general contractor, for 19 years and they have two daughters, Hannah 17 and Miriam 14. She enjoys volunteering as a mentor/counselor at Life Line Pregnancy Center and spending time with my family. 

Love you guys,

XoXo Nicole

Lupus Awareness Month Day 26

May 26:

Discoid lupus (most common skin lupus) accounts for approximately 10 percent of all cases of lupus and occurs in 20 percent of those with systemic lupus.

Lupus Awareness Month Day 25

May 25:

The malar, or butterfly rash on the face, is present in about one third of those with systemic lupus.

Lupus Awareness Month Day 24

May 24:

More than 90 percent of people with lupus will experience joint and/or muscle pain. Treatments are available that can help to control the pain associated with lupus.

Lupus Awareness Month Day 23

May 23:

Lupus develops most often between ages 15 and 44. However, lupus can develop among males and females of any age, including children and teens.

Lupus Awareness Fact Day 22

May 22:

It is estimated that as many as 40 percent of all people with lupus, and as many as two-thirds of all children with lupus, will develop kidney complications that require medical care and treatment.

Sorry

Hey you guys..... Just want to express how sorry I am for not blogging like I should.. I know that I'm suppose to put up my daily Lupus facts for the Lupus Awareness Month and promise I will post them shortly or soon.. I've been  focused on getting my credit in order so I can move South and purchase a house... So this is the problem!!

I pulled my credit report and I have medical bills.. I mean I know I have medical bills/co-payments that I didn't get to pay from my hospital stays... Ok so I went to the hospital to find out why they didn't bill my insurance?! Come to find out the hospital billed my insurance and recieved there money. The doctor wasn't in my net-work and they billed me for there services and I have to pay them.. To me that's some sneaky stuff they pulled on me because if your not in my net-work don't see me or at least give me the option to decide... And this was the ER doctor! So now I'm trying to get my insurance to cover the out of net-work fees so these so called doctors charges can come off my credit..

So my advice to my fellow friends is to be aware of these doctors and there sneaky charges and fees.. Ask questions and not just about your medical treatment and care, find out if the doctor or doctors that's checking you is in or out of your network. Just so you'll be aware of what's going on..

My excuse is I was be neglectful to the bills because I thought it was just the hosital co-payments and I know you can always make a payment plan at a later date. So make sure you check them bills LADIES..

Until later, Kiss Kiss
Nicole =)

My Ahhhhhh Haaaaa Momment!!!!

YESTERDAY I HAD A AHHH HAAAA MOMMENT.. LOL

THIS MORNING WHILE GOING  TO CHRUCH AFTER FUSSING AT MY SON FOR JUST ABOUT ANY LITTLE THING HE DID.. CHIPS IN THE CAR, RUNNING LIKE A WILD CHILD AND HE EVEN RAN INTO THE PARK TO PLAY WHILE I WAS CLEANING UP HIS CHIPS IN MY CAR! SOME DAYS I HAVE NO CONTROL, NONE AT ALL!!

JUST LIKE LAST NIGHT, I SAW A GREAT FRIEND THAT HAVEN'T SEEN IN A WHILE AND I WAS EXCITED TO SEE HER. WE HUGGED AND THE KIDS WAS HAPPY TO SEE HER TO.. BUT THE BOY, OH THE BOY... WHEEWWWW HE WAS RUNNING AROUND AND EVEN RUNNING BACK AND FORUTH ACROSS THE STREET. LUCKY CARS DONT BE COMING THREW TO OFTEN, BUT THAT'S BESIDE THE POINT, IT'S UNSAFE!!

NOW BACK TO CHURCH... OK EVERYONE IS SETTLED IN AND GUESS WHAT????  MY CAR WOULDN'T START! THE BLOOD OF JESES, DEVIL YOU ANIT GOING TO STOP ME ON THIS GOOD SUNDAY, BESIDE THE DRAMA WITH MY SON.. LOL

SO I TELL THE KIDS, OK WE DRIVING DADDY'S CAR.. OK MOM! NO PROBLEM.. WE MADE IT TO CHURCH. HAD A GREAT SERVICE AND TOLD MY DAD TO FOLLOW ME HOME TO SEE WHAT'S WRONG WITH THE CAR...

