New Cancer Isa Survivor's Support Group Forms On Facebook

Candace...Founder...IsaSurvivors Group

Cancer is something I am intimately familiar with in my life...I've not been stricken with it, but know its face all too intimately.  Cancer changes people, changes families and too often the battle fought by many, as gallant as that battle was is a battle lost, a life a soul taken from us too soon. 

  

Five days ago I saw a post in one of the Isa groups from one Candace Tweady Woods who was wanting to start a Isa support group for cancer patients, their families, friends and caregivers. 

 

There is one beautiful thing about cancer...everyone who's life it has ever touched is part of a very large extended family.  You can be sitting alone all by yourself in the waiting room while your loved one is in surgery, and someone will come over and sit beside you and start up a conversation, give you words of encouragement telling you it is all going to be just fine.  I've been on both sides of that coin, both giving and recieving those words so desparately needed in that time of darkness.  As someone who has been touched by cancer, Candace's idea of starting such a support group brought tears to my eyes...I wanted it to happen, wanted to see a group formed where people could come for support, or to vent, even just to cry through their own written words.

 

Woke up Saturday morning, and as I always do, after pouring my morning coffee went online to check Facebook only to find that the group had gone from dream into reality.  So, a special thank you to Candace Tweady Woods for providing members of the Isagenix family whose lives have been touched by cancer a very special place all their own.  It is a closed group on Facebook, but if you have had your life touched by cancer, if you are looking for a group of caring, loving people that understand because they have walked your walk, please visit the group and request to join.

 

Group Can Be Found Here

 

 

Eating Healthy and Organic...Putting It In Perspective

I live in a small somewhat rural community in New York...jobs are hard to come by, and for many families money is tight.  Much like organic food sources, Isagenix is healthy, but the cost on the surface seems prohibitive to a lot of folks.  Sign someone up for a 30 Day Cleanse Pack and that person needs right at $320 in the door...buy organic eggs at the store, and you are looking at around $3.59 a dozen verse paying less than two bucks for the not so healthy eggs.  Boneless chicken breasts pumped up with nasty stuff can be had for about $1.99 a pound, while organically raised chicken can run around $6.00 a pound.  People, parents, families want to eat healthy, want to avoid the toxins, but cost seems to be a serious barrier that needs to be overcome.

 

More than once since I began sharing what I consider to be the magic of Isagenix with friends and family they have been very interested in trying the products until the price issue came up.  Lets face it, eventually we will be getting our SUPER FOOD for free, but not in the front door.  It is easy to say, "Can you really put a price tag on your families health?"  That might be an easy answer, but probably not the right answer when price seems to be the issue holding many people back from eating and living healthy, finding the them they really want to be.

 

A friend of mine tries to be healthy, but she is raising two children, one of them a teenage boy who eats like a horse.  All healthy organic foods  are out of the question, and the budget so it becomes a balancing act...organic chicken, but Skippy Peanut Butter on sale.  $1.99 hamburger in the tube to make meatloaf with, but healthy organic vegetables.  Other people are in the same boat, or they find themselves asking, "are healthy organic foods really worth it?  Choices...some good, some bad, but choices they need to make.

A 2 tablespoon serving of peanut butter supplies 25 percent of your daily intake of fat, according to the nutrition label. Who has a sandwich with just 2 tablespoons of peanut butter on it?

 

Perhaps that is the question to answer first when trying to convince people to eat healthier foods, to come on board with Isagenix.  Are there choices, even better choices that can be made that would make Isagenix, organic foods the affordable choice?  

 

It is a tough question to answer, but there are some facts that should make it clear that industrially produced and processed foods are not the safest choice for ourselves and our families.  As example, organic foods have 31 percent lower levels of pesticides, fewer food-borne pathogens and more phenols, a substance believed to help fight cancer.  We live in a toxic world, and though some might wish to deny it, our bodies have become toxic waste dumps in the name of saving a few dollars on the grocery bill so the kids can be put in braces, or there is enough money left over to make the monthly car payment.

 

Organic foods, the healthy natural ingredients found in Isagenix products are better for us, will make us healthier happier people.  In the long run, organic foods, the Super Food that is Isagenix (I believe) will save us money too, is a much better choice to make...a healthier person is far less likely to find themselves with those unexpected medical bills that we seem to forget about till they crop up.  Even with good health insurance, an unexpected illness (cancer as example) can cost a family thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected costs.   A healthier person or family free (or almost free) of the environmental toxins from the food we eat, even the air we breath  is far less likely to find themselves dropping $50 here and $100 there at the local drug store or paying a visit to the family doctor...it all adds up. 

The typical household (including residents of all ages) spent $3,313 on health care in 2011, compared to $2,771 in 2001, after adjusting for inflation.

 

What are the costs to individuals, to the family of obesity?  The CDC states that 34 percent of our American population is obese...what are the costs of this to a family's budget?  What are the costs to the emotional well being of an obese person, the costs to their family.  What if eating a super food saw a person shedding pounds, feeling better, and having more energy...would cost still be an issue?  If families could look into a crystal ball say six months or a year down the line and see the advantages of making better food and diet choices, would they find the money to make the switch?  Would they choose to eliminate certain things from their life to live the reality of being happy and healthy?

 

I have no studies, only my own antedotal example as proof, but believe if you factor everything in that Isagenix is actually a bargain.  My own grocery bill has been significantly less since being on Isagenix...two of my meals each day are Isalean Shakes, so I am not having to shop for breakfast or lunch most days of the month, not grabbing something on the run and tossing a ten dollar bill at the cashier.  Right now, doing the 30 Day plan sees me not buying any food four days of the month when I am doing my Cleanse days. 

 

Since being on the product, not running through the McDonald's drive thru for a burger and the works and handing over $12, not stopping at Starbuck's for a $4 cup of coffee...not to mention that pastry or brownie I just HAD TO HAVE I am staying within my own budget.  The food I am eating is A) healthy, and B) in smaller portions...finding as I get healthier, am losing weight that I am not gorging msyelf.  In short, if I look at those savings,  at my improving health, the extra amount it is costing me each month to be on Isagenix, to be healthy and happy is well worth it.

