It’s been quite some time since I just popped in here to spill the proverbial beans! Even though it happens all the time–little moments throughout my day where I think, “Hey! I really have to write about that on the blog.” I can’t wait to write all about my trip to New York, but I’m waiting for Tim’s pictures. He forgot his camera at my house with all the juicy shots on. Those of you who were wondering and have been asking how it went, I’m reeally looking forward to telling all about it, but NOT without pictures! This time, stock photography just doesn’t cut the mustard.

I’ve been running again daily for the first time in 3 years. Tim’s been a great influence on me and it feels great to be back on the open road.  Makes for tight buns and firm thighs and since bikini season is juuuust around the corner, this is a very good thing indeed.

I’ve come to the firm believe that those of us engaged passionately in the raw food movement are embracing somewhat of a grand human experiment. Amidst a sea of conflicting sources of information about raw food, I think the greatest judge of “truth” and effectiveness still remains one’s personal observation.

It takes courage to speak up about what one observes. It takes courage to be wrong where you thought you were right, and to tell the world when you stumble.

I’ve been pretty heavily influenced by the high fruit path that I discovered when first encountering the raw food diet as an athlete over 3 years ago. I believe it served me well at the time and may again one day, I’m not sure.

While we’ve helped thousands of women just in the last year succeed in applying a raw food diet, every once in a while we encounter someone who really struggles with the high fruit. And so I’m convinced that there’s no right way to be raw and that physiology, emotional and environmental stress factors all play into our ability to digest and assimilate foods. I’m glad I hold this idea, because I continually permit myself to re-evaluate my diet based on my own observations and changes within.

Last week I had an incredible interview for the Sisterhood program with Jules Dervaes of the Path To Freedom project. What an AMAZING person and SUCH an inspiring lifestyle. It was one of the best calls I’ve ever had! Anyway, he sure got my green motors turning on the ideas of “freedom” and sustainable living. He informed me that they are not entirely self-sufficient, but when I asked him about the  foods they did purchase from other sources, it was ALL cooked food stables such as grain, corn, etc.

And he said they produce an enormous amount of greens and vegetables–such a surplus that they sell them to high end restaurants as part of how they earn an income to purchase things they need.

And it became very clear that if they were choosing to follow a raw food lifestyle they would be ENTIRELY self-sufficient.

There are just so many levels upon which this way of living makes sense and improves life on the planet. So, Mr. Devaes was the spark that lit my green fire within. But that was just the spark…

On Mother’s Day when Dr. Jim Carey and I were talking about Dr. Ann Wigmore, it started to make sense. I mean, all she used to do was forage around in the hills for plants eating wild greens and herbs and stuff. And I couldn’t help myself.

Later in the afternoon on Sunday, I was feeling inspired by my call with Jim and I couldn’t help but feel like a bit of a forager. I was looking at people’s yards wondering what I could eat! I even actually pulled some dandelion leaves for my smoothies and salad that night.

And tonight I got even braver! I went to the park and snuggled the grass and snacked on clover and fresh dandelion and I felt WILD! But it’s going to take me a bit of an adjustment to embrace the idea that fruit is only an occasional treat.

I can’t quite describe what happens to me when I eat something like a cherimoya.

And I’ve already made somewhat of a spectacle of myself about persimmons. 

All this to say that I’m going green. Reducing my fruit, upping my sense of adventure and wild-woman factor! Spring is here and so I will be spend more time nibbling in the grasses than eating bananas. The evolution of this lifestyle interests me enormously.

I used to feel like an extremist for being a vegetarian, until I became a vegan.

I used to feel like an extremist for being a raw foodist, until I became a hygienic raw foodist.

And as my diet continues to refine itself, I become increasingly committed to an organic and sustainable lifestyle that goes way beyond raw food.

Sometimes when I look around at the world around me and take note of the state of the world and the health of the average human citizen, I feel much less like it’s not about extremism so much as survival. If we really are going to create a better world than some of us have to run at twice the speed to make up for those who don’t yet have the strength, support or courage to change.