DAD CAME AND I TRIED STARTING THE CAR... NOTHING!!!  BUT THE MUSIC AND ALL THE LIGHTS CAME ON.. DAD LOOKED AT ME AND SAID......... NICOLE, IS THE CAR IN PARK??? I LOOK DOWN AND GUESS WHAT... THE CAR WAS IN DRIVE!!!!!  DRIVE, DRIVE, DRIVE.. LOL

DAD LAUGHED SHOOK HIS HEAD AND WENT TO HIS CAR AND DROVE AWAY...

AHHHH HAAAAA!!

AHHHHH HAAAAA!!

HOPE YOU ENJOYED MY BRAINFOGGY DAY... LUPUS HAS MY MEMORY ALL MESSED UP.. I KNOW SOME OF YOU KNOW!!

hUGS & kISS
NICOLE  =)

May 21 Lupus Awareness Month

May 21:

With current methods of therapy, 80 to 90 percent of people with non-organ threatening lupus can look forward to a normal lifespan.

May 20 Lupus Awareness Month

May 20:

There is no single laboratory test that can determine whether a person does or does not have lupus. Diagnosing lupus involves analyzing the results of several lab tests that are used to monitor the immune system, along with a review of the person’s entire medical history.

Cops cant kick in your door without a warrant!!

Cops Can Kick Your Door Down If They Smell Weed, Supreme Court Rules

Now you have another thing to get anxious about while smoking grass in the comfort of your own home (in addition to the surveillance microphones your landlord embedded in your walls). The Supreme Court has ruled that if cops are passing by your hotbox and they smell reefer, they're legally entitled to kick your door down without a warrant if they think you're destroying evidence and you don't open up. It's going to mean big business for the rolled towel and incense companies, but a tough break for anyone who struggles with paranoia after doing a J. Did you hear those sirens? I think there are cops in the building! I HEAR THEM KNOCKING RIGHT NOW—IN PERFECT TIME WITH BONHAM'S DRUM SOLO!

In an 8-1 decision [pdf], the Supreme Court ruled that the Fourth Amendment, which states that "the right of the people to be secure in their per sons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreason able searches and seizures, shall not be violated," doesn't apply here, because "'the exigencies of the situation' make the needs of law en forcement so compelling that [a] warrantless search is objectively reasonable under the Fourth Amendment." The decision comes in response to a case that originated in Kentucky's court system, in which:

Police officers in Lexington, Kentucky, followed a suspected drug dealer to an apartment complex. They smelled marijuana outside an apartment door, knocked loudly, and announced their presence. As soon as the officers began knocking, they heard noises coming from the apartment; the officers believed that these noises were consistent with the destruction of evidence. The officers announced their intent to enter the apartment, kicked in the door, and found respondent and others. They saw drugs in plain view during a protective sweep of the apartment and found additional evidence during a subsequent search.

If you think it's worth noting that this was not the drug dealer's apartment, you're probably a hippie like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who issued the lone dissent. "The court today arms the police with a way routinely to dishonor the Fourth Amendment's warrant requirement in drug cases," Justice Ginsburg wrote. "In lieu of presenting their evidence to a neutral magistrate, police officers may now knock, listen, then break the door down, never mind that they had ample time to obtain a warrant." Ginsburg also pointed out that the sounds of noises in the apartment are far too vague to be strictly interpreted as destruction of evidence, and referred to a 1948 ruling, Johnson v. United States, which declared warrantless searches "unreasonable":

The Court confronted this scenario: standing outside a hotel room, the police smelled burning opium and heard “some shuffling or noise” coming from the room. 333 U. S., at 12 (internal quotation marks omitted). Could the police enter the room without a warrant? The Court answered no. Explaining why, the Court said: “The right of officers to thrust themselves into a home is a grave concern, not only to the individual but to a society which chooses to dwell in reasonable security and freedom from surveillance. When the right of privacy must reasonably yield to the right of search is, as a rule, to be decided by a judicial officer, not a policeman... If the officers in this case were excused from the constitutional duty of presenting their evidence to a magistrate, it is difficult to think of [any] case in which [a warrant] should be required."