 

In short, I've made choices...families make choices.  Getting your child braces is a necessity, but is taking them once or twice a week through the McDonald's drive thru a necessity...more importantly is it really GOOD FOR THEM?  Would you rather have a healthy fit child in Walmart sneakers, or a overweight sullen child in $150 Nike's? 

 

OK, Isagenix is expensive, but put the product, put organic foods into perspective, and look at the choices you currently are making, and then ask yourself again, "Can I afford Isagenix, wholesome organic foods for myself and my family?"   Maybe, just maybe some different choices will show you that getting and being healthier is not only worth it, but affordable if you are willing to let go of a few of those things that are not really good for you and your family.

Just a Six Legged Man Juggling Naked In Times Square

There Is Light At Tunnel's End

In just 37 days another year passes into the record books, 52 days after that the birthday clock ticks off another year in my own life as I move from 56 to 57, one step closer to wherever it is that life and eternity is taking me.  Almost two months ago, perhaps by accident or maybe by design I found myself at a juncture where life was screaming loudly, "It is time for a change".  Voices are often easy to ignore, or at least give only a half an ear to whatever it is they are saying, even when what they are saying we already know is true.   For whatever reason...providence?...I heard the voice, realized that something had to give, that something had to change, that my life needed a new direction.

 

Change is not easy, and does not happen overnight, and the process/journey of that change suddenly sees you having your feet not so firmly planted in not just one, but two, three even six different worlds, grappling with a simple fact...change often times requires giving up things, things that you perhaps love, are comfortable with...even if some of those things are not good for you, emotionally, mentally or physically. 

 

I like to eat...too much at times, but the huge Budda Belly hanging over my ever expanding waist, was not a healthy byproduct of that eating.  I don't drink a lot, but probably being honest like it more than I should.  A great bottle of wine with dinner, a few drinks with friends while listening to music at an Open Mic night in the bar across the street.  Cannot say I like smoking, its a habit, one that gives me some comfort in bad times, something to do when I need something to do for whatever the reason might be.

 

That voice screaming relentlessly..."It is time for a change."

 

I found Isagenix, or more aptly it found me.

 

The journey so far is being an exciting one even if it has its highs and lows.  I have a lot of self disciplend at times, at others not so much.  One foot in the world of Isagenix, the other in the world that was and still is.  Another foot is in the business end of Isagenix, a model (network marketing) that is alien to me, one that takes me so out of my personal comfort zone.  Truth be told, I am a very visible loner, preferring the solitude of a walk in the woods with my camera, my feet, mind and heart comfortable in this alone space that lets me think, in a world that lets me observe without having to be a part of it, in a realm where my mind for a bit can be and know quiet.

 

A six legged man, one foot in this world, another foot firmly planted in another as I try to juggle balls hoping none fall from the air...that part of me I keep hidden from the world afraid of what will happen when I do.  Once read somewhere that if you want to be something, pretend you are until you have the skill sets to be what it is that you want to be...sometimes in this journey, feel like I am prentending to be while hoping one day I will be...not sure I have ever been really HEALTHY my whole life, and a lot of the time right now, though I know I am getting healthier do feel that I am pretending to be, and think that reality is why I fear what happens if I fail.

 

The weather outside suits my mood, the wind howling as storm clouds pile in one upon another, as a storm blows in on the horizon, the weather like my life changing fast, me wondering if I am going to be able to keep up, me wondering who this new person emerging from within is going to be.  Sometimes it all seems to much, sometimes fear sees me wanting to fail, wanting to go back to that unsafe safe place where white is white, black is black, and even if it is bad for me, returning to that space of being comfortable because of the familiarity of the world in which I lived, even hid.

 

NOPE...cannot let that happen, best to be the six legged man juggling naked in Times Square, braving the gawkers and the doubters, proving to myself that where I am going to is where I am supposed to be.

Social Media...Some Beginners Tips For My Isa Friends

First, wishing everyone a very happy, fun filled Thanksgiving full of fun, family and blessings.  Speak a blessing of gratitude for what you do have, and lift up to the heavens a prayer for all those in the world going through rough times.

 

As I sit here drinking my morning Isa Shake (already had my Ionix Supreme) wanted to write an article to share with everyone in our Isa Social Media group over on Facebook...a few tips on getting started in Social Media Marketing.  For beginners, Social Media Marketing (SMM) can be...well, it can be intimadating. 

 

Social Media Marketing is something necessary in this new age of instantaneous communication, and it takes time to learn as there is a LOT TO LEARN.  That said, don't let it intimadate you...Rome was not built in a day, and when it comes to getting yourself out there, patience truly is a virtue.  So, some basic tips for those wanting to get started. (Hey, once the turkey is in the oven, and the footballs games are turned on, or after dinner when everyone wants to take a timeout before desert, why not get your toes wet?)

 

Social Media Tips For Beginners

 

1. Listen to your audience.  Sure, we all want to speak our minds, but are we doing it in a way that makes others want to listen...your audience is going to let you know what they like, what they want to hear about.  If one of your articles in a blog, tweets on Twitter, or a time line entry on Facebook gets great response (how many comments, how many article views?) while others see almost no traffic, your audience is speaking to you, "HEY, we really like this."  You can also ask your audience what they want to hear using polls, or even putting up a post asking them, "What articles would you like me to write, or what discussions are we wanting to have."

 

2. Know your audience.  On Facebook, many of us belong to various Isagenix groups, a captive audience of folks who want to hear about, and learn about Isagenix...so, probably would not make a lot of sense if I started putting up comments about the fine points of overhauling and restoring a 1947 DeSoto.  Those in Twitter A) like short concise statements (duh...only have 140 characters) and tend to like links in case they want more information.  Blogs on the other hand give you more of a platform for longer posts and explantions. 

 

Bonus tip...Write a blog post (IE, this one) then make a short concise statement about it with a link on twitter...a great twofer!  Viral Marketing at its finest.

