Sunday, March 25, 2018

Glimpses Into Chronic Illness: Why Can't I Get Better?


Life can throw challenges our way in which we all experiences personal battles, but what happens when you feel indefinitely wedged in a troubling situation?  People who have a chronic illness or invisible disability often feel stuck in their debilitating symptoms as well as their feelings of guilt and grief over the lack of improvement.  When you come down with a cold or a virus, you may feel rotten for a few days or even a week.  You may go to the doctor for a prescription or take something to ease your symptoms until the virus takes its course, and then you move on.  When you struggle with a chronic condition, it is like being stuck in that place of feeling miserable for months and sometimes years at a time. Your specific condition may not have a cure or effective treatment.  Other people may not understand why you can't take a pill or something to get better because they are uninformed of the nature of your specific condition.  

 When people ask me about my condition, I'm not always sure what to say because it is not the result of one specific disease or illness but complex underlying layers of infections, pathogens, and autoimmune triggers. I have had multiple diagnoses, and sometimes I am focusing on a certain aspect of treating my condition at that time.  I do appreciate those who have taken the time to ask and truly care and want to understand my world.  About every 3-6 months someone approaches me about a product or supplement that they believe I should consider using to heal my condition.  I try to be open to suggestions and enjoy hearing success stories about how people have improved their health with a product or treatment.  I encourage people to take charge of their wellness and be proactive with what works for them.  Unfortunately, there is not a "one size fits all" treatment, drug, or therapy that works for everyone.  This is especially true with conditions like Lyme disease, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) where each person's tolerance to therapies can vastly differ.

When someone approaches me about their product, I take the time to hear them out and listen to their story.  I appreciate the fact that they cared enough to want to help.  Living with a chronic illness is a very lonely place to be because most aren't able to enter this world of navigating life through a fragmented lens of pain and struggle that impairs daily functioning.  Having those brief interactions with others in my church and social network provides a way to connect with them and to give them a glimpse into my life.  I am gracious to those individuals and thank them for taking the time to reach out to me.   Then, I will politely explain that I don't take anything without very slow/careful consideration and only after running it by my practitioner who tests everything I take for compatibility with my fragile system.   Occasionally, the individual will tell me that they don't understand how detoxing or using a certain vitamin or supplement can be unsafe because they are "natural."  "Catch all" supplements or protocols can be great for many people who are trying to take charge of their health, but can be potentially dangerous for someone like me.     After hearing that person out, I usually explain that I have multiple allergies and sensitivities from a chronic inflammatory condition.  Because I am genetically unable to detoxify specific substances on my own, I must be extremely cautious with what I put in my body.    Every treatment that I use is very deliberated and specific to my individual condition which has been tested through a series of labs and bio-resonance testing in the clinic.  Treating these complex layers is a very slow and painstakingly deliberate process that can be overwhelming to sort through, and I will set boundaries with those who are more persistent in encouraging me to use their products.

Because the primary symptom of my condition has been a balance disorder with chronic vertigo, someone periodically either messages me or posts on my Facebook page an article about a Colorado doctor who found a "cure" for vertigo with her simple fix.  Wow, that is amazing, right!  This article is a little misleading because there are several types of vertigo and the article addresses the most common form of vertigo, Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BBPV).  Unfortunately, my vertigo is a result of damage to the balance center of the brain and nerve tissue which is common for people with MS, chronic neurological Lyme, and mold toxicity from CIRS.  For me, vertigo is my body's way of telling me that it is exposed to something it doesn't like.  Some call this symptom being the "canary in the coal mine."  When I get these messages/posts, I usually thank the person and leave it at that.  If it is someone I'm close to, I will take the time to explain why this treatment would not cure my vertigo.

When these situations occur, I perceive it as the person caring about me and wanting to help.  I wish there was a cure or easy fix but life often doesn't work that way.  The day to day battle is weary to the body and the soul; however, I am a fighter and I never give up my pursuit for wellness.  An amazingly compassionate and supportive medical team, the support of my network of friends and family, and my close relationship with God has provided an anchor for me to stay strong and keep on the fight!  I believe that every aspect of life has a purpose that will not be wasted, and I am determined to use my experiences to reach out to others on social media and with my blog.  It is a hard place to be, yet filled with momentary blessings to be used for a greater purpose.



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JOYFUL TREASURES:  Joy is a Daily Choice!

James 1:2-3 "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness."

 When we are hurting and battle weary, we can find hope in God's promises.  Sadness and sorrow is for just a moment in comparison to the eternal reward we will one day experience.  Joy doesn't come easily but IS possible by God's grace as we make a daily choice to believe and trust in his word.  I pray my hurting brothers and sisters will be able to glimpse out of the fog of chronic illness into the light of eternal glory and find joy in the loving presence of the Prince of Peace!

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Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Simply Living When Life is Anything but Simple


Last March, I enthusiastically started this blog with a desire to share some of the tidbits I learned about whole living in my pursuit for wellness.  I couldn't wait to divulge some of the cooking tips and recipes I picked up while experimenting with the GAPS (Gut and Psychology Syndrome) diet along with other nuggets of wisdom in my quest for spreading joy in the simplicity of life.  I was in the process of learning to make homemade GAPS foods like almond bread, almond milk, homemade yogurt, and fermenting my own vegetables.  In doing so, I started experimenting with foods I hadn't touched in years, and I even tried to make my own homemade salsa!  I was having fun with this new adventure until the foods I introduced caused an inflammatory response that set me back even farther with food and chemical intolerances, and I was forced to stop fermenting and making other GAPS foods all together.

About a year ago, my primary doctor sat me down and told me that she felt my symptoms pointed to a debilitating condition known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome or CIRS, a common dual diagnosis with Chronic Lyme Disease.  We were hesitant in proceeding with labs and treatment, especially since I was making progress with my other therapies.  We had seen an overall improvement in my condition.  Unfortunately, I struggled with moderating my improvements and therefore went overboard by taking on too much.  I was thrilled to have renewed energy I had not experienced in a very long time, and I couldn't seem to slow down.   Over the summer and fall seasons, I  became exhausted trying to keep up with my husband, his business, our three active children, and a new puppy; not to mention all the supplements, treatments, and other therapies I was doing.

