tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64417970826173437542024-02-07T01:17:53.682-08:00We Only Get One Chance"making the most of life"Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.comBlogger193125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-25752057878854173912012-04-16T08:37:00.007-07:002012-04-16T13:36:36.265-07:00WE NEED YOUR HELP!I feel that a big part of running a business here in Fenton is to give back to the community that gives us so much. Not only am I a regular patron of so many local businesses, I also do my best to attend local community events, participate in everything that my schedule allows for and spread the word about new and upcoming businesses. I believe that "A rising tide lifts all boats" and work that philosophy into my daily choices.<br /><div><br /><div>But sometimes that is just not enough and 3 years ago, Cafe of LIFE and Simple <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKDclmqF10qS6XPBe_pi5yK_74SkV9GzqmTs-VoAafKg5htTQwCJb8_wrjemlkWUVN3IEXcQgfPE7CWC4rdXlP4J77W_JQ3gtxsEEHTBeynH0-BRfLkv2g9NlNNGZ9ISRgOiRGPe8qtJX/s1600/EARTH+DAY+2012.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 285px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 357px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732042439181119442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKDclmqF10qS6XPBe_pi5yK_74SkV9GzqmTs-VoAafKg5htTQwCJb8_wrjemlkWUVN3IEXcQgfPE7CWC4rdXlP4J77W_JQ3gtxsEEHTBeynH0-BRfLkv2g9NlNNGZ9ISRgOiRGPe8qtJX/s320/EARTH+DAY+2012.jpg" /></a>(which has since been sold) spear-headed an Earth Day Cleanup project. Our first year we attracted around 15 people to help us. We gathered a planning crew for 2011 and attracted close to 80 people for our spring cleaning project. With even more momentum going into this y<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXu0ZmN1hXia3TzmkUHSGs9ml9D96DB7cvkHoz8g1EYDJrkn1F7bJYE3WC8LuzoKWC-murxIeCEW7H5UOjG3K0qP7IqyspSDgnmFqNGLhEkGXQgi1OLdvevJDjDzkZsGuAKwRNBMUBmeN/s1600/earth.jpg"></a>ear's event, 2012 is looking like a great time to really make a difference. I have noticed that the efforts of last year have had lasting effects and we do not see the amount of trash on our streets like last year. This is proof positive that we are making a difference.</div><br /><div>Come and join us this year as we take to the streets and give Fenton a fresh start for spring. You will see fliers around town however I want to make sure you have an idea of how this all works. The even is scheduled for Saturday, April 21st 9am-noon. Meet us at Cafe of LIFE Chiropractic Center at 521 N. Leroy St which is 1.5 blocks north of the Fenton Hotel, across from Legacy Realty and Dewey's Automotive. We will provide biodegradable gloves and bags and send you towards a location in town. Scour the area picking up trash and there will be several drop-off locations provided around the city. We have volunteer pick-up drivers that will bring those bags back to the Cafe of LIFE. Stay for all 3 hours or just a part of it, all help is welcomed. We will have food, water and some kids activities at Cafe of LIFE. </div><br /><div>We are hoping for sunny skies but this event will happen rain or shine. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring your own gloves if you want and dress in layers so you can handle the weather. If you are unable to join us and you happen to be driving around on Saturday morning and see our people out filling bags, make sure to at least honk and wave to show your support...and mark to down on your calendars to join us next time around. </div><br /><div>Hope to see you Saturday! If you have any questions or concerns...please feel free to email me at <a href="mailto:erica@cafeoflifefenton.com">erica@cafeoflifefenton.com</a> or give us a call at the Cafe of LIFE at (810)629-6023. </div><br /><div></div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-70265758706774110112012-04-12T20:00:00.005-07:002012-04-12T20:09:01.442-07:00EARTH DAY CLEANUP<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGS8ZNzevctDZJTO349NebH7iQ7twg6Yf3yI68b929Ga3UtPwDgs5I8kbD2utoYM62UD7fkBru3g1mBiqabsrDKhVuzvI-38WzbpcGAnGnpbFE_t3R3bM1oH4HrfTkDj0oB9mGs7PiRBR/s1600/images.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 191px; height: 186px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGS8ZNzevctDZJTO349NebH7iQ7twg6Yf3yI68b929Ga3UtPwDgs5I8kbD2utoYM62UD7fkBru3g1mBiqabsrDKhVuzvI-38WzbpcGAnGnpbFE_t3R3bM1oH4HrfTkDj0oB9mGs7PiRBR/s320/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730716500475650306" /></a><br />This is a quick link to a short write-up about our <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33cc00;">3RD ANNUAL EARTH DAY CLEANUP</span></b>. Come join us on Saturday April 21st 9a-noon. We will provide bags and gloves and a take home gift for all those who volunteer some of their time to our CLEANUP efforts. <a href="http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2012/04/earth_day_cleanup_scheduled_in.html">http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2012/04/earth_day_cleanup_scheduled_in.html</a><div><br /></div><div>If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Cafe of LIFE by phone at (810)629-6023 or email erica@cafeoflifefenton.com. We hope to see you on <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33cc00;">APRIL 21st</span></b>!!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-87571605442281575602012-04-10T08:08:00.008-07:002012-04-10T10:27:28.604-07:00"YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED"<span style="color:#ff9966;">There is a song that runs through my mind lately, mostly because I have heard it so much on my Rusted Root Pandora Station (a highly recommended station, by the way), but also because after I hear it, my mind ponders the message for quite some time. It goes something like this...<br /></span><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff00;"><em><strong>"You can't always get what you want.</strong></em><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;"><em><strong>You can't always get what you want.</strong></em><br /></span><span style="color:#ffff00;"><em><strong>You can't always get what you want.</strong></em><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;"><em><strong>But if you try sometime...you just might find...</strong></em><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;"><em><strong>YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED!" </strong></em><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff9966;">I have had some very interesting life lessons over the past years, as I am sure we all have. I have a strong conviction that although we are presented with most things t</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvTCs-S2XlqZYSa21s24xQwLdYcX_2dAhb7zMApqcIxqvlRiW-2CfCbh-HHaIUqUIyDVKZmT5Tg3kz65n8XDG7Te3XTHtYkcQSmDJOdPUsdw_fgxfVj1c4QR27xo-Knholu0RsikSJruT/s1600/wish+list.jpg"><span style="color:#ff9966;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 284px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 178px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729815203937659714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvTCs-S2XlqZYSa21s24xQwLdYcX_2dAhb7zMApqcIxqvlRiW-2CfCbh-HHaIUqUIyDVKZmT5Tg3kz65n8XDG7Te3XTHtYkcQSmDJOdPUsdw_fgxfVj1c4QR27xo-Knholu0RsikSJruT/s320/wish+list.jpg" /></span></a><span style="color:#ff9966;">hat are WAY outside our control, by the use of gratitude and a strong focus on what we want, we are powerful creators of our lives and experiences. I also realize that sometimes the things that we think we want in our lives or experiences that we want to have happen, are very limiting in the grand scheme of things. There is a much bigger picture to this life than what we can actually see and grasp with our thoughts.<br /></span><br /><div><span style="color:#ff9966;">Have you ever sat down and wrote out goals? made a "to do" list? Have you ever thought about what you would like to have happen in 5 years? 10 years? Have you ever quieted down your life enough and heard things come from inside that sounded like "I want a new job." "I want to make more money." "I want to be in a relationship." "I want to be in a different relationship." "I want a new house." "I want a new car." "I want to win the Mega-Millions." Does any of that sound familiar?<br /></span><br /><div><span style="color:#ff9966;">What LIFE has taught me is that what we call our "wants" are very limiting. If ALL and ONLY our wants came to fruition, we would live a small life. Now, when I say small, I don't mean that in a negative way, more the idea that it would be limiting, like looking over a lake and seeing that as the only possibility of a large body of water without having any concept of the ocean.<br /></span><br /><div><span style="color:#ff9966;">Having a direction and steering life with GRATITUDE can open up limitless possibilities. Our "wants" are one thing...but what happens if you don't get what you "want"? I have a strong faith in the concept that LIFE sends the perfect people, things and experiences to us in the perfect timing in order for us to maximize our potential for learning, growth and evolution. In the moment, it may be very difficult to see the perfection...but most of you have probably experienced that in retrospect it was exactly what you needed. So in other words it is true that..."YOU CAN"T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU...but you just might find YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED!" Be open to the amazing twists and turns of LIFE, take some risks and get outside of your box of "wants"...we only get one chance. </span></div><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></span></span></span></span>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-80070497272962157842012-04-03T11:43:00.007-07:002012-04-03T14:20:04.632-07:00I AM AMAZED EVERYTIME!I have done my fair share of traveling in my life and have spent a lot of time on planes since I moved home in 2004. I always try to get a window seat because I love seeing what there is to see while we sit and wait for the plane to take off. I am also the one with my nose glued to the glass during portions of the flight and of course the landing. More <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrEUij_td7cB_lTOpslym4uuU3oMkZ-jwzo-O_1J8UJSndRS_cTem0M34NFYNnwJQd4idwLoEQ9ET49ZpuvyU_7oFIZrwwc98JQq2yBljampQ4WCYdF-A7okPT0xQW2a794TRNho3Ciy8/s1600/Delta-Airlines.jpg"></a>often than not, prior to take-off I find myself in a daze watching as these huge planes ar<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mLtSLuXtftvDf6IXi84esTd_w6eJmSnUbkNEWL8sYk59mR9wovlHhEbzrDJyxP8VBho0cyT2C7qA87C4BCaomgRT_PbuRmnlqgUCq07KBWCFimZnfpx0HARbZmKUUaq7fpNslnoNy0EW/s1600/airplane.