YarnPlay... Love Knitting

Got this email.. I thought I should share it for my knitters and people who are home... Stay at home mothers, people with disablity, etc

Bula Nicole, The flowers are in bloom and many of us are outdoors potting plants and gardening.  To celebrate the arrival of spring, this month'sYarnPlay features beautiful knotted hanging plant holders (pattern includes directions for a large and small holder). Inspired by macrame and made in Nature's Choice Organic Cotton, it's a wonderful way to incorporate yarncrafting into your home decor.  Designer Kimberly Hamlin shows you how to make these knotted plant holders with step-by-step photos. Since there's no knitting or crocheting required, it's a great project to do with friends and family members as a fun weekend project. Click the link above to see the pattern. Now that you've brought your yarncrafts outdoors, why not bring the garden inwith felted flowers? Click hereto see adorable flower kits in 6 varieties, all at a special price.  Your friends, The YarnPlayers P.S. Now you know how to say "hello" in Fijian -- next month, learn a greeting in another language! _____________ Photography: Emily Delamater Another great way to bring knitting and crocheting outdoors with you is listening to our audio-podcast,YarnCraft (we like to say that it's like "Car Talk" but for knitters and crocheters). Click here to listen to the latest episode [MP3] or click here to find us on iTunes. Learn more on the YarnCraft blog.  More Garden-Inspired Projects Wrapped Flower Pots Wrapped Recycled  Milk Carton Vase Crochet Amigurumi  Potted Plant

About Sjogren's Syndrome

About Sjögren’s Syndrome

Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease in which people’s white blood cells attack their moisture-producing glands. Today, as many as four million Americans are living with this disease. Although the hallmark symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth, Sjögren’s may also cause dysfunction of other organs such as the kidneys, gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, lungs, liver, pancreas, and the central nervous system. Patients may also experience extreme fatigue and joint pain and have a higher risk of developing lymphoma. With upwards of 4,000,000 Americans suffering from Sjögren’s syndrome, it is one of the most prevalent autoimmune disorders. Nine out of 10 patients are women. About half of the time Sjögren’s syndrome occurs alone, and the other half it occurs in the presence of another autoimmune connective tissue disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or scleroderma. When Sjögren’s occurs alone, it is referred to as “Primary Sjögren’s.” When it occurs with another connective tissue disease, it is referred to as “Secondary Sjögren’s.”  All instances of Sjögren’s syndrome are systemic, affecting the entire body. Symptoms may remain steady, worsen, or, uncommonly, go into remission. While some people experience mild discomfort, others suffer debilitating symptoms that greatly impair their functioning. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important — they may prevent serious complications and greatly improve a patient’s quality of life. Since symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome mimic other conditions and diseases, Sjögren’s can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed. On average, it takes nearly seven years to receive a diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome. Patients need to remember to be pro-active in talking with their physicians and dentists about their symptoms and potential treatment options. Since the disease was first identified in 1933 by Dr. Henrik Sjögren, it has been proven to affect virtually every racial and ethnic group. General awareness about Sjögren’s syndrome is still lacking and increased professional awareness is needed to help expedite new diagnoses and treatment options. Newly diagnosed patients may find the video Sjögren’s Syndrome: A Place To Begin to be a helpful resource when starting your education on this debilitating disease: When a person is diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, they often don't know where to begin. This program will introduce you to three Sjögren’s patients who will share their journey with you. In addition, you will hear from Sjögren’s experts about the causes, treatments and manifestations of Sjögren’s. From there, we hope you will have a place to begin as you develop a partnership and treatment plan with your physician.

May 19 Lupus Awarness Mounth

May 19: 


Since many symptoms of lupus mimic those of other illnesses, lupus often can take three to five years to diagnose. Symptoms of lupus can come and go over time, which makes a definite diagnosis more difficult.