It was just before the holidays.  Two nights before Thanksgiving, we were planning a trip to see my family down south, and I was up half the night going through an insurance audit that needed to be done before we left.  The next morning, I woke up feeling exhausted with a bloated stomach, swollen ankles, and aching all over.  I looked into the mirror and observed the reality that my previous Lyme disease battle in conjunction with chronic stress and sleep deprivation had worked its way across my weary face.  I felt like I was falling apart.  Hesitant to travel with these new flareups, I called with my alternative practitioner for advice.  He was the one who took extra time to figure out my complicated situation in order to help me overcome many of the damaging effects of Lyme disease, and he was the one who had discovered my histamine intolerance and methylation disorder that has impaired my body's ability to tolerate many foods and substances.  My practitioner expressed concern that my histamine was getting out of hand again, and I was going back into an autoimmune reaction.  We had a tough decision to make about whether or not we should still travel to Kansas to see my folks.  We decided to go for it despite these concerns.    As hard as the trip was on my body, I cherished invaluable time with my family.  I needed to be back to my childhood home for a few days!

After the holidays, my primary doctor went through some labs with me, and she diagnosed me with a painful and relentless intestinal disorder called SIBO (Small Intestine Bacteria Overgrowth).  My labs also indicated that I was experiencing malabsorption of nutrients from the chronic overgrowth of bacteria as well as elevated cortisone levels in my bloodstream.  We discussed concerning red flags from my hormone panel, nutritional profile, and other labs.  She informed me that my body was going through adrenal fatigue from sleep deprivation and high stress, and I was going to end up relapsing back to where I started if I didn't take better care of myself.  I had to make some lifestyle changes.  It was NOT negotiable!  What happened to the simplicity I hoped to achieve?


A while back, I looked at this untouched blog that I put aside to "simplify" my life, and I had to laugh.  Living Simply?  Really?  My life had become anything BUT simple.  My joy seemed to be slipping through my fingertips like an evasive thought.  Don't get me wrong, I have much to be thankful for.  I have a wonderful husband who loves and cherishes me, 3 incredible beautiful children, the sweetest dog ever, and a huge support system of family, friends, and church members to cheer me on!!   I have a myriad of ideas, ambitions, and hobbies that I would love to pursue, and my relationship with God has been my cornerstone for steadfastness.   On the flip side, I have a chronic condition that wears me down and holds me back from all that I desire to do.  I guess my body can't keep up with my heart and my mind.  My life seems far from simple as  I vacillate between valiant attempts to achieve "super" wife and "super" mom status and falling over exhausted, held up in bed for days at a time recovering from my "super" efforts.  I tell myself, "I just need to get through this week", "the summer craziness", "the fall rush for my husband's business", "the holidays", "basketball and wrestling season", "my son's birthday party", and "seeing my daughter through to graduation and college."  "Keep moving forward."  "You got this."  "You can sleep tomorrow."  The fight in me keeps kicking though it sometimes kicks me over.  I may fall down and I may be bone weary, but I just keep getting back up and pressing on; however, I need to ask myself at what cost.

Since my ongoing health struggles don't quite match up the plans I had for this blog, I'm asking myself where I should go from here.  Blogs about healthy eating and natural whole living are probably a dime a dozen.  My other blog, "Broken Places", which has been my labor of love for almost 7 years, has touched over 50,000 lives with stories of God's sovereignty in suffering.   I plan on continuing my quest to inspire others with the message of redemption amidst hardship and sorrow through "Broken Places", and yet I also long to offer gratitude and encouragement that transforms the simple aspects of life with "Joyful Mama." How do I do that?

 I think people have been inspired by my other blog because they are able to connect with its raw expression of affliction mixed with hope.  Maybe my pursuit of simple whole living involves sharing my struggles and triumphs in battling the day to day stuff.  Maybe people simply are looking for the tangible truth, something they can relate to.   I need to be real with my readers because life ISN'T simple and it sometimes really stinks; however, I am going to TRY to make it simpler and I am going to keep pursuing joy in my daily walk.

This article is for my warrior friends who are battling this crazy life that is anything BUT simple.  Let's press on and be committed to dispose the extra garbage in our lives and strive to find restoration in the simple gifts our creator designed for our personal delight.  As we pursue the simplicity of ultimate truth and link arms to withstand our daily struggles, we will surely succeed in achieving divine victory!



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JOYFUL TREASURES:  Taking Victory!

1 John 5:4 "For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world.  And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith."

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*For more information about living with invisible disabilities you can visit my blog, Broken Places:

 http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2015/10/care-in-our-culture-part-1-invisible.html

 http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2016/02/care-in-our-culture-part-two-invisible.html
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Saturday, September 30, 2017

Reconnecting with Nature



Has it really been more than four months since I last wrote anything for my blog?  I needed to re-prioritize my time over the summer.  My husband's franchise was busier than ever before, and we had house guests coming and going most of the summer.  It seemed like there were not enough hours in the day.  With going on too many nights with not enough sleep, I knew something had to go so I decided to take a vacation from writing.  Instead, I tried to get outside every spare moment I could.

My favorite summer past times are working out in the garden and sitting outside with a journal and a good book.  We spend too much of our time indoors with our busy lives, smart phones, iPads, and lap tops, that we forget about the simple joy of reconnecting with our glorious natural surroundings.  With increased exposure to modern technology and less time outdoors, no wonder many of us are battling through health struggles!



I've read numerous articles and posts about the value in connecting to the earth by getting down and dirty with all that was created for our pleasure.  How often do we take the time to be amazed by the wonder of a hummingbird's flight, the glorious hues of a butterfly, or the magnificent design of a spider web among the perennials?  These treasures uplift the spirit and bring philosophical meaning to the mundane aspects of life.  Not to mention there are real measurable health benefits.  Our bodies need the Vitamin D from the sun which is known to help in disease prevention and stabilizing our emotions.

EARTHING

Five years ago, I was in a fairly intense battle with Lyme disease, my body going through a strong herxing reaction with detoxing mercury which resulted bizarre side effects, including extreme sensitivity to EMF's, severe vertigo, and other neurological symptoms.  My alternative practitioner suggested I try grounding to help offset some of my symptoms.  He told me to go outside barefoot and lay down in the grass as much as my body could tolerate.  Within a few days of trying this activity, I had reduced vertigo and tachycardia, and I was able to spend more time out of bed.  From that moment on, I was hooked! 



