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Wellness Ambassador, Coach, Entrepreneur empowering our communities, creating financial stability and helping others DREAM BIGGER . Lupus Conqueror!

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Thanksgiving Blessing

On Monday, November 24, 2008 at Bible Study, in addition to discussion the Bible, prayers, etc., we discussed what the Lord placed on one of the members' heart and that was Me -- my tendency to be a Giver; always putting others first; and, how there should be a balance of not only giving but also thinking and caring for oneself.

On Tuesday, November 25, 2008I was grocery shopping for Thanksgiving Day (we are having approximately 13 guests). I recall that I was very joyful, speaking to everyone, smiling, singing with a song in my heart, and conversing with the senior citizens. I was exhausted because of my physicial challenges (Lupus), pulling heavy items from the shelves taxed my muscles, and the store had just remodeled so none of the patrons had any idea where to locate items of groceries now hidden in conspicious places! It took me hours to locate the cranberry sauce and another 30 minutes to find the Jiffy Muffin Mix. Despite this, everyone was pleasant and most accepted my smiles and gestures of kindness.

I must have been in that grocery store for over 4 hours. As I took my items out of the grocery cart and placed them on the rolling bin, a middle aged woman approached and asked, "are you shopping for Thanksgiving." I replied, "yes, I am." She then inquired, "How would you like for your Thanksgiving to be paid in full?" I replied, "Of course. What is the catch?" She replied with a hughe smile, "I am a Christian, and I am going to bless you today. I will pay for all of your groceries." I did not know how to respond. She continued, "I was walking around looking for someone to bless, and the Lord told me that I should stop by you." She asked, "Do you know the Lord; do you have an intimate relationship with Him?" I replied, "Yes, I do." She proceeded to tell me that she had an abundance on her cash card and the Lord told her to give and that He told her to give to me because I was a giver. Those who heard her speak, even the cashier, thought this lady was crazy; but, I completely understood.

As we talked about the Lord and shared a few scriptures. I was loading my heavy groceries (25 pound turkey; and other heavy items) onto the rolling bin. A gentleman behind me in line proceeded to help me with the grocery items on the bottom of the cart. I was so grateful, because at this point, my whole body was aching, and I was needing my medications. Still, I kept smiling and it reminded me of how much I was so used to disguising my pain -- which, on a scale of 1-10, was now about a 10+.

Sandra was the name of the lady who was blessing me with a paid Thanksgiving dinner. We hugged. I thanked her for her obedience to the Lord, and I thanked the Lord. Sandra asked, "Now, what are you going to do with the money you are saving?" I replied, that I would probably buy gifts. Now, here is the double blessing...... Sandra replied, "The Lord spoke to my heart and told me that you are a giver, always doing for others and not yourself." She further stated that I should have a "balance" in my life of not just giving, but also doing for myself. She further stated that the savings I was blessed with today should be used entirely for myself!

Confirmation people! Is that not confirmation! I told Sandra about the discussion during Bible Study, and we both proceeded to rejoice! My groceries totaled approximately $150.00. Sandra helped me with my heavy groceries, waited beside the cart as I went for my car, and assisted me with loading the groceries in the automobile. Sandra stated that she was returnign to the grocery store and bessing another person because she had a balance after paying for my groceries.

I smiled all the way home. Truly a Blessing. I shared this story with my family. I will also share this story with my friends on Thanksgiving Day.

Cheers & Be Well

PS - I just recalled that a few years ago I, too, had blessed someone with groceries. Is this not the 100 fold return?