2011 Akron Sip for Sjogren's

2011 Akron Sip for Sjogren's

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 Mustard Seed Market and CaféWest Market Plaza 3885 W. Market St. Akron, Ohio 44333 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Hors d'oeuvres Reception, Fine Water Tasting and Silent Auction Come join us as we sample some of the most unique and finest bottled waters from around the world while helping to raise awareness of Sjögren’s. One of the hallmark symptoms of Sjögren’s is dry mouth, so what better way to raise funds for Sjögren’s research and education than to participate in a fine water tasting event! All of the proceeds from this event will go directly to support the work of the Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation.  For more information on joining our planning committee, sponsoring this event, or to learn how to attend please call 1-800-475-6473 ext. 221

Day 18 Lupus Awareness month

May 18:

Lupus is typically treated by a doctor called a rheumatologist. Depending on how lupus affects their body, some people with lupus may need additional care from specialists, like a dermatologist for skin problems, a nephrologist for kidney disease, or a cardiologist for heart complications

Eucation is the key...

XOXO

Nicole your beautiful butterfly

Written by Melissa Bishop Wise

Melissa said I could use this note because this is how I feel also and maybe you do too..


Several people have asked me what THEY can do, to help, since I suffer with Lupus, Fibromyalgia and MANY other ailments. I could really never think of anything to say because I don't want to "impose" on anyone. I have recently decided that there really are things you can do, and it doesn't have to cost you a thing!!!

I hade to make a list of things that would really help ME, and maybe someone you know!!!
Write a note or personal letter
Send a card with a short message inside
Offer to cook, or take them to dinner
Offer to help clean up the house for them...nothing major!
Just a phone call Text message
Send a "care package"...doesn't need to cost a lot
Offer to just visit...It always helps to have someone that will LISTEN

These are just a few things, off the top of my head. Feel free to think of your own ways to let your friend, or loved one, know you care!!! Some days we just need to know that we haven't been forgotten!!!

My saying is: Nicole Lupus... My add on!!
Take my kids to the park for a hour or two or keep them over night if you can
Can you walk my dog
Pick me up a few things from the store, Healthy foods
And mainly don't judge my outside apperance... because I/WE don't look sick, doesn't mean WE aren't sick..We have Invisable Dieases..


Thanks for your time and comments and also thanks you so much Melissa!!

XoXo
Nicole =)

Day 17 Lupus Awarness Month

May 17:

About five percent of the children born to individuals with lupus will develop the illness. At present, there is no genetic screening test that can determine who might go on to develop lupus later in life.

Day 16 Lupus Awareness Month

May 16:

African Americans, Hispanics/Latinas, Asians and Pacific Islanders, and Native Americans are two or three times more likely to develop lupus than Caucasians; however, lupus affects people of all races and ethnicities.

Day 15 Lupus Awareness Month

May 15:

Neonatal lupus is a rare condition that affects infants of women who have lupus and is caused by antibodies from the mother that affects the infant in the womb. With proper testing, physicians can now identify most at-risk mothers, and the infant can be treated at or before birth.

Day 14 Lupus Awareness Month

May 14:

Drug-induced lupus is a lupus-like disease caused by taking specific prescription drugs. The symptoms usually disappear within six months after these medications are stopped.

Perfect Detox Smoothie

After years of messing with mixes, oils, seeds, feeling terrible instead of great, I have finally developed a smoothie recipe that tastes great, gets rid of some toxins, helps you lose weight and is super fast to make.

Perfect Detox Smoothie Mix
I will provide you the ingredients soon but before I do that, it is important that you understand a few things:

Did you know that Spring is the best time to detox?
Did you know that if you detox incorrectly, you make yourself feeling worse?
Did you know that most detox and cleansing programs are absolute garbage and dangerous?
Did you know that most doctors absolutely fail to understand how to detox their patients?
Did you know that feeling bad while detoxing is a sign you are not doing it right?
Did you know that you should feel awesome while detoxing!?
As a naturopathic physician specializing in Environmental medicine and Disease Prevention, detoxification is a passion of mine.

There is no way I can provide all the things you need to know here in order to detoxify properly and safely without a physician; but what I can do is get you started safely.

The key to detoxing safely is to start by limiting your exposures.