Mika just proudly brought me a snack.

Dandelion greens from the front yard.

Maybe there is hope, afterall…

In case you missed this morning’s call with Dr. Jim Carey of http://www.chidiet.com, you’ll want to check it out!

Not only was it a fabulous tribute to the life of Dr. Ann Wigmore, but it was a lot of fun! Jim is an amazing man and we just love what he’s doing to bring new life and love to the Raw Food movement.

You can learn more about Jim’s personal process here, and you can read his loooong list of experience and community service and specialization here! He’s an incredible man, but says his greatest claim to fame is simply being a cheerleader for the work of Dr. Ann Wigmore.

That having been said, he’s gifting one lucky raw diva with a copy of the latest version of the Raw Living Food  Home Study Course that he released last Thursday! All we have to do is choose the lucky diva to whom this gift will be given! TOUGH PICKIN’!!

Well, since we can hardly pick names out of a hat, and it IS Mother’s Day, then we thought that we’d ask blog readers to help us out.  We think that the winner of the program should be:

-a mother  (especially one who wouldn’t otherwise get the opportunity to go to a live center and study this information herself).

-a woman who is willing and committed to take this information and inspire the lives of those around her.

-this woman also needs to be committed to following up with us on the progress of the course and letting us know  how the information is inspiring and assisting her as she studies.

We want to see this free copy of the Home Study Course go to a woman who is going to spark up a green revolution in her home town, or serve up green smoothies at the next church social! We don’t want to see this information that could empower the lives of others sitting on a dusty shelf.

If you’re a mom committed to making the world a better place, or if you know someone who is, then tell us all about it! Let us know who you are and how this information will be the catalyst to empower change in your life and the lives around you and  next Sunday at about this same time, we’ll announce the winner!

Happy Mother’s Day…

Love and hugs from The Divas and Dr. Jim Carey!

A detox bath can be a great way to rid your body of unhealthy toxins. This type of bath is also a great way to clean your body from the inside out. When the body goes through a detox, there is a natural progression that occurs whenever the body begins to expel and eliminate toxins. While the hot water draws the toxins to the surface of the skin, the Epsom salts produce sweating which help rid the body of the toxins.

Sea Salts

Sea salts are an effective treatment that soothes the skin, helps relieve joint and muscle pain, aids in the elimination of toxins and helps replenish the body with essential minerals.

Juniper Berry Essential Oil

Juniper Berry Essential Oil (Juniperus communis) also known as Common Juniper is steamed-distilled from the crushed, dried or partly dried ripe berries. The best juniper berries are collected in northern Italy, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia and France. This oil is well known for its diuretic and lymphatic decongestant properties. It is recommended for clearing toxins and reducing the level of uric acid in the body.

Baking Soda
Baking soda is an acid neutralizer and also added to bathwater has a softening effect on the skin.

Epsom Salt
Epsom Salt also known as magnesium sulfate is absorbed through the skin, as in a bath, it and draws toxins from the body, sedates the nervous system, reduces swelling, relaxes muscles and is a natural emollient.

Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon Essential Oil (Citrus limon) is obtained from the peel of lemons by cold expression. Cold-pressing will yield six to seven pounds of oil from one ton of fresh fruit. Following extraction, different batches of cold-pressed California lemon oils are often blended together to produce a more consistent aroma profile, while lemon oils from Italy usually come as individual, small lots from different producers. Italian oils typically have a wider, more inconsistent range of aromatic qualities. Lemon oil can be used as a mild detoxifier and is recommended to clear heat and dampness from the body.

Recipe
1 cup sea salt (fine)
2 drops juniper berry essential oil
1 cups baking soda
1 cup Epsom salt
3 drops lemon essential oil

Combine sea salt, baking soda and Epsom salt together and slowly add to warm running bath water. Add juniper berry essential oil and lemon essential oil to warm bath water and soak in the tub for no more than 15 to 20 minutes.