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 256px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727269731495665442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mLtSLuXtftvDf6IXi84esTd_w6eJmSnUbkNEWL8sYk59mR9wovlHhEbzrDJyxP8VBho0cyT2C7qA87C4BCaomgRT_PbuRmnlqgUCq07KBWCFimZnfpx0HARbZmKUUaq7fpNslnoNy0EW/s320/airplane.jpg" /></a>e filled with people and luggage. I am amazed the logistical phenomenon that is our airline systems...I mean really, how on Earth do they get all those bags to the right spots?!?! I marvel in the simple fact that something that big could fly through the air and carry people comfortably from one location to some place completely different. I know our civilization has been flying for years and years, and I myself have taken numerous flights...but I am so fascinated by the concept of flight. Loading up in Detroit in the middle of winter and arriving in Costa Rica, in a totally different country, climate and culture...that is totally awesome!<br /><br />With how intense (in a good way) my life is at home, coupled with my ability to completely relax on vacation, flying somewhere sometimes feels like getting on a time machine. The last 2 weeks of March was a very intensely stressful time for me. In the middle of the 2 weeks, it just so happened that I had a trip to Colorado planned. I got to a boiling point and since my trip to Colorado was mostly for fun, I almost backed out of going. After asking a bunch of questions and weighing a few things, I decided to go...and what perfect timing! I left the crazy chaos going on here and as soon as I sat down on the plane, it all melted away. In a short 2.5 hour plane ride, I was half way across the country, with great friends, beautiful sunshine and peace of mind to enjoy the weekend. It truly is amazing to "sit in a chair in the air" and end up thousands of miles away. The following link is one of my favorites...half way through is when he starts his discussion about flight and he hits the nail on the head...I laugh so hard every time I watch this.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r1CZTLk-Gk&feature=list_related&playnext=1&list=AL94UKMTqg-9BlsLTYIGJEOA-5oL2pRdka">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r1CZTLk-Gk&feature=list_related&playnext=1&list=AL94UKMTqg-9BlsLTYIGJEOA-5oL2pRdka</a><br /></div><br /><br /><div>His whole concept of "Everything is Amazing and Nobody is Happy" is so right on. Take a look around and find a little something to be amazed by and grateful for. So many of the thigns around you are absolutely amazing...even the simple fact that I can write this blog sitting at my desk and my Grandmother can read it from her home in Florida...and you can read it from wherever you are!! This LIFE truly is AMAZING!!! ...and we only get one chance.<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r1CZTLk-Gk&feature=list_related&playnext=1&list=AL94UKMTqg-9BlsLTYIGJEOA-5oL2pRdka"><br /></div></a></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-9882861712860958312012-03-19T18:16:00.004-07:002012-03-19T19:14:28.629-07:00"BUT I DON'T KNOW HOW TO DO THAT."<div>Some days I a reminded of how absolutely wonderful my family is...today was one of those days. My Grandma Peabody passed peacefully last Friday and today was her funeral and life celebration. I have been in a gratitude state of mind through the whole transitioning process for the past couple weeks. She had suffered from heart challenges and her mind was slipping over the past years and I am grateful she is liberated from her failing body. I am grateful to live close to her and spend time with her through it all and especially over the past week. I am grateful for my family and the time we have shared and of course the time we spent together today.<br /></div><br /><div>Though in this gratitude state of mind, I knew deep down inside there was a really st<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZqEvFaqaHJ3COhzCPQ2_DO-QCc-fwlGtfbCKu0_wonpWE0jIGX1f9U5R0r1sLCQ280lOZeaSz5vX0E7OOqyuNHFqu4hawl25W1_xxBe_YWoho9eFm2IGBGVkuTcKA5aZlraB0u52Zsd_/s1600/rainbow.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 214px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721794323718405250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZqEvFaqaHJ3COhzCPQ2_DO-QCc-fwlGtfbCKu0_wonpWE0jIGX1f9U5R0r1sLCQ280lOZeaSz5vX0E7OOqyuNHFqu4hawl25W1_xxBe_YWoho9eFm2IGBGVkuTcKA5aZlraB0u52Zsd_/s320/rainbow.jpg" /></a>rong sadness. I am able to hold it all together and go about my life and business, and as long as that stuff is calling my attention, I can stay in gratitude. I was in my practice this morning until noon and the condolences just kept coming and for that I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I got changed and jumped into my car and decided to stop and grab a quick bite to eat. I ran into a friend while doing so and another gracious "I'm so sorry for your loss." I got back into my car and tried to eat and that is when it hit me. I was about to meet my family at the church and say "Good-Bye" to my Grandmother one last time. </div><br /><br /><div>I haven't dealt with much death in my life up to this point. Prior to today, I could only speculate how I was going to respond to the situation. But if you know me, I am a pretty sensitive gal and I was a little startled at how much emoting my body needed to do and no better place then right there with some of the people that love me the most. It was a really wonderful thing to hold my nephew during portions of the service who is brand new on this Earth and the dichotomy of that experience. There were a lot of people present at her funeral to celebrate her and how she touched them in some way.</div><br /><div>I tend to be one of few questions and spend a lot of my time in silent observation. I loved to listen to her stories and look at pictures but I never knew how to ask questions that would begin the stories. Today, an aunt and uncle stood up and shared her life with everyone and that portion really meant a lot to me. </div><br /><div>My Grandmother was only 4'11" yet a powerful rock, a kind woman, a natural phenomenon like a rainbow, mother to 9 children, grandmother to 19 and great-grandmother to 14 so far, of Irish decent, raised in Canada, loved the fruit growing business, lover of the arts, nurtured growth in all things, was involved in female empowerment, an artist, a world traveler, had an entrepreneurial spirit, lover of nature, a fabulous cook, welcomed everyone, there was always room for another kid in the house and always room enough for one more at the table, trained as a medical tech, worked on the family farm in Birmingham, met my Grandpa there (stole him from his girlfriend), she was a dreamer, accepting of all humans, involved in numerous committees, lived her life in strong faith, found joy in the success of her children and was a "mirror" for them to discover themselves, a caramel apple connoisseur, a wonderful wife, a loving mother and I actually can hear her distinct voice as I write this blog. </div><br /><div>Just a few short days before her death, my aunt was sitting at her bedside and she woke up and wanted to know "What is happening to me?" My Aunt responded, "Mom, you are dying." My Grandmother then said, "But I don't know how to do that." This particular interaction really pulls on my heart strings. At a certain point, I am sure she was uneasy about "Not knowing how to do that." but she sure found a way to do it peacefully and allowed each one of the 33 of us (plus spouses and significant others and friends) join her on that journey the best way we knew how. A little piece of her will grow old again with each one of us and every time I see a rainbow, I will rest well knowing there is one more angel that watches over me in this lifetime. Rest peacefully Grandma and know that you are so loved. </div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-18599355427347276742012-02-27T18:33:00.004-08:002012-02-27T18:57:10.679-08:00HAVE MORE FUNI just love Mondays! There is something so fresh about starting a new week and after such a great weekend, I was ready to rock and roll! One of the first people on my table this morning has had a few weeks of neck pain that he calls "stress neck". In beginning the conversation with him this morning I asked him if he had any fun this past weekend (though I was away, I know we got a lot of snow here in Michigan...and snow=sledding). He responded "actually yes I did have some fun playing outside with the kids this weekend. And<img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 202px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCT8XWN64xUC3btYfMdXbViNBn6VeqM2qwQ0OwFYn0OU0AlXlyRBet8GgijYplVB2W3m6mv82E7R1dxXKBYRplOnJT48M6c0Jh6A5YDU6SzGaCulgWUXuS2Jz8Gvpi6EawSAUdK1DPN6sY/s320/sledding.