For only Two Weeks, I'd like you to do these things - just two weeks! That is only 14 days! If you find you 'cheated' part way through this detox, then simply restart the clock.
Believe me, I had to restart four times on my first detox. Every time I restarted, however, it was easier and easier to complete the 14 days.

Stop eating processed foods. Yes..that means cook and...make the Perfect Detox Smoothie!
Stop using fragrances
Only use natural soaps and cleaners
Eat organic or grow your own food
Buy organic in bulk food sections to save yourself a ton of money
Drink filtered water and herbal teas only. No coffee if you can and no sodas.
Don't read or watch the News as most news is negative and causes inflammation in your body
Stop the fast food
Cease restaurant dining
Avoid sugar
Avoid wheat
Avoid dairy
Avoid nuts
Eat steamed vegetables, soups, broths, stews
Quinoa is a great grain to eat.
Eat grass fed or wild beef, chicken, eggs, lamb, fish
Eat fresh fruits
Deep breathing when you remember
Go for some walks
Sleep 8 hours a night
It is vital that you have at least one bowel movement a day in order to clear out the toxins.

Drink this each morning upon waking up:

In a half a cup of water, add 2 teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar
Squeeze the juice from one lemon wedge
Sip slowly.
Why? It stimulates a bowel movement and it stimulates your digestion getting you ready to absorb all the nutrients from your Perfect Detox Smoothie!

Go check your email, read a book, brush your teeth. In a few moments, you likely will experience the urge to have a bowel movement. Listen to it and do it.

Now you are ready to begin mixing your Perfect Detox Smoothie.

To start your day off easily, packed with nutrition your body needs to begin detoxing, make the Perfect Detox Smoothie!

Into a blender, add 3 cups of filtered water
1 scoop of a Cleaning Plus Powder
1 cup of frozen wild blueberries
1/2 cup of frozen wild or organic raspberries
1 tablespoon of Body Balance Oil
1 tablespoon of Chia Seeds
1 scoop of L Glutamine
Mix well

Why is this the Perfect Detox Smoothie Mix?

It supports both parts of your liver: Phase 1 and Phase 2 (BioCleanse Plus Powder)
It heals your small intestine lining preventing toxins from penetrating through (L Glutamine)
It binds toxins released into your digestive system (Chia Seeds)
It protects your brain and cells from toxins (Body Balance Oil)
It uses pure water (water filter)
It is high in antioxidants and fiber (berries and chia seeds)
It is not too strong (only 1 scoop of BioCleanse Plus Powder)
This will last you until lunch typically or nearly so. If you find you are hungry between this and lunch, have a snack such as salad with Tahini dressing (fantastic taste).
Sprinkle more Chia Seeds on your salad and BodyBalance Oil (it tastes like salad dressing!) for increased protection from mobilized toxins.

Make sure you drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day. This is key to flush out the toxins your body is mobilizing from your fat, liver and tissues.

This does not mean buy bottled water in plastic. It does not mean drink tap water. It means drink filtered water out of a glass container or use a stainless steel water bottle.

For lunch, have some form of protein, vegetable and filtered water. This will have you feeling great.

If you can hack it, make another Perfect Detox Smoothie around 2 PM.

After 7 days of doing this, continue to make the smoothie, the only change you make is adding 2 scoops of Cleanse Plus Powder to your smoothie in the morning and at 2 PM.

If you feel a headache, tired or weird:

Drink more filtered water
Skip drinking the Perfect Detox Smoothie once.
Deep breathing
Eat some Chia Seeds
Drink 1 tablespoon of Body Balance Oil with some food

At the end of two weeks, you will feel awesome. The key is to try and maintain some of the steps (1 through 20) on a daily basis!

Also make the Perfect Detox Smoothie at least once a week as maintenance. Why? Because, we are constantly bombarded by chemicals in our food, water, air, office, home and elsewhere thus it is important that we continue to detox daily in some form or another.

Want to enhance your Detox?

