Archive for the Category ◊ health ◊

Reasons Why Trader Joe’s Is The Answer To Your Shopping Needs
Author: Judy Conway
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I would like to take this opportunity to give you reasons why Trader Joe’s is the answer to your shopping needs.

If you are looking for a store that provides not only great, courteous customer service but also a wealth of unique products, Trader Joe’s is an experience you will revisit time and time again.  There is never a time that I have shopped here that I haven’t marveled at the friendly, helpful service from the workers in this store.  You will always leave with a smile on your face.

Too often we are ready to offer our negative comments on things in our lives.  I personally feel that we should also be ready to testify to those experiences we have that make us glad for where we have been and how we have been treated.  My daughter and I encountered just such a time at Trader Joe’s on Highway 92 in Roswell, Georgia this past Wednesday.

There was an older couple who made the 100 mile trip from Blue Ridge.  To me that speaks volumes of the store. We are among many customers who look forward to our next shopping trip.

Thank you Luke for being an awesome cashier and making us feel special!

We live in Hickory Flat, Georgia, approximately ten miles away, and our only complaint with Trader Joe’s is that there is not a store closer to where we live!

The store offers fresh produce at reasonable prices, great baked goods, such as different artisan breads, bagels and pies.  Visit Trader Joe’s to learn more about the wide range of products and recipes.

Below are just a few of the items that are always on our grocery list:

  • The best tasting low fat Tuscano Marinara sauce sold under the name of Trader Giotto’s
  • Sweet Chili sauce (that tastes awesome on almost anything you are cooking)
  • Various spices including one called 21 Seasoning Salute
  • Quality olive oils and vinegars, including a popular balsamic vinegar
  • A wide assortment of rices, couscous, and quinoa
  • Great soaps and health items
  • Coffees and teas for any connoisseur
  • A very wide variety of cheeses from around the world
  • Cookies, Crackers and Candies

Trader Joe’s has a wine department that is not rivaled by any I have seen at prices that will thrill your wallet.  You can always find Trader Joes/Charles Shaw variety of wines that sell for $2.79 and recently we have purchased one of their “Hustle Buy” deals of Trebbiano Pino Grigio (white) and Sangiovese (red), both from Italy that are wonderful.  These sell for $2.49.  Of course, these would not be appropriate to give to children, but you must admit these prices are less than what you would pay for a bottle of juice (you can also find great juices here)!  You always hear it said you should cook with wine that you would want to drink … and now you can do it cheaper than what you pay for cooking wine at  your local grocery store.

As you can see from the list above, in addition to finding great frozen seafood, vegetables, eggplant Parmigiana, relishes, multi-grain pancake mix, and frozen desserts, these are all great reasons why Trader Joe’s is the answer to your shopping needs. I hope that this article will stir your curiosity to see if there is a store in your area.  I personally want to thank Trader Joe’s for being a ray of sunshine in my life and reminding me that great customer service still exists!

Category: Cheeses, health, Helpful Hints, Shopping, Wine  | Tags: , , , , , ,  | Leave a Comment
Black & Decker NLP1800 Cordless Chainsaw – What a Tool!
Author: Judy Conway
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Do You Want to Make Tree Trimming Easier? Use the Black and Decker NLP1800 Cordless Chain Saw! From past personal experience I have learned that trimming trees and hedges can be an over-whelming task. See one of my first encounters with “trimming” in my previous post “Learn How To Conquer Yard Work.” I quickly learned that a week of manually cutting back these hedges with a hand tree saw was not the way to go. So if you want to make tree trimming easier, use the Black and Decker NLP1800 Cordless Chain Saw.

Having spent an exhausting week trimming the Variegated Chinese Privet in my backyard and getting the wise suggestion from my son-in-law, I looked into purchasing a chain saw. At the first mention of purchasing one of these, I had visions of cutting off a limb or two (of my own body)! I began a search for a chain saw that a retired gardener like me could handle. I discovered the Black and Decker NLP1800 Alligator Lopper Cordless Chain Saw. In reading the reviews I noted that this chain saw was light weight, had some safety features and was something I felt I would be able to handle. With fearful thoughts of operating a chain saw I asked my son-in-law to show me how to operate it before I commenced the large project of trimming these same hedges on the front side of my house. These too had grown well above six-feet high. As a matter of fact they were as high as my second story bedroom window. If you want hedges that grow rapidly, I would definitely suggest these.

In the beginning ....

One Saturday afternoon we tackled the job. I was blessed that my son-in-law opted to do the cutting down of all of the limbs. I assisted in piling all the cuttings in a rather larger pile. After about two hours in the intense heat and wearing down the batteries, we decided to finish the rest of the job on Sunday afternoon.

