How To Eliminate Pain From Your Life! 'Forever Painless' by Miranda Esmonde-White

I don't often do book reviews, but this had to be done because of my total dedication and belief in Essentrics, Classical Stretch, and anything having to do with Miranda Esmonde-White! Ms. Esmond-White has done the Fitness Industry a HUGE favor by taking it from it's infancy to a better understanding of how the human body works, and how to keep it healthy, pain-free, and young throughout life! 

My Snowman + #MyPostMonday The Week's Best Original Content

I've almost recovered from Thanksgiving! This Thanksgiving was particularly wonderful for me, and sad at the same time. My son will be leaving to serve an LDS mission in LA this January, so the Thanksgiving Table will be missing a son for a couple of years. You awesome folks in California, be nice to him, he's just a big lovable guy, with plenty of faults, but he wants to share a message about Jesus Christ and he's trying really hard to represent Him correctly. I've seen him improve himself so much! It's just what he has chosen to do, and I support him wholeheartedly! It's actually kind of a miracle he has even chosen to do this. Maybe I'll share more later!
In other news, we have been having an unseasonably warm November and the outdoor sporting industry was really getting worried, since ideally, snow should have been plentiful in the mountains in October! But we've been having some pretty high temperatures for this time of year, until Thanksgiving Day! The snow came floating down, covering everything! Nothing like a white Thanksgiving! 

Image: Michael Wiercinski

This snowman reminds me of a poem my grandmother wrote and included in a compilation of her poems. She was a high school English teacher and had a gift with words. The poem talks about a snowman that she built that is so funny, quaint, and imperfect. But she likes him anyway because it is hers. She is the one that made him what he is. Anyway, you get the feeling that she is talking about something else when you read it! I love my friends and family because they are the ones who have ended up with me and I know them well, because I had a part in creating a bit of who they are! 
                                The Snowman 
I kicked in the new fallen moist white snow. 
I thought I would make a man, 
And just like the man I should like to wed
I will mold him if I can.

So I picked out the cleanest, whitest snow 
And rolled up a round big ball
Then plastered and patted and stuck on more
For he was to be right tall!

His shoulders would have a dignified, gallent air
And a proud high brow--
I'd make him long fingers and thin pressed lips.
If only I knew just how.

At last I'd finished--but down his cheek
Was a deep wrinkle of soot
He held up a cane in a thick pudgy hand
And had a big clumsy foot.

He looked at me through his wide black eyes,
And perked a humourous grin.
I said to myself as I walked back in,
"He's fat instead of thin."

I looked at him often through the door 
And I'd wonder how long he'd stay,
He wasn't at all the man I'd planned.
But I liked him anyway!   --Helen M. Livingston

Today is "My Post Monday!" It's all about original content from bloggers who care to share what is on their minds--from Crafts to Camping, Wellness to Wealth, Fashion to Food, and whatever else is on the brain!  I  open up with a post of my own and then follow it up with a linky of the week's top original blog posts! It's all about what the writer thinks, believes, and knows--in other words, they are active, writing blogs. If I happen to find a great original, non-sponsored post, I'll link it up and share it with you here and on Twitter via the #MyPostMonday hashtag!  I can miss some amazing posts, but I don't want to!  So, in addition, if you'd like to link up yourself, you can do that too!  I'll visit your site, comment, promote and publicize! (Affiliate links welcome!)

Argan Oil For Massive Beauty Benefits!

I, like you, have read and heard a lot about breakthrough natural products. When folks start touting the benefits of these natural products, I tend to be a tad skeptical because I think it must be the newest fad! I think that it will be here for a time, and not be talked about much after the next fad arrives. There have been a few things, however, that have come and stayed because of legitimate benefits. Examples come to mind such as coconut oil, kale, and green smoothies. These natural products are so healthy and the benefits have been proven! Argan oil is one of these remarkable natural products that is almost miraculous in its proven benefits!  

The product comes from Morocco and is the "liquid gold" of the region. The oil comes from the kernels inside the nuts. It takes a lot of hard work to remove the liquid and can take up to 8 hours of labor to remove the oil from the nuts. It was once a well-kept beauty secret among Moroccan women, but now the cat's out of the bag and women like you and me can benefit.