Enjoy!!

Tracy

As anyone who is in The Raw Divas’ Sisterhood knows, we’ve recently revamped our Sisterhood program to be simpler, more affordable, and even more inspirational! If you haven’t checked it out yet, you can learn all about it here.

Sisterhood Members can also add our tantalizing menu planners to their monthly subscription at a discounted rate - just one of the benefits of being a part of the club! In our May menu planners, we’ve featured an inspiring raw vegan chef and her amazing works of culinary art. If you haven’t guessed it already, May’s planner features Angela Elliott, author of the book, Alive in 5.

Angela’s contributions this month include recipes for Jazzy Pina Colada Smoothie, Velvety Dessert Milk, Green Mamma Smoothie, Banana Mango Pina Colada Smoothie, Herb Infused Soup and Hot! Hot! Hot! Aguacate Soup. Yummmmm…

Thank you, Angela!

If you’d like to get a taste of Angela’s recipes, you can check out our monthly menu subscription here. Also, if you’re an aspiring or accomplished raw chef and would like to submit recipes for our monthly planner and have us tell the world about your tasty treats, then feel free to drop us a line!

I’m off to peruse some more recipes…

More About Angela:

Angela Elliott is the author of Alive in 5 and the owner and operator of Celestial Raw Goddess Enterprises. Aside from being an inspiring raw diva and sassy sister, she’s claims the following titles:

Medical and Master Herbalist
Classical homeopath
Nutritionist
Paramedical Aesthetician
Herbal Skin Therapist
Certified gourmet chef
Chinese Reflexologist
Jin Shin Juitsu Practitioner
Reiki Master
Polarity Practitioner
Teacher of Reflexology, Reiki, Polarity, Herbology and Jin Shin.
Holistic Health Practitioner
Holistic Animal Therapist

(Whoooooa! We thought we were busy!)

We’re sure part of the reason she’s so cool is because she’s an Arizona original who was raised by a world-renowned physicist/chemist and a gourmet French chef/writer whose adventures enabled her to travel around the world falling in love with people and languages.

Inspired by creative parents and a story-telling grandfather Angela is passionate about arts, literature and writing.

Angela has contributed to various publications, including Vegnews Magazine and Vegetarian Baby and Child Magazine, and has taught gourmet classes, holistic classes, lectured, and on occasion toured with Lou Corona, a nationally recognized proponent of living food.

So, we’re offering up a Raw Diva salute to chef and raw diva, Angela Elliott, Best Selling Author of Alive in 5 Gourmet in 5 minutes!

There’s been quite a buzz about Jim Carey’s new homestudy course based on the original works of Ann Wigmore, the mother of today’s Raw Food movement. If haven’t heard about it already, then now is your opportunity to check out what this incredible man has been up to for yourself!

These days the raw food movement’s modernization has made superfoods and cacao the “thing to do.” There are more paths to raw food enlightenment than there are days of the year and one can easily get overwhelmed by all the different messages and gurus putting themselves online these days. The pitfalls are many and the confusion is great.

And so, in honor of Mother’s day, we take a deep breath of fresh air and return to the very grassy roots of the raw food movement itself.

Join us for an inspiring (and Free!) teleseminar in honor of the Mother of Raw Foods herself, Ann Wigmore.

Jim Carey’s newly updated home study course about the Raw Food Movement is literally transforming the face of Raw Foods itself. Bringing us back to the grassy roots that started it all and helping us to find clarity in a sea of gurus and superfoods.

Join us on Sunday morning (Mother’s Day) May 11th, for a touching and inspiring look into the life of Ann Wigmore and Jim Carey himself, a man who has worked hard to bring us back to the basics in search of greater health, clarity and high energy living.