By Sunday afternoon the tall hedges were all cut down. However, that most definitely was not the end of this chore. I spent a good two weeks using this awesome chain saw cutting up limbs and trimmings and bagging them. The Black and Decker NPL1800 proved very helpful with this as well. It works well on trimming the smaller growth on your trees and bushes too. This chain saw was not only useful in cutting down the hedges, but when it came to cutting up all of the debris it made my job a lot easier.  I know that if I had tackled this job manually …. I would still be cutting.  I am grateful that my son-in-law suggested a chain saw.  It made light work of a really overwhelming project

I am a 65 year old, semi-retired grandma and if I can handle this chain saw  … anyone can.  I am now off to tackle a very large bush that has grown enormously high around a tree in my back yard. I am so grateful for this tool.

Do you want to make tree trimming easier? Use the Black and Decker NLP1800 Cordless Chain Saw and you will be able to enjoy your fun activities quicker.  Honestly, the Black and Decker NLP1800 Cordless Chain Saw is an awesome tool.  If you would like to check one out for yourself, please click on the image below.  Happy trimming.



Category: gardening, health, Helpful Hints, home  | Tags: , , , , ,  | Leave a Comment
Thomas Eye Group Makes You Feel Important
Author: Judy Conway
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I want to take this opportunity to thank The Thomas Eye Group for giving me back my world.  If I could, I would sing praises from the rooftop about my recent experience.  Thomas Eye Group makes you feel important and not like just another number!

I recently turned 65 and signed up with Medicare. I was having serious vision problems related to cataracts.  As I normally do, I did my due diligence researching other ophthalmologist offices in my area.  From the very start I received courteous, helpful information and assistance from Thomas Eye Group at their Woodstock, Georgia office.  I made an appointment with Dr. Mark Berman to see what I needed could be done to correct my vision problems.

During my first visit I spoke with Mickie Holland, the surgical coordinator, before I met with Dr. Mark Berman. Mickie assisted me in filling out all of the forms I would need for surgery and armed me with lots of informative brochures, prescriptions for eye drops that had to be used before and two weeks after surgery, and instructions for things I would need to know before the day of surgery.  She assisted me with the necessary procedures for surgery and she made filling out all the necessary paperwork a breeze.

Next, Krista, one of the associates did all the primary testing procedures that are normally done when you have your eyes examined.  She was both personable and exhibited knowledge and professionalism.

Dr. Berman came in and spoke to me about my options after reviewing the test results.  He informed me that he could strengthen my eyeglass prescription but I would never be able to see well enough to pass a driving test.  I let him know that I had already scheduled the first cataract surgery.  He agreed this was a good decision.  He shared with me that if he had not known that the glasses they had read the prescription on when I first arrived belonged to me, he would have thought that I had given them someone else’s glasses.  That is how much my vision had changed and how poorly I was seeing.  That was really scary.  I knew that I was having difficulty seeing, but never realized just how bad my vision had gotten. The scary thing is that it happened quite rapidly. I had joked with Krista telling her that I could not see the phone number on the TV screen to vote for the American Idol I liked!  I knew my vision was seriously failing when I had to stand in front of the TV to see the channel guide.

Armed with lots of informative brochures, prescriptions for eye drops that had to be used before surgery, and instructional sheets I came home feeling that I had made an excellent decision going with the Thomas Eye Group. I had great confidence that Dr. Berman was going to change the way I was seeing my world and I could hardly wait.

Approximately two weeks later my daughter and two grandchildren drove me to the Thomas Eye Surgery Center across from Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Atlanta.  I must admit that I was a tad bit nervous!  I was called back for surgery, which I was told would take approximately 2 hours.  The actual procedure that Dr. Berman would perform took about 20 minutes.  The remainder of the time was spent in putting in eye drops to numb the eye, dilation drops, getting set up with an IV that would provide something to help me relax, blood pressure readings, oxygen set up, etc.  Even though it is a simple procedure, it is still surgery and precautions are taken.  Sharon was my prep nurse and a delightful person and Dr. Whitehouse was my anesthesiologist. My feelings of anxiety were quickly calmed.  I was wheeled from the preparation area into the operating room.  Dr. Berman performed his magic and I was taken back to the initial.  My daughter was called to come and get me and go over an explicit sheet of instructions.  When I left I had a protective cup-like gizmo bandaged over my eye and told I could remove it in approximately two hours.

I am so blessed that my daughter and patient grandchildren were by my side.  My son-in-law too!  I went back to their house and my daughter said they would feel better if I spent the night. Not knowing what might happen, she wanted to be close by.  They all waited on me hand and foot.  As they always do.  They too made me feel very special.

