MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'choices,'. Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:54:04 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3723304&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2F6-tips-to-a-simpler-lifestyle%2F2010.07.03 I like to pass on good tips, and these ways to simplify your life make a lot of sense. The constant stress we feel because life is so complicated isn’t good for our health. Here are six tips to have a simpler lifestyle: 1. De-Clutter Your Home Look around. If you have piles of paper, too many “things” and nic-nacs laying around, it’s hard to think clearly and function. An open, clear space allows our minds to feel open and more peaceful. Tackle one room at a time. Be ruthless and donate or toss everything that isn’t useful, beautiful, or has special memories. 2. Limit Family Activities Try to force family members to choose only those activities that are most important. Many of us are over-scheduled and have no time to “just see where the day will t... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3723304 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 22:00:00 +0100 3723304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721819&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2F02%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-july-2-2010%2F No matter how much I try, time keeps getting the best of me. It’s chased me through spring and followed me into July. And now we’re here — a few days before the big 4th of July weekend. Here’s where time really got me. There’s no way to escape it just like we can’t run away from the madhouse of our world right now. But we can make choices. We can choose to really embrace our lives, no matter how chaotic and stressful it is and how helpless and overwhelmed we feel. And we can decide to celebrate and cherish small joyous moments like the fact that it’s sunny out or that there are no disasters going on right at this minute. A friend and I were joking about how much the news is a downer. It feeds right into our insecurities and anxieties and makes us f... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721819 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:38:52 +0100 3721819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3714375&cid=t_373839_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FB_3Sr7FXrGg%2F A recent report on childlessness and women from the Pew Center shows a trend that seems obvious: On the whole, more women are opting out of motherhood today than in the past. But under the surface is an interesting twist – among the most highly educated women, rates of childlessness have actually gone down. The Pew Center’s report looks at the percent of women ages 40-44 who’ve never borne any children during the periods 1990-1992 and 2006-2008. Overall, and across racial demographics, the number of women who chose not to become mothers rose. But when the data were compared by level of education (high school diploma, college degree, master’s degree, etc.), the most highly educated women are having children more often than in the past. The New York Times guesses that wo... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3714375 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 20:46:22 +0100 3714375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3714146&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fis-having-kids-a-waste-of-your-degree-study-shows-that-highly-educated-women-are-opting-for-motherhood-more%2F A recent report on childlessness and women from the Pew Center shows a trend that seems obvious: On the whole, more women are opting out of motherhood today than in the past. But under the surface is an interesting twist – among the most highly educated women, rates of childlessness have actually gone down. The Pew Center’s report looks at the percent of women ages 40-44 who’ve never borne any children during the periods 1990-1992 and 2006-2008. Overall, and across racial demographics, the number of women who chose not to become mothers rose. But when the data were compared by level of education (high school diploma, college degree, master’s degree, etc.), the most highly educated women are having children more often than in the past. The New York Times guesses that wo... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3714146 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 20:46:22 +0100 3714146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3656839&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2F13%2Four-brains-on-technology%2F Is technology taking over our lives? Or do some people just make choices with regard to choosing technology over interacting with their family and friends? I don’t believe that “technology” can take over our lives — unless we choose to let it. So it was with interest that I saw a lengthy article written over at the New York Times, “Hooked on Gadgets, and Paying a Mental Price.” I was going to comment earlier on the article, thinking it was going to be this thoughtful, in-depth look at how technology is impacting people’s lives for both the positive and negative. Instead, it appeared to be some sort of story revolving around a guy called Kord Campbell and his family. Kord apparently has a hard time prioritizing things in his life — to the poin... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3656839 Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:21:44 +0100 3656839 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3644766&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fnewsflash-tv-commercial-food-is-bad-for-you%2F2010.06.08 We’ve been slacking in the “Medical news of the obvious” department lately. Seems like research has been either actually newsworthy or so obvious that you could spot it yourselves (for example, the continuing investigations of whether smoking and being lazy are bad for you). But we couldn’t let this one slide by: “A new study that analyzes what would happen if a person were to eat 2,000 calories of foods that are advertised on the tube,” as HealthDay describes. As even the average Saturday morning cartoon viewer could have predicted, the food in commercials turns out to be bad for you. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at ACP Hospitalist* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3644766 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:00:00 +0100 3644766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3633601&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fpassed-from-darkness-into-light.html (Colossians 1:13-14)Sometimes the buffeting of this world tempts me to forget. There are days when I don't feel Him at all. Whole days. Comfort comes as I read the Word He provided for times like these. I open the Book, and I feel the comfort flowing immediately. Regardless of present suffering, I have so many blessings to remember. Instead of dwelling on what He has not done, I choose -mindfully, willfully, doggedly - to remember what He has done. Remember my word for the year - "abide"? Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you stood your ground in a great contest in the face of suffering. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. You sympathized with those in prison a... