Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanza...Happy Holidays!

Tis the season! Hanukkah is kicking off this Holiday Season! Hanukkah started last night. For those of you celebrating: Happy Hanukkah! Enjoy these 8days and nights! My family is Catholic; we celebrate Christmas! Merry Christmas! I hope Santa is good to you! There are 12days of Christmas. For those that celebrate Kwanzaa..Happy Kwanzaa! I must admit, I don't know much about it. No matter what you celebrate, I hope you are celebrating in a deliciously healthy way!

Do you get offended if someone says Happy Holidays? If so, why? Do you expect a stranger to know what religion you are and what holiday you celibrate? Unless you wear the Star of David or a Cross on your neck, how is anyone to know? It's not like you can just look at someone and know automatically what religion, if any, a person practices. Happy Holidays is a nice way to include everyone without stereotyping and guessing. Wouldn't you rather someone acknowledge you in an inclusive way? I would. Personally, I don't find offense in it. I am grateful someone is thinking of me and wishing me a Happy Holiday. It's better than a Scrooge! The holidays are about being kind to one another and finding peace within oneself and with others. So, the next time someone says Happy Holiday to you, say thank you and pay it forward to someone else! You never know when you are uplifting a person with something as simple as an acknowledgement with a smile and a few simple words. Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanza...Happy Holidays! From my family to yours... I wish you love, peace, health and happiness!

Domestic Violence is Very Real! You Can't Ignore it!

I've talked about Domestic Violence before. I am a victim of it myself. NO, I am a SURVIVOR of it! So, why am I talking about it today? A few reasons, you can never talk about it enough. This is not, nor should ever be a hush hush topic. This is a real epidemic in our country and all over the world. I am currently surviving my hell. I am grateful to my friends and family, the police and the courts for keeping me protected. I know now that I have nothing to feel ashamed about. I didn't cause my abuser's issues. That's all I will say about that. Why am I so outspoken about this? I am vocal about my experience in hopes that my story will save lives!

Recent events bring me to the following: I belong to several business groups. Last week a friend/member of one of the group's reached out to us. He had just found out that a family friend was beaten by her spouse. A long list of members advised him to call Turning Point. I reached out to him and gave him my number for his friend to call me. Why you might ask? Simple, I felt I needed to help this woman in any way that I could. I find out that she is alone. She reached out to me and is where I was two years ago. Unless you go through something like this, you will never understand the thoughts and feelings that we go through. You can be there as a support system, but you will never truly understand. I met her today at the courthouse. Thankfully she had family friends with her today, whom I met. I saw myself in this woman. The fear, the deep gutteral cries, shakes, helplessness, confusion, sadness, nausea and the feeling of wanting to pass out. Then there is also a feeling of love. Yes, you heard me, love. You are probably asking yourself, how can you love someone that physically and mentally hurt you? You just do; especially if you have children together. It doesn't just disappear overnight. It is normal. So many questions run through your head. In court, the hate and lies from the abuser is to much to take. The abuser doesn't like to lose control over the victim. Plus, the abuser doesn't think they did anything wrong. Instant blame on the victim. Yes, ridiculous but true. This is an illness; a mental illness of the abuser.

As the moments, days, and weeks go by, you go through a whole bunch of emotion; the grieving process. No matter what you go through in life, let me assure you one thing, nobody and I mean nobody can tell another human being how to feel. That is something that is personal in each individual. That's what makes us human. People mean well in their own way. But in the future, just keep this in mind - try not to force your feelings or opinions on others. Allow yourself and others to feel. It's okay!

If you are an abuser reading this, please get help for yourself and end the cycle. Maybe you were abused as a child. I don't know. That is something to deal with. As a human being, are you happy with beating up a woman or man? If so, you need to examine why. You need help. End the cycle of violence. Please!

If you are a victim reading this, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! There are many organizations like Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley to help you. Whatever you do, DON'T GO BACK! You deserve to live a life of freedom. YOU are WORTH living YOUR life without harm! You can survive this! If you or someone you know is being abused, please get help! Remember this...the physical pain goes away but the psychological scars stay with you forever.