 

3. Start small.  Yes, you want to protect your brand, maybe you want to run out and establish yourself on say 10 Social Media sites...but, once you have made that LAND GRAB, let some of those pieces of real estate sit idle.  It is best to put all your efforts into one or two projects, build them up, grow a following, then look toward expanding.

 

4. See what’s working.  Think of it as research...do Google searches, find out what others in your industry (Isagenix) are doing to attract and build their own audience...if you are using Facebook, go find out who is being successful marketing a similiar/identical product, and start modeling your plan based on this newly gained information...they say imitation is the highest form of flattery, and it is.  After all, why would any of us want to duplicate a marketing plan that DOES NOT WORK?

 

What it all comes down to...GET STARTED.  Find your audience, strike up conversations about what you are passionate about (Isagenix), engage, engage, ENGAGE...why do you think they call it SOCIAL MEDIA?

What's in Season...Trying A New Widget

Hello Readers:

As I work toward getting healthy and SLIM, looking for some new widgets that my readers and I might find useful...today looking through the list of widgets that are available right in my Blogger console, found one that I am trying out for the next few weeks as it looks promising.  To find it, simply scroll down to the bottom of my blog and try it out.

 

This is a FRESH FOODS widget...how cool is that?  You can choose what state you live in, what month it is, and it tells you the fruits and vegetables that are in season for you with little pictorial icons.  Click on any icon and it opens up a new page that gives you a brief history of the fruit or vegetable you are considering for your meal.  It gets better...over on the left side are various links to RECIPES!  I love recipes.

 

So, for those of you looking for fresh fruits and veggies, for those of you looking to find new recipes for some of your favorites foods, give it a whirl and let me know in the comments section of this article what you think of it.

Is Your Scale NOT MOVING?

I have been having trouble moving the scale downward, and was pondering the issue when I found a link to a great article on the Isagenix Health Blog on Facebook.  After reading it, have decided to share it with my readers, and put a link to the article in my sidebar...YES, it is that good!   Thank you Isagenix for creating such great information for those of us wanting to get healthy, wanting to lose weight.  Don't know about Isagenix?  Email the Isaguru, or call me at (845) 693-4513

 

Can’t Make the Scale Budge? 11 Questions to Ask Yourself

March 20, 2012

by Ina Nozek, DC, MS, CCN

Losing stubborn weight is easier with these 11 tips.

Amazing transformational changes to our health and our body composition are seen with the Isagenix nutritional cleansing and fat burning systems, but every now and then we get “stuck.” Sometimes the weight seems to be coming off too slowly, or compared to other people’s results it doesn’t feel “up to par.”
What I’d like to do is give some tips on how to optimize weight/fat loss results so that you can reach both your health and your weight loss goals. Before you get discouraged, here are a few questions you can ask yourself:

1. Are you drinking enough water? The products do an amazing job at helping your body cleanse away toxins, but it’s your job to flush those impurities out with adequate hydration from pure, plain water. It is extremely important to consume at least eight to 10 full glasses of water each day, as is standard advice. On hot days or if performing physical activity, drink a few ounces more along with the sports drink Want More Energy?® that replenishes lost glycogen, vitamins and electrolytes.
2. Are you moving your bowels well each and every day? Constipation could hinder weight loss results. Rather than carrying around pounds that build up in the colon, regular and complete bowel movements are important in managing your ‘true’ body weight. If necessary, increasing the amount of IsaFlush! (containing magnesium) and fiber that you are taking each day will support regularity. FiberPro and FiberSnacks! can be used to get your required amount of daily fiber, which will certainly support gastrointestinal health.
3. Are you taking in enough or perhaps too many calories? Take a look at the meals and snacks that you consume on your Shake Days. Make sure to follow the program with 400- to 600-calorie meals consisting of whole, natural foods.
4. Are you letting too much time go by between your shakes and your meal and/or snacks? Timing is everything! Your shake or meal should hold your appetite for three to four hours. If there is more time than that between meals, you need to choose a healthy, balanced snack to curb hunger. This will keep your blood sugar stable and prevent your body from slowing your metabolism to conserve energy.
5. What are your food choices? Many of us may be absent-mindedly hindering results by reach for excess sugars and/or starches. Snacking on high-glycemic, low-fiber foods, or having a handful of this or that throughout the day can be enough to slow things down. Be aware of what you are choosing to eat.
6. Are you sleep deprived and/or stressed out? Either of these issues can cause your stress hormones to be out of balance and lead to increased fat storage—especially around the belly. If you are under a lot of stress and/or not sleeping restfully at night, I suggest you double up on your Ionix Supreme. Meditation and light physical activity may also be helpful in restoring your natural rhythms.
7. How often are you cleansing? For some of you, you may be cleansing too often and for others, you may not be cleansing enough. Keep your body guessing! Two consecutive Cleanse Days is the deepest advisable cleanse and the most effective way to burn fat. However, some people may do this too often. In which case, I recommend that you switch things up. Perhaps do double Cleanse Days every other week. Or, you can try one Cleanse Day one week and then a two Cleanse Days the next week. Maybe switch to drinking 1 or2 ounces daily (“daily cleansing”) for a while instead. Two to four ounces of Cleanse for Life before bed on an empty stomach may be helpful for many people, too. Remember to hydrate well throughout the day whether you are “deep” or “daily cleansing.” The key to all of this is to keep your body guessing by making sure to switch things up!
8. Are your foods settling? Food allergies and sensitivities may be playing a role in slowing weight loss results. Be aware of what foods you are eating and whether or not they are “jiving” with your body. Avoid any obvious foods sensitivities or intolerances.
9. Are you maximizing your meals? If not, consider Vanilla IsaPro! Adding 1 scoop of IsaPro to 1 or 1 ½ scoops of IsaLean shake can be helpful for optimizing your metabolism. The boost to protein can make a huge difference to anyone with a sluggish metabolism. Extra protein also keeps your appetite satisfied longer and promotes maintenance of muscle, a key element for plateau busting!
10. How many steps do you take every day? Get out there and move! Exercise is so important for our general health and it makes a huge difference in transforming our body composition. Daily exercise increases metabolism naturally as we build muscle. Incorporate strength and resistance training as well as cardio exercise for optimal fat burning results.
11. Are you following the plan? Are you committed to getting the best results? Are your food choices optimal? Are you adding too many extra calories to your shakes and to your snacking? Be honest with yourself. If we are honest with ourselves, sometimes we realize that we could be more committed and disciplined. For some of us, it’s this discipline that makes all of the difference in achieving our goals. Then maintenance becomes a lot easier. Stay strong in order to truly transform your body so that you can look and feel your absolute best!