Two hours went by and I took off the bandages.  I nervously looked at the TV and was so utterly amazed to read all the fine print.  I had a post-op appointment with Dr. Berman the next day.  Testing at that time proved that I had 20/20 vision in the eye that just had surgery.  I scheduled the next surgery in about four weeks.

If you are planning on cataract surgery, it is very important that you follow the instructions for using the various eye drops.  This will definitely help your surgery and healing process.

Having one eye at 20/20 and the other still really bad I was going to have difficulty with my regular glasses.  The optician at Thomas Eye Group was kind enough to take out the prescription lens from my glasses and put in a clear one.

I have gone into detail as to the procedures you will encounter if you are considering cataract surgery.  The surgery for the second eye was just like the first.  The only exception was I did not feel anxious at all.

I would highly recommend Thomas Eye Group.  Dr. Mark Berman was fabulous, great smile and “bedside” manner and a doctor that I have full confidence in.  All of the ladies who assisted in the office, Mickie, Krista, Susan, Natasha all the way through to Aida the person who made future appointments and took my payments, were all wonderful.  Everyone contributed to making this a good experience and one I will always remember.

In closing, if you know an older person  whose surroundings do not seem as clean as they used to be, do not criticize … my daughter had told me that I had cob webs and dirt that I had not been able to see.  As I usually have a very clean house, she realized that I must be having problems seeing.  Of course, now that I have had my cataract surgery I have become a cleaning fanatic!

I truly want to thank Thomas Eye Group for giving me back my world.  I now can see individual leaves on my shrubs that once just looked like green blobs.  I have my independence back with being able to drive and see the road signs.

This experience has given me great compassion for people who are blind or having problems seeing.  You really feel like your world is closing in around you and become fearful of going out of your familiar surroundings.

Even something as mundane as watching TV is once again a pleasure.  I can read the Jeopardy questions, see who is really up at bat and what the score is and again enjoy playing games with my grandchildren.  I applaud and thank everyone I came in contact at Thomas Eye Group for making me feel important and giving me back the ability to see the true beauty around me.

Category: Cataract Surgery, health, home, Inspirational, Medicine  | Tags: , , , ,  | 2 Comments
The Nesco/American Harvest Food Dehydrator Is Always There For You
Author: Judy Conway
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Having been the leader in food dehydration for over 30 years, Nesco/American Harvest is considered to have the best food dehydrators in the world.  Nesco/American Harvest Food Dehydrator processes fruits, vegetables and jerky for times of need, like the times we are experiencing this winter with some severe snow and ice storms. Without a doubt the Nesco/American Harvest food dehydrator is always there for you.

A food dehydrator will take the worry out of being house bound during blizzards, ice storms, hurricanes, etc .and facing the dilemma of finding the shelves in your grocery store bare.  You will always have vegetables, fruits and meat to create wonderful soups and stews or delicious desserts, just to mention a few.

A food dehydrator can save you money.  If you are a gardener,  here the perfect way to utilize your crops for future use.  Or if your local store is running a sale on produce you can buy at a lower price and dehydrate for later use at a savings!  Fruits are very tasty when dehydrated as well.  I especially like apples, strawberries and pineapple.  With the fruits you can also make fruit leathers, which most children love.

Below is a list of drying information for various vegetables and fruits:

Vegetables:

  • Beans, green:Stem and break beans into 1-inch pieces.Blanch. Dry 6-12 hours until brittle.
  • Beets: Cook and peel beets. Cut into 1/4-inch pieces. Dry 3-10 hours until leathery.
  • Broccoli: Cut and dry 4-10 hours.
  • Carrots: Peel, slice or shred. Dry 6-12 hours until almost brittle.
  • Cauliflower: Cut and dry 6-14 hours.
  • Corn:Cut corn off cob after blanching and dry 6-12 hours until brittle.
  • Mushrooms: Brush off, don’t wash. Dry at 90 degrees for 3 hours, and then 125 degrees for the remaining drying time. Dry 4-10 hours until brittle.
  • Onions: Slice 1/4-inch thick. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
  • Peas: Dry 5-14 hours until brittle.
  • Peppers, sweet: Remove seeds and chop. Dry 5-12 hours until leathery.
  • Potatoes: Slice 1/8-inch thick. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
  • Tomatoes: Dip in boiling water to loosen skins, peel,slice or quarter. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
  • Zucchini: Slice 1/8-inch thick and dry 5-10 hours until brittle.