Think of it from the Turkey's Point of View!!!

Gobble Gobble! It's turkey day tomorrow! No matter if you are hosting or going to someone else's home, try not to sweat the small stuff! Traffic is backed up for miles? Don't sweat it, turn up the music and sing! Uncle so and so is loud and obnoxious? Shove a turkey leg in his mouth.. just kidding! You can think it though and laugh! The point I'm trying to make here is, think of all the things you are thankful and grateful for! Look around you. Are you surrounded by family and friends? Feel the love! Embrace it! There is no room in anyone's life for jealousy, hatred, judgement, or anger. Let it go! Forgiveness is for you; not the other person! Free yourself starting today.

Are you running around like a turkey with it's head cut off preparing for tomorrow's feast? Try not to stress! If you are, take a moment, have a seat and take deep breathes. Everything will turn out fine! Think of it from the turkey's point of view.. at least you aren't getting stuffed from behind and getting shoved in an oven! Happy Turkey Day!

Meat Eaters Vs. Non-Meat Eaters

I would like to know why there is so much judgement against either or re: meat eaters vs. non-meat eaters. I eat meat, poultry and fish. However, as I get older, I find my body feels better leaning more toward a plant based lifestyle. At least one or two days a week I don't eat meat of any kind. On my "vegetarian" days, I get my protein from nuts and seeds, nut butters (peanut, almond or sunflower seed), legumes/beans, quinoa, soy and almond milk, Greek yogurt, and soy products including tofu (rarely). I know I'm getting all of my vitamins because I drink Chocolate Shakeology every day.

It is not heart healthy to constantly eat red meat. I suggest limiting it to once a week; once a month would be better. I am anemic and can feel when my iron is low. On those occasions, I will eat a burger or lean steak. My vegetarian/vegan friends accept that about me and do not try to change me. I in turn do not judge or try to change who they are. No matter what you are, the goal is to live as healthy as possible. You are better off physically eating more plant based foods. You cannot eat cookies, chips and processed foods and call yourself vegetarian. True vegetarians and vegans eat properly and make sure they get enough healthy foods in daily.

Vegetarians/vegans choose to eat and live this way. Some for religious reasons, some for health reasons, some because meat, poultry or fish makes them physically ill, etc. No matter the reason, there should be no judgement. There is no right or wrong here. Remember, each "body" is different and reacts differently to certain foods.

As a certified nutritionist it is my job to help you live your healthiest life be it as a meat eater or vegetarian. I ask that you don't judge one another. Respect and try to understand one another. Please feel free to contact me to start living your healthiest life no matter what you are!

Power

Why am I writing about power? If you live in the Lehigh Valley, PA most of us experienced a few hours, to one day to well a still ongoing power outage that stemmed from a freak snow storm on Saturday, October 28th. I lost power at 1241p that day and didn't get it back until 730ish Monday night. There are still alot of people without power. Crews are working hard around the clock. Some crews came from far and wide. We thank you! I have to admit I had some mental and emotional breakdowns over those few days! It's even harder when you are a single mom of two children. Well, a teenager and a ten year old! I know I can live without cable (really hard though as I love TV!). It was really hard not having my computer working or my iPhone not having service. I, along with many people have come to rely on our modern day technology and conveniences! I thank God for them! I'm glad I live in this era and not Little House on the Prairie! I do think there should be big leaps and strides in people converting to solar energy. I think by doing that we won't need to worry as much in a storm. My dad's theory is that big corporations; especially the energy and oil industries are lobbying against it and winning. Ahhh, big industry...