There are two ways argan oil is utilized. The first is culinary. In order to have a good tasting oil, the nuts need to be roasted during the extraction process. The second is for beauty. The raw oil is extracted and used on hair, nails, skin, and lips. 

Loved And Lost (Mostly Loved) + #MyPostMonday The Week's Best Original Content

This week my heart hurts a little more for those who won't be with their loved ones. Everyday people die, that's just how it goes. But during the holidays it seems a bit more tragic. I know my mom died just 2 days before Thanksgiving. It was hard, but at the same time, it turned out pretty nice because it made it easier for our working family members to come in and be with us during that hard time. We were able to come together and reminisce about times with our mother. It would have made her so happy to see us all together like that on Thanksgiving!

Today a school bus carrying 35 children in Chattanooga crashed and 6 of them were killed--So tragic for so many people. My heart goes out to the families who have to endure this loss and try to make sense of it in their own minds. Although I don't know any of these children or their parents, I do know how it feels to lose someone who is your world and when they are gone, your world goes with them. There is a time when you feel as though you don't want to go on, that you'd rather just lay down and not try. It hurts so badly. But even in that sadness and grief, you might say that you were one of the lucky ones--who knew, loved, lost, but mostly loved.

Image - Mark Smith

Today is "My Post Monday!" It's all about original content from bloggers who care to share what is on their minds--from Crafts to Camping, Wellness to Wealth, Fashion to Food, and whatever else is on the brain!  I  open up with a post of my own and then follow it up with a linky of the week's top original blog posts! It's all about what the writer thinks, believes, and knows--in other words, they are active, writing blogs. If I happen to find a great original, non-sponsored post, I'll link it up and share it with you here and on Twitter via the #MyPostMonday hashtag!  I can miss some amazing posts, but I don't want to!  So, in addition, if you'd like to link up yourself, you can do that too!  I'll visit your site, comment, promote and publicize! (Affiliate links welcome!)

 

Silver Jewelry Is Appropriate For Any Occasion

That Thankful Holiday is upon us and I'll be seriously busy this week! I've got two dinners to do, one at my sister's house and one at mine! Imagine this---I'm going to be doing Thanksgiving on Black Friday! I know, I'm going to miss out on some deals, truly, but I would never miss out on an opportunity to have Thanksgiving with family! So you're welcome! You can have my place in line! 😭😭😭

 For Thanksgiving, I'll be running around trying to get everything up to taste expectations, because with my family, the most important thing about Thanksgiving is the food! My boys will practically move a table centerpiece to the floor if it gets in the way of turkey accessibility. So yes, we'll have some decor and nuance, but really, it's all about the vittles. We'll be doing turkey, ham, mashed potato casserole, sweet potato casserole, chicken avocado salad, pie, trifle, cranberry sauce, and beverages!! And at my sister's house, we'll be doing all that, but also prime rib! Good times!
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For my own personal look, I've not decided yet what I'll be wearing--that will be more spur of the moment. I know it will be fun, but more comfort-oriented. I DO know my jewelry will be from Montana Silversmiths! I'll be going simple--no ultra-fancy, clunky statement pieces to get in the way of food prep. Here are the pieces I've chosen.

Montana Silversmiths Jewelry is one of the largest suppliers of fantasy and western jewelry in the U.S. They have been awarded several times for their quality and selection! I chose the cuff because of it's fun design and the beading on it! I love the way it looks! I chose the ring to wear in place of my wedding ring when I am working and busy with my hands. It is beautiful and easy to wear! I chose the delicate earrings and necklace set because they are small and simple, yet add incredible sparkle! The earrings are very well-made and so lightweight, I don't even know I have them on! All of these pieces are made with 100% sterling silver along with other alloys, depending upon the design. They are timeless pieces that I can wear for years to come and possibly pass down to one of my granddaughters, if I finally ever have grandkids! Their prices are great, with a rich range of options, too! I would love to receive a gift from Montana Silversmiths any time! 