Fruits:

  • Apples:Peel, core and slice into 3/8-inch rings, or cut into 1/4-inch slices. Pretreat and dry 6-12 hours until pliable.
  • Apricots: Cut in half and turn inside out to dry. Pretreat and dry 8-20 hours until pliable.
  • Bananas: Peel, cut into 1/4-inch slices and pretreat. Dry 8-16 hours until plialbe or almost crisp.
  • Blueberries: Dry 10-20 hours until leathery.
  • Cherries: Cut in half and dry 18-26 hours until leathery and slightly sticky.
  • Peaches: Peel,halve or quarter. Pretreat and dry 6-20 hours until pliable.
  • Pears: Peel, cut into 1/4-inch slices, and pretreat. Dry 6-20 hours until leathery.
  • Pineapple: Core and slice 1/4-inch thick. Dry 6-16 hours until leathery and not sticky.
  • Strawberries: Halve or cut into 1/4-inch thick slices. Dry 6-16 hours until pliable and almost crisp.

You can pre-treat your fruit with lemon juice or ascorbic acid so it won’t darken while you are preparing it for drying. Just slice the fruit into the solution and soak for 5 minutes.

Dried fruits can also be used to make beautiful wreaths and swags for gifts combined with cinnamon sticks and bay leaves.  These last for years and you can refresh their fragrance with a spritz of cinnamon oil.

Here is how you would prepare your fruits and vegetables for use in your recipes:

  • Apples: Add 1 1/2 C. warm water to 1 C. apples and soak for 1/2 hour.
  • Beans, green: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. beans and soak for 1 1/2 hours.
  • Beets: Add 2 3/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. beets and soak for 1 1/2 hours.
  • Carrots: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. carrots and soak for 1 hour.
  • Corn: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. Corn and soak for 1/2 hour.
  • Onions: Add 2 C. boiling water to 1 C. onions and soak for 1 hour.
  • Peaches: Add 2 C. warm water to 1 C. peaches and soak for 1 1/4 hour.
  • Pears: Add 1 3/4 C. warm water to 1 C. pears and soak for 1 hour.
  • Peas: Add 2 1/2 C. boiling water to 1 C. peas and soak for 1/2 hour.
  • Potatoes: Add 1 1/2 C. boiling water to 1 C. potatoes and soak for 1/2 hour.

Many people enjoy meat jerky. Jerky does not store as long as fruits and vegetables. For storage longer than a month you will want to consider storage in the freezer or refrigerator. To aid in the curing of jerky, meat must be marinated in salt and spices. In days of old people used 1 1/2 cups pickling salt to 1 gallon of water and soaked the meat strips in this for a couple of days.  Below are several marinade recipes for you to choose from. You will want to marinade the meat strips overnight.

Jerky Marinade No.1

  • 1/4 C. Soy sauce
  • 2 T. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 t. pepper
  • 1/2 t. garlic powder
  • 1 t. liquid smoke
  • 1 t. salt

Jerky Marinade No.2

  • 4 t. salt
  • 1 t. pepper
  • 1 t. chili powder
  • 1 t. garlic powder
  • 1 t. liquid smoke
  • 1/2 C. water

Jerky Marinade No.3

  • 1 C. ketchup
  • 1/2 C. vinegar
  • 1/4 C Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 t. dry mustard
  • 1 t. salt
  • 1/2 t. pepper

In checking the shelf life of dehydrated fruits and vegetables most resources recommended one year.  Be sure your items are stored in a dry environment.

If you are an avid camper, a dehydrator can help in the preparation of awesome trail mix!!  There are many recipes and suggestions on the internet proving the Nesco/American Harvest  FD-80 Square- Shaped Food Dehydrator Is always there for you. To learn more information about this dehydrator please click on this link:



Category: Camping, diet, family, gardening, health, Helpful Hints, home, Hurricane Preparedness  | Tags: , , , ,  | Leave a Comment
Do You Want To Lose Weight In 2011? Wii Videos Can Be Your 24/7 Gym
Author: Judy Conway
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The Biggest Loser Challenge

There are many exercise videos to choose from.  With the new Biggest Loser Series starting with a new group of contestants  tonight and the popularity of this show, I have decided to share information on “The Biggest Loser Challenge” video for the Wii System. This is considered one of the leading interactive health and fitness videos.

This video provides an exercise simulation game based on the popular TV show. The 125 plus exercises, co-op play option, integration option with the Wii Balance Board featuring the cast and trainers of the show provides the user with a fun and healthy exercise program suitable for all members of the family.  Every member of your family can get fit for the cost of this video and do it in the comfort of your home without going to the gym.

50 all new recipes are also included from the The Biggest Loser Cookbook.

This video allows you to exercise in the following environments:

•    The Biggest Loser Ranch
•    The Biggest Loser Gym
•    The Biggest Loser Yoga Area
•    The Biggest Loser Boxing Ring

You will be able to take part in warm ups, cool downs, cardio boxing, yoga, circuit training as well as core exercises.  You can create your own fitness routines such as Belly Buster and Boot Camp.  Integrate activities with stability balls, resistance bands and free weights.