Babs

Today is Day 9 of my 9-day Isagenix program. As I stated, I am doing a two 9-day program, so tomorrow I weigh (Day 10); and also start my second 9-day program to health!

http://ucanbefit2.isagenix.com/

Friday, November 21, 2008

Secret Up and Downer

On my journey to health, I notice that I am now very careful about what I put into my body. I can't explain it, but the foods I now enjoy taste differently. I enjoy the aroma, texture, and taste of simple things like organic apples and other fruits. I eat slowly and relish in the fact that my focus is not only losing weight but getting healthy; loving myself, properly fueling my body, and taking care of the Temple. I definitely have a different attitude towards my journey to optimal health and natural, healthy weight loss.. It is amazing that the Isagenix program has changed my life so much. I am elated that I can see around the corner, and it is indeed bright.

I completed the IsaCleanse days -- which consisted of two days -- and now enjoying the all natural IsaShakes (for the next 3-7 days). I have learned that if I mix one scoop of the chocolate with one scoop of vanilla and one small scoop of IsaFruits, I have a delicious shake. Not bad!

The Up and Downer -- I keep getting up and down on the scale because I can't believe that I have finally start to see results. I have lost 8 pounds in less than 5 days! I am on the 9-day program (not counting the 2 pre-cleanse days), and not suppose only weigh on day 3 and 10! I understand that philosphy because in the past my whole day would be based on what the scale indicated that morning; and I would adjust my eating accordingly, i.e., do something drastic or perhaps very damaging (like not eating) to get what I thought would be better results on the scale for the following day. Sounds familiar? Not a good thing!

I have learned with this program that, "you've gotta eat." Not eating slows down the metabolism; and, as a result, fat is stored because the body "thinks" it is starving. To protect itself -- isn't that neat -- the body holds on to what it needs to survive. Our bodies are machines, Temples, and we must be mindful to refuel with healty foods, replenish with vitamins, minerals, etc., and periodically flush out the toxins that enters through various orifices. Treat the body good, and our body's will perform just the way it was intended.

So, today's Secret to Weight Loss Success --

1) Make a Plan to Start -- Set a Date and stick to it! Know that you are taking this journey not only for yourself (do think of yourself); but also your family.

2) Get a Program that will work for you -- I highly recommend an all natural plan -- check out Isagenix at my web site noted below. What I like about Isagenix is that it is a Packaged Plan. I don't have to be concerned with purchasing separate cleansing products, supplements, nutrients, etc. Isagenix -- It's in there. And, unlike the 42 prescribed medications I take, I don't have to be concerned about interactions (for pics, see my blog noted below). Isagenix is synergistic!

3) Include fun exercises, i.e., fun exercise I discovered with my daugther is TV Dance Pad -- we get to have a friendly competition with the dual dance pads,; and, at the same time, we're bonding.) Stay tuned for other fun exercise suggestions.

4) Garner Support from Family, Friends, Relatives --- someone who will encourage, congratulate, inspire -- not criticize, i.e.., "should you be eating that?" I'm sure we've all heard that before.

5) Get a Journal -- Write down your daily meal plan, goals, aspirations, measurements, exercse, and include pictures, etc. Make if fun -- like scrapbooking. Remember healthy weight loss is a journey, a lifestyle -- not a chore or task. Make it fun!

More Success tips to follow -- I must get back to studying for finals. But, just wanted to put in my two cents worth on what is working for me, and hopefully, will work for you.

Babs


Cheers and Be Well!

Babs

http://ucanbefit2.isagenix.com/

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Bettering My Best

Heyyyyy! (As my Goddaughter would say that all the time). Hey Yana!

Well, my best is getting better! I have lost a total of 8 pounds as of today, on day three (not counting the two pre-cleanse days), of the cleanse program!

I want to add that this is more than a weight lost program, my goal is to get healthy and one of the ways to do that is to detox the body -- rid your body of parasites (yuck) and toxins and at the same time replenish with the nutrients your body craves which also prevents metobolism melt down (if you know what I mean). The benefit on the side is that I am also losing weight.