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714015010380444210" /> the strangest thing, when I got in from playing in the snow, my neck felt great. It was the first time I was pain-free in a few weeks. Then I realized later in the day, something stressful hit me again and I watched the pain set back in." <div><br /></div><div>Hmmmm...interesting. It was really wonderful that he was able to come to this awareness for himself as stress is the culprit of so much that ails our bodies. It is so important to make time for stress-reducing activities as a regular part of our week. We are bombarded with stress on many levels and coming from many different directions on a daily basis. When we are having fun, stress hormones decrease and endorphins (the body's natural "feel good" and healing chemicals) increase. It is necessary to find ways to reduce the stress load and let the body be free. When was the last time you played outside? Have you danced lately? Have you ran around and screamed lately? Have you been chased on the playground? Have you been down a slide lately? Ridden your bike? Played a sport with some friends? or laughed so hard your cheeks and belly hurt? GO DO IT!!! HAVE SOME FUN!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I am as guilty as the next person when it comes to taking life seriously. I am a pretty serious and rather stoic for the most part. I have to consciously take time to play and be a kid...and when I do, I feel the most ALIVE!!! Life is so much more fulfilling when we find time to be a kid again. Have you been having some fun? How have you been spending your time? GET OUT THERE AND HAVE MORE FUN!!! ...we only get one chance. </div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-10343131168417620242012-02-21T14:49:00.000-08:002012-02-21T19:07:31.466-08:00SMALL MIRACLES IN THIS BIG, BIG WORLDThe most amazing thing just happened in my Cafe of LIFE. A severely behaviorly impaired 2.5 year old came into my office for his first visit running and screaming down my halls. He hasn't been listening or speaking to his parents or anyone and is rather "glassed over" when you try to make eye contact. My CA and I were strategizing on how to get this little guy adjusted and knew it was going to have to be a chase him around to make it happen because I will not restrain unless absolutely necessary (which I havent found it necessary yet) I chatted with his parents about what has been going on for him for a while and discussed that I am not going to force him to do anything which means that we may or may not be able to get a good adjustment in today. I wasnt even going to present him with the idea of getting onto a table. I left and adjusted another person in another room and when I returned to the room he was sitting with his back to me on his mom's lap. I started to do really light force work and watched his body unwind. He was fine with that for a bit and got tired of sitting...with zero prompts from me and no information at all about what to do on an adjusting table, he jumped down off his mom's lap and climbed right up on the kids adjusting table and went face down as if to say "I know you are good and I know you can help me...let me make it easier to access my spine and nerve system". It was the most beautiful expression of Innate Intelligence I have ever seen. Life is amazing and being a Chiropractor is just icing on the cake.Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-3154398432962904312012-02-16T09:02:00.001-08:002012-02-16T09:21:47.837-08:00I HAVE A STORY TO TELL...I live a very blessed life. It has changed for the better this past month and I know that you can probably tell that is true through my posts. I am amazed, in awe and disbelief that life could possibly be like this. I could try to phrase the story in a way that would make sense on here but it would take pages and pages. Instead...when you have about 20 minutes and a box of tissues...go to <a href="http://www.ridenthewave.us/"><span style="color:#9999ff;"><strong>http://www.ridenthewave.us/</strong></span></a> and you will see a post called "Happy Valentine's Day 2012" and 4 videos...that was my Heart Day present from m<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgojzq2U99UkdQsgYy7hvLMhuUWlYYKlOp29Luwx1Zshqb-Roh5b8uEHuEOsD-6SKp-pwuVTcewrAYl4eqMuPEfpznJAsiJPY1MQB2_PzzBZ96-h9jdJZNroE1pxtAbmFJvbGWqA_zGIyv4/s1600/HEART%252520LOU.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709783934787672738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgojzq2U99UkdQsgYy7hvLMhuUWlYYKlOp29Luwx1Zshqb-Roh5b8uEHuEOsD-6SKp-pwuVTcewrAYl4eqMuPEfpznJAsiJPY1MQB2_PzzBZ96-h9jdJZNroE1pxtAbmFJvbGWqA_zGIyv4/s320/HEART%252520LOU.jpg" /></a>y beau this year and I just wanted to share.<br /><br />I have had an image in life about what I wanted my relationship to look and feel like. I have to admit that over the years, with all that I have been through, it has gotten a little bit jaded. Now when I look back, all the lessons I have learned along the way were totally worth it. "People are put in our lives for a reason, a season or a lifetime". Many times in the beginning it feels like it is for a lifetime, and then things change. Often things are hard to figure out in the moment, however if we stick with it long enough, the reason usually reveals itself in retrospect. I see it now. I am not <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">naive</span> enough (though I am hopeful) to think that what is happening now will always stay this way...however if the foundation is strong, the ground can stay steady enough to be able to weather the storms together. I think that is what love is really all about.Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-17709178997963830212012-01-27T16:24:00.000-08:002012-01-29T19:43:09.108-08:00IT'S A MATTER OF THE HEARTIt's a matter of the heart...yet so much more than that. I want to ask you so many questions to see if any of your experiences match up to what is happening in my life right now, however I do not know what questions to ask that would even give a hint about the happenings.<div><br /></div><div>It feels like this...</div><div>I have had a full life already...a life of experiences, living in all kinds of places, hanging out with all</div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 184px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBpurNsbj-Rdmdwu4DzTyH53w96VIEPe9dff8ecy5jFMpZWP-xBdBCyoA53ll3O1KaeM7IfT0Je9DRPO9IhhjsWuNEXEHve5l0uXeDeEakUdOj7QK_Eh6LrQrM2IGfpff0CIyJpy-TMK5J/s320/wave.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703264006918338466" /><div> kinds of people, doing a ton of traveling and always in search of rich, rewarding experiences which, along the way has lead me to surfing. I am very athletic and though I do not know if I can really call myself a "surfer", I can say that I have surfed and more than just a few times. When I was growing up, my family and I would travel to Oscoda, MI and rent cabins on the beach for a week every summer. We would play for hours in Lake Huron, well hours as long as the waves were not too high. When I first learned to surf, I had to get over that concept of "if waves get higher than this, it is too dangerous to be in them". I had to re-learn how to be in the water, maneuver the waves and find peace in the chaos as they crash over me. In order to surf on a surfboard, it was important to have much larger waves than that. So I learned to work "with" the water...</div><div><br /></div><div>Then, with some help of a dear friend, I was able to learn to get out past the break carrying a very large surfboard with me. It is challenging when this board is at least 3 feet taller than I and I am trying to "woman-handle" this thing out past the crashing point. I lost many, many battles and it was tiring to go against the tide. I was able to get up and catch a few decent waves. With help from another, I was able to learn to read the water and to even allow for the rip tide to assist me in conquering the break. Encouraging words and actions and I gained enough confidence to catch my first HUGE wave. I was such an exhilarating experience to paddle into it, catch it, stand and slide down the face of this monstrous wave. It actually was so exhilarating and my body was in such disbelief I was riding such a big wave that I bailed after just a few seconds. Memorable...for sure.</div><div><br /></div><div>I haven't really had much of a chance to actually surf lately, however when I look back on my surfing experience up to this point, it directly correlates with what was going on with my romantic relationship at the time. During our first Cafe of LIFE Book Club meeting of 2012, I drew a card from a stack that was to answer whatever question I had intentions of getting an answer for. I chose to ask about a romantic relationship for 2012. The answer I received was "You have done your work. It is time to sit back and enjoy the ride." In relating to my surfing analogy, the card said..."You have done the paddling, now just wait for the wave and this time STAY ON THE BOARD AND ENJOY THE RIDE!!!". Within just a few days from really taking in that notion, I caught a wave...and I have to admit, this has been the wildest, most wonderful and amazing ride of my life! It feels really good to be "going with the flow" of life and seems absolutely effortless. </div><div><br /></div><div>So tell me...have you witnessed the ebb and flow in different areas of life? Have ever given up fighting the ebb and found yourself in the flow? Have tides unexpectedly changed on you? Have you been swimming with the current or against? I have found that the more I share the intention I have and the direction I want to go, the more life smiles on that. I have turned a corner in my life and have decided, in the poetic words of Eddie Vedder, "I'll ride the wave, where it takes me!!" We only get one chance in this lifetime...what is in your heart? </div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-85434358506927851522012-01-22T05:44:00.000-08:002012-01-22T05:59:24.726-08:00BROTHERS<span class="Apple-style-span">I have told you about my brothers before but I don't think that I have told you lately how much I love them. We have such a fun, unique relationship now that is pretty rare to find in the world these days. I didn't always feel this way mostly because while grow</span><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieA-1G9fdqTIihDzQjA-5phxjroiQFerhzTEqmKxPPDkKmKQa3Lncvi-CWn4vdOxoHKjF9W8FxVJTarIER4bE1oU8EUcaPV9RJpJ42-57leXLn65cDB304YQgeP6Soc7iNbivXiubWvxlA/s320/photo-1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700455065176950818" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /><span class="Apple-style-span">ing up, I found myself on the short end of 3 against 1 on almost a daily basis. We have all faced challenges, have lived full lives and somehow along the way became really close. I think it also helps that 2 of them married some of the most amazing women which have also helped to grow our relationships.