EVENT: A Mother’s Day Tribute To Ann Wigmore
DATE & TIME: Sunday, May 11th at 10:00am Eastern
FORMAT: Simulcast! (Attend via Phone or Webcast — it’s your choice)
TO ATTEND THIS EVENT, CLICK THIS LINK NOW…
http://instantTeleseminar.com/?eventid=2854371

**The Call will be recorded and available for listening immediately after the call has been ended.**

Good morning, Gorgeous!

Sometimes it’s hard to summarize something in just a few words, but when we do have to say it short and sweet about our Body Enlightenment System, then usually we say something like, a “30 Day System to Transform Your Health and Your Life!”

Anyone who has ever studied marketing would criticize us for that, because “transformation” doesn’t “sell”, they say. People don’t place value on the word “transformation”.

Well, we don’t care.

All I know is that last week for a few days, as our Body Enlightenment System came to an end, I was getting emails like this one:

Ladies,

I must say I have had one of the most positive experiences of my life !!

I have had so much happen in the 30 days of BES all positive !!

I have gained a new self confidence , something I have been lacking for several years.

It was so easy to follow with all the grocery list’s & meals planned out !!!

I have lost about 15 pounds I have more energy than I have had in years !!
(Not to mention I have been MIGRAINE FREE , I no longer have HYPOGLYCEMIA , & the FIBROMYALGIA, ARTHRITIS pain have diminished my THYROID is working up to par again.)

No more thyroid medicine. I had been battling the migraine’s & hypoglycemia since I was a child, anyone that ‘poo poo’s’ the MIRACLE of RAW FOOD should really read testimonials !!

I joined Curves, I walk just about everyday for at least 45 minutes to an hour.

Before starting BES I spent many a day on my couch or in bed. I was truly ready to just give up I couldn’t stand the pain anymore!!

I, at 50 years old, feel better than I have felt in so many years it brings me to tears of joy.
I Love Life again!!

I have purchased several rawfood recipe books & will be staying on this for the rest of my life !!
Ladies may the higher powers bless you in all you do !!!
I remain eternally grateful !!!!!

-Cheryl

Stories like Cheryl’s are not the ones they put on CNN, because transformation doesn’t sell.

Last night some incredible women from around the world gathered to share their stories of transformation after 30 Days on the BES. And if I was CEO of CNN I would find some great music and pictures of triumphant smiling women, and I would broadcast the following messages commercial free!

(Maybe transformation doesn’t sell, but we hoped these stories might bring you hope where hope has been lost and inspire you to believe that no matter where you are, no matter how much it hurts, how dark it seems or how much life seems to slap you around on her roller coaster, something can be done about it.)

In honor of women everywhere who have the courage to embrace change and inspire the possibility of something better, we present you these powerful stories of transformation:

Hello Special Ladies - aka “Divas”:
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your uplifting
messages which come daily.

Since signing up there have been soooo many obstacles jump in my path and you have managed to keep me sane. Yes, s-a-n-e.

I thank you and will always be forever indebted to you for your care,
attention and concern for all of us while you also, had your daily trials
and tribulations to meet head on. Thank you again for being “my light”.
I am truly grateful that I was able to be a part of this journey, even if,
I could not, for obvious reasons be an active participant.

On that note, I hope that I can be a part of the next session and be an
active participant this time. Ladies, thank you, my hat is off to you.

-From Caroline C

My various ailments bless them are healing well - no more pains in feet, no
more belching, no more itchy itchy itchy skin patches (they’re still there
slightly but not causing me aggravation like before!), no more gurgling in
tummy, breathing has improved, I’m a load more positive in my outlook and
just sooo into sorting myself out in a big way now for the next 12 months
with Tera. Can’t wait!!! Its going to be one amazing journey I can’t wait
to start! And to top it all I’ve been able to eat fruit in the past week
without getting really ill and flaring up!!

The BES has truly done wonders for me and everything that’s happening in my
life…..

From Marica Y

This challenge has helped to keep me
positive, focused, and accountable for my ACTIONS and helped me to set & conquer
different goals that I set for myself over the challenge. Some of these goals I have been
trying to complete for some time now.