Well, I don't want to preach to the choir -- I am sure we all know about the benefits of cleansing our bodies -- just as we flush our cars and change the oil, batteries, etc. in order to keep them performing in optimal condition; so too we must do the same with our bodies (cleanse that is). Our moms and grandmothers were right giving us all that stuff and telling us "you need a good cleaning out" especially when a child was infected with a cold or virus! Othertimes, we needed a "good cleaning out" just because it was "about that time." (I do miss my mama). So, in the process of cleansing, why not cleanse your vital organs and body within at the cellular levels -- it just makes sense!

My youngest daughter and I are suppose to do a YouTube video together very soon about the health benefits I've experienced on Isagenix. **You know, one of the keys of success when embarking on a journey to health is FAMILY support.*** Please write that in your health journal as #1 -- make sure you document your journey also.

And, oh, do check out my oldest daughter YouTube video -- just do a search for AllNaptural!

It's great that the whole family is going natural (green); eventually I will get them completely green (organic, eating healthy, cleaners -- inside and outside the home).

I hate to go but I must study -- I am getting too far behind and like everyone else, I love "A's."

Going for the grade!

Thanks so much everyone for the congratulations on getting healthy and the weight loss. I appreciate the e-mails and support!

Oh, I most definitely must add that Isagenix has IsaDelights, good-feeling chocolates for snacks that are not only delicious but healthy, and fillied with nutrients, and helps cravings and weight loss! (Sounds, yucky, but I have heard good things about them and I am going to purchase ASAP and let you know how they taste!)

Cheers & Be Well!


Babs
http://ucanbefit2.isagenix.com/

Here's a pic of my youngest teen daughter. Isn't she Lovely!




Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Making It Work!


Well, I got through the pre-cleanse days on Saturday and Sunday. I don't know how, but when I checked my weight on Monday, I lost 3 pounds! (Now, you might say that well, Babs, if you go on a liquid diet -- replacing two meals with a liquid -- then you will lose weight. My response is that I have been on many liquid diets and even the Master Cleanse (some call it the Beyonce diet -- do not understand why because the Master Cleanse was around before my grandmother was born).

The Master Cleanse is a great program but the ingredients did not interact well with my medications nor my body system. I began to retain water, started bloating, and experienced inflammation -- which caused severe pain. Interesting enough, when I tried it two years prior, I was able to lose 20 pounds without the bloating; but there was no maintenance plan, and my medications kicked into play again and the steroids put the weight back on. I guess since then, my medications increased in volume and in dosage; so that may have posed the problem.

With Isagenix, it too is a cleansing/detox program. Great liver cleanse -- we all need that! (I know some of you may remember mom forcing us to take Castor Oil and Cod Liver Oil for a good cleansing.) I am sure all of you believe that you must cleanse your body of toxins. We'll talk more on that later. Well, thus far, I have not experienced any bloating, inflammation, and no interactions with my medications.

Yesterday was my first CLEANSE day. No IsaShakes allowed -- just the cleanse drink. This was the beginning of the detoxification! I was a little hungry but was able to control that with the little snacks allowed (IsaSnacks, water, organic no-salt almonds). Later in the afternoon, I had a headache (which I understand is natural during detox; but, in my case, I am susceptable to Migraines!). I have medication for that, too. But, instead, I popped a few Advils, and I.... (now do not follow this and it is not recommended at all) but.... I did not take any medications except blood glucose meds -- which went a little too low because I was not eating, so even that was not a good idea.
I know my blood glucose will be low because I am not really eating. But it did normalize (if that is a word). And, I could not inject the insulin (I have the one shot is good for the whole day type insulin; but take it every night) because my blood glucose level was "a good low," I would say a little below normal. But, back to the headache, later during the evening, the headache subsided; and I got through my first cleanse day. Oh, and I had lots of energy (I cleaned my white kitchen cabinets and my refrigerator).

Today will mark the 2nd and last day of the Cleanse. Then, I start the IsaShakes (Cleanse, Restore & Rebuild) on days 3 - 7. Then on day 8 & 9, I to two days of cleanse and that ends the 9 day program (actually 11 if you count the 2 pre-cleanse days -- so you actually get enough product for 11 days).