<div><div><div><div><br /></div><div>Last night was a celebration of family...well a celebration of the winter season and ice, with a huge helping of family on the side. The four of us balance each other really well. We make each other laugh, help each other out and have a real strong appreciation for what each of us brings to the table. There is a loyalty that is like nothing else on Earth. We all feel really lucky that we have made homes within 10 miles of one another and this lends to some good times together. I am glad we are on this journey together, and though I didn't always feel this way, I wouldn't trade them for the world. </div></div></div></div></span>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-49086942190097226222012-01-21T06:03:00.000-08:002012-01-21T06:56:26.962-08:00WHAT A WEEK!!!To say this past week was incredible would be a complete understatement. I am not sure if I can find the words to do it any justice but I will attempt.<div><br /></div><div>It has been exciting, exhilarating, perfect time and perfect place, talking, connection, love, growth, reading, developing, email, introspective, travel, peace, writing, heart-centeredness, exhausting, awesome, long hours, talking, Skype, sharing, Internet, love, books, friends, family, hungry, bliss, planning, creating, nurturing, staring, introducing, hugs, sounds, video, discussions, parents, happiness, pictures, flowing, riding waves, flowers, notes, work, p</div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOkU7sdGl8H-9FDsudisLSW7qch2TMP-vojg2reVacZGwYgVxxny73z1xpLtpCbnVgceZB3Dk4ygj03aJHKKIh42bOtCy2Y1kujbZahAghccN9jrYdUjTtMYBv7h8d_kuup1XdYFesbgJ/s320/photo.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700097976897361378" /><div>lay, counsel, ideas, music, kisses, movies, voice, Facebook, Hey Tell, random facts, quotes, scrapbooks, house, lake, ice, snow, conversation, celebration, glowing, communication, energy, vulnerable, open, raw, wounds, opportunity, practice, planting seeds, simple life, pure, days, one week, favorites, feeling of readiness, special, percentages, names, togetherness, news, unpack, concerns, highlights, tremendous growth, breath, appreciation, thoughts, truth, thinking, greatness, settling in, luck, promises, responses, pleasure and singing.</div><div><br /></div><div>It feels as though the stars have aligned and they are all on my side. Because of a few different things and my own desire for growth and evolution, and the work I am doing on myself, I can honestly say that January 12th, 2012 was a pivotal point in my life. It is as though my life can be described as "before Jan. 12th" and "after Jan. 12th". It goes way deeper than a love connection though that is a significant part of it. Where is life heading? I know what direction it is going, however I have chosen to surrender to the fact that "I will ride the wave where it takes me". It is uncharted territory for me, unfamiliar and uncomfortable. All I can do is trust that "As I take a step, the next one is revealed".</div><div><br /></div><div>Have you had an event or a culmination of events that has led to a significant shift in your being or your life? Is there a date or a time frame that you can look back at and see an obvious shift? For me, being able to share my story brings me so much joy. Maybe you feel the same way...we only get one chance in this life. Do more things that make you happy! </div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-16558839232487071482012-01-16T18:00:00.000-08:002012-01-16T18:40:28.273-08:00BEST YEAR YET!!Happy New Year!!! It has been pretty busy and hectic start to the year...all good things. Over the past couple years, I have spent a little time brainstorming with a few friends about a "theme" for the year. For example "Life is Zen in 2010" or "There Will be 7 in 2011" or "Life is Heaven in 2011". So we were talking about 2012 and honestly, besides the word "delve", not much rhymes with 2012. I was working it out and trying to figure out a cool catch phrase for 2012 and...it is just not happening.<div><div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ER7i96pQlGpx0DaeB95ghuvzGBj-V9Bo47NFMjeo6zI9YamQM2t-nS6I3NKa35hYy4SxDXqphGGcNVRha8NZfQVzk-LZgwuj5HyhJMcoQ_DKIef4tr1UOOcLKmsSxYYABvW_G8WgvSZG/s200/simply_the_best.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698424974694015522" /></div><div><br /></div><div>So I look back at the past and I ask myself "Was life really ZEN in 2010?" NO WAY!!! What about 2011..."were there 7 in 2011?" Yes there were 7 this and 7 that, but nothing that was significant that pertained to that number. "Was life HEAVEN in 2011?" NOT EVEN CLOSE!!! I was seeing a pattern and I began to think that though it is super cute and catchy to make something that rhymes, maybe the rhyming part was the problem...limiting.</div><div><br /></div><div>This past Saturday, I spent the entire day at a Women's Retreat over in Oxford. It was a day for women, all things women, and lots of local practitioners with interesting topics about things that pertain to women and issues surrounding women's lives. It was a day to escape normal life, hide out in this great little place tucked back in the woods and get reconnected...and I enjoyed every moment of it! It was such great timing with the beginning of the year and such an awesome time to set an intention for the months to follow. So I began to think about this "phrase of the year" thing again. I was eating lunch and writing a short little note to a real special person and it hit me...THIS IS GOING TO BE THE BEST YEAR OF MY LIFE!! It just struck me, just like that and I thought "HOW PERFECT!!!". Since Saturday, that idea has been stuck in my head and resonating in my being. I had to tweak it a little bit to "2012, THIS IS THE BEST YEAR YET!!!" that way I am open to even better years in the future. Actually I think every year is better and better and I think it is a great time to sit for a moment and be grateful for that fact. Each year reveals to me a little more about me, and the more I know about me, the better.</div><div><br /></div><div>How about you? Have you set any intentions for the year? What kind of a feeling does 2012 give you? Any plans, moves, changes? Is life how you want it to be or is there something or some role you need to step into? Let's get going...we only get one chance...lets make it THE BEST YEAR YET!!!</div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-3946854576778685102011-12-14T05:31:00.000-08:002011-12-14T06:59:29.775-08:00DELIBERATE ACTION<div><br /><div><br /><div>"Hey Erica! There is a sloth right outside our window!" comes from the bedroom of the bungalow I was staying at in Costa Rica. In that particular instance, the girlfriend I was sharing a room with happened to look out the window. It was that particular instance she spotted him, however I am thinking that it is quite possible that she could have looked out at any point that entire morning, and maybe that entire day, and that sloth would have still been there. The<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8nYkjiYn1WCe92BY7MHd7VMUyDBv4rigwJ0_mqbKJ8LyVDtOIHxD5VOzVny7FOFX5Dqgw-DQpAPzAo3qozB5trhbtqyum4xten1XW1Jl7yJIx4XVa4S6MKMw81kZbimWMaFxVU4ScMKJ/s1600/sloth.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 239px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685991357634322226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8nYkjiYn1WCe92BY7MHd7VMUyDBv4rigwJ0_mqbKJ8LyVDtOIHxD5VOzVny7FOFX5Dqgw-DQpAPzAo3qozB5trhbtqyum4xten1XW1Jl7yJIx4XVa4S6MKMw81kZbimWMaFxVU4ScMKJ/s320/sloth.JPG" /></a>y do not move fast. </div><br /><div>I saw a cartoon a few weeks back that this guy had gone to the doctor to ask why he was turning green. The doctor said something like "I would suggest you start an exercise program. You are growing moss!" The sloth is the same way. You cannot see it from this angle however the fur on his back was green, literally growing moss because he moved so slow! The picture you see is taken with my iPhone and though my arm is extended as far as it will go, the picture itself is not zoomed in. This sloth didn't have a care in the world. We opened our window and then our screen and talked to him, made fake sloth noises (whatever those are), took tons of pictures, made a movie (its a sloth movie and incredibly boring or I would post it) and it is really true, you cannot scare a sloth!