What is grounding and how does it work?  Grounding or earthing is simply going outside and putting your bare feet in the grass, dirt, or concrete.  Our bodies are made up of energy which becomes out of balance from the EMF's in our environment.  Pollutants and EMF's from our cell phones, computers, TV's, WiFi, and other electronic devices build up free radicals in our bodies.  The natural energy fields of the earth neutralizes these free radicals which restores our natural biorhythms resulting in decreased pain/inflammation, better sleep, improved mood, and numerous other benefits.  I have been earthing for years and love spending my summers barefoot.  By now, my neighbors are used to me hanging out in our yard with a blanket or towel and laying down on the grass.  It's truly a refreshing and joyful experience!

DEFENSE AGAINST TICKS

One of the concerns with being outside in the grass is the increased risk of coming in contact with disease-carrying ticks.   Those of us who have had Lyme and other vector-borne illnesses are more aware of the dangers of tick exposure and are often unable to tolerate chemicals found in insect repellents and pesticides.   It can be a challenge coming up with  natural solutions for this dilemma and still enjoy nature.  In the fall the deer ticks can especially become aggressive and problematic for us nature lovers.

 Here are some natural solutions recommended to me.  This is a basic recipe for a natural tick spray that you can use on yourself and/or your pets, which has been recommended by my naturopath practitioner:

Add 1 cup of water to a spray bottle, followed by 2 cups of distilled white vinegar.  Ticks hate the smell and taste of vinegar and will be repelled by this ingredient alone.  You can additionally add 20 drops of your favorite essential oil such as Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Citrus Oils, or Geranium Oil which give off crisp strong odors that will repel ticks.  After mixing the solution, you can spray it onto your clothing, skin, and hair before going outdoors and reapplying every four hours to keep ticks at bay.  For pets you can add two teaspoons of vegetable or almond oil that contain sulfur, another tick deterrent.  When you add lemon juice, citrus oil, or peppermint oil, this will also repel fleas.  You should spray them several times a day if they stay outdoors most of the day.

Another option is ordering specific herbs and essential oils recommended by the Buhner Protocol for tick prevention:

 Dr. Stephen Buhner recommends taking 1000 mg per day of the herb Astragalus throughout the year, increasing it to 3000 mg during tick season.  For a homemade tick repellent, Buhner recommends taking 1/2 teaspoon each of essential oils--Rhodendrom Tomentosum, Tagetes Minuta, Chameacy-paris Nootkatensis, Artemisa Absinthium, Myrica Gale, Juniperus Virginia, Eucalyptus Citriodora, and Oragnum Majorana.  Add the essential oils (4 tsp total) to 8 ounces pure grain alcohol at 995% alcohol or as close as you can get.  Blend well and store in a tightly capped brown bottle, keeping it out of the sun.  According to Buhner, these oils are available on the internet. 

 I have to be very careful what natural supplements and products I use and therefor try to keep herbal remedies and essential oils to a minimum.  Instead, I have a bottle of 50% water and vinegar solution on hand to spray on my body whenever I go outside.  I will also sometimes take a shower and change my clothes after being out in the garden or tall grass just to be sure there are no ticks on me or my clothing.  I've read that keeping a lint roller handy to roll on your body/clothes is another good way to pick up any deer ticks which are about the size of a poppy seed and difficult to detect with the naked eye.

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JOYFUL TREASURES:  Outdoor Companions!

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." - Antaole France

Introducing our new Cavapoo puppy, Oscar.  We decided to get a poodle breed for a low allergen family dog.  We wanted a therapy dog for myself and for our teenage daughter who desired to get a dog for her 18th birthday.  My husband selected this dog in particular because of his gentile docile nature.  He has a very calming effect on us and is a delight to be part of the family.  This year, I was finally able to get out and start walking.  It is a joyful experience to take our dog on neighborhood walks, using my wheelchair for balance.  Our dog loves exploring the neighborhood and sometimes he gets a free ride!  

 Oscar and I also enjoy hanging out together in my garden, and I want to be sure he is safe from tick exposure.  For a natural tick repellent, my chiropractor recommends that I give him Petz Life Herbal Defense Powder, a natural alternative to the chewable tick repellents veterinarians often use.  The powder can be taken in in soft dog food twice daily for 5 days.  Repeat on a monthly basis.    The Herbal defense powder can be purchased online through Amazon and at some pet stores.  
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RESOURCES


For more details about the spiritual benefits of reconnecting with nature, you can read my blog:
https://dzehm.blogspot.com/2013/07/lessons-from-garden-tender-reflections.html

For more information about the harmful effects of electromagnetic frequencies and natural ways to live more fully in spite of their strong prevalence in everyday life:
https://puresimplewholeliving.blogspot.com/2017/05/electromagnetic-frequencies.html

To learn more about the benefits of grounding:

 https://kimberlysnyder.com/blog/2014/01/16/invisible-benefits-grounding/

 https://wellnessmama.com/5600/earthing-grounding/

 http://www.chopra.com/articles/grounding-the-human-body-the-healing-benefits-of-earthing

 https://grounded.com/what-is-earthing/

 https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/11/21/grounding-effects.aspx

For more information on repelling ticks naturally:

https://commonsensehome.com/natural-tick-repellents/

https://www.mommypotamus.com/natural-tick-repellent-recipe/

For more information about the Buhner's protocol for Lyme and repelling ticks:
https://growsoeasyorganic.com/tag/stephen-buhner/

This is the natural tick defense we use for our dog:
https://www.amazon.com/PetzLife-TickZ-Biting-Insect-Control/dp/B0056EOR3G

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Sunday, May 21, 2017

Electromagnetic Frequencies



It was a fall day in 2011.  I had just started a round of doxycycline for chronic Lyme disease.  My husband and I were on a weekend getaway for our anniversary.  On our way back home, he took me into the local Walmart to pick up a few items.  Immediately after entering the building, I became extremely dizzy and nauseous from the bright florescent lights.  I had experienced similar symptoms off and on since I had a tick bite 2 years prior.  This time, my symptoms were extreme, and I felt like I was about to pass out, so my husband helped me back to our vehicle.  This was my first intense experience with an unfamiliar phenomenon known as EMF or electromagnetic frequency sensitivity.