Sauna daily for 1 hour at about 110 degrees F. Make sure you replenish with electroytes
Take 2 capsules of BioCleanse Capsules with your AM smoothie and afternoon smoothie.
At the end of the first week, eat only fresh vegetables and fruits.
Have three Perfect Detox Smoothies a day to provide adequate protein intake.
Take 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder daily after dinner. These beneficial bacteria bind toxins.
You may experience symptoms that you don't like but they are highly favorable:

You now have increased under arm odor (get into a sauna and that will lessen)
Your skin is breaking out (get into a sauna to detox faster)
Your breath is foul. (use a tongue scraper)
You are more thirsty and in need of water more often. (drink!)
What you need to do now:

Obtain the suggested products above - for the standard Detox Smoothie Mix or the Enhanced Version.
If you don't have it yet, add the HealthE Membership to your cart so save 10% on this order.
Print out the 20 Steps and post them on your bathroom mirror, on your fridge
Prepare meal plan for lunch and dinner
Go shopping for whole foods
Get psyched up!
Tell your partner or roommates about it so they either get on board or don't eat their processed greasy food in front of you.

The ingredients will likely sell out pretty quickly so get your ingredients now. Not to worry as we will order more but if you are gung-ho on wanting to feel great, then buy them now to avoid backorders.


Sounds like a great plan.. We all need to clean our body out of all the toxins with take in on a daily basis..

Great health!

Love Nicole

Cranberry Extract

Ummmm the thought of cranberries makes people face crunch up.. Not me I love me some 100% cranberry juice.. After reading this I think I'll be adding cranberry extract to my diet and remove the juice because of sugar!!


Cranberry extract provides urinary tract support without the unwanted sugar found in cranberry juice or juice cocktails, which can encourage the growth of unfriendly bacteria. It enhances the acidity of urine and maintains a healthy urinary tract ecology.

One study suggested the potential for cranberry juice to interact with lectin receptors and maintain a healthy bladder wall. At Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, MA, a randomized double blind, placebo-controlled trial involving over 150 female volunteers reported positive support for a healthy urinary tract after administration of a cranberry beverage.

d-Mannose, a simple sugar found in cranberries and other fruit, is included in this formula to provide concentrated support. One study examining the effect of d-mannose on epithelial cells suggested that it may play a role in supporting healthy genitourinary function by maintaining a healthy mucosal surface.

I think I need to go to the health food store and get some cranberry powder or pills

Day 13 Lupus Awareness Month

May 13:

Cutaneous lupus is a form of lupus that is limited to the skin and can cause rashes or sores.

The symptoms of cutaneous lupus may include a variety of different looking skin rashes, photosensitivity (where exposure to ultra-violet light triggers a rash), and sometimes ulcers on the inside of the nose or mouth. 

Day 12 Lupus Awaness Month.

May 12:

Some of the factors that may trigger lupus in people who have the genes that make them prone to develop the disease include infections, ultraviolet light, extreme stress, certain prescription drugs, and hormones.

I heard some very distrubing news today.

Some one I know died today from a routine knee surgery. Her name was Mia Amber Davis... Yes I said it... My Plus Size Diva Sisterpassed away on Tuesday May 11, 2011... She was such a beautiful women. She always help everyone in need... I first meet Mia at Plus Academy Workshop... Girlfriend came in wearing her spandex, big t-shirt and some 4"heels... Mia was a diva with a heart pure as gold and smooth as silk... Mia will be greatly missed in the Plus Size World.. She always told us to stay focused and follow our dreams.... Mia taught us how to walk the cat walk, walk the walk, how to stand up straight and strike a pose. She also tought us how to dress like ladies and to apply makup and to carry ourselves like beautiful young ladies.

Mia you will be greatly missed and I appreciate the time we had together and timewe spent at go see..

Just want to say RIP Diva Davis

XoXo
Nicole

Can't nothing hold me DOWN!! Fight to the END

I did not call you, you were not invited and yet you dared to invade my body like a thief in the night. You meddled in my goals and changed them all, others lost trust in me believing I was pretending I could not work. You changed my look a thousand times; my body is no longer the same. I have to hide from the Sun when I used to look for it’s warmth to caress my face. I see the sea and I have to change the look because I have to hold the desire to run and jump in it. You took away the privilege to enjoy diving in the water by attacking my lungs.. They say you can kill me, that you can do me worse. I say, not without a fight. I will fight for me and those who love me. Just a little more time and I will chart new goals. When you hurt my body will rest. I will not let you take the best of me. When I’m bedridden I’ll remember how good to be able to walk and I will appreciate that I could. I will learn to be more compassionate. I am not alone in this struggle. Many have the same or heavier fight and still stand in place. I shall do the same. Follow me and let’s lead by example.