</div><br /><div>So I sat and watched him. He just hung there, would reach out to grab a branch or a leaf in what looked like a slow-motion movie. I watched him sniff a couple leaves, then open his mouth and bite down on one, then let go of that branch and go back to chewing and hanging around. We had plans that morning which interrupted our sloth-viewing session or I would have stayed and watched for a while. They move so slowly and so deliberately, or so it seems. Their moves seem so well thought out, every millimeter planned and executed with precision. We later learned that they only go to the bathroom once a week and to do that they come down from the trees. </div><br /><div>They are interesting creatures and have a rather mysterious feeling about them. I would say there is a real sense of the present-time consciousness when it comes to the activ<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubApwDbJis47TCty95h8oI92QNu9Q7E8KaHCZH6R7kgIMeQMuJnx4mi2l6hYIcl219giYsn0CTM_I316JgU7eUU_joF3l-cUoWb8WBcj2Vlmr-2OW_nghSuZqUNiES9guBW5oLD8WowrN/s1600/sloth2.PNG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 213px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685991450587519458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubApwDbJis47TCty95h8oI92QNu9Q7E8KaHCZH6R7kgIMeQMuJnx4mi2l6hYIcl219giYsn0CTM_I316JgU7eUU_joF3l-cUoWb8WBcj2Vlmr-2OW_nghSuZqUNiES9guBW5oLD8WowrN/s320/sloth2.PNG" /></a>ities during their days. There didn't seem to be much wasted energy on stuff that didn't matter. It reminds me of moments when I find myself really present. Its that "work smarter, not harder" idea. Be deliberate with your time and energy. Many people walk around in life almost asleep. Have you ever driven your car and arrived at your destination without even knowing what route you took to get there or what you saw along the way? Have you ever finished dinner without even knowing what the food tasted like? Have you ever logged into Facebook, turned on a video game, or sat down in front of the TV and gotten up hours later wondering how 4 hours passed without you noticing?</div><br /><div>This sloth reminded me of being present, making conscious decisions, and taking deliberate action. It is the idea of the "herd mentality" and taking a different path then the rest of the pack. I was standing in line and waiting to bathroom before a 5k this past weekend. I was 3rd in line for what appeared to be a full 3 stall bathroom...or full because the doors were shut. After waiting for the rotation of stalls to clear, I began to notice that the 3rd stall was skipping the rotation. Breaking free from the "herd" to deliberately walk up and check to see if the door was locked revealed a free stall. Who knows how long it had been free, however the line could have moved 33% faster if we were being a little more awake, aware and deliberate. Take the next 24 hours and check in with yourself during all the activities you participate in and make sure you are awake and really living life...maybe be a little more "sloth-like" and deliberate. We only get one chance... </div></div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-65857909638636150212011-12-07T13:52:00.000-08:002011-12-08T09:43:01.749-08:00DONDE ESTA LA PLAYA??<div><br /><div>Most of you know that I spent Thanksgiving in Costa Rica...and many of you are waiting to see some pictures. I am waiting to get some pictures from a friend, however until then, I do have a few to post. The trip itself was amazing! It was 10 full days of great friends, new friends, laughter, great conversation, beaches, a beautiful bride, her handsome groom, great chiropractic adjustments, loads of walking, dancing, a few drinks, great Costa Rican food, lots of monkeys, a few sloths, live salsa music, down time, play time, jellyfish stings, monkey bites (yes, the father of the bride got bit by a white-face monkey), surfing, exercising, boat rides, zip-line canopy tours, great accommodations, amazing service, time for journaling and reading, sun-bathing, swimming in the ocean, kayaking, reconnection, silent contemplation, sleeping, music, shopping, delicious fruit, rain, humidity, crazy frizzy hair, girl-time and sunsets. I am trying to think of all the things I did with my time off and that pretty much sums it up. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683524398438738066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2nZIH5z8qIVEeZAnlyO_mky479WheBDctSliXWuMm4Pn8brrIZy2iY2TrIE1dzuQPCDFOMz5kkNXJC6er3EZRbz_80SQbRUxAzzQmulq43R6DPj7pZS_ZobRcpUS76lGxEXX3byYjRtR/s320/photo.JPG" /></div><br /><br /><div>Some things that were absent: a set schedule, time commitments, a cell phone, text messages and emails continually following me around, bills, layered clothing, goose down, boots, socks, driving, car that needed gas, laundry (although it was piling up), not many hair products (they didn't do any good anyways), and negativity was absent as well. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683524482938416386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCIRpShPVGlT4rkCMih2hFI8QrCh7bHy4Ta58aH_glFSqA5-5gB86tlkUOcs6ooa6mV-qxfuDj4PXTCr_NtriyOBv2SUTUhG2DASLiFZlg6vvbab5CXOd-fhJ3GN2AlWsz-_ad06JEgMfR/s320/photo1.JPG" /></div><br /><br /><div>I find it very easy, once I make it on time to the plane, to settle in and get out of my everyday mode. I am grateful for the ability to leave it all behind, however that is made possible largely because I know that my practice is taken care of by my amazing staff and anything that could potentially come up in my personal life, my family would step in and help out. I am grateful for my life and all those that are in it. I am very grateful to be able to step away and have the ability to have amazing experiences with some really awesome people. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683524562139452210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFATdNO8yBlN2iiTareS54ct4so5qEfHZ5hYbYNzppdk56Rm7SciGDP2gQPdXRYsRY9Wd4ebQegRCB3buBc1tyACGAoEbQLZB1w8yPZXnmUik2eS44TqPgFac5wVFeoPcduK_pl4QmHO_/s320/photo3.JPG" /></div><br /><br /><div>I am not one that obsesses about sunsets...it's not that I don't love a beautiful sunset, I just don't necessarily go and seek them out. That all changed while I was there and I am sure you can see the reason for that...absolutely beautiful!!! The area we were in was very hilly, or maybe more like cliffs. The views were absolutely spectacular and these are a few from the bungalow I stayed in and the beach we played at. </div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-86234418228595938302011-12-01T09:06:00.000-08:002011-12-01T09:40:11.962-08:00SUPER HERO CHRISTMAS<div>Last night I bought a wimpy Christmas tree. I say wimpy because it is only an 7 foot tree and looks so small. Over the last few years, I have been used to my 20+ foot ceilings and I would get 10+ foot trees because I had just the perfect spot. This year I am back to standard <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqNTeNG_vXeYEKv-oFJEPrbtHV5s6KliaB8xg-VLaluvJTfXBPogWxiDPUa9Qp8Dh0KabLQ_8VPXHYGV5pZg5wcuS484q1MX4eSs_DRxTu6dQR3mRA202V9RSg_xbpqsNnVwfIFcMoaXQ/s1600/christmas_tree.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 214px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681215205373240802" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqNTeNG_vXeYEKv-oFJEPrbtHV5s6KliaB8xg-VLaluvJTfXBPogWxiDPUa9Qp8Dh0KabLQ_8VPXHYGV5pZg5wcuS484q1MX4eSs_DRxTu6dQR3mRA202V9RSg_xbpqsNnVwfIFcMoaXQ/s320/christmas_tree.jpg" /></a>8 foot ceilings and that is very limiting outside of cutting a hole in the ceiling. One of our favorite couples came into the Cafe this morning and I got laughing so hard as I was reminded me of a Christmas tree incident that happened last year. It goes something like this...</div><br /><div>I cannot remember exactly what the evening consisted of, however I know that there was some sort of drama involved that left me feeling a little "run over". I remember pulling into my garage after midnight with a distressed feeling and ready to go to bed and start the next day new. I walked into my house, set my keys down, kicked off my shoes and was heading upstairs when I noticed that my 12 foot Christmas tree had taken a tumble and many ornaments were smashed on the floor. "Where is that dog?!?!" ...oh, right, he is still in his kennel being a good boy. There weren't any earthquakes so the only one I could blame it on was the little physics wizard inside of me that was on vacation when I put it into the tree stand...apparently off balance. Then my inner comedian chimed in with <em>"If a 12 foot Christmas tree falls in a living room and no one is around, does it make a sound?"</em></div><br /><div>I quickly accepted the destruction and decided since it was already after midnight and nobody is around to help...this is the<strong> PERFECT</strong> time to remedy the situation. So with one big heave, I was able to get it mostly upright...well upright as long as I was holding it there...but if I was holding it, who is going to re-do the screws in the tree stand so that it won't tip over again????? <strong>BRILLIANT ERICA!!!!</strong> Your SUPERWOMAN complex is really getting you into trouble this time around!!! So next decision to make was... 1. Let the tree fall again and go out on a limb and ask for help tomorrow, or... 2. Be grateful for long arms and find some of that SUPERHERO strength and somehow make it happen. Let's put it this way...you all know which one I chose (I mean really, if you have been following this blog at all, you know me quite well), I dove in waist deep in pine needles, it was a dumb idea, and I was sore for days!!! ...and if you do know me, I am sure you can get the visual and have probably let out a chuckle and the ridiculous-ness.</div><br /><div>Moral of the story...if you are one person, don't try to do a two-person job! Learn to ask for help when it is appropriate because helping others is human nature and if you ask, I can guarantee someone will step in and be glad to. Running my chiropractic office, I have people coming in all the time because they tried to do a two-person job on their own. Learn from my mistakes...or just buy smaller Christmas trees!!! 'Tis the Season!!! </div><br /><div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-13969290080648517772011-11-14T15:06:00.001-08:002011-11-15T15:04:03.107-08:00ITS THE TIME FOR GRATITUDE!Some people on facebook are writing status updates about things they are grateful every day through the month of November up until Thanksgiving Day (the 24th). I decided I would do them all at once this way instead. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq99sIIf4NVgZEPLucO6ci02YG2X5cVHFnFjyDpBHXES9nEM2AYgW-9iw1AN60Gke_BwvafaPPtlF2FPQWj75bZn1gEjesPNSxV8K9vBkDjM7zfLbW9bKwov036YmoSFURqkCMZue171lA/s1600/gratitude6a.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 241px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675362067928589746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq99sIIf4NVgZEPLucO6ci02YG2X5cVHFnFjyDpBHXES9nEM2AYgW-9iw1AN60Gke_BwvafaPPtlF2FPQWj75bZn1gEjesPNSxV8K9vBkDjM7zfLbW9bKwov036YmoSFURqkCMZue171lA/s320/gratitude6a.jpg" /></a><br /><br />1. I am thankful for my health.<br />2. I am thankful for my family.<br />3. I am thankful to be living and practicing in Fenton, MI. I love this little town.<br />4. I am thankful for my practice<br />5. I have so much gratitude for the amazing staff at the Cafe of LIFE.<br />6. I am thankful for a clear mind.<br />7. I am thankful to have buddy Choco, my chocolate lab, in my life.<br />8. I am so very grateful I have the opportunity to be an aunt.<br />9. I am over the top grateful for the amazing yoga studio/community I am involved in.<br />10. I am thankful for good friends, and amazing experiences with said friends.<br />11. I am so grateful for the ability to travel.<br />12. I am grateful for all the lessons I learned though my relationships.<br />13. I am grateful for a special someone who is out there right now...you know who you are:)<br />14. I am thankful for music and the way it can shift me.<br />15. I am so grateful for the people that are committed to the Cafe of LIFE Book Club.<br />16. I am thankful for clothes on my back, food in my belly and a roof over my head.<br />17. I have so much gratitude for the lady that cleans my house and makes life easier for me.<br />18. I am grateful to have been born into a HUGE extended family!<br />19. I am grateful for summer weekends on the lake passing the hours with my family.<br />20. I am thankful to have been introduced to snow sports at such a young age that has led to my love of winter.<br />21. I am grateful to have lived in many parts of this country.<br />22. I am so very thankful for the picture window in my office that overlooks the river.<br />23. I am grateful for beautiful sunsets out said window and the ones at home.<br />24. I am grateful for my life...at times I forget how big.<br /><br />This list could go on and on. What are you grateful for?Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-5212217766468362052011-11-07T13:18:00.001-08:002011-11-07T15:27:03.591-08:00THE ANTI-FANI attended a football game at Michigan State University this past Saturday "GO SPARTANS!!!". I love going to the campus, I love being in the stadium and I just love everything about a day of college football. It was the most beautiful day for a football game and we sat in some really great seats...well, great seats to watch the game, not so great seats for one particular fan, or "anti-fan", that sat behind us. The entire game, this anti-fan shouted out the meanest thin<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rINN4kC4THLeyCqMVT5ktevUvPzVhvAik17dA1r6eOD87h6W743ni_sgZqvYJ2n1-lPjMgpaBIuaZAgiBfy3iN0bvt2KgEzogv-R6XWMzhrILnN0fbxz6FTxUyhYvgbi8yMb7sYyWvED/s1600/photo.PNG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 213px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672399031594406450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rINN4kC4THLeyCqMVT5ktevUvPzVhvAik17dA1r6eOD87h6W743ni_sgZqvYJ2n1-lPjMgpaBIuaZAgiBfy3iN0bvt2KgEzogv-R6XWMzhrILnN0fbxz6FTxUyhYvgbi8yMb7sYyWvED/s320/photo.PNG" /></a>gs. He was a MSU fan and I am pretty sure one that has been attending games for years and years. He was loud, angry, negative and down-right mean. They would do something great and he would be sarcastic with his support. They would do something bad and he would shout something like "WELL WE HAVE GROWN TO EXPECT THAT FROM YOU GUYS!!!" They would start moving the ball down the field and he would act shocked, they would have a turnover and he would go back to his "of-course-that-just-happened" attitude. It was unbelievable that someone would pay money to come to a college football game and knock their team so much...to top it off, he was not quiet about it. His wife was with him and a younger woman sat on his other side...both of them were ultra-quiet...and it went on the entire game.<br /><br />There are two things I learned from that...1. I am really glad I do not have anyone in my life that is that negative and 2. if you are a fan, BE A FAN!!! There is a saying "You get more bees with honey than vinegar". If you are looking for positive results, it is important to have a positive attitude. Now some would ask, how much effect could one guy in the stands have on a team that is down on the field? and, does it really matter if one guy is being negative in a crowd of positivity? Have you ever heard the saying "One bad apple spoils a bushel"? I was not letting him effect me on a conscious level, but who knows what he was doing on a subconscious level to my energy, much less everyone else around him. More than anything, if a guy is that pissed off and negative at a wonderful college sporting event, I can only imagine what he is like in a stressful situation. If someone like that is the patriarch of a family, I would wager his negativity infiltrates his family members...and I know for a fact that it is effecting his health.<br /><br />It isn't always easy to keep a positive attitude, especially when life seems to be throwing you lemons...but what about that saying "When life throws you lemons, make lemonade". By writing about this, I am by no means complaining about him. I am hoping to increase the awareness around attitude. When someone asks "How are you?" let's run through 2 possible answers. "Not bad." is one possible answer...but "Not bad." leans towards negative energy. What if when asked how you are, you answer "I am good." or "I am really great!". Even just saying those two answers, as compared to the first, really changes the energy of how you are feeling...and in essence changes the energy in and around your body.<br /><br />How are you spending your life? Where are you focusing your energy? What small changes can you make to shift your perspective in a more positive direction? Let's start today...we only get one chance to make this the best life possible!Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-5406516683127528732011-11-04T10:56:00.000-07:002011-11-04T11:37:25.973-07:00HALLOWEENHalloween means 2 things to me...COSTUMES AND CANDY!! The costume part of the 2...pure fun! The candy...a double-edged sword. Candy does a weird thing to me. It is fun to eat, tastes amazing, and releases "feel good" and comforting chemicals in the body. I always have mixed feelings about giving away candy at Halloween...and it mostly has to do with the de<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGu58k0MZPvxnMad3DjnCo6gLhLSzUc0rfEFijptHnmNro7-h5K7gt2gZEi3ykFRodKAEGk_b52wSNf8OgCekNGs8XdGkaXXr0GK4oR3_s6piMJ6fpy-YQmI6rkpb7xEPoFP7Lirtz8wHQ/s1600/candy.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671211267492522914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGu58k0MZPvxnMad3DjnCo6gLhLSzUc0rfEFijptHnmNro7-h5K7gt2gZEi3ykFRodKAEGk_b52wSNf8OgCekNGs8XdGkaXXr0GK4oR3_s6piMJ6fpy-YQmI6rkpb7xEPoFP7Lirtz8wHQ/s320/candy.jpg" /></a>trimental effects the sugar has on immune system function. I have settled this battle in my head by giving out caramel apples at the Cafe. It allows me to still have fun with candy but also get that apple in there as well since..."An apple a day keeps the doctor away!". <br /><div><br /><div>So this year I decided I wanted to do a little more educating when it comes to sugar and the immune system. What is the physiology behind sugar and the immune system and why is sugar so detrimental?<br /><br /><div>Interesting to note, October-February seems to be dubbed "Cold and Flu Season". I would like to open your minds a little bit to the fact that it may be better termed "Sugar Season". Halloween starts with the candy that can last for weeks, then Thanksgiving is filled with deserts, and December is the month of endless holiday parties, Christmas cookies, wine and other cocktails. </div><br /><div>Do you want the physiology? The major players in the immune system, namely the white blood cells, need vitamin C in order to do their work. Vitamin C and sugar have a similar structure and if sugar is around, it will bind to the activation site and block Vit C. When you ingest sugar you can think of your immune system slowing down to a crawl. Not a good thing. Then do that over and over for days, weeks and potentially 2 straight months...guess what? COLDS and FLU VIRUSES set in!!</div><br /><div>So let's approach this holiday season with a little more awareness...and a little more will power to steer clear of all that sugar. Indulge some, but keep it to a minimum and I bet you will find more energy to enjoy the celebrations, friends and family, and I bet you will come through the winter season a little happier and healthier.</div><br /><div>I am by no means saying that I keep my diet completely clear of sugar. On most days I do however I found myself digging in some on Halloween with all the goodies we had at the Cafe of LIFE. I also found myself experiencing some intense sugar cravings on Tuesday, needing extra sleep on Tuesday night and a good portion of Wednesday and am finally feeling back to normal. It is fun while it lasts...tastes great while it is in your mouth and I feel good about it all for about 3-4 minutes. Then I spend 3 full days recovering from it all. It simply is not worth it. </div><br /><div>We may as well do the best we can with the choices of what we put in in our bodies...we only get one chance. </div></div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-78563109093303306922011-11-02T15:25:00.001-07:002011-11-02T15:27:31.245-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil84bL5Opv94mlDFDrl8jpm2oNZU2XVybNM0DXtDELJDT_7mwKkqJOWk0bK6-7fD8_Lk0kl3dqgyrBhB51mnAvqwu-Ez7Ma-VHmrPOKhRHmmCBY_IrkIMZVPLYO4qgJ2nNgerBU-n_Kh9u/s1600/walkinig+each+other+home.