With The Biggest Loser Challenge you can track your progress, receive encouragement and tips from Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels, enter your personal information which will calculate your score that will indicate your current health and fitness level and choose if you want to workout using the Wii Balance Board, stability ball or resistance bands for a more intense program.

This is one of the comments featured, “If you’re a fan of The Biggest Loser TV Show and have always felt you could use a little personal training from Bob and Jillian to lose a little weight yourself, this is the Wii exercise title for you.”

To learn more about this 4-star rated video and customer reviews on Amazon.Com please click on one of the links below.  I have also included links for Dumbells for Wii, The Biggest Loser Challenge and the Wii Fit Plus with Balance Board.

I wish you greatest success with your weight loss program and becoming more healthy in 2011!


Category: family, health, Wii  | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,  | Leave a Comment
Did You Know the AARP Magazine Can Save You Money?
Author: Judy Conway
•

For the longest time, I must sadly admit, I treated my AARP Magazine as junk mail.  Because of what I have discovered I want to ask you a simple question – “Did you know that the AARP Magazine can save you money?”  I realize, of course, that you may not be old enough to be involved with AARP, but when you reach the age of 49 (the age I joined) I would suggest that you join.

In the September/October 2010 issue there is a great section on 16 ways that AARP saves you money.  I would like to list these here just in case you missed this article.

  1. Many of us have been coupon clippers for many years.  It surely is a great feeling to check out at the store and find you have saved, in some cases, more than you have spent.  And this happened just because you took the time to clip coupons.  With the economy the way it is today, you cannot afford not to clip coupons.  The AARP Grocery Coupon center offers coupons for more than just groceries.  You can check these out at http://grocerycouponcenter.com.
  2. If you are like me, I am always looking for discounts at the national chain stores.  These include Target, Sears, Kmart, and many others.  The Everyday Savings Center is powered by Next Jump.  You can find discounts on things from books, electronics, furniture and much more.  For more information on this service check out http://everydaysavingscenter.com/deals.
  3. Nowadays, it is a blessing when we can find tips on low-cost home improvements, including no-cost ways to improve our energy usage. How many times do we find ourselves postponing a home improvement project because it is too expensive? AARP Magazine suggests checking out http://aarp.org/homeupdates.
  4. Often we forfeit going out to eat as it just does not fit in our budget.  Denny’s offers a 20 percent savings off your check every day between the hours of 4 PM and 10 PM just by your showing your AARP card. (please note that this offer cannot be used with other promotional offers and this is valid only at participating Denny restaurants).  You can also get coffee for yourself and your guests for $1.00.  You can call your local Denny’s to check this out at 800-733-6697 or go to their website at http://dennys.com.
  5. I am most definitely going to be checking this “way to save” out myself.  I did not participate in driver’s education when I was in high school but now AARP is offering the first and largest driver refresher course in the classroom and online.  This will be at a discounted rate for AARP members.  I have a spotless driving record but this could save me money.  Check out the regulations in your state.  Taking this course could very well save you money on your insurance premiums.  For further information you can call 888-227-7669 or go to http://aarp.org/drive.
  6. Who does not like to travel?  As our purse strings seem to be getting tighter it is more and more difficult to take those vacations we would like to.  The AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia can help you with your domestic and international vacation packages, cruises, flights, hotels and rental cars.  You can be eligible for discounts from most AARP Travel hotel and car providers, as well as receiving extra onboard credits on select cruises.  In addition you will not be charged air or cruise booking fees.  Check out 800-675-4318 or http://expedia-aarp.com for more information.
  7. And while you are on your way to the airport, perhaps you will need airport parking.  You can save 10 percent at more than 130 off-site discount airport parking facilities operated by Park Ride Fly USA nationwide.  They offer complimentary services that include curb-to-curb shuttle service to and from the airport, valet and/or self-parking and luggage assistance (this is an enormous help for sure).  Call 877-503-7275 or log onto http://parkrideflyusa.com/aarp for more information.
  8. I do not know about you, but car and home insurance payments can take a big chunk out of your budget.  If you insure your home and auto with the AARP Auto and Homeowners Insurance Program you can receive up to a ten percent discount on your homeowners-insurance rates and an additional fifteen  percent on your auto insurance.  Go to http://aarp.the.hartford.com/msb, or call 800-689-9089, code 440160 for specific information.
  9. If you are looking for ways to save on your cell phone plan, you can receive a free phone from Consumer Cellular when you sign up for a new service.   With this program you will receive 5 percent off your monthly service and 30 percent off selected accessories.  You will not have to sign up for a long term contract.  Call 888-437-9226 or go to http://consumercellular.com/aarp.
  10. Who is not trying to become more physically fit?  Visit AARP’s online fitness center for exercise news and motivational tips.  You can join an online group, Fat2Fit, and be part of a group that has helped almost 4,000 people lose weight over the past year.  If you would like more information on this program check out http://aarp.org/fit.
  11. Most people at this age are looking for ways to save money on eyewear.  AARP has a program that can help you save on bifocals, trifocals, lens options and frames.  You can realize these savings at LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, Sears Optical, Target Optical, JC Penney Optical and also at many private practitioners.  These savings are offered through EyeMed Vision Care and for more information you can go to http://aarphealthcare.com or call 888-352-3924.  These savings cannot be combined without other discounts.
  12. Health insurance is very expense and there are many people who cannot afford a health plan.  This means that screening tests are not being performed.  You can receive six free health tests for such things as bone density and cholesterol, through the AARP/Walgreens Wellness Tour.  This program is visiting cities nationwide and in Puerto Rico through February 2011.  Call 866-484-8687 or go http://aarpwalghreens.com/tour.  By logging onto the website you can see where the tour will be going.
  13. Medications are another expense that many people are having difficulty affording.  Check out AARP’s Doughnut Hole Calculator to find less expensive generic drugs.  Those who have fallen to Medicare Part D’s “Doughnuthole” will receive a $250.00 rebate check from Medicare automatically this year.  Check out http://aarp.org/doughnuthole for further information.
  14. (Also remember that if you are having difficulty affording your medications you can contact your drug’s manufacturer and check on their assistance program.  Many pharmaceutical companies, depending on your income, will supply your medications free of charge. You will have to request the required forms and get your doctor’s approval and prescription request.  This was not in the AARP Magazine, but I speak from previous experience!)
  15. Just because we have retired it does not mean that we still do not want to be active in the work force.  We still have a lot of value to offer to the corporate world.  If you are seeking no-cost job-search assistance or career counseling so you can maintain a marketable profile, AARP offers free advice and resources including career fairs and access to employers that are seeking workers 50 and older.  If you require this type of service, check out http://aarp.org/work.
  16. If you have retired AARP offers free webinars with tips on how to better stretch your money and helps you with information on ways you can make ends meet.  If you have not retired but are thinking about it, AARP can help you figure out how much you should be saving for retirement.  Go to http://aarp.org/moneywebinars.
  17. Last, but definitely not least, AARP is always looking out for your interests in the halls of Congress and in all 50 statehouses.