I was able to accomplish so much in the 30 day challenge.

Last Thursday I went to 2 of my doctors 1 for abnormal pap– (growth cells in the cervix and
now he could not find anything. The same day I went to a different placed for the
lump in my breast. They were to do a procedure to collapse & inject dye for a
surgical biopsy procedure the next day on my breast. Glory be to GOD they
were amazed that the tumor did collapse the lump and a thick fluid came out and now
there was no reason to have the surgical procedure the next day.

I went straight to my breast specialist and he was surprised and happy that he could cancel the
surgery. He also said I was BLESSED!

What he & the other doctor did not know was that I had been Raw for 30 days and prior to
that did a 7-day Juice detox to rid my body of toxins and heal thy self.
I also lost some weight on my challenge too.

Thank you all.
-From Cathy S

Dear Raw Diva Team,

I joined the BES programme last year and have participated in several BES programs. They just keep getting better and better!

I must say that this current one has been absolutely the most helpful to me. I can’t say enough about how this program has truly changed my life!

I am a forever fan of the Raw Diva Team - you Divas just keep coming up with more and more value each time the BES program is held. No two programs are exactly the same - it is living, growing, ever-changing and constantly improving!

Thank you for what you offer our world!

From Susan Y

My testimonial for the 30 day BES is a simple one. I have been very
encouraged to pay close attention to my emotions and how they affect what I
want to eat. I am excited that there are answers to why I feel the way I do
and that I am gaining control over the food cravings. My consultation call
I had with Tera was very exciting and gave me so much hope that I am on the
road to the kind of peace she talked about.

I already know the power of feeding my body correctly with raw foods. I was
diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer over four years ago and knew I did not
want to do the traditional medical treatment. I started juicing and eating
raw foods and within 3 months was completely clear of any cancer. I have
stayed with eating 85% raw, but have always wondered how it would feel to be
100% raw. Well now I know! I can tell a definite difference in my mood and
in my energy level.

Also, I am so impressed with the joy I feel coming from these emails. Thank
you for your example of not being so hard on ourselves. It seems that is
the thing that trips me up…..I am so hard on myself.
I am learning though!

Thank you……..I’m looking forward to the 3 day green smoothie and also to
the next 30 day challenge.

-From Sharon W

I loved the 30-day BES!

The first week I had a bit of detoxing but it wasn’t so bad. I loved the menus especially the simplicity of it all! Many times I found myself foregoing certain recipes for a simple green and fruit smoothie. It doesn’t get any simpler than 2 fruits and 1 green in a Vita-Mix.

The biggest change for me though was not the raw food (I have been 80-90% raw for two years now) but the exercise! I have battled weight ALL my life. I was a chubby little girl and a yo-yo dieter all my life.

The first time I have ever felt some control over my eating was two years ago when I began to go raw. For the first time my appetite actually changed! I didn’t crave any meat, dairy or chocolate. Instead, many of my past cravings now make me feel ill. I couldn’t believe the change raw brought into my life. I released about 45 pounds two years ago but since then I have struggled to lose the next 10 pounds. What was missing? Exercise!

The idea that 20 minutes of something each day is all that’s needed to get the body going really appealed to me! I knew I could find 20 minutes. In fact, I found a whole hour! For the first time in my life exercise wasn’t drudgery but it was enlightening. By week 2, I was releasing 1/2 pound each day!!! I was on my way!!!

One other thing I learned these past days is to listen to my body. I have always been so busy blocking things with food that I hadn’t ever really heard what it was trying to tell me. Things like “don”t feed me right before bedtime and expect to sleep well” or “yes, you really are satisfied with that glass of smoothie - stop! you really aren’t hungry!” I don’t run to the medicine cabinet for an aspirin either anymore. Instead I try to figure out why my head hurts and what I could do naturally for it. Wow ! what a difference to know that my body knows what it needs better than I do most of the time - but I’m learning!