Why am I writing about all of this? Well, power isn't just electricity. You have power in your life; through the choices YOU make, how YOU decide YOU want to live YOUR life and the people YOU decide to surround yourself with! You have the power within to live in a positive and healthy lifestyle. Truly focusing and surrounding yourself with positive in your life brings you an abundance of goodness. If you focus on the negative that's what you breed, more negative. Stress levels and blood pressures rise, depression can set in, plus a whole host of other not so great things happen physically, monetarily, and metaphysically. So do yourself a favor and start each day being grateful, put a smile on your face and think positive thoughts. If a negative thought creeps in replace it immediately with a postive one. What makes you happy? As Vincent VanGogh once said, "I dream my painting. Then I paint my dream!" Are you painting your dream?

Healthy Living Isn't as Hard or Expensive as You Think!

Pretty tired of hearing people say, "I want to eat healthier" and then they don't do anything about it. Another one is "I want to eat healthier but it's to expensive." Um, no it's not! Let's see, what's another excuse "I want to eat healthier but I don't know how." Ok, put down the donut and pick up an apple.

Stop saying and do! Actions speak louder than words. If you truly want to live a healthy lifestyle then just do it. Next time you are at the grocery store, shop the perimeter. That's where you have fruits, vegetables, dairy, proteins (chicken, turkey, meat and fish), whole grain breads. The majority of your cart should be fruits and vegetables. The only thing you should be in the center aisles for are high fiber cereals and regular oatmeal, nutbutters (peanut, almond, sunflower seed), all fruit jams, beans/legumes, rice (brown, wild, jasmine, basmati), spice and seasonings, canned tomatoes, household cleaning products and hygiene products. If in the freezer section, frozen fruits and vegetables are great all year round. They are picked at the height of freshness, so go ahead and get them if fresh isn't looking to good. Just stay away from sauced vegetables and sugar added fruits.

Soda, stop drinking it. It isn't good for you. Diet soda especially! It's all chemical. Drink water... Is this you "Ugh, but I hate water..." Then add lemon, lime, orange or berries to it. You get the added benefit of vitamin c and antioxidants. Even though diet soda is zero calories, the chemicals in it affect your brain and body in a negative way. For every soda you drink, substitute it for water. Not only will your body and skin thank you, but you will drop some pounds too. If you have Diabetes, you definitely need to stop drinking soda! It affects your insulin levels!

Processed foods like instant potatoes or Hamburger Helper, are not good for you. Anything with a really long shelf life, not good. If the ingredients list is a mile long, don't buy it. Salt content is probably sky high too! Yes, it might be cheaper now, but in the long run you run the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and a host of other health issues which is more expensive to take care of. So why run the risk? Once you get into the habit of eating whole foods and prepare them in a delicious way, your body will thank you. It becomes second nature. Your taste buds change. You can do this. Stop making excuses! Start today with your next meal!  Are you truly happy with yourself? When you look in the mirror what do you see? Take control of your life now. You are worth it! You deserve to be healthy in mind, body and soul! Need help? Contact me! That's what I'm here for.

Stop Being a Puritan and Learn to Love Sex! Thank me later...

Sex is good. For some it's GREAT! Why am I talking about this? How does this relate to wellness? Simple, it's a part of life! A wonderful part of life, especially with the right partner! Birds do it. Bees do it. So get to it! It's not a hush hush topic. It's meant to be enjoyed. You don't need to limit yourself to the bedroom at night before bed. Enjoy it anytime anywhere. If you are embarrassed or disgusted thinking or talking about it, stop. Embrace your sexuality.

Sex has many health benefits: it relieves stress, boosts your immunity, BURNS CALORIES, improves heart health, helps with pain (As the hormone oxytocin surges, endorphins increase, and pain declines. So if your headache, arthritis pain, or PMS symptoms seem to improve after sex, you can thank those higher oxytocin levels.), possibly reduces prostate cancer risk, strengthens pelvic floor muscles, and obviously helps you sleep better!

Sex can also help with your self esteem. Don't worry so much about your body image. Your partner doesn't. Enjoy who you are and who you are with. You will feel good about yourself. Intimacy will increase too because you are bonding with another. We are naturally made to bond with one another. Sex is a fun way to do it.