AARP has fought to provide $250 in relief to Social Security recipients whose benefits were frozen this year.

AARP strives to protect and strengthen Social Security not only for you, but for generations to come.

Did you know that AARP saves consumers billions of dollars in home-energy costs by defending us against unfair rate hikes utility companies?

This is only a very small portion of the plethora of information that is included in the AARP Magazine.  There is so much value in this magazine, including health, money, motivational articles, etc. this was just the tip of the iceberg.  This is by no means “junk mail”, and do not throw it away before reading it from cover to cover.

I hope that this information is helpful to you.  Please share this information with others so they will  know that the AARP Magazine can save them money and how the AARP Organization is working to help us.  This is so very important, especially during the economical conditions of our country.

Happy Savings!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
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In compliance with the FTC Compensation Disclosure Guidelines I am required to inform you if you click on my links and join a program or purchase a product I may make a commission. I hope you have found useful information on this site and will stop back again soon.

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Category: Christian, Debt Consolidation, family, health, Helpful Hints, home, Inspirational, Medicine, Restaurants, Uncategorized  | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,  | Leave a Comment
The Power of Prayer!
Author: Judy Conway
•

Do you realize that there is immense power in prayer? Just thought I’d share this and encourage everyone to pray for our country and military. We CAN make a huge difference, calling on God.

Most recently, (this morning) my son-in-law saw the power of prayer at work first-hand. He believes but it was an awesome experience nonetheless!

They own a 1993 Toyota Corolla. It is a dear old car. A few weeks ago the engine light came on. It is not a car that they want to have to sink a lot of money into.  This is the time of year when they needed to get their emissions test done. (They also own a fairly new Toyota Forerunner. The Corolla is just a spare car.) It was greatly feared that with the engine light on this car would not pass the required emissions test to renew the registration necessitating a large repair bill.

This morning my son-in-law noticed that as he drove past the garage where he was going to have the emissions done that there was no one in line. He looked down, and yes you guessed it …. The engine light was off! He went in, had the test done and the car passed. We had been praying for a miracle and our prayers were answered.

Another experience I would like to share is … I have a very dear friend who lives in Florida that suffers from severe migraines to the point where she throws up. Many years ago she called me around 1 AM to drive her to the ER to get a shot. We were sitting there and she was in tears holding her head saying, “I do not think they will see me as I owe the hospital money.” So we just sat there and prayed that they would take care of her and get rid of the pain. She was called up to the desk, and as she stepped up to give the woman her information, the computer system went down and she was unable to look up my friend’s records. Our prayers were answered she got a shot. I took her home where she could rest as her migraine subsided. We were truly grateful for this answered prayer.