Stay strong,

XoXo
Nicole =)

Uncle Kenny

I found this poem on http://www.familyfriendpoems.com this poem has touched me to my heart so I had to post it.. Hope you enjoy it and it helped me with my feelings..

To me you're more than an Uncle,
you're truly a great friend.
Someone I could pour my thoughts out to
knowing you'll cherish them to the end.

You've made me laugh,
when I wanted to cry.
You've made me stronger,
when I felt so weak I could die.

Whenever I'm upset I know you're
there with a shoulder to cry on.
Whenever I face a problem and need some help
I know you are one I can rely on.

You've always made me happy,
I hope you can truly see.
You're more than just an Uncle,
you're also a great friend to me.

Love you and stay strong threw this fight and always know that I'm here fighting with you...

Love Charoo

Day 11 Lupus Awareness Month

May 11:

The most common symptoms of lupus are: extreme fatigue or exhaustion, headaches, painful or swollen joints, fever, a butterfly-shaped rash across cheeks and nose, sun- or light-sensitivity, and hair loss.

Lynne Gorden

I have a new friend on Twitter.. Her name is Lynne Gordon.. She told me today that Lupus is not a Life Sentence...

Thanks Lynne for the kind words!

irritable-bowel-syndrome-and-symptoms.com | IBS – Symptoms & Solutions – Where you can sort the wood from the Trees!

irritable-bowel-syndrome-and-symptoms.com | IBS – Symptoms & Solutions – Where you can sort the wood from the Trees!

Things to Avoid by The John Hopkins Lupus Center

If you have lupus or  a condition that predisposes you to lupus, such as undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD), there are certain foods and medications that you should avoid. The substances listed below have shown to induce lupus signs and flares and should be avoided by people with lupus or autoimmune diseases suggesting “pre-lupus.”
(1)    Sunlight

People with lupus should avoid the sun, since sunlight can cause rashes and flares. Some people are more sensitive to sunlight than others, but all people with lupus are advised to be cautious when they are outside. Of course, it would be impractical to completely avoid going outdoors, but try to be prepared. Carry a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 70 and be sure that your sunscreen contains Helioplex, an ingredient that blocks UV-A and UV-B rays, both of which are harmful to people with lupus. Apply sunscreen to all areas of the body, even those covered by your clothes, since most normal clothing items only protect your skin to the level of SPF 5. In addition, carry a hat with you when you know you will be outside. Certain sportswear manufacturers now make hats with SPF built into the material, which may be helpful for people with greater photosensitivity.

(2)    Bactrim and Septra (sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim)

Bactrim and Septra are antibiotics that contain sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. They are grouped as “sulfa” antibiotics because they contain a substance called sulfonamide. Bactrim and Septra are often prescribed for bacterial infections, especially urinary tract infections. They are also sometimes given prophylactically (i.e., to prevent infection), especially in people taking immunosuppressive medications. However, it is very important that you avoid Bactrim and Septra, because these antibiotics are known to cause an increase in sun sensitivity and lower blood counts in people with lupus, resulting in lupus flares. Several medications can be used instead of Bactim or Septra for the prevention and treatment of infection; perhaps the most frequently used substitute is Dapsone (diaminodiphenyl sulfone) to prevent Pneumocystis pneumonia.

(3)    Garlic

Scientists believe that three substancs in garlic—allicin, ajoene, and thiosulfinates—rev-up your immune system by enhancing the activity of white blood cells, particularly macrophages and lymphocytes. Scientists also believe that the sulfur components of garlic help to prevent and suppress cancer in the body. For this reason, garlic is often used as a supplement to combat colds and infections. Unfortunately, the enhancement of immune response is counterproductive in people with autoimmune disease such as lupus, because their immune system is already overactive. As a result, people with lupus and lupus-like signs should avoid cooking with garlic and adding it to food. Of course, a tiny amount of the herb will not harm you, but try to consciously avoid purchasing and preparing foods with garlic.