Are You A Homemaker Looking For A Part Job? Perhaps Networking Marketing Is Right For You

My Isagenix Stash

Was in one of my Facebook groups the other night reading posts when I came across something that I did not know...seems that women make up the lions share of people involved in network marketing, and they ARE VERY GOOD AT IT.  

It was not something I had given much thought to, but once I read this fact, wondered first why it was that women make up a larger percentage of the people in this industry, and what makes them so good at.  A bit of research indicates the following explanations on why women are great networking marketers.

1. Women are good listeners, and better at relationship building than men are.  These skills allow them to really understand their customers and their needs.

2. Women's intuition...seriously, without having all the facts women have an innate ability to determine what a customer is thinking, and whether or not someone is a great prospect to be an associate.

3.  Women are more willing to learn...a man will drive around for hours rather than stop and ask for directions, while a woman is much more willing to ask for help, which makes them better at learning the in's and out's of network marketing.

4.  Women as a general rule make most of the buying decisions in a home...they seek out information about the products they are considering bringing into the home, and want personal recommendations from friends who have experience or knowledge about a product.

5.  Women really like the flexibility of schedule that being a network marketer affords them.

6.  Women are really good at finding consensus, which (IMO) make them much better at building a team (downline) than are men.

Sure there are other reasons that make women great at network marketing, but these really struck a cord in my own mind.  So, if you are a woman, and you have been looking into network marketing, if you have been wondering if it is the right opportunity for you, would love to explain the Isagenix business model to you, and introduce you to their wonderful line of products.

Drop me an email at Isagenix Guru, or call me at (845)346-6523

Contemplation...Facing A BIG Obstacle In The Road

Yesterday was a good day for me...

Finished off my 30 Day Cleanse, and the results were nothing shy of sterling.  Total weight loss in one month was 14.5 pounds, and inches lost was 24.  That is amazing...but, think I can do better than that, but only if I buckle down and deal with a few things that have been and are an issue for me when it comes to being who I can be, if the Isa Body Challenge is going to give me everything it has the potential to give me.  The question becomes, where does one get the strength to address some very deep seated issues that affect ones health and life? 

DEMONS...

Don't you just HATE THEM?  We all have them, we all know they are there, but we ignore them, or empower them.  In some cases we seem to welcome them into our lives, are even PALS with them as they wreak their havoc.   For whatever the reason is or might be, we in the end seem powerless to rid ourselves of them, addicted to whatever spirit or vice it is that has taken up residence inside of us.

My BIG DEMON? (yes...this infers more than one)

Cigarettes...

Now I think if someone kidnapped me, took me away to some deserted island and chained me too a palm tree for say FIVE YEARS that I could kick this habit.  I have tried over the years, the decades, to lose the habit, but it always seems to find me, snare me...trust me, you can quit for MONTHS, and like an addict, it only takes one puff and you are reeled right back in again.  Thank you Marlboro...just what is it that you put in your cigarettes to make them so addictive...come on, you can tell me.

I am a smart man, or at least I tell myself that I am.  I know the stupidity of putting hundreds of dollars worth of super foods into my body on a monthly basis with the intention of detoxifying my body, and then sitting there after my morning shake and having a cigarette...or two, OK, maybe three.  It makes no sense, there is no logic, but there is an addiction here, and a very expensive one.  It is very safe to say, that I could pay for every bit of my Isagenix products month in and month out at a very high level of consumption with what I spend on cigarettes.

Here is the rub...over an extended period of time I cannot afford both...one or the other has to go....super foods, being healthy, or cigarettes.  Intellectually I know which choice should be made, and I know when I look at my budget that I cannot sustain a $400 a month (cigarettes are expensive here in NY) smoking habit, and spend another $400 a month on product that is designed to make me a healthier, happier person...by the way, Isagenix does just that.

Soooooooo...I need to quit smoking, I even WANT to quit smoking...well, at least in this very moment I do.  Question is, how do you really KICK THE HABIT?

Lets face it, no one is going to kidnap me for five years and chain me to a palm tree on a beach somewhere in the Pacific...although I would be willing to entertain any job offers that see me chained to a palm tree somewhere like say Maui.  So, that whole plan of action is OUT THE WINDOW.  

They say you should avoid all the things that you enjoy doing when you are having a cigarette...

No Coffee, no drinking, no being on the computer, no watching TV...OK, that plan would not work for me either, as I cannot just stop doing life.

I know...just quit...it sounds easy, but trust me, I know from first hand experience it is not that easy of a thing to do.   I suffer very serious withdraw symptoms when I try to quit smoking, and not just for a day or two.

So, as I sit here trying to motivate into my day, wrestling with this serious problem, knowing that it is a MAJOR STUMBLING BLOCK in my path...one that cannot be ignored, one that has to be dealt with if I am to be successful in where I am wanting to go.

A Beautiful Sunday...Hard to Believe A Hurricane Was Here

After The Storm

Spring forward, fall back...daylight savings time has arrived signalling a too soon winter all but knocking on our doors as those states hit so hard by Hurricane Sandy worry about a Nor'easter that could hit us this upcoming Wedneday.  Looking out my window on this crisp fall day, the sun shining ever so bright, the remaining leaves bright and inviting it is hard to believe just a few days ago our area was SLAMMED with a major hurricane dubed by some as Frankenstorm.