Having been a single mom raising two daughters I can tell you that I went through many financially distraught times and God was always being summoned. Sort of like, “I am sorry Lord, it is me again, I need your help.” He never let me down.  I have seen God’s hand in my life many, many times. God does not care how big or how small your problem is.  He just cares that you have a problem!

With our country in the shape that it is in, it is a good time for us to remember 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Now is the time to put our faith in God wherein “all things are possible.”

Thanks for calling on the Power of Prayer!

Judy Conway
Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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Do You Know How To Do Continuous Chest Compression CPR?
Author: Judy Conway
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My daughter shared this eye-opening video on Continuous Chest Compress CPR,with me today. I instantly felt led to get this information out to as many people as I can, and for that reason I am posting it on my blog. I hope that you will take the time to not only read this blog, but also watch the video above. By your knowing this information, you might just have the opportunity to save someone’s life.

I was amazed to learn that more Americans die from sudden cardiac arrest in three days than died in the 9-1-1 attacks. I hope that you will feel compelled to learn the Continuous Chest Compression CPR procedure. By using this method you can double a person’s change of surviving cardiac arrest.

If you have not been comfortable with the thought of mouth-to-mouth contact you will want to learn Continuous Chest Compression CPR. This is a hands-only method. This was developed at the University of Arizona College of Medicine by research pioneers, including Gordon A. Ewy, MD, in hopes of making the odds greater that a bystander will step up to the plate and help someone suffering from cardiac arrest.

Sarver Heart Center’s video (shown above) was developed to give people easy-to-learn instructions for performing Continuous Chest Compression CPR. If you forget the name of my blog site, please just direct people to YouTube when it is also posted.

Truly, this six-minute video can mean the difference of life or death to a person in cardiac arrest. For every one minute that goes by without a person receiving help there is a 10% less chance of survival.

Below are written directions for performing Continuous Chest Compression CPR.

If you see someone collapse who isn’t responsive and has trouble breathing:

  1. Tell someone to call 911 or make the call yourself.
  2. Position the person with the back on the floor. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (between the nipples) and the heel of the other hand on top of the first. Lock your elbows, position your shoulders over your hands and use your upper-body weight to “fall” downward. Lift your hands slightly each time to allow the chest wall to recoil. Try to compress at 100 beats per minute and about 2 inches deep until emergency help arrives.

Note: Mouth-to-mouth CPR still is recommended for drowning and very small children.

Here is the YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcbgpiKyUbs.

Please take the time to pass this information about Continuous Chest Compress CPR along to your friends and family. Unlike some of the funny emails we all receive (and enjoy) this can save a person’s life!

Thanks for caring and sharing!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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Do You Think You Need A Lawn Service?
Author: Judy Conway
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MTD Yard Machines Lawn Mower 4.5HP Tecumseh En...
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“Do you think you need a lawn service” might very well be a question you have asked yourself many times.  Two weeks ago this very same question crossed my mind.

As is my routine, I put on my heavy duty sneakers, wrapped my bad knee with an Ace bandage and began one of my least favorite chores … mowing my lawn.  I only have a third of an acre so it is no big deal.  I am a very independent 64-year old grandmother who enjoys doing things herself.  I really do not like to burden others with my responsibilities.  Keeping my yard looking cared for is one of those responsibilities.

I put gas in the mower, gave a yank on the cord and I was off.  The front yard and one side is a breeze to do.  However the other side yard has a challenging slope.  I have discovered that the best way to cut this side is going front to back, and back and forth.  However, this time I was at the top and noticed that I had missed a spot.  Not thinking I turned the mower down the slope and went after the uncut spot.  It was a matter of seconds when I realized the mower was picking up speed and had a mind of its own heading down the slope.  I tightened my grip and hung on.

I am not quite sure what happened at the bottom but it was not long and I discovered I had fallen and the lawnmower had flipped over.  I had visions of being chopped up and my sole goal was to hang onto the handle on the mower to keep it pushed away from my body.

I lay there for a few seconds and had the crazy thought, “I hope no one saw me do this.”  I managed to get back up on my feet and turn the mower back over.  By this time the oil in the mower was dripping on the motor and I was engulfed in thick white billowing smoke.  So thick in fact that it filled the space between my neighbor’s house and mine and I could not even see the street in front of my house.  I was dreading the arrival of the fire department!  After the mower was right side up, the smoke situation cleared up and I took my wounded pride and body back up the hill and finished the flat part at the top.