Nature is made up of energy from magnetic fields, and our bodies are naturally electronic with nerve impulses.  These natural magnetic fields can become disrupted by modern day technology that generates EMFs from various sources such as power lines, cell phones, cordless phones, lap tops, computers, televisions, electronic devices, satellite, Wi-Fi, florescent lights, microwaves, appliances, medical equipment, etc.  Electromagnetic smog consumes the world that we live in and cannot be avoided.  Additionally, most people carry their smart phones, tablets, chrome books, iPods, kindles, and other devices throughout the day, and some even sleep with them.  Schools, hospitals, and other public places are saturated with high levels of electromagnetic smog from Wi-Fi and electronic devices/equipment.

Legitimate concerns are being raised about the potential health consequences from the elevated levels of EMFs in our everyday lives, increasing the risk for cancer, neurological side effects, and other physical impairments from constant EMF exposure.  People who struggle with conditions such as chronic inflammatory response syndrome related to exposure to mold, Lyme disease, and other biotoxins can have a higher risk of experiencing EMF and florescent light sensitivities.  Furthermore, exposure to heavy metals such as mercury from dental amalgams can increase sensitivity for these individuals.  My alternative practitioner whose expertise is in EMF sensitivities has also noted that his patients who are autistic also frequently struggle with EMFs.   He has additionally mentioned that a person's sensitivity to EMFs are impacted by autoimmune challenges, especially with the myelin around nerve cells as well as imbalance of electrolytes, hormones, and other aspects of the body chemistry.

In my personal health battle, EMF sensitivity has been by far the greatest frustration for me. It was especially difficult to cope with the times I was in an intense battle of herxing from the die off of Lyme spirochetes.  I would experiences bizarre symptoms such as heart palpitations, shaking/tremors, and seizure-like symptoms when I touched and/or handled electronic devices such as my cell phone, computer, the television, and common household appliances.  These extreme symptoms went away after treatment; however, I continued to experience dizziness/vertigo, nausea, and problems with balance and mobility in settings with florescent lights, WiFi, and other sources of EMFs.  When I joined some online support groups for my specific health challenges, I found out that I was not alone.  It is actually a very common struggle, especially for chronic conditions such as Lyme disease, POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia), mast cell disease, and CIRS (chronic inflammatory response syndrome).  Some practitioners have expressed concerns about EMF exposure with these health conditions and encourage patients to adapt their environment in order to expedite the healing process.

 I have tried numerous tactics to cope with EMFs in my environment and have been able to reduce some of my exposure by having someone come in our house to identify the strongest sources of EMFs in our home and making some alterations.  We made sure that no lights or electronic devices were near ours sleeping area.  We also eliminated all florescent lights, cordless phones, and our Wi-Fi from the house.  I found it beneficial to use the speaker on my cell phone in order to avoid having it close to my head.  I have also tried various devices to help with my sensitivities including wearing headache visors and sunglasses in public places with florescent lights, using a grounding mat at home, putting strong veterinary magnets in strategic places in our house and vehicles, and trying various devices designed by a company called Memon.     There has been some debate in my social network as to the legitimacy of Memon devices.  I think much of this controversy derives from a misunderstanding about EMFs and what the purpose of the Memon is.  I personally do not understand specifically how EMFs or these devices work and would have assumed that the Memon was used to get rid of them or cancel them out if I wasn't told otherwise; however, a Memon technician or practitioner who uses them would tell you that they do not eliminate EMFs and the increasing innovation of new technology is constantly challenging these devices.  It is impossible to eliminate EMFs from the environment but some devices are designed to use grounding, shielding, and principles of quantum physics through a process known as "harmonizing" which helps individuals cope with electromagnetic smog as well as allowing the body to release these potentially harmful frequencies.

When we purchased our first Memon, we were somewhat skeptical; however, my friend who was also considering purchasing one asked her husband, an electrical engineer, to call one of the engineers with the company to investigate the logistics of Memon technology.  He felt strongly that they were legitimate devices which helped us to make an informed decision to give it a try.  Since purchasing Memon devices,  I would say the greatest benefit I have experienced from using them is experiencing better rest at night as it has helped me to restore my body's natural biorhythms.  I have also found some Memon devices to be powerful in accelerating the body's detoxification process, especially for people who have higher levels of mercury and metals in their system.  My practitioner recommended I stop using the personal Memon device I was keeping on my body because my body was unable to tolerate the rapid detoxification of mercury.  Now, I keep the device on my computer and carry it in my purse when visiting public places, which works much better for me.  I would recommend people who have significant chemical, light, and EMF sensitivities to consult with a practitioner who specializes in EMFs before trying Memon devices other than ones for cell phone and other small electronic devices. The use of these devices can be somewhat tricky when it comes to detoxification and herxing; however, when used properly, the end result is worth it.

In this process of adapting my environment, I actually do quite well at home but still struggle in public places, especially schools and hospitals.  My sensitivities are slowly getting better over time, and I was recently able to attend my three kids' Christmas programs and sit through them all without feeling like I was going to pass out.  I was pleased to gain this ground; however, I know that I have a ways to go before I am able to physically handle environments with strong florescent lights and elevated EMF's.   I try to keep a positive attitude about it and never give up hope!


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JOYFUL TREASURES:  THE HUMMINGBIRDS ARE BACK!

One of my favorite pastimes in the spring and summer is watching the hummingbirds, oriels, and gold finches at our feeders.   My spirit swells with joy when observing these lovely creatures that testify to God's glory.  A few years ago, my preschooler enjoyed  looking out the window to watch a hummer we named "Ruby."  Day and night, the tiny critter stationed himself near the feeder to monitor and chase off other birds.  One day my sweet boy was looking at a Backyard Birds book and shouted out the window, "Hey Ruby, I have your picture!"  