Whether you have a partner or are in between partners, buy some toys! Add some fun into your sexual experience. If you are alone, this provides the release that you need. Don't be ashamed or embarrassed. There is no need. Sex does not need to be boring. It's not like you are out on the street having sex in front of people. I'm not telling you to go right to the whips and chains either (unless you are in to that sort of thing). Every woman should have at least one vibrator. Sorry fellas, sometimes a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. Communicate with your partner too. Let them know what feels good and what doesn't. It makes for a better experience all around. If sex is painful, try switching positions and/or use a lubricant. If that doesn't help, talk to your doctor to make sure nothing serious is going on.

So, that's our sex talk for today. Enjoy yourself, use protection, and try at least one new position a week! Order some new toys, lotions, dvd's, etc. http://www.lisadrewnutrition.com/Adam-and-Eve-Adult-Products.html Have a great day!

I am who I am are you?

People, especially the ones closest to me, ask "Why do you share so much of yourself?" Hmm, why do I? It's simple really. I've always worn my heart on my sleeve. I'm a very emotional person. I'm also a very giving person. I don't know if it's more people pleasing or not. I'm still trying to figure that out. Sometimes I don't have an edit button and that gets me in trouble. I share certain experiences, not all. Some people will learn from what I've gone through. For example; I recently came out to the public as a domestic violence victim (see my previous blog post). I am no longer shameful. I am not to blame. Sharing my experience takes domestic violence out of the darkness. In return, I hopefully saved a life. However, being a domestic violence victim does not define me. I am still trying to figure out who I am. That's a lifelong process. Do you share to much? Is there such a thing?

Life is ever changing; ever evolving. I am who I am and I'm not apologizing for that! If more people would be open to change and learning, this world of ours would be a much better place; don't you think? I don't pretend to have the answers to everything. Lord knows I don't. But, I am willing to hear all sides and listen to all points of view. It amazes me how many closed minded people there are out there. On the flip side, there are even more who are loving, caring and open minded. People want to be heard. People want to be loved. If we all took the time to listen with an open heart and an open mind the more peace we would have within ourselves and for each other. What do you think?

Coming Out as a Domestic Violence Victim

October is domestic violence awareness month. In the Lehigh Valley we have Turning Point. There are all sorts of activites going on. October 1st was the Step Out Against Domestic Violence 5k Walk/Run. My kids and I volunteered and walked. Tonight was the annual candlelight vigil. If you have never gone to one, make it a point to next year. You will never look at domestic violence the same ever again.

A few days ago, Turning Point asked me to speak on behalf of the survivors. I hesitated because even though I'm pretty open about my being a victim, I thought to myself, am I ready to go public? The answer was yes. If I only help one person then that's what matters. I pre-wrote some of my story knowing that if I didn't write something up ahead of time I wouldn't have control and would keep rambling. I am still living my hell everyday even though my spouse is out of the house. I live in fear everyday.

I didn't know what to expect tonight. Of course I knew there would be sadness. But the energy in the room was of love and concern. It was a moving tribute to those dead and alive. After opening words, dance tributes, songs and stories shared, it was my turn to speak. I kept running it over and over in my head on how to begin. I didn't want to just read off of a piece of paper. I thanked everyone for coming, I looked at the students and said "Listen to your gut, your instincts, because I didn't." Then I proceeded to read what I wrote. Within the first sentence I became overwhelmed. The tears started flowing. I couldn't see the paper through those tears. I didn't know if I could go on but I did. I had to. I had to on behalf of those that died, the other current survivors and for the victims that didn't find their voice yet. I told my story through lots of tears, I barely made it through. But I did! I told my story live tonight for the first time and I would do it again. I live in fear but I have my freedom. The cycle ends with me. I don't want my kids living the life I led in abuse. The love I received from alot of people after the vigil surprised me. Each person said how brave I am. Funny, I don't feel brave. Sometimes I can barely breathe. Tomorrow, I will wake up and put one foot in front of the other.