 

It is during these times that man's humanity to man comes shining through, examples of our generosity evident in abundance from neighbors helping neighbors, to marathoners in New York deciding to stay over the weekend to lend helping hands after the New York City Marathon was cancelled for this year.   If only we could find a way to have such generosity of heart the norm in society, rather than the exception that comes out in times of disaster.

 

Hurricane Sandy has once again like so many disaster before it reminds us all that we are mere humans and no match for Mother Nature and her immense power when she decides to bring the brute force to bear against our communities...it also reminds us to be thankful for what we have, reminds us to be thoughtful and concerned about all those who directly and indirectly are involved in our lives...think the six degrees of separation. 

 

In my own small hamlet (we are a small group of people in downtown Mountaindale) we all pitched in, dealt with the crisis at hand by pulling together, pooling our resources and supplies so that we all got through the storm with as little impact as possible.  Kelsey and Mark's kitchen became the hub of what one can only call a village.  Cooking and a few Coleman lanterns for light kept the cold nights at bay, their small apartment warm, welcoming and cozy.  Judd who lives upstairs from our only local bar went out during the power outage in search of ice, returning home with eight bags full when he got lucky and saw an ice truck pulling into a convenience store miles from home.  Others took their chain saws and went out in search of wood, clearing roads and bringing home some much needed firewood for the fire ring out in the backyard, the evening campfires lifting peoples spirits.

 

The storm was harsh, but through community, everyone made it through, and now with the electric back on and life returning to normal we all have recieved a special gift...we all know and appreciate each other a bit more now than before the storm.

 

Time to grab my camera and go for a nice long walk on this beautiful day after the storm.

After The Storm...Getting Back On Track

This horse had no clue Sandy paid a visit.

For many of us, it has been a very difficult week, Hurricane Sandy pushing us to the limits, and for some pushing them beyond their limits.  People have lost homes, possessions, and tragically, in some cases lost their lives to Mother Nature's fury.  Everything has to be put into perspective, and looking at some people's losses, my own losses (mostly food from the refrigerator) and discomforts, I should be and am thankful that I escaped Sandy's worst in very good shape.  My heart and prayers go out to all those who have lost so much, and wish I could do more for some of those who have lost so much.

 

That said, it was a very rough week...

 

The storm had not even officially made land fall when I lost electric.  It would be four days with no electric, no heat, and for the most part no good food...kept the refrigerator closed hoping I could save the food inside, but in the end it was a losing battle.  Things important to us tend to slide by the way side, and such was the case for me this week.  I was too COLD, too tired and worried to stay up on the new program I have set up for myself.  I did my best to stick to my Isagenix regime, and over all did fairly well at that, but failed miserably in working out, getting my daily exercise, and it showed in my results (or lack there of). 

 

This morning this failure to maintain my dedication to my goals had me very down, down on myself, and doubting my committment.  It could have been so easy to just GIVE UP, but that is not what I wanted to do...so, as the old expression goes, I doubled down, got myself out of my doldrums and did what I needed to do...I made myself my Isagenix Shake, and followed the Isagenix part of my program to a tee today, having my two shakes, using my accelerator, having a healthy under 600 calorie meal, and drinking lots of water...OH, and putting up a post in isaMasterminds.com telling everyone I was having a hard time, and needing some encouragement...which was fast and bountiful in coming.

 

So, as this night wanes and I fight off my own tiredness from a very long week, feel back on track, and motivated to make this upcoming week a great one.

Sunday Evening...Bracing For Storm

Hurricane Sandy Could Threaten Indian Point

Last night I could not sleep, saw the Tsunami warning for Hawaii shortly after the 7.7 quake hit up in Canada...disconcerting, but my mind was already focused in on the Frankenstorm that has New York directly in its sites.  Waking up this morning, you could almost feel a sense of foreboding in the air, Hurricane Sandy's clouds blanketing the sky.

 

I was down in Yonkers, had to drive up to Peekskill and then cross the Bear Mountain bridge, the Hudson river just beneath me...even if you had not been near a radio or television, you knew something big was brewing...dozens of military Hummers pulling trailers of supplies and equipment crossing the bridge to make their way down toward New York City from West Point.

 

As I made the drive the news seemed to darken, Mayor Bloomberg enlarging the mandatory evacuation area, President Obama declaring a State of Emergency even though the storm has not yet made landfall.

 

I've laid in emergency supplies, and feel confident of making it through...sounds funny, but if things get bad I have toilet paper, water and Isagenix...my new age survival kit.  Wonder how long one could be OK in a State of Emergency like this with just my water and Isagenix.  I have other things prepared, candles at the ready, fresh batteries in the flashlights, my car battery jumper, and the batteries for my battery pack tools all plugged in and charging...cell phone charged, laptop plugged in and charging down.  Even without a back up generator, should be OK when the electric goes down, especially with lots of extra blankets at the ready.

 

What I worry about...the people who are not ready, or who have no choice but to go to the Emergency Shelters of last resort...it is scary to think about New York City shutting down all of its mass transit systems, scary to think that the Nuclear Power Plant (Indian Point) which  already feel is dangerous could get flooded if the storm surge is significant enough...Fukishima on the Hudson.  It is worrisome to think that the Emergency Response after the storm could decide who sits in the White House.

 

In short, am pensive tonight, and just pray that even in the states about to be slammed by Hurricane Sandy weather the storm, and find out afterward that they escaped pretty much intact.

Week In Review...My First Isagenix Training

What a what week...think the book, "What a long strange trip its been".  First, find myself missing my two day cleanse, and thinking I need to get another bottle of "Cleanse for Life" so that I can do one more before the end of my 30 day cleanse program.  I have my autoship arriving in time for next month, but find myself a bit sad knowing that my first 30 Day Cleanse is coming to an end way to quickly...can hear everyone saying, "It's not ending", and I know that!  Also know, that this 30 Day Cleanse, the process involved in going through it has been and will continue to be transformative for me, this first month completely magical in so many ways.

Healthier body at a cellular level

There are the obvious things...