"The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtle dove is heard in our land."  Song of Solomon 2:12-14

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RESOURCES

The information in this article are based on personal experiences and are not intended as expert advice on EMFs or to diagnose or treat health issues.  For more information about EMFs and their association with Lyme disease and other health risks, you can check out these links.

 http://www.yourserenityinc.com/

 http://www.yurkovsky.com/memon-technology/

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/02/05/dr-dietrich-klinghardt-on-lyme-disease.aspx

https://wellnessmama.com/129645/emf-exposure/

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/07/09/vickie-warren-on-effects-of-electromagnetic-fields.aspx

http://puresimplewholeliving.blogspot.com/2017/05/detox-for-pure-whole-living.html

http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2015/03/the-voices-of-lyme-voice-of-suffering.html

 http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2017/01/out-of-labyrinth-part-1-healing-through.html
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Friday, May 5, 2017

Detox for Pure Whole Living


We are a part of an expeditious culture increasingly exposed to radioactive waves as well as a variety of toxins in the food and beverages we consume, the air we breathe, and other substances we encounter on a daily basis.  Our society is addicted to sugar, caffeine, diet sodas, cell phones, computers, and social media—oftentimes oblivious to what they are doing to our bodies.  Have we ever stopped to consider the price our health is paying in the process?   Obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, neurological disorders, and numerous life-threatening conditions are plaguing our lives.   It is impossible to completely avoid toxins, radioactive waves, and the electromagnetic frequencies in our technology; however, there are ways we can be proactive with our health.  When it comes to approaching pure and whole living, it is essential that we find safe and appropriate ways to cleanse and detoxify our bodies.

FINDING THE RIGHT DETOX PROTOCOL

Some consider toxins to be the basis for diseases and problematic health conditions, and eliminating these toxins are often the foundation of alternative healthcare for healing and prevention.  There are numerous detoxification supplements, protocols, and therapies to choose from.  The right detox program can vary depending on the individual’s unique body type and health concerns.   Detoxing will sometimes initially generate unpleasant symptoms such as upper respiratory inflammation/cough, headache, pain, nausea, and dizziness.  Your current health symptoms may also temporarily worsen during the adaption phase of detoxification.  These symptoms are known as the “healing crisis” and are normal.  When using the appropriate protocol, your body’s adverse response should improve over time as you adapt and begin to heal.  Some of us have genetically impaired detoxification pathways such as the MTHFR genetic mutation that causes impairment in the methylation process, and our bodies are not able to appropriately detoxify. Chronic inflammatory response syndrome  (CIRS), conditions that elevate histamine such as mast cell, and other autoimmune conditions also involve impaired detoxification.  In these cases, some detox protocols will not be able to efficiently eliminate toxins.  Instead, they recycle the toxins through the system, causing an increase in adverse symptoms.  I have been detoxing in different modalities for 7-10 years.  Early on, I discovered that my body responded adversely to incompatible therapies and detoxifying supplements.  It is important to have open communication with your doctor or holistic practitioner about this process to ensure the appropriateness and safety of your protocol. 

 EMF'S AND DETOXING

 Many are unaware that the electromagnetic frequencies (EMF's) in our environment can complicate natural detoxification.  When our bodies are exposed to elevated levels of EMF's, especially satellites and WiFi, our bodies lock in heavy metals such as mercury.  More practitioners are recognizing the potential harm to the body in high EMF environments, especially for those who are battling Lyme disease, as Lyme can cause an unusual sensitivity and reaction to EMF's.  Although, we cannot block EMF's, when we can reduce exposure by removing our WiFi, Satellite, microwaves, and shut off our phones and other electronic devices for periods of time.  We can also utilize devices that help our bodies to release the EMF's through grounding and other technology such as a product called Memon.  In this process, our bodies will begin to naturally detox these metals.  I have tried several strategies in this area and have found that this type of detoxing, especially with Memon devices, can be tricky and should be used with caution and with the supervision of a practitioner who specializes in both electromagnetic fields and toxicology.




 DETOX DIET

 When routinely detoxing, it is critical that we consume a clean diet, avoiding processed foods and sugar as well as eliminate gluten, dairy, grains, and other inflammatory foods and beverages.  What we put in our bodies will dramatically affect our health and regular consumption of inflammatory foods will only contribute to the problem.  When we begin to eliminate foods that negatively impact our health, our bodies will naturally accelerate detoxification, and we might find ourselves having temporary side effects from the withdrawal of sugar, caffeine, and other inflammatory foods.  Popular diets that enhances detoxification include the cowboy/bean diet promoted by nutritionist, Karen Hurd; Paleo Diet; Ketogenic Diet; and Specific Carbohydrate or GAPS (Gut and Psychology Syndrome) diet.  Cabbage, green leafy vegetables, and prebiotic foods such as dandilion greens help cleanse the body.  I have to be careful with sulfur rich foods like cabbage, kale, and broccoli because of my problems with methylation of sulfur which converts into formaldehyde and ammonia when I eat too many of these foods.  Natural probiotic foods such as homemade sourkraut, lactofermented vegetables, kiefer, and raw organic milk yogurts as well as raw organic apple cider vinegar with the "mother" enzyme and kombucha are all incredible foods and beverages for detoxing though they may not be ideal for people with high histamine intolerance.  Some people will include specific teas and lemon water in their detox protocol.  Additionally, drinking plenty of fresh clean filtered water is necessary for cleansing the body.

JUICING 

 According to neurologist and founder of the GAPS diet, Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, juicing fresh organic vegetables and fruits is one of the best ways to detoxify.  Juicing nourishes the body with essential nutrients through fast absorption which is more effective when the fiber of the juicing pulp is removed.  In Campbell-McBride's book, Gut and Psychology Syndrome, she recommends carrot, apple, celery, and beetroot juice for liver cleansing and green leafy vegetables as chelators of heavy metals.  Cabbage, apple, and celery works well for cleansing the kidneys.  It is imperative to use fresh organic produce for juicing and immediately consume the juice before it oxidizes and the beneficial enzymes are destroyed.  If you can tolerate the sugar in organic fruits, they can be added to the juice mixture to improve the taste.  I will occasionally juice with small amounts of apple.  Otherwise, I like to add fresh peppermint leaves and ginger root to my juices for a pleasant spicy flavor. Juicing should be done first thing in the morning.  For optimal detoxing, wait to eat any solid foods as their digestion will slow the detoxification process.  The body's natural detoxification process will slow down around 10 AM which is the time I typically eat my breakfast.  I have used a handful of different juicers over the years but my favorite is my champion juicer.  It is an expensive juicer; however, I had the opportunity to get one secondhand at a fraction of the retail price.