O.K. to reiterate:

The first two days were Pre-cleanse days (IsaShakes, etc).
Then...
Days 1 & 2 are Cleanse Days (IsaCleanse, IsaSnacks, NO IsaShakes)
Day 3-7 are Cleanse, Restore, & Rebuild (IsaShakes, etc.)
Day 8 & 9 - Cleanse Days (IsaCleanse only w/IsaSnacks)

And.... lots of pure clean water.

I am going very aggressive and doing TWO 9-day programs. I will explain how that works later.

Oh, I didn't sleep well last night. The Ionix Supreme really helped me the last two days, but for some reason, sleep would not come so I finally gave up around 4:00 a.m. and came downstairs to do... . whatever. I wished it was sleep... but maybe tomorrow.

It is time for my IsaCleanse. So, I will post later.

I hope to post pics (of me oh my), my measurements and weight (oh my), my Bichons, and other fun things; but, right now I am studying for FINALS. So, don't give up on me yet! Stick around and I promise you, things will get more interesting.

Cheers & Be Well!

Babs

P.S. I ran upstairs and could not resist the scale...tah dah..... I am down another 3 pounds; that is a total of 6 pounds in 4 days! Water weight? Maybe, but I'll take it!



Here are the "dog dogs" Jasmine (the ballerina) and Ginger (Spicy)!
http://ucanbefit2.isagenix.com/

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Much To My Surprise

Hello All! I am so excited. As you may know, yesterday, Saturday, November 15, 2008, was my first day trying Isagenix. The first two days, Saturday and Sunday are pre-cleanse days. It is easy and does not taste as bad as I have read and heard! My sponsor, Ms "L" told me to mix the vanilla with the chocolate, and it tastes okay. Here is my schedule:

7:00 a.m. - IsaShake (1 scoop chocolate & 1 scoop vanilla)
One Accelerator Capsule
1 oz of Ionix Supreme (this stuff is great!)

9:00 a.m. - Snack (small organic apple or IsaSnack)
10:30 a.m. - Snack (if desired)

12:00 noon - Lunch - Sensible Meal (400-600 calories)
One Accelerator Capsule

2:00 p.m. - Snack (as above)
3:30 p.m. - Snack (as above if desired)

5:00 p.m. - IsaShake

6:00 p.m. - Snack (as above)
8:00 p.m. - Snack (as above)
Ionic Supreme before bedtime
Isa Flush

Much to my surprise, I was not hungry AND.... drum roll....... my blood glucose was below 100! That has never ever happened!!! Now, you have to understand that I am on 4 medications (out of the 42 pills/day) to control my blood gulcose including insulin! My highest glucose reading was around 450! (As you know that is near comatose levels). After being placed on Januvia, Metformin, Glyburide, and Levinir (insulin); my blood glucose levels averaged around 150 and sometimes peaked to 200+ (especially if I had orange juice). The night after my first day on Isagenix, my blood glucose was 79! This morning, Sunday, November 16, 2008, my blood glucose reading was 88! And, after my a.m. IsaShake and returning from church, around 1:13 pm, my glucose reading was 77!

In the one year I've been on the glucose medications, my readings have NEVER been under 100! I am too excited. I will call my Endocrinologist on Monday and asked if I should take the medications whenever I have a low reading. Maybe I am jumping the gun a bit, but I am a little leary of taking the medications with a reading of 77! That is getting too low. My dream is to eventually get off the glucose medications and the insulin.

The 2nd -- Much to my surprise -- is that I went to bed early. Because of my nature and the medication I usually do not sleep. Sometimes I go to bed around 4:00 a.m. or 6:00 a.m. and wake up at 8:00 a.m. There are times that I have not slept for two to three days in a row! Of course, my doctors gave me medication to help me sleep; but given the amount of medication that I take, I try to avoid the sleeping meds. (I only take them if I haven't slept for two or three days). Well........... drum roll............ I went to bed early (around 11:00 p.m.) and I actually "slept" and I slept through the night! Now, my sponsor told me that the Ionic Supreme would help me to sleep (it is an all natural product). Ms. "L" said that the Ionic Supreme balances the body and gives it what it needs! But results in one day! I'm am surprised!