• Lost inches
• Lost weight
• More energy
• More positive attitude

Then there are the other more substantial things...

• New friends cheering me on (on Facebook)
• Old friends commenting on how good I am looking
• Understanding "being a product of the product"...as my coach says, Chocolate or Vanilla.

Which brings me to this past Thursday, and my first formal Isagenix Training...

 

WOW  DOUBLE WOW EVEN...

 

My coach for my 30 Day Cleanse is Andrea Hameed, and her dear friend and upline person in Isagenix is Elisabeth Anderson who had traveled to New York all the way from Oklahoma to attend a conference in New York city.  My LUCKY WEEK, turns out that Elisabeth was going to be spending some time with Andrea up in Woodstock, NY...shades of Arlo Guthrie here, and the significance of the pickle...sure some of you will smile in understanding.  Can you guess where I am going here...do you already know that I was fortunate enough (could even say graced) to have the opportunity to have my first training with both of these Isagenic Up Line Dynamos!

 

My take aways were many, but a couple of big ones...

 

You can't reinvent the wheel, so don't spend your time trying to, as it has already been done, BUT (love this but) you can create and add a beautiful spoke to the wheel.

 

Always look to asking the magic question.  What is the magic question...it depends, which is why when sharing Isagenix with someone else you look for them.  Let me explain through an example I had earlier in the week.

 

I shared the magic of Isagenix with a friend of mine who works in our little Coffee Shop/Convenience store in the hamlet of Mountaindale...that always sounds so charming...think English Accent...OK, if it is me doing it, think Monty Python..."I live in the charming hamlet of Mountaindale."

 

She was excited, actually moved me to close.  Everything went smoothly until it got to the part in the ordering process where I needed her Social Security number...she was VERY UNCOMFORTABLE with that, was in fact adament, did not like the thought of her social security number being shared over the internet...period, end of discussion.   It never occurred to me to ask the MAGIC QUESTION which Elisabeth provided me in the training session.  "Would you feel more comfortable if I called Isagenix Headquarters and got a customer service representative on the phone for you?"

That question NEVER OCCURRED TO ME, and because it did not occur to me, I did not close the sale that night, missed an opportunity to bring the magic of Isagenix into another person's life. 

If you ever have the opportunity to do a training with these two angels, make sure you seize the opportunity, and if you read this post, start looking for those MAGIC QUESTIONS...to ELisabeth and Andrea...THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

I have seven days, one week left in my 30 Day Cleanse, and find myself wishing that a month had 60 days in it, but the GREAT NEWS...my autoship is going to be arriving next week, and my journey continues.

If you would like to know the magic of Isagenix, feel free to email me or call me at (845) 693-4513...if I am not home, do please leave a message, and I will call you back.

Need To Lose Weight? Need Extra Money For Christmas? Join My Team...Isagenix Announces You Plus 2, Them Plus 2 Bonus Plan

I'm really EXCITED today...why you ask?

First, I have lost 13 pounds on the Isagenix 30 Day Cleanse, and this is just my 20th day on the program!  My energy levels are up, and my very noticable Budda Belly has lost almost 4 inches, is slowly but steadily going away.

 

Secondly, I am so excited about this product that I have been sharing it with my family and friends, telling them just what a wonder product and super food it is, and today SIGNED UP MY FIRST ASSOCIATE in Isagenix!  Doing the Snoopy Dance here...more importantly, because I believe in this product because of what it is doing for me, am wanting to share it with others, and Isagenix has just made it even more profitable to become a product of the product by becoming an associate.  From my perspective, it is simple...get healthy, loss weight, find more energy, and start your own business all at once.

 

For those wanting to know more about the business end of things, here is the skinny on it...if you would like more information, or would like to enroll please email me at isagenixguru@gmail.com, call me (home) 845-693-4513, (cell) 845-346-6523 or visit my Isagenix Home Page!

 

New Money Just in Time For the Holidays

Available October 22, 2012 – August 4, 2013

Isagenix® just delivered a game changer just in time for the holidays! If you’re ready to make extra bonuses on top of your already-lucrative weekly compensation, then get ready for our New Money promotion. The best part? Everyone can participate!

 

The New Money promotion, available October 22 through August 4, 2013, says “good-bye” to the Star Consultant rank and “hello” to two new exciting ranks; Manager and Director. For every new Consultant you create, whether you’re new enrollee or not, you’ll earn a $100 Consultant bonus!

Plus, our Crystal Fast Track will pile on the bonuses if you move fast while helping new Associates join Isagenix following our “You+Two and Them+2″ system for succes. You could earn up to $4,650 in bonuses in 90 days!

 

Here’s how it works:

 

1. Get two people to join Isagenix on Autoship with 100 BV or more. (You+Two) = You Become a Consultant!

 

2. NEW! Teach them how to do the same so they get two people each (Them+2 (two new Consultants)) = You Become a Manager! Do it by November 22 or 30 days from the time you enroll and you’ll become a Crystal Manager!

 

3. NEW! Get a total of 6 personally enrolled Consultants on Autoship = You Become a Director! Do it by January 21 or 90 days from the time that you enroll and you’ll become a Crystal Director!

 

4. Get a total of 10 personally enrolled Consultants on Autoship = You Become an Executive! Do it within your first six months and you’ll become a Crystal Executive!

 

Get all the details and discover how you can amp up your earnings and put yourself on the Crystal Fast Track; take a look at these resources:

• Flyer with details and FAQs
• IsagenixBusiness.com for your 2-Day, 30-Day and 90-Day Plans for Success

Just In Time For Holidays...Get Healthy & Earn Money

For those following my Isagenix Journal blog, you know that I am very excited about Isagenix, about being a product of the product...for those who wonder what this means, it means that I tried Isagenix, went on their 30 day cleanse, started using the product, and the incredible changes inside my body, in my energy levels, in amount of weight loss are the (by)product of using the product, thus the phrase, "a product of the product".  The changes that I have seen in less than 20 days astound me.  So much so that I cannot help but tell all of my friends and family about the changes I am experiencing...people are noticing those changes, and this is also giving me an opportunity to share my story, allowing me the opportunity to share what Isagenix can do not just for me, but for those in my life I care about, and at some point one or some of those people are going to say to me, "Sherwood, I want to experience what you are experiencing, SIGN ME UP".  When that happens, my Isagenix business begins to grow, and as those friends and family members start sharing their own stories, the process will repeat itself, and their businesses will start to grow.  