It has been a great 30 days! I am really looking forward to the next BES - remember I am a mother to 4 boys so could use lots of information regarding family meals. I have released 15 pounds this past month and am still going strong. I don’t expect to look at this in 30 day increments but rather a lifetime experience. Boy is it a blast!

THANKS FOR THE JOURNEY SO FAR -
-From Leona D

I no longer have fat pants because they are too big for me! I’ve lost a few inches off my waist, and have started exercising again! Not to mention its transformed my outlook on life. I know my journey isnt done and I still have areas I want to see continue to improve, but thank you divas for giving me the jumpstart and support I needed.
-From Lyndi O

I am just so excited about the whole program!

I feel refreshed and back on track to health and energy
to live life to the fullest! I can’t wait to have my 12 yr old niece
visit again, we’ll have a ton of fun exploring all the new smoothies
together. And my bedroom hasn’t looked this great in a looooong time! It
is so much easier to clean and organize a tiny tad at a time than taking
the whole day to do one room. I love my little crystal vase with the two
fresh daffodils from my yard on the little stand in the corner. And I
haven’t forgotten that I can tap away when I need to. Thank you so much!
your team “rawks”!!

From Mary Ellen

The BES has changed the way I perceive food and nutrition.

Before the BES, hardly ever ate any fresh greens. Maybe once in a month or less.
Cooked greens were more the norm, and fruits were rare.

Thanks to the BES, I am now about 50% raw… a decision I made in the second week of the BES because going 100% was just too hard!

I’m so glad for the recipes and support from my buddy. Even though the BES is over, I know that I will continue eating much healthier than I did before, and am planning to transition slowly to become more and more raw.

I’ve also learned to balance the various aspects of my life.
Clutter busting was a humongous deal, and getting loads of clutter out and reorganizing stuff has been so gratifying.

I’m so glad I did this program!

-Simply Shimona

This was a great program. The materials were so helpful and the daily e-mails motivational. The addition of the Clutter Diva was FANTASTIC! I plan to continue 2 meals a day raw and being more aware of so many aspects of my life that I have the power to change. Thanks for providing a great framework for transformation, and I look forward to participating again since I’m a “lifer”.
-Sharon M. Lee

Well, was I surprised!

To begin with, I signed on feeling quite skeptical. I mean, there are lots of internet scams out there. We are all warned about them every day. None the less, I signed up and plunked down my money as a birthday present to myself.

The materials I received were professional, high quality, thoughtful, well designed, informative documents. This program was more than I could have imagined. I expected to get some basic recipes for eating raw, and an email or two from the “company.”

What I got instead was a life changing system for better health and better living and tools beyond my imagining to help me from this day forward. I got an invitation to come back any time I needed more support or a “tune up.” I got an opportunity to explore old habits, unhealthy choices (with tools for letting go of judgments).

I made friends, who I believe will be part of my life in one way or another for a long time.

What I lost was weight (approximately 10 lbs), clutter, garbage, fear, and ennui.

In short: I got back a part of the true me I had lost.

I can not say thanks, enough.

-From Boots

Yours for body enlightenment and a better world,

Tera and Amy

Well hello, Sunshine!

I’ve made a commitment recently to take another small step forward toward even greener living every week.

Just something, even if it’s small.

I’m not going to turn my back on the little stuff or try to justify it by saying all the good things I do.

I walk everywhere I need to go.

I really try not to buy food that comes in wrapping.

I shop at second hand stores.

I dry my clothes on a rack all year.

And I even buy 100% recycled toilet paper, but until this month, I was buying it at a grocery store where I get my fruits and veg.

This month I stopped by our local biodegradable soap supplier and spent a bit more time sifting around through the shelves looking for the next big step to take. I always bring back my jugs for refilling.

Well, this time I was excited because I found biodegradable garbage bags and some nifty rolls of toilet paper! Oooh. Let me get the package and read it to you:

I was kinda turned off about it being individually wrapped in another layer of paper… BUT, this is no ordinary paper.