Well, I must say that thus far I am happy with my results. Now, the first two days are pre-cleanse days. The next two days are "Cleanse Days," which means I will only have the Cleanse for Life Drink, water (which is always recommended on all days), Accelerator Capsule (2 times a day); and an IsaSnack (I have to check this and let you know). After the two days of Cleanse, I will be back on the IsaShakes!

I know you can tell I am so excited!

To reiterate, the stuff doesn't taste too bad (especially if you mix the vanilla with the chocolate). I will try the vanilla and chocolate separately and report back to you. I also have IsaFruit to mix with the vanilla (suppose to taste like strawberry).

I have taken "before" pictures and all measurements. I'll see if I have the nerve to post them . As of now, I have to make an appointment with a GI (Gastroenterologist) because one of the meds is causing serious bloating?

Anyway, thanks for listening. I'll report how I do on the days for "Cleanse" only.

Cheers & Be Well!

Babs

P.S. I have to say, Isagenix does not diagnose, cure, etc. any diseases. It is a healthly, natural, cleansing program -- great for your cells, body, and healthy natural weight loss.
http://ucanbefit2.isagenix.com/

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Oh Happy Day!!!

I was just a little excited last night because I received my Isagenix delivery, November 11, 2008! I cannot wait to get started.

As a reminder, other than the obvious, here are the reasons I want to get healthy and lose weight. 1) I was diagnosed with Lupus almost 15 years ago and since that time, as I mentioned above, I am taking 42 medications. 2) Type II Diabetes (now insulin dependent); 3) Fibromyalgia 4) Arthritis 5) Sleep Apnea; 6) Alopecia; 7) Chest pain; 8) Heart murmur 9) Spontaneous Pneumaux Thorax; 10) Restless Leg Syndrome; 11) Knee pain, etc. etc. Here are pics of my meds:



Now, I again want to reiterate that Isagenix does not make any medical claims re cures, etc. I do know that a healthy weight loss will definitely be of some benefit to my current situation.

I had two doctors' appointments today (I see about eight specialists). My first appointment was with my favorite doctor, the rheumatologist (the Lupus specialist). He reminded me that losing weight would be ideal; but, he the medications can and most likey caused the weight gain and will most probably hinder weight loss. My next appointment was with the nutritionist (thank goodness her office is not far from the Rheumatologist). We reviewed and modified my diet because of the new symptoms caused by new medications.

Well, enough about the doctors. Here is my Isagenix delivery!!!



I promised I would post prices and tell exactly what I purchased. For the Isagenix Cleansing and Fat Burning System:

  • 9-Day Supply - $130.00 wholesale
  • 30-Day Supply - $ 260.00 wholesale

(I tried to put the retail price in; but the numbers kept going all over the page -- I was trying to be too orderly). I will post later.

Now, what I purchased was the 30-day Supply, IsaFruits (to add a different flavor to the vanila IsaShakes), and two additional canisters of Cleanse for Life. (I plan on doing two 9-day cleanses and will have product left over to start the 30 day program.)

What's in the 30-day supply depends on your choice of flavors. But here is what's in my 30-day supply:

  • 1 Ionic Supreme
  • 2 Cleanse for Life
  • 2 IsaLean Shakes (chocolate)
  • 2 IsaLean Shakes (vanilia)
  • 1 Box Isagenix Snack
  • 1 Natural Accelerator
  • 1 IsaFlush
  • 4 Want More Energy Sticks
  • System Guide
  • Measuring Tape
  • 1 Cleansed for Life DVD
  • 1 Health & Wellness DVD
  • 1 Have It All DVD
  • Other Product Catalog and Informational & Instructional Brochures

I will start my 9-day cleanse on Saturday, November 15, 2008. Hopefully, I will be able to upload some videos.