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670528559021169506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil84bL5Opv94mlDFDrl8jpm2oNZU2XVybNM0DXtDELJDT_7mwKkqJOWk0bK6-7fD8_Lk0kl3dqgyrBhB51mnAvqwu-Ez7Ma-VHmrPOKhRHmmCBY_IrkIMZVPLYO4qgJ2nNgerBU-n_Kh9u/s320/walkinig+each+other+home.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>"We are all just walking each other home" -Ram Dass</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-31454102443589393182011-10-26T04:50:00.000-07:002011-10-26T07:43:56.173-07:00FLASH MOB<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACPfzMBBQDLSMQIOLwNN2fhb0MAt-ISlrvfqd52DNGCEx2gVhVfyRYMG5JZG8oTJwMNIKTqvSqvXIMbeEJOG3dqK0cvO9DYEPPDziKv9pEPDZcZ-6ol-v9fkwFiG9cteNSz2KO0fnyXpO/s1600/th_animated_clipart_dancing.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACPfzMBBQDLSMQIOLwNN2fhb0MAt-ISlrvfqd52DNGCEx2gVhVfyRYMG5JZG8oTJwMNIKTqvSqvXIMbeEJOG3dqK0cvO9DYEPPDziKv9pEPDZcZ-6ol-v9fkwFiG9cteNSz2KO0fnyXpO/s320/th_animated_clipart_dancing.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667811527890947842" /></a><br />This past weekend I had my first flash mob experience!!! How fun! Flash mobs are happening all over the world these days. Have you heard of it? Basically people choose places where there are predicted to be large crowds and start some music and do a choreographed dance. If you have ever witnessed one, it begins with just 3 or 4 people. Then a large group gathers around to watch and a portion of the spectators are actually in on the dance and join. Then usually there is another section of the crowd that seem innocent but are actually in on it too and join and when it is over, everyone goes back to doing whatever they were doing and act like nothing happened. It is about bringing joy to others through the element of surprise and dance. <br /><br />So I got wind of this group called Flash Mob America and I registered with them to receive their updates. It just so happens they were coming to do one in Ann Arbor...and you know me, always looking for rich, rewarding experiences...so I decided I would make it a point to join in the fun. I arrived at 9am for rehearsal which lasted for 3 hours. We went over and over and over the dance and learned about the specifics of how it develops because there is no actual practice time in the chosen location. There were about 80 people that were at rehearsal and it was awesome to see it all come together. <br /><br />The flash mob took place at the Artisan Market in Kerrytown area of Ann Arbor (the same location as the farmer's market if you have ever been). The 80 participants walked around shopping leading up to the time it was supposed to start which was 1pm. Then out of nowhere, we here the beginnings of the song "Party Rock"...which literally starts with the singer yelling "PARTY ROCK!!" Then 4 people began the dance and it evolved from there. I was fortunate to have a friend standing by and videotaped the entire thing and I wanted to share it...and my incredible dance moves, jk :)...with all of you. <br /><br />If you get wind of a flash mob happening in your area...check it out, join in and have some fun. We only get one chance...dance like no one is watching...or dance like the whole world is watching and shake that booty and make it count!!!<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_Wb35o4qOQ&feature=feedu"><br /><br />http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_Wb35o4qOQ&feature=feedu</a><br /><br />The above link gets you to the YouTube Clip of the video my friend took. I am in the middle with the black sweatshirt, black hat and boots.Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-5645469899489376062011-10-17T14:15:00.000-07:002011-10-17T14:23:53.599-07:00SOMETIMES...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQV0sjLVF4G2QtNBzgdH3CHOgBfhq70c1KfvVF4gzx6T8xILSF4S4Ia5AF881vmM7idChdcIo0m3KgWi3dG6ULPIKZEtHAnYfW0QGTZoTA_SQT4xKlfmiZ3O-EcqCcV2yDbwm8HPy0xa39/s1600/photo1.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664573974213855890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQV0sjLVF4G2QtNBzgdH3CHOgBfhq70c1KfvVF4gzx6T8xILSF4S4Ia5AF881vmM7idChdcIo0m3KgWi3dG6ULPIKZEtHAnYfW0QGTZoTA_SQT4xKlfmiZ3O-EcqCcV2yDbwm8HPy0xa39/s320/photo1.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>...wearing the medal the next day actually helps with the soreness that follows a run like that. It makes me smile!<br /><br />"A journey of a thousand miles (or 13.1) begins with a single step." <br /> -Lao-tzu</div><br /><br /><div></div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-5371249638577194192011-10-17T09:09:00.001-07:002011-10-17T09:43:21.317-07:00ANOTHER HALF DOWNCan you say, "HOLY SORE LEGS, BATMAN!!!!" I ran the Detroit Half Marathon fo<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2hDrV8hqefxGC4UcwI8DgzjlIQSemZwB8hoX0W5diiX8_2Nmf0bQm4W6opU6CwuYul0VCn263XWWlG2nxsKE6MLzLWMRTRMqoPRgaLr8GIQMPK57HjZICj2apTyo1DH_fLROXkXpC-RD/s1600/photo5.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 194px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 228px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664499149667888018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2hDrV8hqefxGC4UcwI8DgzjlIQSemZwB8hoX0W5diiX8_2Nmf0bQm4W6opU6CwuYul0VCn263XWWlG2nxsKE6MLzLWMRTRMqoPRgaLr8GIQMPK57HjZICj2apTyo1DH_fLROXkXpC-RD/s320/photo5.JPG" /></a>r the third year in a row yesterday. It is such a fun race and draws me back year after year.<br />It started with a cool, fall morning, a few sprinkles and some pretty intense wind. I decided to stay downtown Detroit with some friends because of the 7AM start which was a very good choice. The past 2 years I had to wake up at 4AM to make it to the race on time and <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDElyGNPfnzq3h_X82wBn7Lm05JVXykNs03SZYqXhjAHs5GrU0kIiRVR1JmdrLzL1ZLSpSdercDJgIyx8FxMNQ4dWC1ZEIoKjgl_oWWK2P6ZoxtBP6pkOKbdaunVqWoNUGw9YBve1FVRrH/s1600/photo4.JPG"></a>that is brutal.<br /><div></div><br /><div>I have a few pictures that I want to share so you can see some of the sights along the race. It is so much fun to run across the bridge to Canada and back through the tunnel to the US.<br /></div><br /><div>Also I recently learned how to breathe...after almost 7 years of long distance running, in the past month, I finally <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHx4JWCad-K6W5Q-2ydTZAw8bTzX1Dn85oNZ96TGlCc0Qn7pto7FGGgHCukt_8TKWYl-c7Kozts3aKVaN-zRWb1kyFivMFq-aJ0hqb0iZ0NAWDzRLmll_MPxjDnBWNDsNr6TEi1JDHZ-ct/s1600/photo4.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 175px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664500487356476450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHx4JWCad-K6W5Q-2ydTZAw8bTzX1Dn85oNZ96TGlCc0Qn7pto7FGGgHCukt_8TKWYl-c7Kozts3aKVaN-zRWb1kyFivMFq-aJ0hqb0iZ0NAWDzRLmll_MPxjDnBWNDsNr6TEi1JDHZ-ct/s320/photo4.JPG" /></a>learned how to breathe and it is making a HUGE difference. In fact I cut off 26 minutes from my time last year...26 min<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwzaoz8RIzWDtdGFOpEH_8TYWIyJwiH9I7UAXoznbtY4wTp-kuAlJtQJYC4GKHXKn2wNcWRpSYUfz6QG5Fxw-JC0x6L3ma-m6ijUn195LtcdZ5gLOh7Wd7arpj8ruc6DwMxP_qmqygPdMR/s1600/photo1.JPG"></a>utes!!! That is 2 minutes per mile difference which is significant. I will let you know what I mean when I say "I learned how to breathe" in a future post but for now, I am just celebrating the accomplishment. Crossing the finish line is one of the greatest feelings in the world and I am sure is what keeps runners coming back for more and more. I didn't have my running buddy with me for this race, but he caught <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAppsu4UbtemNtcKYC-21363bBUDzvqtl25PMYIWl55QD1wec7iie-ImTCdxPJia4ffGq1eAmjxDxdKQyaxZO1bkZQwyTODO6435JsCRFcInLor4xg6N6U059nQEQGH_HVFfPL6bhrSQ9/s1600/photo1.JPG"></a>up with me when I finished and those are the best hugs ever!</div><br /><div>Every year I get to this point, after finishing my big goal for the year of running a half, I promise myself that I will keep running on a regular basis to include one long run per week...then 2 months go by without even lacing up my running shoes. This year it is going to be different. I am pr<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0esjhG84flEirm2RTZEAPTpW_bpFYkv86TThLxk0PblofdNqkWUtM1jBNHh4McciZgYiyMbgKyseeVIcc1RvaCDGMP1INRFOekVeMuhjAo-pYCTeWyGVGZuuc8yAI4vxJUPJjprzpY1D/s1600/photo3.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 158px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 270px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664499437380018194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0esjhG84flEirm2RTZEAPTpW_bpFYkv86TThLxk0PblofdNqkWUtM1jBNHh4McciZgYiyMbgKyseeVIcc1RvaCDGMP1INRFOekVeMuhjAo-pYCTeWyGVGZuuc8yAI4vxJUPJjprzpY1D/s320/photo3.JPG" /></a>omising myself, and letting all of you hold me accountable to, running at least twice a week and walking once. I'm really going to do it this time...especially now that I am making some headway with my times, I don't want to take any steps back. </div><br /><div>Ever considered running a Half Marathon? ...or even a 5K? It starts with putting one foot in front of the other and having the confidence to reach for big goals. Need recommendations about how to start? Come talk to me! </div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-21385944423191450212011-09-29T10:41:00.000-07:002011-09-29T10:58:06.206-07:00SITTING AND SITTING AND SITTING...I am not sure how this is happening... I have been out in practice for over 6 years talking to people about the challenges that sitting all day has on our health. Our culture tends towards jobs that are done in a seated position for long hours everyday…sometimes 8 or more hours…plus an hour drive to and from work. It is one of the most unhealthy and stressful positions for the body to be in. So right now, I have been sitting for almost 4 hours. I have taken three 5 minute breaks to walk around and move. I have another at least 21 hours to go over the next 3 days. I am not sure how this is going to work out. <div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-2tIz9gZy5ETyQxPIU0UMRtDtJY2segNblzF7-JrwC1Wuf3IEchR07acedLWxz8y_ZfSgfT9t1j25h81hBLeBxn-0mN475t0BeCEtvnLyS5VQc89M848RVx1-nfz_y-QFyHIfnU8Jffe/s320/picture.