It’s a 100% recycled.

It’s biodegradable. (Isn’t all paper biodegradable?)

It’s safe for septic systems and I swear to you it’s a never-ending roll. (They should consider putting that on their marketing materials.)

I think that after having inspected the website, I must have purchased the industrial/professional model of tp, because it’s not the puffy pillow sort at all. This paper is just there to do the job, so it’s sturdy and 2-ply, but there are no fancy pillow prints to make it appear thicker than it is.

Did I just write that? I did. I think this is a sign that I need to get outside for a run. In the meantime, there’s still validity to the message:

1. Bring your bottles to a local eco-bulk soap distributor for refills.

2. Buy less shipped food and grow wheat grass and sprouts!

3. Kiss a tree.

Here are a couple appropriate eco-recipes from our in-house esthetician, Tracy:

Toilet Bowl Cleaner Recipe

1/4 cup baking soda

3 drops pine essential oil

Sprinkle baking soda in toilet bowl and add 3 drops pine essential oil and scrub bowl. Using baking soda is safer on the environment as well as an alternative to scouring powders.

Toilet Bowl Disinfectant and Deodorizer Recipe

16 oz. distilled water

10 drops lemon essential oil

Spray bottle

Pour distilled water into spray bottle and add 10 drops lemon essential oil and shake vigorously. Spray mixture on surface areas to disinfect and deodorize.

Special green hugs and kisses to women and men around the world doing our 3 Day Green Smoothie Challenge, right now!

Love you like crazy,

Tera

In honor of Earth Day, I wanted to talk about something that is near and dear to my heart. When my husband and I along with our son Connor moved from New Jersey to Orlando Florida last May, I had no idea there was such a problem with having a healthy lawn and garden. I assumed that Connor would be able to play and run and really enjoy feeling the earth under his feet. To my surprise the company that the builder had contracted to care for our lawn while our house was being built, used herbicides and pesticides to treat the lawn, shrubs and trees. I was so disappointed to find out that this type of service was pretty common in Florida and the more I talked to people, the more I was shocked that there were people who just didn’t get it. I made it my mission to talk to as many people as I could about the health issues relating to herbicides (weed killers) and pesticides used to treat lawn care.

Contrary to what lawn “care” companies would like people to believe, herbicides and other pesticides are not “magic bullets”. They are broad spectrum biocides, and by their very nature can harm organisms other than targeted species. This includes homeowners and their families, neighbors, pets, and all other forms of life. The pesticide industry downplays this by claiming their chemicals are heavily diluted, but doesn’t mention the toxins are still extremely dangerous in small amounts. They also are unwilling to mention all of what is in their mixtures. Many components are classified as “inert”, which allows them to be kept hidden from the public and not listed on product labels. These are more than just fillers or solvents “Inert” does not mean “inactive” - some, such as benzene and xylene, are more toxic than chemicals listed.

Pesticides are poisons by definition, designed to affect vital biological processes that in most cases are not unique to the intended target pests. They harm beneficial insects like ladybugs and praying mantises that are part for your lawn’s natural defenses. As well as plants, and microorganisms like the tiny creatures that break down organic matter and make it available to nourish your lawn.

Children have a special vulnerability to pesticides, they breathe the air closer to the ground level where pesticides are applied and are more likely to put their hands in their mouths or rub their eyes without washing their hands. Plus, their bodies and their defenses against toxins are still developing. If you have ever had your lawn treated and the company had warning signs saying “Don’t allow children or pets to walk on the lawn for 1 to 3 hours”, this is a sign that the products they are using are harmful to our children, pets and the environment.