DETOX THERAPIES

 There are a myriad of detox therapies to choose from including chiropractor care, cranial sacral therapy, acupuncture, energy therapies, infrared sauna, laser detoxes, foot soaks, glutathione, activated charcoal, cheleated therapies, essential oils such as frankincense, coffee enemas, colon hydrotherapy, and other cleanses.  Everyone's ability to tolerate detox protocols varies depending on their individual body type and genetic make-up.  I am uniquely sensitive to most protocols and prefer to use an energy therapy called Field Control Therapy (FCT) for my primary detoxification.  My FCT practitioner tests for sensitivities with detoxification and designs a personalized protocol for my unique physical makeup.  This protocol identifies the primary problem and supports organs and tissue that are stressed in the detoxification process in order to safely eliminate toxins and chemicals.  I also routinely receive chiropractor care along with cranial sacral therapy; however, I have found my body does not tolerate the toxins released with these therapies so my FCT practitioner has made remedies for me to take afterwards.  I also have been detoxing through oil pulling therapy for several years.

EXERCISE AND MASSAGE

 Exercise and massage promote detoxification in activating the lymphatic system.   Stretching, yoga, and deep breathing exercises has cleansing benefits for the body.  Actively moving and sweating will help eliminate toxins, and one of the best ways to activate the lymphatic system is with a rebounder or small trampoline.  Even a few minutes on the trampoline can be an enormous benefit for the lymphs; however, those of us with chronic vertigo and vestibular disorders should limit time on the rebounder to a minute or less to avoid jerking the neck and upper-cervical spine.   Massage will also activate the lymphatic system, though some of us are very sensitive to deep tissue massage and should use this therapy with caution.   Although I am unable to tolerate full massages, I frequently massage my feet, legs, hands, and arms with coconut oil at bedtime or with my detox baths.  I try to keep a basic natural detox and exercise routine.  Upon awakening, I drink a full glass of filtered water infused with raw organic apple cider vinegar mixed with a little Himalayan rock salt solution for energy and replenishment. Then, I use my rebounder just before taking a detox bath, oil pulling, exercising, and juicing.  
  
DETOX BATHS

Detox baths are highly recommended when herxing, especially during Lyme treatments.  I like them because they are simple, inexpensive, and relaxing. Dr. Campbell-McBride recommends rotating detox baths each day choosing between a cup of Epson salts, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or sea salt.  Some people also use hydrogen peroxide.  Essential oils can also be added to detox baths.  Popular oils for this purpose are lavender, peppermint, or citrus blends.  Although Epson salts are popular for detoxing, I am sensitive to the sulfur in the salts and don't personally use them.  I prefer rotating between baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and a few teaspoons of ginger powder mixed with sea salt.  Before starting the detox bath, you should take a body brush and brush your skin towards your heart for a minute or two.  This helps remove dead skin and activates the lymphatic system.  The appropriate length of time for a detox bath varies depending on personal preference and ability to tolerate the bath.  I do my oil pulling therapy while soaking in the tub which takes about 20 minutes.

DETOX FOR WHOLE LIVING

 Whole nutrition, routine exercise, and detoxification are vital components of pure whole living.  Regular detoxing can be added to a daily routine through the inexpensive means of embracing a whole lifestyle by eating a clean diet, juicing, activating the lymphatic system, massage, exercise, oil pulling therapy, dry brushing, and detox baths.  The benefits of regular detoxing with whole nutrition include weight loss, clearer skin, enhances immune system, decreased pain and inflammation, clearer thinking, and increased energy.  Be patient with the process as it takes time to figure out the lifestyle protocol that works for you, but in the end it is worth the benefits!
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JOYFUL TREASURES:  TIME FOR SOME VITAMIN D!

 We've made it through winter and the rainy season of early spring, anticipating the glorious sunshine to brighten our spirits and give our gardens a burst of new life.  The grass is now a lush green and flowers are blossoming with majesty and beauty.  Time outside basking in the warm sun is great way to boost our vitamin D and enjoy the benefits of feeling reconnected with nature.  After a cold rainy start to our week, I am looking forward to getting out my gardening tools and hummingbird feeders and relish in the warmth of spring!

 "He is a lush plant before the sun, and his shoots spread over his garden."  Job 8:16

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 DETOXING RESOURCES

 The information on this blog is based solely on personal experience and discussion with others who use detox therapies.  It is not intended for diagnosis or treatment of disease or conditions.  To choose the right detox plan, I recommend consulting a doctor or other healthcare practitioner.  For more information about detoxing, you can check out these resources.

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/05/04/detoxification-program.aspx

 http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/05/23/should-you-detox-to-get-rid-of-chemicals.aspx

 http://realfoodforager.com/detoxification-6-stages-of-gaps-introductory-diet/

http://www.gapsdiet.com/detoxification.html

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-18335/13-detox-juices-to-drink-yourself-clean.html

 https://www.youngliving.com/blog/cleanse-and-detoxify-your-body-with-essential-oils/

http://www.judytsafrirmd.com/gaps-wonder-baths/

 http://thejoyofthehome.com/detoxing-baths/

http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2013/06/embracing-wellness-through-alternative.html

http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2013/11/health-wellness-and-beauty-of_4739.html

 http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2016/02/care-in-our-culture-part-two-invisible.html

 http://dzehm.blogspot.com/2014/06/kellys-hope-part-two-building-on-legacy.      

 http://puresimplewholeliving.blogspot.com/2017/05/electromagnetic-frequencies.html
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Thursday, April 13, 2017

Holistic Dental Health



Dental health is an essential component of our overall physical wellness.  When farmers and ranchers are looking to invest in quality cattle and other livestock, they will check the prospective animal's teeth because healthy gums and teeth indicate healthy livestock.  The same is true for us as humans.  When our teeth and gums are fighting underlying infections, our immune systems can wear down, negatively impacting our health, especially those of us with chronic infections, illnesses, cancer, and/or autoimmune conditions.  Metal implants, silver amalgam mercury fillings, and root canals will also potentially compromise our bodies with neurotoxins and other problematic conditions.  Additionally, our commercial toothpastes carry potentially harmful toxins such as flouride, triclosan, and sulfates which can contribute to the problem.