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657840756419175426" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></div><div><br /></div><div>When I look back to my days of being a doctorate student, we had 35 hours of mandatory attendance</div><div> (35 hours of mostly sitting) classroom work and another 15-30 hours of studying (mostly sitting as well) per week. Since graduation and now being in practice, I sit for a maximum amount of 20 minute periods at a time and usually more like 3-5 minutes. So my question is how am I at the chiropractic college and being required to sit for hours and hours and hours when this is the very place I learned how stressful sitting is on the spine and nerve system? Seems there should be some sort of a walking class, or standing desks or something here. <br /><br />Thank goodness (insert sarcastic tone here) that I learned to sit long hours when I first started elementary school, and kept doing it for 12 years through school and another 10 years in college. Looking back, I have had enough training to know how to do this, however because I have so much more awareness about the body, bio mechanics and health, this is incredibly difficult. You may think that sitting stress has to do with just the low back…but sit long enough and it will effect the upper back, the neck, circulation and nerve supply to the glutes and lower extremities…and all kinds of other things. I understand why elementary classrooms are designed with seats and desks and requirements to stay in them for organization, but maybe…just maybe this is where all of our health problems start. <br /><br />Our bodies were meant to move, they are designed that way and are happier when doing so. I am grateful that my classes are full of chiropractors and that I can get adjusted frequently when I am here. I also know that I was going to be needing some serious exercise to counter-act some of this stress which I have planned for and will make a priority. <br /><br />Are you sitting all day? Are you taking actions to counteract those daily stresses? Switching jobs is a much bigger challenge than counter-acting the effects of that sitting job and long drive have on your spine and health...do yourself a favor and take this information into account when looking for after work activities. We only get one chance.</div>Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-40949141119237223792011-09-28T12:29:00.000-07:002011-09-28T12:39:36.500-07:00ATLANTA, GA<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWma1MNZIuBZ8nO23mEOoyw5XlnvRpH83vt8yUnHJaCzfUwuShqfCCkhmXBZk1wDCaZFP9IX8n6pGBFHu_tfCMq9LFwYjPtzC5X94CC5swI3Bp49QWXjbcodwcYc92fP_M0cTaKhNdUGQ/s1600/Atlanta-Georgia-Charter-Flights-bottom.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWma1MNZIuBZ8nO23mEOoyw5XlnvRpH83vt8yUnHJaCzfUwuShqfCCkhmXBZk1wDCaZFP9IX8n6pGBFHu_tfCMq9LFwYjPtzC5X94CC5swI3Bp49QWXjbcodwcYc92fP_M0cTaKhNdUGQ/s320/Atlanta-Georgia-Charter-Flights-bottom.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657497243846967170" /></a><br />I am on my way to Atlanta. It seems like a long time since I have spent any real time there. It is another home for me. I spent a few years in school there and am still quite connected with the chiropractic college and many people that are involved at the school. One thing about Atlanta, I love the diversity. Have you been to Atlanta? <br /><br />At one point I heard that 75% of the people that are in Atlanta are transplanted…mostly from the north. That makes for the city having an interesting personality of a northern feel with southern hospitality. This small town of Fenton is incredibly non-diverse…what would be the correct word for that? Homogeneous? I don't know…but I know you get the point. When I moved home I was shocked at how far I had to drive for any culture…and not to mention cuisine. I tend to steer away from "American" food and do not care much for Italian either. I had to drive 30-45 minutes to get things like Thai, Sushi, Indian and Ethiopian food. Things are improving slowly but surely but I love being in Atlanta where you can find all kinds of fun food on every corner. <br /><br />I lived in Atlanta at a really special time in my life. I began chiropractic college and was making the greatest life-long friends and learning and growing so much as a student, but more importantly as a person. It was a time when I began to focus inward and really look at what makes me me and how I got that way. With this amazing group of friends, we spent a lot of time in introspection. Seems we were all digging for answers to the same questions…What is life really all about? Why am I here? What is my purpose? How can I live in a peaceful way? How can I serve others? What do I want to manifest in my life? How can I become more healthy and whole? …and the late night conversations filled with philosophy, connection and laughter are really precious memories for me. <br /><br />Atlanta was home of the first Cafe of LIFE office I had ever been to. Cafe of LIFE is not a franchise, it is more a concept of shifting chiropractic away from a medical setting. The day I walked into that Cafe, and the first adjustment I received from the chiropractor, changed my life forever. It was a pivotal moment that I will share the specifics of in a later blog in case you haven't heard the story. My path to some deep core healing began in Atlanta, and entering the Cafe of LIFE that day was a catalyst for that. <br /><br />So when I get back there, I become really nostalgic. All the sights and sounds and smells and feels take me back to a really sweet transitioning point in my life…and also the point when I learned what it means to SERVE. I will spend the weekend in seminar and reigniting my internal flame with laughter and community and the enjoyment of being back on the campus and in a place that taught me so much about me. Have an amazing weekend everyone!!!Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6441797082617343754.post-387973558338620872011-09-19T12:43:00.000-07:002011-09-21T05:16:36.672-07:00I REMEMBER...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXDUTGoDXA4aqpwaq5oml33lMad9QdQbxJO9ssuHLCrn-ssikPcK2ymdZI1jIuhUZSrJ2Kpp1JWSBUu31Ftszc1-WP-_Td0jnGuMY4sttYn5dJK6RvT90tp0KRMwEBzaWYLEI5OQi4-j5/s1600/bed.bmp"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 163px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXDUTGoDXA4aqpwaq5oml33lMad9QdQbxJO9ssuHLCrn-ssikPcK2ymdZI1jIuhUZSrJ2Kpp1JWSBUu31Ftszc1-WP-_Td0jnGuMY4sttYn5dJK6RvT90tp0KRMwEBzaWYLEI5OQi4-j5/s320/bed.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654785496010720882" /></a><br />I remember this feeling. I am in a new house and a new bed and I have yet to move the rest of my furniture into the new place. Over the past couple days I have had some upper back stiffness and I feel really hunched over and locked up. I am sitting at my desk and trying to remember when I felt this last...and then it hit me...it was prior to the purchase of my Sleep Number bed. <br /><br />I remember waking up for years feeling like I got hit by a truck while I was sleeping. I was (and am) working out, drinking lots of water, stretching and doing yoga on a continual basis and at that age (and this age), there is no way my body should have felt (and currently feel) like that. (I am not trying to be a commercial for Sleep Number by telling you all this.) I purchased my bed 2 years ago after stopping in a store on a recommendation of another chiropractor. Everything they were telling me was making sense and when I got it home and tried it for myself, I was really, really impressed and amazed with my ability to rest and feel rested in the morning. It is one of those things that after sleeping on it for so long, I had forgotten the difference...until the past 2.5 weeks.<br /><br />The biggest challenge I have now is that my Sleep Number bed I have at home is a queen and my new master bedroom has a king and requires a king...so I am going to have to go and purchase a king Sleep Number in the very near future. People that come in and get adjusted at my chiropractic office ask me all the time what bed I recommend. I always give them my personal experience because what else can i possibly talk about besides what I have done myself. <br /><br />We spend a third of our lives in bed and it is important to make an investment in the quality of sleep we get. How can we possibly move through our days and do what we need to do feeling like we got hit by a truck sometime during the night? Just for the record, there are many really good quality beds on the market. Everyone is slightly different and our bodies have different requirements when it comes to relaxation and sleep. The best advice I can give on sleep position is to make sure your spine is as neutral as possible...making sure there are no twists, extra stress or sagging occurring...and I am grateful to know what I need to do about this and where to go to return to happy sleeping!!!Dr. Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16564310358993752657noreply@blogger.com0