(4)    Alfalfa Sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts contain an amino acid called L-canavanine that can increase inflammation in people with lupus by stimulating the immune system. As a result, people with lupus and similar autoimmune conditions should avoid alfalfa sprouts completely.

(5)    Melatonin and Rozerem (ramelteon)

Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in your brain that regulates other hormones in the body that control how your body reacts to daily patterns of light and dark. Melatonin release is suppressed during the light hours of the day and stimulated by dark, helping you stick to patterns of nighttime sleep and daytime wakefulness. As a result, melatonin is often used as a sleep aid over other medications. Melatonin and melatonin-containing supplements should be avoided in people with lupus and other autoimmune disorders because they may stimulate the immune system. In addition, people with these conditions should also avoid the prescription sleep aid Rozerem (ramelteon), because it mimics melatonin in the body. It is important that you understand the necessity of avoiding both melatonin and Rozerem, since sleep aids are often used to help people with fibromylagia and other conditions to attain normal sleep patterns. In general, be sure that you speak with your physician before taking any new medications or supplements.

(6)    Echinacea

Echinacea is often used as a dietary supplement to boost the immune system against colds and other illnesses. However, because Echinacea boosts your immune system, it may cause flares in people with autoimmune diseases such as lupus. In fact, Echinacea supplements sold in Europe bear warning labels that advise against use by people with autoimmune diseases. As a result, people with lupus and other autoimmune diseases should avoid these supplements. In general, it is important that you speak with your physician before taking any new medications or supplements.

 

World Lupus Day!!! May 10, 2011

Hey Hey Hey... Today is our day... WORLD LUPUS DAY!! I'm so excited to walk around today at the mall with my Lupus T-Shirt on and my kids will be wearing there Orange shirts to school too..

Let hope that we get the word out and people ask questions so we can educate them o the issues that come with having this disease..


PS Remember to ask them to donate to help find a cure.. www.lupusny.org or www.lupus.org

XoXo

Love,
Nicole =)

Day 10 Lupus Awareness Month

May 10:

Only ten percent of people with lupus will have a close relative who already has lupus or may develop lupus. Some people with lupus also will have a relative who has lupus or another autoimmune disease.

Day 9 Lupus Awareness Month

May 9:

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can damage any organ in the body and can cause life-threatening consequences.

Skin Care... Tired of all the BREAKOUTS!!!

Adora Fiji Custom Bath & Body Products

I just got my first order of Adora Fiji Clear Glycerin Soap, 3 bars!!

Tonight is my first night using the soap.. If you see from my previous blog: My Hair.. My face has totally broke out again. Over the past few years, I've been using many different product on my face. Noxzema, Clean & Clear, Avon, Artistry, Mac, St. Ives Aprocrit Scrub that I love and still use, etc... The list goes on and on!

 Ok so my mother-in-law told me about this product and I decided to give it a try! What else can go wrong? But I'm hoping it goes right.. LOL =) This soap in a natural and as pure, as pure can get.. There is no dyes or added anything.. NOT even a smell...

So what I did when I showed was wash my body with my regular CoCo Butter soap for even skin tones.. We all need smooth even skin tones, just to have one thing less to worry about. Then I took out a disposable face cloth, one side smooth and the other side rough.. it's not that rough to rip or scratch your face, just rough enough to remove the dead skin that we get from sun abuse and let's not forget this horrible winter we just had! (You can find the disposable wash clothes at any drug sore, Target or Walmart) Ok back on topic.. I washed my face twice.. once on the rough side to remove the dead skin, then rinsed and the second time on the soft side to gently clean away the dirt.. then rinse.. Pat dry and proceed to the next step.. My next step is to leave it alone and go to bed because my skin is so sensitive that this natural soap was enough.. And if I have a reaction, I know where it came from..


Later for now and I'll do an update in two weeks to see the changes...

Thanks for reading and supporting my blog..

XoXo,
Nicole =)