My health began to decline about eleven years ago, shortly after having a metal implant procedure.  Four years later, while I was unknowingly infected with Lyme disease, I received an additional dental amalgam filling.  At that time, I was unaware that the filling carried harmful levels of mercury and the adverse impact it would have on my health.  The combination of autoimmune struggles, chronic Lyme, and extreme sensitivities to dental metal seemed to be the tipping scale for me with my health battle. After becoming aware of these issues, it took me a few years to save up money to pay for procedures to safely remove and replace all my metal fillings and implants from my teeth.  Meanwhile, I educated myself about natural holistic dental health.  Here are some important tips I learned through my own personal experiences.

FINDING THE RIGHT DENTIST

 There is considerable debate in the dental profession about the harmful effects of dental amalgams, metal implants, root canals, and other dental procedures.  It is important to find a dentist who is supportive of your desire for natural and holistic measures to care for your teeth and respects your concerns about these procedures.  Usually, the best option is to find a biological or holistic dentist.  There are also conventional dentists who are willing to work with you in this capacity, though they might be cautious about approaching the subject because of the controversy it entails.  Regardless, if you make the decision to have your amalgams removed, you must find a dentist who has the appropriate equipment to remove them with a rubber dam and to effectively remove mercury vapors in the air which can be dangerous for everyone involved in the procedure.  Mercury is a powerful neurotoxin.  When removing mercury fillings, you want to find an effective detox protocol to get the mercury out of your system.  Many detoxes will circulate the mercury through your body without safely eliminating it.    Those of us who have impaired detoxification pathways must especially be on alert about this. 

CHOOSING THE RIGHT DENTAL PRODUCTS

When we are battling chemical sensitivities, chronic migraines, illnesses, and autoimmune conditions, we should consider choosing a non-toxic fluoride-free toothpaste.  There are various natural toothpaste products available.  Many natural toothpaste brands contain chemicals that I personally am sensitive to so I prefer to make my own toothpaste and use natural dental care.  Here are a few natural dental care tips that I have found to be effective:

1.  Brush with pure baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.  Baking soda has an abrasive quality to scrub your teeth clean and hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant for eliminating oral bacteria.  Just spread some of the baking soda on your tooth brush, pour a little peroxide on the baking soda, and you are ready to go. It is not recommended to brush daily with pure baking soda itself.  I typically use it about every other day.  

2.  Make your own toothpaste.  There are numerous recipes for homemade toothpaste.  The simplest way to make toothpaste is by placing about a 1/4 cup coconut oil in a small mason jar.  Then, add a little baking soda and filtered water until it is a paste consistency and put a few drops of peppermint essential oils for taste.  You can also add a dash of Himalayan sea salt to the mixture, which is optional.  

3.  Make your own mouthwash.  Natural chemical-free mouthwash is also easy to make.  Just take a pint mason jar (I prefer using an old coconut oil jar with a lid) and fill with a cup or two of filtered water.  Add a couple teaspoons of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.  Shake to mix contents and use.  This simple mouthwash will sanitize your mouth and gums when rinsing. 





 OIL PULLING THERAPY

Oil pulling therapy is an excellent therapeutic and detoxification protocol for good dental health. Five years ago, my health condition made it impossible for me to make it to the dentist, and I knew I was struggling with some underlying dental infections.   As a result, I decided to try oil pulling therapy.  I started off doing the therapy three times a day and eventually reduced it to twice a day.   After completing all my necessary dental procedures, I continued oil pulling once a day.  Our mouths carry multiple types of bacteria, and when we swish with quality organic oil, it pulls the bacteria out of our teeth and gums, allowing our bodies to detoxify and heal.  The benefits of oil pulling therapy include general detoxification, decreased risk of cavities, reduction of infections in teeth and gums, and cleaner/whiter teeth.  

Coconut oil is highly recommended for this therapy because it contains lauric acid which has essential antibacterial components.  To get started, you take up to one tablespoon of organic cold pressed unprocessed coconut oil and swish it in your mouth.  Some people melt the oil on the stove as it is solid at room temperature.  I prefer to use it when it is solid and allow the heat of my mouth to melt the oil.  Start out for about 5 minutes and eventually work up to 10-20 minutes of swishing the oil in your mouth.  Try not to swallow it.  When done, simply spit it out and immediately brush your teeth.  Afterwards, the oil should be a milky white color.  Do not spit coconut oil in the sink as it will clog your pipes when it is in a solid state.  The coconut oil carries bacteria and is rank after use, so you will want to dispose it.  When first starting oil pulling, you may notice that you have cold symptoms, "herxing" reactions, and you might feel more tired than usual.  This is a sign of your body detoxifying and adjusting to the therapy.  It is normal and should subside after a week or two.   The best time of day to do oil pulling is first thing in the morning before you eat or just before bed.  When my dentist removed an infected metal crown a couple of years ago, he told me whatever I was doing seemed to work in keeping the infection at bay and said to keep it up.  That was confirmation for me that I was doing the right thing!

HOLISTIC DENTAL HEALTH

Quality dental care is a critical aspect of pure, simple, and whole living.  By consulting with a dental professional that is supportive of holistic health, taking good care of our teeth naturally, and avoiding metal implants and fillings as much as possible, we can give our physical wellness a healthy jump start!  In transitioning into holistic dental health, take it a step at a time and pray about the right timing to find a qualified dentist for removing/replacing any metal fillings and other implants.  A safe and effective detox program is also a critical factor in removing and replacing amalgam fillings.  Detoxing mercury has been one of the most difficult battles with my health struggles, as I was already battling a condition that was causing nerve damage.  The mercury in my body caused some unpleasant neurological side effects.  Despite my struggles with mercury detoxing and other  problems with metal implants, it was definitely worth it in the long run to have them all removed and replaced.  It is a big decision, but God sees us through!

To find a holistic or biological dentist in your area, visit this website: http://holisticdental.org/
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    JOYFUL TREASURES:  RESURRECTION POWER

Easter is one of my favorite times of year in which we celebrate the resurrection of our Savior!  Life emerges around us as the grass greens up, trees bud leaves, and bulb flowers unfold their beauty.  As we pull out last year's perennial stems and leaves to make room for new growth, remember that God does the same in our lives.  He prunes back the old and makes room for new life to spring forth in our hearts.  When the winter season has worn us down, our suffering becomes a conduit for the glory of God's power.  May his resurrection power renew our hearts with joy!