That Monster Moon + #MyPostMonday The Week's Best Original Content

This morning at 6:15 I was so lucky! I was headed out to work, down into the valley to get onto the freeway. Right in front of my fortuitous face was the giant super moon, known to some as the Monster Moon, because since January 1948 it hasn't been this big and is the biggest it will ever be until 2034! Such a feeling of wonder, awe, and peace came upon me! It appeared all-knowing, and aware of the turmoil that is roiling up everywhere because of certain recent events. I thought, "Moon, what do you think of your neighbors on this planet? Aren't we the most pathetic creatures you've ever seen? We fight over nothing and over everything, we want more than we need, we are jealous of our neighbors, friends, and co-workers, and we can never be satisfied. And many of us won't stop until others of us are dead!"  Do you know what the moon said back? She said, "It will all be OK, and I'll be watching! In the meantime, be kind, don't stress, and love life!" So that's what I did today and I was happy!

If you want to have your own conversation with the moon, it will still be observing us brightly tonight through early tomorrow morning! Believe me, she is very wise!

Image - Scott Stoddard

Today is "My Post Monday!" It's all about original content from bloggers who care to share what is on their minds--from Crafts to Camping, Wellness to Wealth, Fashion to Food, and whatever else is on the brain!  I  open up with a post of my own and then follow it up with a linky of the week's top original blog posts! It's all about what the writer thinks, believes, and knows--in other words, they are active, writing blogs. If I happen to find a great original, non-sponsored post, I'll link it up and share it with you here and on Twitter via the #MyPostMonday hashtag!  I can miss some amazing posts, but I don't want to!  So, in addition, if you'd like to link up yourself, you can do that too!  I'll visit your site, comment, promote and publicize! (Affiliate links welcome!) 

Comfort + Style = T-Shirts From Cariloha

I'm glad that sometimes I'm required to dress up, because if I weren't, you'd see me in jeans and t-shirts all day, every day! And for good reason--you don't really have to think too hard to put on a t-shirt and go!
 This site receives product samples to facilitate honest and fair reviews. Sponsor affiliation does not influence my opinion. Thanks for your support!
The look is pretty much appropriate wherever you end up. And although I think t-shirts will never go out of style, t-shirts are having a resurgence of sorts because there are some really attractive-looking tees out there, not to mention comfort! 
Comfort: That's where bamboo t-shirts come in! They are so soft and comfy! Especially the ones from Cariloha! Oh my gosh--ComfortCity.com! (just kidding, that's cariloha.com) Not to mention anti-bacterial and odor resistant! Cariloha has a wide range of tees made from natural and sustainable materials that let you stay comfortable and fresh all day long! And they have lots of styles to choose from--crew necks, V-necks, long sleeve, classic tees, dolmans, scoop tees, and more! Cariloha tees are made from a proprietary blend of bamboo fabric and organic cotton! Bamboo holds onto it's shape longer and better and even has thermal regulating properties!

I love my pocket tee and right now, several colors of this same design are on sale!

I have always loved dolphins, and I found the perfect tee to show my love for them!

This black tee with the ferris wheel print is so much fun!

Even when the weather gets cold, you can still have fun and make a tee work!

A bamboo tee would make a great gift for anyone who loves the combination of comfort and style! Go check Cariloha out today! 
Get social with Cariloha on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter

Wise Decision Making + #MyPostMonday The Week's Best Original Content

I just read a Facebook thread where the owner of the page wrote, "Name 5 Things You Love About Yourself." There were those who were able to write 5 things and then there were the ones who said, "I can't today" or "I can't at this point in my life." It's kind of heartbreaking when someone can't even see one good thing about themselves. It means that they are living with stress, sorrow, and loads of self-criticism. There is a point when you can't live to please others, you need to nurture and help yourself. Stress, anxiety and depression are caused when we are living to please others. If you find yourself trying to fit someone else's mold, and it isn't making you happy, it's time for a break to find out what you can do to renew yourself! Sometimes making a correct decision is a hard decision. We live so much to please others. So today I want to remind you to find 5 things about yourself that you admire or love. If you can't do that today, then work on it by choosing a path that nourishes your soul!

Today is "My Post Monday!" It's all about original content from bloggers who care to share what is on their minds--from Crafts to Camping, Wellness to Wealth, Fashion to Food, and whatever else is on the brain!  I  open up with a post of my own and then follow it up with a linky of the week's top original blog posts! It's all about what the writer thinks, believes, and knows--in other words, they are active, writing blogs. If I happen to find a great original, non-sponsored post, I'll link it up and share it with you here and on Twitter via the #MyPostMonday hashtag!  I can miss some amazing posts, but I don't want to!  So, in addition, if you'd like to link up yourself, you can do that too!  I'll visit your site, comment, promote and publicize! (Affiliate links welcome!) 