Not only are children in danger when pesticides are sprayed on our lawn, but our pets are also in danger of pesticide contamination. Outdoor pets are highly exposed to lawn chemicals due to their behavior (licking contaminated paws and coat, breathing close to the ground, eating contaminated grass, soil and toys) and are highly vulnerable due to their small size.
Here are a few tips for a pesticide free lawn that will bring your family endless amounts of joy:

• Water Correctly - Water deeply and infrequently, ideally you want one inch of water delivered once a week. Daily and brief watering discourages deep root growth, one of the essentials of healthy turf grass. Pest fungus can thrive in the damp grass, so give your lawn a chance to dry before nightfall. Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation and safeguard against fungus problems.
• Mow Correctly - Tell your lawn care provider that you want to keep your lawn at least three inches high if you do your own mowing, this makes your task easier. Correct mowing will increase the strength of the root system and naturally shade out some weeds. Don’t mow your lawn every week out of habit. Mow with sharp blades. Sharp mower blades make a clean cut, while dull ones will rip the grass, weakening your lawn’s defenses.
• Fertilize Organically - Switch to an organic fertilizer. Most commercial fertilizer shave too much nitrogen for your lawn. Since the grass can’t use it fast enough, most gets washed away – polluting nearby water bodies. Organic fertilizer will allow the grass to take what it needs when it needs it. If you can’t find it at your local nursery, please ask the manager to stock it. The products are there if the customers show a demand, so you need to make your voice heard. In the meantime, organic fertilizers are available via mail order. If you live near a feed store, you’re in luck since they often carry a wide selection of useful products such as alfalfa meal and corn gluten.
• Reseed and Top Dress Annually - Fifty years ago, most lawn mix had clover in it but broadleaf weed herbicides were introduced and destroyed the clover in lawns. Clover is a great addition to any lawn. Reintroduce it because it is drought tolerant, immune to diseases, and greens up all summer. Bunnies love it, and hopefully will eat the clover instead of your other perennials. Reseed at least once a year with a mix of grass seed and compost. Water slightly each day for two weeks so the seed can get established. This will naturally replenish your lawn and keep your soil healthy.
• Banish Weeds Naturally - Consider using corn gluten an organic corn by-product that is a natural pre-emergent weed control to reduce weeds. Apply it early in the season before the soil reaches 55 degrees (usually when the forsythia bloom), and it will, over the course of a few growing seasons, make a big difference invest in a sturdy weeding tool and go after weeds for short periods on a regular basis, rather than all at once. Don’t be so focused on a perfect green lawn - instead realize that a healthy lawn can naturally resist disease and drought. Once you learn the basics of organic lawn care, it is really simple and will save you both time and money.

I am happy to say, now that we have contracted an organic lawn company, I can relax and know that when Connor plays in the yard, his body won’t be compromised by harmful chemicals.

In honor of Earth Day, let’s all make one small change in our lives that will honor Planet Earth for future generations to come.

Here is a recipe for an all natural bug repellant to use while working in your yard

Bug Repellant Recipe

4 drops eucalyptus essential oil
4 drops rosemary essential oil
4 drops tea tree essential oil
2 teaspoons witch hazel
8 teaspoons distilled water

Combine all essential oils and distilled water in a dark colored spray bottle and shake well. Spray mixture directly on exposed skin. Be careful to not spray near the eyes or mouth.

HAPPY EARTH DAY!

This came into Tera’s inbox today and she wanted to share it with all of you! We don’t know how much is fact, but if even half of these are true, bananas are quite the little powerhouses!

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A professor at CCNY for a physiological psych class told his class about bananas. He said the expression “going bananas” is from the effects of bananas on the brain. After reading this, you’ll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world’s leading athletes.

But energy isn’t the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body conv erts into serotonin, known to
make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to
reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a “cooling” fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6 and B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body’s water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with
the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, “A banana a day keeps the doctor away!”

PS: Bananas must be the reason monkeys are so happy all the time! I will add one here; want a quick shine on our shoes?? Take the INSIDE of the banana skin, and rub directly on the shoe…polish with dry cloth. Amazing fruit!

We need to know which store sells this mirror!