"God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power!"  1 Corinthians 6:14

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HOLISTIC DENTAL RESOURCES

I am not a doctor or an expert on dentistry.  The information in this article is based on my own personal experience and is not intended for diagnosis or treatment of dental problems or health conditions. For more information about holistic dental health, check out the following resources.










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Monday, April 3, 2017

Up Close and Personal: Simple Tips for Chemical Free Living





Spring is a perfect time to reflect on fresh mercies and reset our goals for pure, simple, and whole living.  Whole living permeates every part of us as we strive to simplify our lives and reduce our toxic load.  My last blog touched on the benefits of chemical free spring cleaning, and with it I took a poll on what products those in my social network preferred to achieve this goal.  Now, I would like to go a step farther and take an "up close and personal" look at chemical free living with our personal care products.  Our skin is the largest organ of the body and is constantly exposed to/absorbing toxins in the air and the products we use.  Soaps, shampoos, deodorants, lotions, perfumes, and cosmetics are loaded with toxic chemicals that we are lathering onto our bodies.  In using these common personal care products, we are unknowingly exposing ourselves to hormone disrupting endocrine inhibitors, skin/respiratory system irritants, possible carcinogens, and other potentially damaging chemicals.

CHEMICAL FREE PERSONAL PRODUCTS

With having severe chemical sensitivities and ongoing autoimmune challenges, I have transitioned into chemical free personal products over a number of years.  I purchase natural nontoxic glycerin soaps, body washes, and lotions to use for personal care.  Most of these products can be picked up at whole foods stores or online.  One of my favorite online shopping sites for these products is the Swanson Vitamins Website which sells products at a reduced cost and offers regular promotional sales.  When making personal care purchases, I look for "fragrance free" and "free and clear" products that have as few chemicals as possible.  I avoid artificial fragrances, sulfides, petroleum, mineral oil, and other toxic chemicals as much as I can.  I do admit that I occasionally use conditioner that is not chemical free, and I have yet to research safe nontoxic cosmetics, which is a future goal mine.  I keep cosmetic use to a minimum and have tried the hypoallergenic Physician's Formula makeup that can be bought at retail stores like Walmart or Target.

The industry is full of hypoallergenic and "free and clear" products, but I prefer to follow a simple and cost effective approach to personal care.  Here are some simple inexpensive tips for chemical free personal care with my favorite products that I have found to work well for my own hygiene needs.     

COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is absolutely one of my favorite dietary and personal care products.  I always keep a bottle in the bathroom to use as a moisturizer, deodorant, and agent for oral care.  Coconut oil also makes a perfect sunscreen.  Coconut oil is a safe natural product full of anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties, not to mention it smells and tastes delicious!  I like to use coconut oil first thing in the morning for oil pulling therapy and massage my hands, feet, arms, and legs with it just before bed.  Most deodorant products contain aluminum and other toxins that can put us at risk for breast cancer.  I keep a small jelly-sized mason jar at my sink with a mixture of coconut oil and baking soda that I add by the teaspoon until the mixture is a paste consistency.  It makes a very effective homemade chemical free deodorant that keeps me feeling dry and clean all day.  You can also make your own toothpaste by mixing coconut oil, baking soda, and a little filtered water flavored with peppermint essential oils.  When purchasing coconut oil, be sure to look for unrefined organic oil.  We purchase inexpensive organic coconut oil at Aldi.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Raw organic apple cider vinegar is also one of my favorite products to use in cooking, replenishment beverages, and personal care.  It makes a very effective detox bath and can be used in place of shampoo for shiny hair.  When having a vinegar detox bath, I add a few tablespoons to my bathwater.  For a chemical free a hair wash, take a jar or glass of water and wash with a tablespoon or two of baking soda (depending on the length of your hair), wash with a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar, and then rinse.  I like to rotate hair products between a mixture of baking soda with apple cider vinegar and a hypoallergenic nontoxic hair and body wash that I get from the whole foods store.  

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

Hydrogen peroxide is another household favorite as a disinfectant, topical agent for sores and insect bites, as well as hand sanitizer and mouthwash.  I keep a small bottle of hydrogen peroxide in my purse in place of a hand sanitizer.  I also keep it at the sink for oral care, brushing teeth, and I make a homemade mouthwash adding a couple of teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to a small mason jar of filtered water.  I have also noticed that hydrogen peroxide speeds up the healing processes for cuts and insect bites.  It is a must in my personal care package!

BAKING SODA

Baking soda is a necessity for any chemical free household to use in cleaning products, detox baths, deodorants, toothpastes, facial and hair scrubs, etc.  The uses of baking soda are almost limitless.  It can be soothing for skin rashes as well as insect bites.  I use baking soda for hair washing, deodorant, and oral care.  When I brush my teeth, I will sometimes add a little baking soda to my tooth brush and mix with hydrogen peroxide to get my teeth and gums nice and clean.  When I add a few tablespoons of baking soda to my detox bath, it is very soft and soothing to the skin.  It is my favorite product for this purpose.

ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is a popular product for skin care and digestive health.  Why take the time and expense to purchase chemically loaded aloe products when we have a large aloe plant in our house!  Aloe plants are perfect for absorbing toxins out of the air, and their leaves can be used to treat burns and other skin conditions.  Some people also consume aloe which is said to have healing properties for our intestines.  Aloe is very easy to grow and transfer shoots into new plantings.  This versatile low maintenance plant is perfect for any chemical free household.

CHEMICAL FREE WHOLE LIVING

 There is no need to go out and spend a boatload of money on personal care products when these basic tips can be used for a simple and inexpensive whole lifestyle.  Whole living is an ongoing process in which we can always improve upon and look at ways to reduce toxins in what we consume, breathe, and put on our bodies.  May we inspire and encourage each other to live well and live fully.  Our bodies will thank us!

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JOYFUL TREASURES:  PREPARING YOUR GARDEN

With spring finally here, it is time to plan for your summer garden!  I was a little late this year getting my flower seeds planted.  I like to get my flowers and garden vegetables started in my laundry room with peat pellets, a small enclosed "greenhouse" planter, and a bare light bulb.  There is nothing more thrilling than watching those fragile little seeds germinate into new life!

 "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant."  -- Robert Louis Stevenson


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