Gotta Run,

Cheers & Be Well!

Babs

P.S. Forgot to state that there is a 30-day Money Back Guarantee!

http://UCanBeFit2@isagenix.com

Monday, November 10, 2008

Getting Started

This is a memorable occasion for on Thursday November 6, 2008, I ordered Isagenix to start my "new" Weight Loss Journey.

Now, for those naysayers who are suggesting that I just eat less and exercise more, or something of that nature, you must first understand my background. Many years ago, I was diagnosed with Lupus. Lupus is an auto-immune disease where by the body systems attack itself. In other words, in addition to the system attacking the "bad stuff," ie., bacteria, viruses, etc., it is also attacking the "good stuff," i.e., the good bacteria, renewed cells, etc. Thes "attacks" causes the following symptoms: Arthritis, Brain Fog, Spotaneous Pneumaux Thorax (Lung collapsed three times); Fibromyalgia, Migranes, Muscle Spasms, Muscle Weakness, Chest Pains, Inflammation, Alopecia, Sleep Apnea, etc. etc.

I could go on, but I think you get the message. Well, what this have to do with weight loss? I take approximately 42 medications per day! I will not list all of the meds here, but some of the medications prevent weight loss and/or weight gain and/or cause one to gain weight. So, I am seeing many, many specialists -- because they can only treat the symptoms and as of now Lupus is incurable. During the years, I have, unfortuantely, been one of those who gained weight instead of losing weight. I am also seeing a nutritionist (have been for over a year), and also seen a natropathic doctor. The weight will not budge. I might add that I have been on many diets; and I exercise when feasible. But because of challenges it is difficult sometimes to even walk.

I also have done much research (for over a year) and really like the Isagenix plan. My friend has lost "mucho" weight on this program, and in addition she has the added benefit of improved health. I recall when she was walking with a cane because of knee pain; and today, she is cane-free -- if I might say. (Now, as a caveat, I want to state that Isagenix does not make any medical claims that it is a cure for ANY illnesses or diseases). I like the product ingredients; it is natural; and I want to improve my health and lose weight; and if I can help others in the process, so be it!

Well, I placed my order with "L," -- the one who lost all the weight (I'll post how much she has lost and hopefully pics later). Isagenix is indeed expensive. But, one cannot put a price on health; and weight loss will definitely be a betterment to my health. And, if I look at over the years how much I and countless others have expended on doctors, weight loss products, etc. etc., then I will go with the flow and even believe that by replacing two meals a day, I am saving money. (I will also calculate in this blog exactly how much I am saving -- or not -- with a family of three.)

Oh, I should add, that the order I placed (because I wanted to do two nine-day plan which include cleansing and added that to my 30 day plan), my total was approximately $419.00 -- my husband was not too happy; but, he'll be "alright." This is a wholesale price -- that is, you pay more if you purchase retail; so it is just a "no brainer" to select wholesale which means you now become an Associate. Now, you can get this stuff for less, it just depends on what you want to do.

I will post the price for the one nine-day plan/cleanse; the 30-day plan/cleanse; and, exactly what I purchased in my next post.

I am a mom, full-time student, sometimes very physically challenged, so I will post as often as I can; but, definitely, as soon as my Isagenix package arrive! (Remember, I ordered on Thursday, November 6, 2008 -- one day after the election; so I expect change in more than one way).

I have seen many posts and blogs about Isagenix, but I wanted to "blog," in addition to Isagenix, something that would be fun, etertaining, but also very informative, most definitely real and "IMHO."

So, let's get ready for a wild and fun ride to my, and hopefully your's, successful weight loss journey.

I will be twittering, and Youtube-ing, etc.! Keep watch!

Cheers & To Your Health

Babs

http://UCanBeFit2.isagenix.com/