THAT IS PRETTY COOL.

NEW MONEY...In time for Christmas...hear the webinar.

Well, the time to say, "I want in, I want to live a healthier life, and have my own business in the deal" because Isagenix has just added some incredible incentives to those looking to create a new income stream, for those looking to earn extra money in time for Christmas...did I mention you get paid on your Isagenix Debit Card, your earnings deposited to your account each and every Monday?

If you can answer yes too any of these questions, please give me a call.  Sherwood (845) 693-4513 or send me off an email at isagenixguru@gmail.com and start your Isagenix Journey today.

1.  Are you wanting to lose weight?

2.  Are you wanting to rid your body of environmental toxins that we take in just living our lives and breathing the air?  Oh...and the toxins we take in from eating processed foods.

3.  Are you wanting to elevate your energy levels?

4.  Are you wanting to increase your athletic performance?

5.  Are you wanting to introduce your body to the world's best SUPER FOOD?

6.  Are you looking to create a new or second income for yourself or your family?

Are you dialing my number yet?  Sure you answered yes to at least one of these questions, and almost all of us could use some extra income between now and Christmas! 

Saturday Morning Isa Update

Been a wonderful Isagenix week here for me. 

In what was a big creative moment for me, got my new Canon L series 100 lens on Monday, and have spent some part of every day since playing with it, seeing what the lens can do, and what it can do just amazes me.  Never have I had the priviledge of using a lens that gives me the clarity and depth of field that this lens gives me.

 

Tuesday and Wednesday did my second Isagenix Cleanse. for Life deep cleanse, and because I remembered to actually eat some of my Isagenix snacks, it was a much easier experience than my first deep cleanse...On Thursday morning I took my body measurements for the first time since going on the program, and the results are miraculous.  I've lost so far 16.5 total body inches, with the largest loss in my gut (Budda Belly).  In just two short weeks...ended the cleanse on my 14th day of my 30 day Isagenix Cleanse, I can see a very noticable change in my body shape, and in the fact that my clothes are already fitting much looser.

 

Some other changes I am noticing...think of it as David Lettermans Top Ten List.

 

1. Noticing that my eyes are sparkling again.
2. My face looks healthier...I get chip munk cheeks when I gain weight, and face is thinning down.
3. My finger and toenails look healthier...more pink, and less brittle.
4. I am getting thinner everywhere.
5. With Isagenix and the exercise I am getting, my body seems to be getting more tone and definition.  Still not BUFF, but seeing tone.
6. Emotionally feeling better about myself, and see myself caring more about how I look and how I present myself to the world.
7. I seem to have more mental clarity, am able to focus better.
8. The Isagenix combined with the water I have been drinking has my bodily functions working better.
9. Find myself exciting and embracing of this new lifestyle...Isagenix is a life/lifestyle choice, not something you pick up and put down.
10. My energy levels are WAY UP!

Going to go back in my post today and see how I am doing on the goals I set for myself, and already know that if I get my stationary bike ride in today, have hit one of my most important goals of the week, which was to bike or hike at least 5 out of the 7 days in the week...so, as I stated, has been just a fabulous Isagenix week.  One thing I want to fucus in on more, is KNOWING THE PRODUCT, and how to best share it with friends, family and strangers.  Everyone have a great day.

First Day of Deep Cleanse Coming To End

My coach has me doing a five-two-five-two program for the first part of my cleanse.  Five days of shots and a shake, a two day Deep Cleanse, then five days of shakes and two days of Deep Cleanse...coming to the end of the first day of my second deep cleanse...just drank my forth installment, and feeling pretty good.  Hungry, so in half an hour after the cleanse and my water are settled, going to treat myself to an Isa Snack. 

I had a decent day...took my new lens out and photographed for several hours today.  A lot of driving (to the point of being almost lost), and a lot of walking.  Would see something, park the car and then walk around to get the shot, including a one mile walk up to our Fire Tower where unfortunately the gate to the tower was locked, so was not able to go to the top which was my plan.  Came home and did some basic editing, and though learning this new lens is going to take some time, got a few shots that I like.

My energy levels are fine today, but noticed this second Deep Cleanse seems to be hitting me a bit harder on the emotional side than the first one.  Best way to describe it, is I just feel and have felt most of the day down, almost but not quite sad, and a bit out of sorts.   Thinking a part of that might have to do with the fact that I ate some foods this weekend that were great on the taste buds, but not overly healthy and am wondering if that might have something to do with it.

Hoping at the end of this cleanse to see my weight under 180 pounds...been at least a decade since my body has seen anything under 180, so fingers are crossed.

Thinking I might crawl into bed early and read a book till I fall off to sleep.

Evening Update...Blog Now Can Be Read In 35 Languages

I don't readily admit it, but am a bit of a Geek here.  I am constantly looking for new gizmos and gadgets that make my blog accessible to a greater audience.  This e vening I decided to try out the Google Language Gadget on this blog...you can find it over on the right side bar just down from the top of page.  Click on the drop down menu and select your language, and instantly the blog is translated into one of 35 languages from around the world.

 

This for me is such exciting news for my Isagenix blog, truly will allow me to share my own journey, and the opportunity that is Isagenix to a world wide audience with the click of a mouse.  Looking at the various countries that Isagenix does business in, looking at the company's potential for world wide expansion, this gadget truly excites me.  Cannot wait to reach a point where I can qualify myself to sign up Associates in foreign nations around the world.

 

In other news of a more personal nature:

 

1.  For those who have my blog since its inception, you'll understand the significance of this...I unburied my bike today, and tomorrow will start making it road ready.