After all was said and done, I realized that I had sprained my shoulder when I fell on the ground and possibly bruised my ribs.  It was a full week before I could take a deep breath and even get out of bed without being in excruciating pain.  I am extremely thankful that it was not worse.

I would like to pass along a tip that I practice myself.  When you are outside doing yard work, cleaning your gutters, etc. be sure you have your cell phone in your pocket.  You never know when you might need to call for help!

Just like the statement you have to get back on the horse when you fall off, I am still going to be mowing my lawn.  The experience did find me asking myself the question, “Do you think you need a lawn service!” So as you are out there doing your yard work….be careful!

Judy Conway

Email:judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
http://beadazzledjewelrycreations.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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Learn How To Conquer Yard Work!
Author: Judy Conway
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This has been my summer to learn how to conquer yard work.  It has never seemed as difficult as it has been this year …. And I still have two months or more to go!! I started early and decided it was time to trim my hedges.  The plant is known as Variegated Chinese Privet  or Ligustrum sinensis ‘Variegata’.  In just reading about it to be sure I spelled this information correctly it was noted as a fast grower, growing 4-6 feet tall and equal in width.

Hedges to be Trimmed

I would like to add my two cents on this statement. The hedges that I trimmed were at least 12 to 15 feet above my fence!  I trimmed these back to below the fence line and they have already reached a substantial 3 feet above the fence!  I have more of these lovelies (do not get me wrong, they are beautiful bushes/trees) in another area of my front yard and they have grown past my second floor bedroom window.  I think it is fair to say they grow much higher than 6 feet. This pivet would be a welcomed addition to any yard.  It is especially great as it grows in full or partial sun.  However, if you choose this hedge, be sure you own a very aggressive hedge trimmer or you have a good tree saw (or a landscape service)! As my “hedge” had grown to a height of about 15 feet I chose to tackle the project with my trusty tree saw.  These hedges grow many limbs from each plant.  You will want to keep them trimmed back as they tend to get bare on the bottom if you do not. I have 18 of these hedges along the fence in my backyard, each with approximately 6 offshoots.  I hope this gives you the picture of a totally overwhelming project for a 64 year old retired, single grandma!  Needless to say, I have never met a task that I was not willing to tackle and this was not going to be the first time. I did start out with the hedge trimmer, but soon discovered this was too big of a job for that.  So I resorted to my tree saw and worked on cutting each limb.  Now my job was complicated somewhat as I live in Georgia and we are overtaken in the summer by a plant called kudzu.  It has a way of winding its way into your yard and throughout your trees and bushes.  You really have to keep an eye out for it.  I was just reading that kudzu came over from Japan and now covers over 7 million acres of the southeastern United States.   I am blessed with a lot of aggressive plants.

Kudzu Covered House

As I would cut down a limb I would pull it down and put it in a pile.  In some cases the growth was entangled with other branches and this was no easy job.  And then when you throw kudzu into the mix of things it got really hard!  One time I had cut the limb at the bottom and was trying hard to pull it down and the kudsu had tightly wound itself throughout the top of the branch.  I backed up and pulled with all my might and after a few moments it loosened, and then loosened some more and before I knew it I was traveling at a pretty quick pace backwards in my yard.  I hung on for dear life and had visions of what lay behind me.  I was either going to fall just short of my concrete patio, or land in the blackberry bushes around my bird feeders.  With a loud oomph I landed flat on my back just short of the patio. This is where I must tell you, that if you are going to do these tasks, you have to approach them with a sense of humor.  I laid there flat on my back laughing.  Thankfully my yard is quite private and no one had caught sight of my antics.  Laughter truly is the best medicine. Another word of advice I would like to offer is make sure you have your cell phone in your pocket.  You never know when you might need to call for help.  I learned that lesson one year as I was on a ladder cleaning out my gutters and the ladder decided to fall to the ground.  My life crossed before my eyes as I fell to a standing position with the ladder sort of wrapped around my legs.  Other than an increased heart rate and scrapes and bruises I was okay.  But the thought crossed my mind that if I had fallen on the ground and been unable to get up no one would have known I was there.  My family was out of town and would be gone for days.  Hence, my advice about carrying your cell phone at all times. The hedges got trimmed and they have grown back beautifully filling in on the bottom.  No matter how hard I try to keep these under control, it seems to be a full time job.  Before the summer is over they will need trimming again. I have learned a lot about how to conquer yard work this summer.  As this article has become quite lengthy, I will be back shortly to tell you about my bout with poison ivy and a run away lawnmower!  The most important tool you need to conquer yard work is the ability to laugh at yourself.  Heaven knows I will be a stand-up comic by the time this summer draws to a close! Keep Smiling, Judy Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com http://homebusinessinatlanta.com http://beadazzledejewelrycreations.com http://fullservicemarketingtools.com Skype ID:  judy.conway

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