'Pain Buster' #Giveaway with Zim's Max Products!

Welcome To the 'Pain Buster' Giveaway! Muscles and joints are always under stress and occasionally they need the TLC of a great homeopathic remedy! Zim's has been in the pain relief business for over 60 years and that is why they are one of the most trusted brands around. Found in most major retailers, Zim's makes fighting pain easy.

This site accepts product samples in order to provide an honest review. No sponsor affiliation affects opinion or review.

Their first product was developed by a pharmacist in Austintown, OH. Local cement workers were frequently coming to him, complaining about dry and cracked hands. So he experimented and finally came up with an herbal-based formula. He called it 'Cement Workers' Lotion'. Now known as Max Crack Creme, it still heals and soothes dry and cracked skin no matter how you get it!

Today the Zim's brand has expanded to over 26 products, ranging from lotions and creams, to pain relief gels and diabetic care items. Zim's Max Freeze Brand provides an affordable pain relief gel and lotion that emphasizes the use of natural ingredients such as Ilex Flower, Aloe Vera and more!

Their newest product, Max Freeze Patches, are adhesive and deliver real pain relief that lasts for hours! Remember, the rush you get from pushing yourself to the limits is amazing, but the pain and soreness that can sometimes follow is not! In those real moments of pain you want to reach for something that will stick with you! The patches come in 3 sizes to fit the area you need and are individually wrapped. They combine lidocaine and menthol to deliver pain relieving power where you need it! Read about my experience using Max Freeze Patches and other products here! 

Right now on their website you can save with free shipping and buying bundles! Buy any 5 gels or roll-ons and get the 6th one free! 
Giveaway: Some lucky devil is going to win the 6 Zim's products listed above! Each one is effective in pain relief and does it naturally! For U.S. only, one entrant per household and must be 18 or older. Thanks for entering and good luck!
For more disclosures, please read the disclosure statement from the Rafflecopter form below! a Rafflecopter giveaway
 Disclaimer: Open to U.S. only!  A GAL NEEDS...received product from this sponsor to facilitate the review of this product. Affiliate links may be present. No Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin', Klout nor any other social platforms are involved in any way!
Must be 18 or older to participate, Winner will be contacted by e-mail
after 11/25/16.  Must respond within 48 hours.
After notification, winner will be asked to acknowledge their win by contacting sponsor on Facebook and letting them know of their win. 
Entrants with invalid entries will
be disqualified. 
Sponsor, Zim's USA, is responsible for delivery of prize package. A GAL NEEDS...is not responsible for delivery of product or prize.  

Ways To Have More Gratitude + #Free Gratitude Tee

The CMA Awards was on Wednesday night! It was a pretty good show, although it did have a record low viewership because of the World Series!

Yes, I like me some country music every once in awhile, and apparently Beyonce does too, because she was there and performed with the Dixie Chicks!! Without going into all of the drama there, I wanted to refer to Matthew McConaughey's introduction to Tim McGraw's song of the year - "Humble & Kind". Matthew mentioned that it's good to be a person who is always grateful for the things you enjoy and are blessed with, because people who do that create even more space, which is then filled by more things to be grateful for! I thought that was really profound and I do believe it. The problem is, it's sometimes hard to remember to be grateful when you're running around doing damage control for most of the day.
I have a couple of ways to remember to be grateful. One thing I have is a grateful bench. It's a special bench that I sit on for a few minutes every time I walk my dog. I sit there specifically to think of things that I am grateful for since the last time I went there. And I can tell you sometimes it is so easy, but other times it is difficult, depending on the day or week I've had. But I am always able to stop and think about the things that I have or the good things that have happened--and when I'm done sitting there, I tend to feel happier than when I first sat down.

It also doesn't hurt to have something constantly reminding you to be grateful. I love this gratitude tee for that very reason.  Not only does it have the words emblazoned on the front, but there is a tag on the lower right hem that also has a positive affirmation. It says, "Look, Be, Do Good!" I love it! And especially around this time of year, it's good to be reminded!