Chocolate Lovers Rejoice!

So it's been 2 weeks or more since I have indulged in chocolate. We've always been told it's a dieter's pitfall, so stay far far away if you want to drop some pounds. In my journey to get healthier I've banned this delicious even decadent treat for the good of the cause. I miss it so that it almost feels like an addiction . . . Wondering when my willpower will fail me and when I will give in to the Chocolate Gods just like that . . . Sound the trumpets . . . I see an article about chocolate and how there is mounting evidence that it is not so bad for us after all, in fact, it actually has some health benefits! Read excerpts from the article written by Rebecca Pratt and you be the judge. . .

But, whether you’re the giver or receiver, just how sinful is chocolate? The Aztecs and their neighbors, the Mayans, believed chocolate transmitted knowledge and power to those who consumed it. While there’s no evidence to support that idea, there is mounting evidence showing some health benefits to eating it in moderation. Studies have found that dark chocolate helps prevent heart disease and cancer, and has also been shown to improve mood by boosting the brain chemical serotonin. Some even consider chocolate an effective, claiming that a chunk of chocolate before meals diminishes your appetite.

Chocolate contains a wide assortment of vitamins and minerals that the body needs, including potassium, sodium, iron, fluorine and vitamins A, B1, C, D, and E. In fact, researchers at Harvard University believe chocolate may help people live longer! A study tracking older men found that those who ate chocolate lived almost a year longer than those who didn't.

Researchers believe this has something to do with the fact that chocolate contains flavonoids (compounds that may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer while slowing the aging process) and stearic acid, a heart-friendly fatty acid that doesn’t promote cholesterol increases.

So, this good news has inspired me . . .

photo © 2008 Lindsey T | more info (via: Wylio)

Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . .

You've been though of as the bad boy for such a long long time

That when we reached for you most often, we felt like it was a crime

We always seem to want you when problems big or teeny

Make us think the only answer is to shake up a martini!

Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . .

What is it that makes us want you sometimes morning, noon and night

And just the anticipation of having you brings us smiles of delight

The moment that luscious square passes slowly over our lips

We know that whatever the issue, we'll be able to come to grips

Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . .

I'm so happy that I can share, the good news that is out

That we can indulge in moderation and never ever again freak out!

One research went so far to say chocolate increases our sense of well being

With vitamins and minerals, heck it's almost a form of healing!

So to all the chocolate lovers out there and you know who you are

No more gazing at this delicacy and wishing from afar

Go ahead indulge, but remember dark is better and moderation key

Cause after all it certainly isn't as healthy as cup of green tea

Pairing it with fruits, like bananas, apples and berries

May even cure your desire for that scoop of Ben and Jerry's

And now you have it, chocolate isn't the bad boy that we've been told

Allow yourself this simple pleasure, just don't let it be uncontrolled!

One of Life's Indulgences

If you want a real treat, an incredible self spoiler go to a spa

It's not just about the massage or facial but the whole experience from the moment you walk through the door

It is one of my most guilty pleasures . . .

photo © 2008 Martin Pettitt | more info (via: Wylio)

Picture this . . . soft candles, dimmed lights, gentle water fountains, and comfy chairs

Taking hold of your body and mind and impelling you to throw away any cares

The seduction occurs slowly as soon as you walk through the door

Awaking your senses . . . then begging for more

The soft robe and slippers surely help to set the mood

But remember, just whispers, so as not to be rude

As you wait for your service there's waters and teas

And the fragrance of florals and eucalyptus trees

You notice your breathing softens and all thoughts become few

As this tranquil paradise captures and takes over you

The hush and sense of peace that engulfs your whole being

Is by far an addiction and oh so so freeing

So grab your best gal pals, don't think or resist

If not today or tomorrow . . . most definitely at the top of your bucket list!

photo © 2009 Dennis Wong | more info (via: Wylio)

Why I Write . . .

photo © 2008 Alexander | more info (via: Wylio)

Why do I write?

I started after my friend inspired me . . . and she continues to inspire me

I write . . .

Because I too want to inspire, encourage and if nothing else make others smile

I write . . .

Because it gets me to think . .

My thoughts, become words--- which can make me feel a bit uneasy sometimes, yet at the same time very soulful

I write . . .

Because it opens my eyes and ears . . .

Awakening my senses to all that inspires me to write more

I write . . .

Because it reminds me to believe . . .

To be grateful for so much and to always focus on the positive-

especially when I feel the most tested

I write . . .

To laugh and be a bit silly . . .

Because laughter is the best medicine and it's free!

I write . . .

Because I love to and it really brings me pleasure

So, I will continue to write and write and . . .

Ahh. . . Summer. . . my favorite season of them all

Not just because I'm out of school but, it can be a time to renew. . . set some goals. . .

Almost like New Year's in June!

This summer I have made a few goals for myself . . .

Get in better shape and hopefully lose a few pounds- okay who am I kidding more than just a few,

Get outside and clean up the yard, plant flowers and enjoy the beauty,

Get inside the closets and well. . . reduce and reorganize

I'm happy to say, so far I'm doing well on all counts so here is how I inspired me!

I've been talking to myself since the beginning of June

I needed some changes, a focus and I knew that I just can't presume

To get stronger, to eat healthier, to clean up and clean out

Doesn't just happen, especially since I've been in such a drought!

So I started my break doing all the right things

Knowing full well that I'll be happy for what it all brings

Each day is packed full with cleaning and moving

And I'm happy to say that things are improving

Although there are days that my muscles are aching

I will not give up let there be no mistaking

This plan of mine will work only in pairs

Good food choices are a must when eating my 3 squares

So for all those who need some encouragement or motivation

The first step is self talk and identification

Set some goals, and know what you want so you can focus

And above all remember it takes more than a magic wand and some hocus pocus!

photo © 2009 New Ruffian Photography | more info (via: Wylio)

The "It"

The other day I was given a hug and was told it was Cancer Survivor Day. She herself was a cancer survivor for over 30 years. I had not heard of this day but it got me thinking. . .

There are all sorts of survivors aren't there? People of all ages who have survived something, why isn't there a day set aside for them?

As I began to put my thoughts down I did not want my words to be sad or sorrowful. . . rather, I want to inspire, encourage, acknowledge that whatever the "it" is, if you fight and move forward you too are a survivor.

I think. . . life sometimes throws us the unthinkable, but how we deal with "it" is the true test of who we are and what we are all about.

I think. . . somehow we must find the strength, the courage, and take the steps to move forward, after all, what is the alternative?

I think. . . it's okay to be angry and question

I think. . . we have to be willing to except the "it". . . even through the anger and the questioning

I think. . . being strong is empowering and this is what helps us to move forward

I think. . . I surely don't have all the answers but. . .

I know. . . I will always be a fighter or should I say. . . a SURVIVOR!

photo © 2007 Luz A. Villa | more info (via: Wylio)