Please, if you or someone you know is in danger due to domestic violence, there is help out there. If you are in the Lehigh Valley, PA, Turning Point will help you. If you aren't in the Lehigh Valley, there are organizations everywhere that you can contact.

Applebees = Crapplebees?

Why do big chain restaurants pour on the salt and smother their food in grease? It's disgusting. I never go to Applebees. I think the last time I was there was maybe 3yrs ago with my daughter. On Friday last week, my son won a free kids meal to Applebees at school. So, on Saturday, October 1st I decided to treat my kids to Applebees after the Step Out Against Domestic Violence 5k walk/run (benefiting Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley) where we volunteered and walked.

After resting at home for a bit, we went to Applebees. We were greeted with a warm welcome. That was nice. Our server was very nice and accomodating too. Then the food came. My son got what most 10yr olds would get, chicken fingers and fries. He couldn't eat much of it. My daughter got garden fresh ravioli. Well, let me tell you, when that was put in front of her I should've had it sent back. Why didn't I? Did you ever see the movie Waiting with Ryan Reynolds? If not, see it. You will never send food back again! The amount of oil that was on that plate was enough to fill a car! Exaggeration..nope! I got fajitas which were very spicy, peppery and hot. I like spicy food but my God! Plus the salt in it alone was enough to bloat me until next week. My daughter pushed alot of the food on her plate aside, scraped the sauce of oil off and just ate the four ravioli on her plate. When the server came to clear everything, I showed her my daughter's plate. She took it away and the manager came over. He was a nice man but tried explaining it was a brown butter sauce and blah, blah, blah...I asked him if he saw the plate? He kept trying to justify the chef's choice of cooking method. I told him I'm a certified nutritionist and cook. I stopped him cold. He comp'd the meal. Will I go back to Applebees or Crapplebees as I have called it for years... probably not. I don't care that they have a low calorie section and a Weight Watchers section. Salty is salty. Unhealthy is unhealthy. It's a shame because I gave them the benefit of the doubt too.

October Awareness Month

Can you believe tomorrow is the first day of October? October is a big month for awareness. The biggest being Breast Cancer Awareness and the other Domestic Violence Awareness. Both causes are important to me along with many other people.

We are all touched by someone that has or had cancer; especially breast cancer. I know and have known to many people that have cancer, are in remission from cancer, or died from cancer. Some very close to me, others acquaintances. I am hopeful that we will have a cure. But, part of me is skeptical because I, along with many people believe our government, insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies do not want a cure to be found. I know that is a bold statement. There is big business being made off of people's illnesses, diseases, etc. It's a vicious circle. When will it stop? When we take a stand! We need to start holding people, companies, and our government accountable. Each one of us has a voice...use it! You need to be your own best advocate! Know your body..Be heard and get involved. Most importantly, take care of yourself in mind, body and spirit.

Domestic Abuse/Violence touches me personally because I am a victim and current survivor. I will not say much about my situation right now. I am doing everything I can to protect myself and my children. Why am I telling you this, because I am putting a face to it. I am not ashamed anymore. I am taking my power back and hoping to help other women get their power back too! Domestic Abuse/Violence crosses all social status'; ranging from the garbage collector to the surgeon. It doesn't recognize race, creed, religion, etc. Yes, men too but in a smaller percentage. People say, "Why don't you just get out?" or "Why did you let that happen?" There are so many different answers to that which is different for everyone. The physical scars go away but the mental scars last a lifetime! If you or someone you know is in danger, there is help out there. Here in the Lehigh Valley, it's Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley. Tomorrow, October 1st, is the Step Out Against Domestic Violence 5k Walk/Run. If you have time, please stop by and support such a great organization. Info can be found at http://www.turningpointlv.org/. I wish you love, happiness, wealth and peace!

October is also National Disability Month, Healthy Lung Month, National Lupus Awareness Month, Health Literacy Month, National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, National Liver Awareness Month, Sudden Infant Death (SIDS) Awareness Month, National Spina Bifida Month and National Brain Injury Month.