2.  Got my new Canon L series 100-400 MM Zoom lens...WOW, what a lens.  Did take one picture with it...shared above, but it poured down rain ALL DAY, so it was not the day to be taking such a delicate piece of equipment out in the woods for a few hours.

3.  Getting myself ready for my second two day Deep Cleanse...this time I will remember to eat my Isa Snacks.

Waiting On Camera Lens, Setting Weekly Isagenix Goals

Big thing for me today is waiting on my Canon L series 100-400 MM Zoom lens.  For anyone who is familiar with digital cameras, its arrival is a BIG DEAL for me, and sure you understand it.  So hurry up Fed Ex!  Even though it is raining out, so wanting to get it soon enough to at least go out and play with it a little bit.  

Yesterday, starting laying out a few goals that I am going to further outline below...one of them was to use my stationary bike or go hiking at least five out of the seven days this week starting today and running through Sunday.  This morning I biked, covering 7.11 miles and burning off 166 calories.  My goal is to look at pushing my ride time up to 48 minutes next week.  Putting a nutritious super food like Isagenix into my body is not enough to take me where I want to go...I have to exercise as well.  So, my goals for the week:

1.  Use my stationary bike, or go out hiking (at least five miles) a minimum of five out of the next seven days from October 15-21.

2.  Stick to my Isagenix Routine.

3.  Do my second two day Isagenix Deep Cleanse...this starts tomorrow morning.

4.  Water,,,,drink lots and lots of water each day.  Right now, that means at least 90 ounces each and every day.  As someone who has never been a big water drinker, this is a HUGE ONE for me...so far, have managed it.

5.  Work on my blog more...already put up the new Contact Me page today, and have also put up a page that goes right to my page on the Isagenix website.  So, want to keep working on this, but can check it off and it is ONLY MONDAY.

6.  Keep reading Isagenix group posts, watching Isagenix videos and learning.  Wanting to start putting some of the things I am learning right here on the blog so people have easy access to them.

7.  Continue to work on sharing the Isagenix way of life with my friends.

8.  Unload my car, take care of laundry, and clean the apartment...UGGGG...there is a full morning or afternoon's work.

9.  Get my LeMond (a real bike) out, put air in the tires and get it road ready.

10.  Since I cannot afford a personal trainer, do some online research on what it is I need to do to get in shape, do set goals, and come up with a workout routine.

I think that is a good list of ten goals for the week.

Smoking...The Ugly White Elephant In The Room

As a small child, though born in Saint Louis, spent my early years in the small town of Jeffersonville, Indiana along the banks of the Ohio River across from Louisville, Kentucky.  Remember with fondness the Belle of Louisville and Delta Queen steam wheelers going up and down the river, picking golden rod to take home to my mom who never told me until I was much older that she was allergic to them.  Sunday evenings after dinner were spent in front of the black and white television watching Ed Sullivan, Bonanza and of course Disney World.  

About half way through Disney World (think back then it was called the Wonderful World of Disney) they would have a Marlboro commercial...I and my older brother would watch in both awe and envy a cowboy ride his horse up to the top of the bluff, dismount, reach into his saddlebag and light up a Marlboro (red pack) as he watched the sun go down...he had everything a kid growing up in the country could want.  A horse, chaps, cowboy boots, a saddle and bags, and FREEDOM...in short, myself and many others like me wanted to grow up an be the Marlboro man.   Sure that commercial played a big part in my brother and I's thievery of my father's non-filter Pall Mall cigarettes from atop of the refrigerator all those years ago when I was just six years old.  We would sneak out behind the barn, light up and pretend we were that cowboy on his gallant steed...that was fifty, almost 51 years ago.

Sitting here today on what is my twelfth day in Isagenix thinking again the same thoughts I have thought about so many times before...you know, you really should quit smoking, it would be good for your health.  

Fact is, it would be good for my health, the issue of quitting is that proverbial White Elephant in the room, perhaps the biggest obstacle in my path as I try to embrace this new Isagenix lifestyle, as I work toward letting a new me emerge from the ashes. (pun not intended)  I've tried quitting before,  once making it almost ten months before life issues and (perhaps) a lack of personal will power saw me succumb; thinking I would just have one or two...much like most of my life, as I sit here writing after having gone outside to have a smoke, realize that my habit has been pretty consistent at a pack and a half too two packs a day for probably four decades...became what one could call a habitual smoke around the age of 16.

Not sure why, but over the past few days have been having a nagging thought, that little voice in the back of my head whispering to me..."Your success in this (Isagenix) depends on you giving up that nasty habit".  That other little voice saying, "Don't listen to that...you've been a smoker your whole life, and you enjoy smoking don't you?"  Ignoring the second voice mostly because I don't want to answer that question.

So, as I sit here pondering this, so methodological questions about the when and how pop up.

1.  Is it too much on my plate to try stopping in the middle of my first 30 day cleanse?

2.  If it is too much, then when is a good day to stop, and should I go cold turkey?

3.  What can I do differently this time to MAKE IT?

Any one have any thoughts, opinions, suggestions...

What Isagenic Can Do For You..."Jill's Birth" Video Needs No Words

Rarely am I speechless, and rarely is there a "You Tube" video that needs no words of explantion...I was just friend-ed by Jill Birth on Facebook, and feel honored...especially after watching her transformation video on You Tube, seeing what Isagenix has helped her too achieve...as a newbie to Isagenix, as a person wanting to have my own transformation, could not ask for a more awe inspiring video to help boost my own ego as I begin my journey.  If have landed in my little space here on the internet, if you are wanting to lose weight, or are just looking for some inspiration as you effect change in your life, watch her video...it will bring tears to your eyes...tears of both understanding, sadness, and in the end, tears of joy and celebration.  To Jill, thanks for accepting my friend request, and for sending me the note that had a link to your beautiful transformational video.  I on my eleventh day in Isagenix watched that video with tears and my eyes, and look forward to the day when I can look at my own before and after pictures...thanks for the beautiful share.