Do you help your community?

I know, I know, it's been awhile since my last post! Relax if you don't have kids. This is not just a post about children; especially mine. I have a point here I promise:)

I had the pleasure of helping out at my son's elementary school for picture day. My son, along with all of the other kids looked great and were happy to take a break from their lessons even if it was for pictures. You see, I am on my school's PTO (Parent Teacher Organization). If you are a parent with a child in school you should really attend meetings. You are a true participant in your children's education. I was able to volunteer because of the PTO today. Great friendships are made with other parents, teachers and the principal. The PTO gives back to the school which is part of our community. Check it out at least once!

Don't have kids? That's okay. There are plenty of other opportunities to help your community. See if there is a Main Street Program in your city or town. Get involved in a charity. I work closely with Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley. They help women like me that are victims of domestic abuse/violence. If you live in the Lehigh Valley, Step Out Against Domestic Violence 5k Walk/Run is Saturday, October 1st at the Lehigh Parkway. Would love to see you there. Not in the Lehigh Valley? That's ok, support other causes in your area! We are all in this together. Each individual on this Earth makes a difference... What are you doing?

Did you know that giving back not just in money but in giving of your time makes a huge difference in your overall health? When you help others, it's a natural way to feel good about yourself which in turn reduces your stress level. You will therefore lead a more productive life! How cool is that? I look forward to hearing how you are making a difference!

Struggles and Meditation..Huh?

So much on my mind! Do you have days like that? In all, today was a good day. I am struggling with some things, namely people. Why do people say one thing and then do another? Why is there so much judgement? Why do some people have to hide who they truly are? Why do we as a society allow untruths to go unspoken? Why don't many people live in truth? Afterall, the truth will set you free! I know, so many questions. Believe me, I have alot more! But I will just ask these for now..

I'm 39yrs old. I turn 40 in December. I am choosing to live my life as free as I can; living in my most authentic self. How do you do that you might ask... I meditate daily. It's a must! I'm not that great at it yet, but by practicing every day I get a little bit better. I need to because I have two children and two businesses that I am building. Crazy life! I realize I can't answer all of the questions above. I guess only God/Universe can answer them. I do feel that if more people would try meditation, there would be a lot less crap going on! I eat right, exercise, and meditate. What do you do to handle all of your questions, struggles or chatter in your mind?

Me

Good Evening,
I hope you are having a wonderful day/evening! Well, as you may have noticed a few months have gone by since my last post. I write and do research most of my day, in addition to seeing my fabulous clients, why do I want to blog? I am going to use this forum to talk about things on my mind. I decided this will be a different departure from what I post on Twitter or Facebook. I will probably throw some nutrition and wellness info in there! I am in the wellness biz afterall...

There is so much going on and so much to talk about.. Where shall I begin??? I will begin with Arnold Schwarzenegger. What a prick! While I don't know the man personally, he has always come across as a smug ass. Now he has hurt his wife and children. If you feel the need to stray why be married.. Not only is your life a mess you also left California in a financial mess too!

Another thing bothering me is the mom who injected her 8yr old daughter with botox. Apparently she isn't the only pageant mom doing this. The daughter got taken away while the investigation is going on. What about the people that are in charge of the pageants? Where is their accountability? Why are little girls being forced to wear wigs, fake teeth called flippers, etc. There goes those little girl's sense of reality, self esteem, and self confidence. All because mom's and dad's are living vicariously through their children. When does it stop?

On a positive note.. I need to make a recommendation. I made cornbread tonight to be eaten with turkey chili. Came out fantastic by the way! Anyway, my recommendation is for you to try The Gluten Free Pantry's Cornbread mix! Not only is it delicious, you know exactly what each ingredient is in the prepackaged mix and the addins you provide to complete the recipe. Yes, I take help from the grocery store any way I can. It feels like scratch made! Enjoy!

So, those are my thoughts of the day. Stay tuned tomorrow to see what has me thinking!