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3633601 Sat, 05 Jun 2010 16:17:00 +0100 3633601 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3625742&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fdisappearing-country-kid.html I remember them - us - vividly: dust-covered, clothes worn for 3 or 4 days at a time, no shoes, white teeth flashing in smiles cracking through the brown skin, grass stains and scratches like sunlight in the garden. I remember long days with only moments spent indoors. I remember baseball games attended in your play clothes so you could get dirty. I remember a distinct notion of difference between "good clothes" and "play clothes", and I remember the list of activities we had sorted in our childish brains...with all the "fun" stuff in the column under "play clothes".I remember the way the metal playground slide burned your thighs in the brief moment before you went whizzing down. I remember the rust on the bolts, and the creak of the swings, and the worn dirt tracks around the equipment wh... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3625742 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:17:00 +0100 3625742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3607677&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fhow-important-is-stuff-in-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F Do you ever wonder what you’ll leave behind? With Memorial Day approaching and the recent loss of my sweet mother-in-law, I’ve had a lot of time this week to think about the debris we leave behind. We all know we leave a trail of possessions and financial resources when we die but we lay that trail while we are alive, don’t we?   We humans leave bits of our skin as we shed it every day, according to the vacuum cleaner salesmen. Most of us find our hair falling out; some more than others. We have tons of garbage rotting in dumps all over the country, some even out on barges in the ocean. We see discarded disposable diapers lying in parking lots and wonder at the term, disposable. It’s strange to realize many of these bits of debris and garbage will be around long after we are not.... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3607677 Thu, 27 May 2010 19:28:49 +0100 3607677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3588963&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Falternatives-scenes-in-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F Quite often when you rent a movie, on the main menu they give you an opportunity to view deleted scenes, humorous flubs and alternative endings. I find it interesting and have often thought how wonderful it would be to be able to delete many of my past and present “scenes” in a life with chronic pain. I could fill a DVD with humorous misadventures and examples of screwing up and most certainly, it would be a good thing to write alternative adventures, whether they are beginnings or endings. So much of our daily life with chronic pain is far too boring to be an interesting movie. I can see it now in my mind’s eye. The main character is limping to the bathroom. She or he is struggling to get into a hot shower, camera pans to foggy windows. He grumbles into his clothes as life p... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3588963 Fri, 21 May 2010 21:03:33 +0100 3588963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3570037&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fsundays-are-for-family.html A happy family is but an earlier heaven.~ John Bowring ~"Family Sunday" was instituted a few years ago by my parents, who sensed change in the air as some of my siblings started to move farther away from home in pursuit of career, family, mission. It has been a joy to have these days set apart for family games, meals together, and conversation. People have asked me time and time again how I got to this place of faith at such a young age. Herein lies the answer: it was passed down to me from my parents. Not just the church-going habit...way beyond reading Bible stories, or singing songs...see in this video the beauty and warmth of a million choices to serve Him daily with hearts and hands. See the imponderable joy, grace, love that shines in their home today. (And oh, yes - do try to ignore... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3570037 Mon, 17 May 2010 14:58:00 +0100 3570037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560430&cid=t_373839_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FVFKECZvNDYs%2Fyou-are-what-you-eat.php Today's prompt for Diabetes Blog Week is 'to carb or not to carb'. Today let’s blog about what we eat. And perhaps what we don’t eat. Some believe a low carb diet is important in diabetes management, while others believe carbs are fine as long as they are counted and bolused for. Which side of the fence do you fall on? What kind of things do you eat for meals and snacks? What foods do you deem bolus-worthy? What other foodie wisdom would you like to share? I don't pretend to have all the answers or do everything right even close to half the time, but I can tell you about my 'carb philosophy'.My mom has been on a diet for pretty much my whole life. Name a weight loss program and she has probably been on it at one point or another. Watching her diet has taught me one thing, if you feel dep... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560430 Thu, 13 May 2010 12:45:47 +0100 3560430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3552522&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fgolden-ticket.html The devil, who has for the most part ignored you up to that point since you weren't a threat, starts to take notice. And so do other people. Believers and unbelievers alike may become your adversaries. Remember what happened to the boy David when he decided to fight Goliath? His brother attacked him angrily. Then Saul, the king, challenged him, "You're just a boy." Then Goliath himself mocked David. In that moment, David had no supporters except the Lord. Get in the battle and see what happens. ~Tim Haring, April 30th devotional for Faithwalkers journal, available in it's entirety hereThis has definitely been my experience. At certain points along this difficult road, as I follow God like a blind woman down a path I didn't choose that leads to a destination I am totally unsure of, I have f... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3552522 Mon, 10 May 2010 17:35:00 +0100 3552522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522674&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2F01%2Fhealthy-nutrition-through-behavior-modification%2F For the past two years I have been attempting to manage my weight through behavior modification, healthy eating and exercise. After losing 190 pounds with diet and exercise, I can assume that I am very capable of making healthy choices; however, this past weekend illustrated how emotions can contribute to slipups in the healthy lifestyle department. I am as human as anyone else and I ended my week with a weight gain. Through each painful experience I have learned much about managing my emotions. Finding my inner balance may always be a struggle for me and many of you as well. The important factor in finding my inner balance is to modify my behavior through discipline and goal setting. The negative factor in my equation of healthy lifestyle choices are unforeseen events, which by their very... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522674 Sat, 01 May 2010 13:15:51 +0100 3522674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519581&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2F3-rules-for-living-with-chronic-pain%2F If you’re one of us who live with chronic pain that means you have a constant roommate. That roommate is chronic pain. Quite frankly, it’s a lousy companion and an inconsiderate guest. That invader never pays rent, takes up far too much attention, and doesn’t pick up after it’s self, leaving us in our compromised state to do all the work.  You figure out immediately, life isn’t fair. Fairness is left behind as a childhood fantasy and we’re left with the stark reality of inequality. We rant, we rave and we cry but eventually, we learn that peace comes with acceptance and we adapt. Adaptation reveals that somewhere, deep within us, hope is alive. We can’t always see it but it’s there. Life has a way of charging forward without our approval as dust gathers, duties beckon and ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519581 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 19:56:54 +0100 3519581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3511710&cid=t_373839_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2F9y0PgJEo4JI%2Fin-a-relationship-and-its-complicated.php George’s recent post about peer pressure has me thinking about the diabetic’s complicated relationship with food.In his post, George describes dealing with having food he’d rather not eat being pushed on him by a fellow diabetic. He asked us if any of us have ever been in a similar situation. I can’t remember that ever happening to me, but I wonder if I've been the ‘pusher’ once or twice.If food choices were politics, I would probably be described as a moderate. I don’t heavily restrict my carbs, but I don’t eat nothing but Smarties all day long either. Being diagnosed the year I ‘officially’ became an adult meant that no one really ever told me what I could and could not eat.Due to a mistake in the appointment schedule, my one and only appointment with the nutritionist after my ... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3511710 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:56:19 +0100 3511710 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3460369&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fwhen-life-takes-you-by-surprise.html Art is the stored honey of the human soul,gathered on wings of misery and travail. ~ Theodore Dreiser ~ I spent a day that might have been spent at the research conference traipsing through art museums with the girls instead. Life is what happens when your plans tank and you find yourself without even a plan B. Life is what gathers you up in a bear hug when you scramble to survive. Small heads tilted to see big art. Minds free from adult constraints find new meaning in old pieces and old meaning in new ones. I am reminded of a hundred museum trips of my youth, and marvel at how I am mirroring my own childhood now as I shape that of my own children.I know only one true North: Christ. I see it in the false compass of an artist, in the childish splatter of a museum's modern art collection. Am... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3460369 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 10:00:00 +0100 3460369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408531&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fkeeping-it-simple-in-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F Today’s challenge is enough;  the next flight of stairs, that next load of laundry or the next weed that needs pulling is all you need to be concerned with, for now. Did you know you can wash one window at a time? Simple foods can sustain you as readily as complicated dishes; such as veggies, fresh fruit, yogurt and a can of soup. Frozen dinners are often healthy, tasty and convenient.  It’s easier, safer and wiser to fill your refrigerator with fresh food than to go out for fast food that is fraught with fat and needless calories. Keep food simple. It’s okay to sit or lie down and rest after any chore. It’s legal, wise and renewing. The “goof off” police will not show up at your door. Laughter and humor feel like sunshine on a cold, damp day. Laughter is allowed even when yo... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408531 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 21:29:41 +0100 3408531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3359049&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F12%2Fmaintain-your-memory-as-you-age%2F You can’t stop it — the natural aging process that ages not only our bodies, but our brains too. Normal aging doesn’t significantly impact our thinking, however. Most people do not suffer from significant memory problems, deficits in problem-solving, or issues with thinking through activities that require analysis and reasoning. Still, things that may have come to us quickly when we were younger may take a little bit more time as we get older. And these slow-downs come not only in memory, but in something that psychologists call executive function, too. According to information provided by The Harvard Health Letter, “Executive function is an umbrella term for the complex thinking required to make choices, plan, initiate action, and inhibit impulses. Executive funct... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3359049 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:55:15 +0100 3359049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3335484&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fa-life-of-chronic-pain-and-the-domino-effect%2F In the last twenty years, since I’ve been living with chronic pain, I’ve met very few individuals who have only one problem. Most of them, like me, have numerous ones. Some of them are permanent and some come and go like unwelcome guests. I often have to be careful because some of my friends feel they are in crisis when they have some current issue arise and their life is in a spin, trying to deal with it. The size of the problem is not the real issue; it’s the jarring effect it has on the life of the individual as it disrupts, worries and often, hurts. Since I’m an old hand at this suffering gig, I often have to watch my level of empathy and keep it in check. It’s not their fault I’m a veteran in the game and they’re not. Thank God they’re not. As I’ve mentioned so often... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3335484 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 22:00:44 +0100 3335484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331649&cid=t_373839_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FxhpJNw-Cmwo%2F I was a touring comedian for ten years and a very successful one at that; in fact, I hold the entertainment industry record of 106-straight weeks touring on the road. At the same time, I managed to retain my anonymity, which was important to me. In those ten years touring, I met tens of thousands of audience members after shows. The most common opening phrase they used? “I wish I could . . .” followed by their goal or dream that they just didn’t know how to go about achieving. In small towns, it was often just “I wish I could move to a big city where I could have some options.” (Small town people often feel trapped and because of it often become so.) I found myself uttering the same phrase back in college at nineteen. Mine was, “I wish I knew how to figure o... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331649 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:22:19 +0100 3331649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302611&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Ffour-weeks-ago-i-quit-sleeping-with-my.html Four weeks ago, I *quit* sleeping with my children. Well, sort of. At least until 4 a.m. About one out of every three mornings, I wake up with one or both of the two youngest snuggled up to me. When dawn broke one morning last week, pink on the pillow above Amy's shoulder, I sat in awe almost long enough to forget to grab my camera. But not quite!Cancer - and, more recently, Amy's life-threatening brain infection - brings a lot of things into question. Life has become a tedious and sometimes terrifying balancing act between discipline and making room in your life to experience joy. Right at the moment, I hear the happy sounds of kids playing Thomas the Train and cowgirl who-knows-what in the background, but my brain is entrenched in a variety of pots boiling on my mental stove: school, a g... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302611 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:12:00 +0100 3302611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3269716&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F13%2Fwhat-to-do-when-life-falls-apart-the-essential-6-step-program%2F What constitutes life falling apart? The death of a beloved spouse or family member? A marriage or relationship that has withered away or perhaps ended abruptly? A job loss potentially leading to financial ruin (or so you might think right now)? Whichever situation is closest to yours, there are some steps that you must go through to come out the other side with your heart — and new life — intact.   The 6 Steps Wallow in it. This step is essential. Repeat everything you went and are still going through many times to anyone who will listen. Good friends and family will be very patient with this part of the process. If your big life change included a cheating spouse, self-righteous indignation is appropriate at this point. Part of this step includes getting out of bed and... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3269716 Sat, 13 Feb 2010 13:22:56 +0100 3269716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3266914&cid=t_373839_88_f&fid=35612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftheknifeman.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fchoice.html I support choice. It is a good thing.Mostly.Sometimes, I think people abuse it.Tonight, I saw 2 people whose choices upset me.Which is a shame; the thing about choice, individual choice, is that it should be just that. Individual, not affecting anyone else.But, of course, that is pretty much an abstract concept. Every choice we make is bound to have knock on consequences for others.Maybe it's the reasons behind the choices that needle me? Maybe I have no right to be bothered by them. The first choice I didn't really understand, nor the motivation behind it. Maybe that's the point. A young man, seeing his Cardiologist privately, has a dysrhythmia. His heart, intermittently, short circuits, surrendering the regular, ordered beat that thrums out our lives, for a cacophonous, disordered, irreg... The KnifeMan blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3266914 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 23:46:00 +0100 3266914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3235973&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fchoices-you-can-make-in-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F Either I accept my limitations and challenge them Or I use them as an excuse to lose my life, without putting up a fight. Either I lie here and feel the full weight of my self-pity Or I rise up and do just one thing that is productive. Either I sit here during this commercial Or I arise off my seat and perform one quick chore. I either water that pot of African violets Or I watch them wither and die. I either walk down the stairs to let the dog out to pee Or face the consequences with paper towels in hand. I either snatch a small fragment of time to be productive Or I achieve nothing, willingly and without guilt. What’s with all this guilt, anyway? Either I consider the act of resting to be healing and do it without guilt Or consider it wasteful and of little importance. I’m the judge ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3235973 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 22:12:53 +0100 3235973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231461&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FN3IPr6YMUV0%2F By Michael F. CannonThis is big. The federal tax code creates a large tax preference for employer-sponsored health insurance.  As a result, 61 percent of non-elderly Americans obtain health insurance through an employer.  That tax preference creates all sorts of problems.  It encourages more comprehensive health insurance and wasteful health care spending.  It deprives many workers of their health coverage at the moment they need it most: when they get sick and can no longer work.  And it denies workers the benefits of being able to choose their health plan.  Eighty percent of those who work for an employer that offers health benefits have at most two health-plan choices, which are typically both run by the same insurer. To date, no one had really quantified the damage done by denyin... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231461 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:14:16 +0100 3231461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3224988&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F31%2Flearning-from-mistakes%2F — or miss-takes — is a lesson most of us have had an opportunity to complete. Mission accomplished? Sometimes. Most of the time? To accomplish this mission, we usually have to pause. Ponder. Be dormant. By definition, dormancy is a season within a life cycle when growth is paused. It is a time of conservation and, in some cases, renewal. In a “run-faster” and “do-more” setting dormancy is often equaled to death, or at least something to be strictly avoided. However, it remains a necessary stage of future growth and should not be ignored. Especially since it proves extraordinarily beneficial when it is embraced. “Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.” ~Eleanor Roosevelt Learning from own miss-... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3224988 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 12:51:10 +0100 3224988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197857&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fgod-highjacks-our-happenstances.html My marriage was recently revolutionized when I made a simple choice for the betterment of our children's sleep. For years, Aaron has assured me that my late nights don't disrupt our marriage at all. So I've taken him at his word, and stayed up to accomplish most of my housework and schoolwork during my peak energy hours, 10 p.m. to midnight. But the hustle and bustle - and even the clicking of the computer keys - seemed to be disrupting Caleb's circadian rhythm, and I made the difficult choice to attempt to accomplish things during the children's nap instead of after they were put to bed. The difficulty arose mostly from the fact that I really enjoy a nap with my children, usually several times a week. However, perhaps that nap is why I don't feel tired when the rest of the family does, be... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197857 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:22:00 +0100 3197857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3139039&cid=t_373839_88_f&fid=35612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftheknifeman.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fgiving-up.html I'm trying to give up smoking, again; I don't really want to, but know I should. So I'll probably fail... but we'll see.It's strange what we will give up, and what we won't, and our reasons behind it. We all make sacrifices of one type or another, and sometimes, I suppose I can't be alone in this, look back and wonder if it was all worthwhile. Have other people made the same choices as I have? Have they had too? Or did they just make better ones?I don't know. I know how I have justified the choices I have made to myself, and they always made sense at the time, but sometimes, in the dark, alone, 10 years down the line... I'm not so sure.Morecheerfully, had a grand old dinne with LBF last night, and managed not to act like a twat. The next big choices to make will have to be made together, w... The KnifeMan blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3139039 Sun, 03 Jan 2010 22:20:00 +0100 3139039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3108521&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F20%2Fbeing-at-ease%2F Random twists and tight turns of the “roller-emotion-coaster” that presents itself each December can leave us feeling nauseous, invisible, sad, angry and just plain ol’ dazed and confused. Expectations is the word of the day … But we don’t have to ride. We can walk away. How does one practice Ease? There are times when we simply feel as though we are stuck in line waiting to take the next crazy ride. Not moving. Merely enduring. Reacting out of a twisted habit. When I get there — and I was just there a couple of days ago — this is what I do: Being at Ease Accept my situation — whatever it is, whatever it isn’t. Remind myself that difficult situations happen and that being a victim is optional. Forgive. Forgiveness doesn’t condone another perso... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3108521 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 01:57:45 +0100 3108521 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3012432&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2F20%2Fyear-in-review-your-picks%2F It’s that time of the year again, when we pull together our top picks for mental health and psychology stories in the news in the past year. There’s no magic to our choices, we’re just looking for stories that you believe had the biggest positive or negative impact in this area. For instance, last year the passage of the mental health parity law here in the U.S. was the biggest mental health news story of 2008. One example for this year might’ve been the debate we had surrounding what I thought was a pretty sensible law about postpartum depression. You can take a look at last year’s Year in Review to get a feel for what we’re looking for here. Note your top picks in the comments and we’ll review those and the ones on our own list to come up with ou... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3012432 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:13:04 +0100 3012432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923499&cid=t_373839_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2009%2F10%2F23%2Ftwin-study-offers-some-tips-on-aging%2F In this study, divorce and antidepressant use associated with a significantly older appearance. Interestingly in twins who were less than 40 years old, the heavier twin was perceived as being older, while in those groups over 40 years old, the heavier twin appeared younger. Watch the video clip (after the ad) from the LA Station about this new study, factors such as smoking, sun exposure, stress and dieting play a role in the aging process. Factors affecting Aging: Divorce Stress Sun Exposure Smoking Alcohol use Weight Gain – varies depending on the age You can watch another report from ABC news at their website. Resources Salamone G. October 2009. Study of identical twins reveals how habits like smoking and tanning can dramatically age skin. NY Daily News. Cloud J. February 2009.... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923499 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 02:09:49 +0100 2923499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2871565&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FQVk6Rjg9WV4%2F I was glad to see James Pinkerton engage my criticism of Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal’s (R) endorsement of federal price controls for health insurance.  I was even more pleased to see that Pinkerton has his own blog devoted to developing a Serious Medicine Strategy. If I understand Pinkerton, his argument is essentially: it’s all well and good for some unelectable wonk in the “citadel of libertarian thinking” to “uphold ivory-tower free-market purity” by opposing price controls.  But Republicans need “art-of-the-possible solutions” to win elections, and 90 percent of the public support those price controls.  “Everyone has a right to his or her principled position,” Pinkerton writes, “but the majority has rights, too.” Two problems. First, Pinkerton suggests that l... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2871565 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 20:33:48 +0100 2871565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2927590&cid=t_373839_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2009%2F10%2F07%2Fsmart-choices-not-so-smart-after-all%2F There has been some concerned raised about the Smart Choices program, particularly when Froot Loops (and other sugary cereals) recently was approved as a “Smart Choice.” Health advocates are encouraging people to avoid Smart Choices to eat healthy. They are also raising concerns about whether the Smart Choices program is a sign of nutrition or just another marketing angle (manufactures must pay to have the logo on their products). Concerned citizens have even drafted a petition on change.org “Don’t Let Kellogg’s Buy Scientists: Froot Loops Aren’t a Healthy Breakfast” to encourage Smart Choices Board Members to remove their support for the Smart Choice Program. See more about Froot Loops in the blog post on Watch Out for High Sugar and Poor Nutrient... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2927590 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:15:28 +0100 2927590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814755&cid=t_373839_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2009%2F09%2F21%2Fhealthier-food-alternatives-for-children%2F Matt Lauer of the Today Show interviews David Zinczenko of Eat This Not That to show parents how to help children make healthier choices when it come to meal and snack time. Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy Eat This Not That! for Kids is one of the books I have gotten for my daughters written to teach you how to be the leanest family on the block. My daughters enjoy going through the book and discovering that many of the foods we are eating are in the “eat this” category and not in the “not that” category. They keep searching for more healthy options from the “eat this” list to add to what we purchase at the store, or health options for eating out. Eat This Not That! for Kids is available on Amazon. (Source: Nut... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814755 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:02:54 +0100 2814755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796580&cid=t_373839_117_f&fid=38158&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drneedles.comhttp%3A%2F%2Famericanacupuncture.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fput-medical-choices-in-your-hands.html As a medical physician for over 50 years, I strive to give you the best medical information on controversial medical subjects and let you, the reader, come to your own conclusions. I have no ties to any organization, pharmaceutical, or lobby group. As an practicing medical acupuncturist since 1982, I find western medicine and medical acupuncture are very complimentary that results in astounding healing in pain management, addictions to cigarettes and food, and a host of other maladies. Let me know how we are doing. Your constructive comments are always appreciated. Click the RSS post button on the upper right hand corner if you would like to receive by email our future medical blogs. Visit http://www.americanacupuncture.com/ for more detailed information on healingPUT MEDICAL CHOICES IN YO... Dr. Needles Medical Blogs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796580 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 01:57:00 +0100 2796580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796751&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F14%2Fare-you-living-a-life-you-have-chosen%2F Photo Credit Life is like a taxi. The meter just keeps a-ticking whether you are getting somewhere or just standing still. ~Lou Erickso Are you living a life you have chosen? Or … Just livin’ the one that happens — as it happens? Or … Are you waiting for something? Longing for a change? Mulling over conversation starters to reconcile a relationship? Any of these situations hands us a proverbial basket of eggs. Small units of emotions, solutions, lessons-to-be-learned, refining, agony. Each one fragile — and  once even cracked on the surface leads to a sticky mess. The clock is ticking … What will you do with your basket? Carefully choose your eggs for the day? Planning out your resources — your steps — as you journey in the direction of your dreams. Rando... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796751 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:15:30 +0100 2796751 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774891&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F07%2Fvibrancy%2F Photo Credit There are moments in life when you realize your life has changed. It was a subtle event — an event hardly noticed until one morning you wake up and realize some things have definitely changed. ♥ In some ways I feel as though I have been posting the same themes about the changes in my life: the goals, the new adventures and dreams realized … That my words kinda run together and sound the same. Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead. ~Louisa May Alcott Two years ago my life changed dramatically due to circumstances somewhat beyond my control. However, what I discovered was that said circumstances merely served to burn away the chaff — t... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774891 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 02:34:46 +0100 2774891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2695579&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F08%2F11%2Fstarting-at-the-wrong-end-of-the-process%2F No Finish Line Do your goals, hope and dreams have finish lines? Or do you fall into the trap of meandering within the distance between “Start” and “Finish”? Being driven by perfection, and the vain hope to do {it} perfectly. Waiting endlessly for the perfect start, the perfect way, the perfect time — the perfect inspiration. We all have dreamed, wished or longed for specific goals. We begin progressing in the direction of said goals, and then we stall out due to discouragement or a loss of vision and energy. After a proper mourning time — and a measure or two of self-loathing — we take our goals back to the drawing board. Once there, a certain amount of time passes as we become overwhelmed with the amount of calendar space we believe it will take to accomplis... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2695579 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 18:06:27 +0100 2695579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2682152&cid=t_373839_180_f&fid=38610&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.productivity501.com%2Ffewer-choices-result-in-better-efficiency%2F83%2F There was a study published in 2003 by the Journal of Psychology that attempted to measure how helpful time management training was for employees.  They sent a group of employees to a 1 and 1/2 day seminar on time management and then compared their self-assessment one month later with a control group. The study showed that individuals who had been through time management training believed that they significantly decreased their avoidance behavior and worry.  They also reported that they had an increased ability to manage time. (Notice that the study wasn’t trying to measure their actual skill level, only their perception of their skill.) This is, of course, a great study for all the consultants who would love to come into your company and teach time management techniques. The auth... Productivity501 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2682152 Sat, 08 Aug 2009 03:29:10 +0100 2682152 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2657941&cid=t_373839_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F30%2Fdebunking-the-new-smart-choices-packaged-food-label%2F Uniform Food Label I first wrote about the Smart Choices labeling program in November 2008, after it was rolled out at the American Dietetic Association Food and Nutrition Conference. In a nutshell, it is the food industry’s stab at taking all the “front of package” labeling from individual companies (smart spot, sensible solutions, etc…) and giving it some uniformity. The new smart choices program has come under hefty criticism from Marion Nestle, who thinks it is more a marketing effort than a nutrition effort. I hear what she’s saying – do we really need a big effort to help people choose processed foods?  Shouldn’t nutrition experts tell people to limit packaged foods and eat more whole foods?  YOU BET! But, I’m more of a realist than a... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2657941 Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:50:12 +0100 2657941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2598286&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F07%2F13%2Fintroducing-how-to-find-a-good-therapist%2F One of the common questions we receive here at Psych Central is, “You always talk about the importance of finding a good therapist in order to be successful in psychotherapy; so how do I go about doing that?” Over the years, I’ve written an article or two about this topic. Now I’m pleased to present something better — a complete, free online e-book to finding a good therapist. How to Find a Good Therapist is a simple how-to guide written by Ben Butina. Ben Butina is a therapist and trainer, and is the executive director of Westmoreland Marriage. You can learn more about this book and how to order bulk paper or e-book copies of at the book’s website, www.howtofindagoodtherapist.com. Psychotherapy is often a process shrouded in some mystery. How does one ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2598286 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:51:28 +0100 2598286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588409&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F09%2Fmotivation-to-change-and-mr-grumpy%2F Ms. Motivation often bumps into none other than, M-i-s-t-er Grumpy! Who is a rather ill-tempered fellow, but does usually find his way via the help of his friends, Mr. Happy and Mr. Tickle! However, it is extremely useful for Ms. Motivation to avoid Mr. Grumpy (and all things Grumpy) during the initial leg of the journey to Change. When life changes — for whatever reason, by choice or by circumstances beyond our control — there are situations, people and even certain personal capabilities we are forced to release or put aside; there are life choices that are no longer ours to make — even when we wished we could! Sometimes these changes are viewed with despair (or absolutely maddening!) as change — by choice or not — challenges us to live in a different way. Change is inevitable. ... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588409 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:50:26 +0100 2588409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2576812&cid=t_373839_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2F0WKBLMU7gJs%2Fbeat-it.php One of my favorite parts about heading to California to visit family is the opportunity to meet up with the Southern California diabetic all-stars. George and I have been meeting up for a while, and recently have added Cherise and Jaimie to the fun. While we usually meet at a sit-down restaurant, this meet-up took on a slightly more interesting form (Cherise also wrote about it on her blog). George... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2576812 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:30:21 +0100 2576812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2474063&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F06%2F11%2Fdisappear-and-see-the-color%2F My phone rang two evenings ago … It was my sweetheart. He was driving home from being out of town and calling to urge me to grab my camera and enjoy the sunset. I did. It was awesome … With a full-spectrum of color as the sun ever-so slowly slid toward the horizon line. I am blessed with a husband who recognizes aspects of my personality that often seem invisible to me. (Like encouraging my interest in photography — which has served as a tonic for my periodic depression!) And he sure can spot a fabulous photo op! He also helps me identify when I need to “disappear” and simply “see the color” … The full-spectrum color of the big picture — the big sky of my life. My life as it is — and what it is becoming! He is faithful to nudge me when I ... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2474063 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:44:22 +0100 2474063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2452706&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F06%2F04%2Fself-honesty-knowing-is-better-than-not-knowing%2F The truth hurts sometimes, but trying to keep an obvious truth hidden inside yourself can hurt even more. Making excuses doesn’t help, rationalizing doesn’t help, yelling doesn’t help. Bringing yourself to a painful but honest realization will actually do you more good. When some of my clients have been avoiding a problem and struggling with reality, I have often said something like this, “You can think that way about your problem if you like, pretend it isn’t there. Or you can face the truth and acknowledge its existence. Either way, the reality of your problem will still be there. You just have more power to make your situation better if you face it.” This has usually gotten a knowing look from the people I’ve worked with. By that point, they ha... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2452706 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:52:44 +0100 2452706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2448163&cid=t_373839_151_f&fid=35797&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnewrecovery.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fchoice-theory-conference.html It was my privilege yesterday to attend the Choice Theory Education Conference at the Hilton in Sacramento. I staffed a LifeRing literature table there, met with LifeRing convenors and future convenors, attended some of the sessions, and met some of the leading figures in the choice movement. Georgellen Hofine, one of the oldest students of Choice Theory founder Dr. William Glasser (photo), personally welcomed me to the gathering. LifeRing keynote speaker and DVD author Dr. B. J. Davis was the closing speaker on the conference program, and I much enjoyed listening to his presentation and chatting with him informally. Choice Theory advocates Resa Stendel Brown and Jack Harnden spoke about the application of Choice Theory in education. Author Mike Rice gave a talk on addiction. B. J. Davis, ... New Recovery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2448163 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:48:00 +0100 2448163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442201&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fguideposts-in-a-life-of-daily-pain%2F One of my favorite magazines, which I’ve been reading for 30 years, is Guideposts magazine, founded by the Rev. Norman Vincent Peale and his wife, Ruth Stafford Peale. I’ve enjoyed that particular publication in good times and bad. One of the aspects of it I think I’m most fond of is that it embraces all religious faiths, without showing prejudice or preference so none are segregated or left out. This matter of finding our way in life, following our own guideposts, seems to be independent of any particular religious faith. Faith is faith. I apologize if that offends any of you; but it is my belief as I have lived a considerable number of years and witnessed the hardships of the Jews over the years, the bigotry toward the Catholics in some parts of the country and the judg... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442201 Wed, 27 May 2009 21:41:50 +0100 2442201 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442542&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F27%2Fdancing-to-new-rhythms%2F Photo Credit: sjb5 Dancer. Red. Joy. These words describe what is in my heart … Change can have its moments of outrageous joy … and sheer terror! Although we learn to dance to the jazzy beats of new rhythms — said dance routines are not without their tumbles and bruises. Notes of change played together to form new compositions and routines. Even as we fumble about sometimes until — with time and practice — we refine our days and learn how to maintain order in the midst of creatively managing our days. I have been jotting down some final notes of my latest composition. It incorporates notes and patterns I have danced to in the past; but this one is more refined and easier to dance to. Which is a good thing, since it is an extremely lively beat of sweet sixteenth notes! ... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442542 Wed, 27 May 2009 10:18:44 +0100 2442542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2441271&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F05%2Ffirst-washington-legal-assisted-suicide.html The first Washington State legal assisted suicide has happened. C and C, of course, promptly issued a press release. From the story: The woman, Linda Fleming, 66, of Sequim, Wash., on the Olympic Peninsula, died Thursday evening after taking lethal medication prescribed by a doctor under the law, according to a news release by the group, Compassion and Choices of Washington. The release said the woman received a diagnosis of Stage 4 pancreatic cancer a month ago, and “she was told she was actively dying.”Ms. Fleming was quoted in the release as saying: "I am a very spiritual person, and it was very important to me to be conscious, clear-minded and alert at the time of my death. The powerful pain medications were making it difficult to maintain the state of mind I wanted to have at my d... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2441271 Fri, 22 May 2009 21:01:00 +0100 2441271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2398818&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F05%2F07%2Fsurprise-approval-of-fanapt-makes-stock-go-wild%2F Shares of Vanda Pharmaceuticals, the makers of Fanapt (iloperidone), surged today after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration sprang a surprise drug approval for Fanapt for schizophrenia late yesterday. In afternoon trading today, the stock hit $10.00 a share, over 8 times what the stock was trading just a day earlier. It fell back to trading around $7.54 - $7.95 range at this time. The drug has a better safety profile in clinical trials than other atypical antipsychotics, which some analysts believe will help boost prescriptions when it goes on the market this summer. Of course, the safety profile may be overly optimistic, as it was for other atypical antipsychotics before they hit the market and reality set in (e.g., use on a more diverse population). Certainly the company could’ve... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2398818 Thu, 07 May 2009 19:58:34 +0100 2398818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2390254&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F06%2Freleasing-the-heart%2F Interesting adventure, being a mom. Motherhood is so much more than a mere word or career role. It is an experience, a state of mind — of heart — difficult to describe with words or limited definition. Which is largely due to the diversity of said experience — and state of mind and heart! ad•ven•ture — To risk; engage in an activity that includes uncertain experiences. Claude Monet: Camille Monet at Work I remember the first time I saw this colorful and serene view of Camille Monet creating stitches of embroidery … I was in the midst of my own diverse days as a mother. All three of my children still lived at home; we were home-schooling and our days were absolutely brimming with, well, adventure! I remember trying to envision what it would be like to have a space like... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2390254 Wed, 06 May 2009 20:20:50 +0100 2390254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2390217&cid=t_373839_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FeQET8zIoODs%2Flistening.php Last weekend, I went on a retreat with some people from work. While it was still 'work', it was a refreshing time of being 'away' as well. Since it involved spending 24/7 with a group of people they got to see a lot of my 'diabetes life'. Test after test, bolus after bolus, and even a site change (well, they technically did not SEE that). We also went to a... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2390217 Wed, 06 May 2009 13:00:49 +0100 2390217 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2386952&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F05%2F03%2Fif-only-keeping-you-stuck-and-frustrated%2F Two words. Six letters. So much potential for destruction. You say it to yourself and so do I, sometimes without even realizing it. Do you even realize how powerful it is? If only I had more time, I would exercise. If only my parents weren’t so annoying, I’d be less stressed. If only I had a bigger house, then I’d be more organized. If only, if only, if only…You know, it isn’t just the “if only” part that is so damaging. By itself, it just a harmless wish or fantasy. It’s saying “then”, as if you only have permission to have this better outcome when the first part happens. Let’s break this down once, shall we? Take the example about having a bigger house and being more organized. I threw this one in for me. We still live in... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2386952 Sun, 03 May 2009 16:44:08 +0100 2386952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2375955&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F04%2Fcoming-medical-conscription-to-require.html The day may be coming, and it might not be that far away, when doctors who are asked to help kill a patient--that is, to intentionally cause the patient's life to end--will be forced to either do the deed or refer to a doctor her or she knows will do the deed.We are seeing this conscription approach promoted in Washington State where many hospitals and doctors are refusing to participate in legalized assisted suicide, as is their right under the new law. This has angered assisted suicide advocates, who are now planting articles in newspapers and writing opinion articles trying to guilt doctors into violating their own consciences.The granddaughter of a man unable to commit assisted suicide has written such an article. She is a college student, and grieving her loss: Thus, I am not especial... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2375955 Sun, 26 Apr 2009 19:37:00 +0100 2375955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2365129&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F04%2F23%2Ftv-relieves-loneliness%2F In a study that should surprise no one, new research suggests that a person can increase their feelings of belongingness — the sense of being in a social situation — by simply watching television. TV can act as a social surrogate for actual human contact, making us feel like we have a social relationship with the TV characters. It may not be real social relationship, but it appears that may not really matter in terms of its relief of feelings of social isolation and rejection. And if television can be shown to do this, it’s not a huge leap to imagine the value of the Internet in also relieving social isolation. In fact, some research has already been published that shows just that (see previous link). Is any of this a “good” thing? Well, it depends on how you... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2365129 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:13:43 +0100 2365129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2326598&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F04%2F08%2Farriving-at-amazing-by-way-of-goals-part-2%2F What are your Goals? Where do you want to go from here? Today awaits your choice to be present. And by the way, you will have to check the baggage of yesterday at the door. As difficult as it is sometimes to keep moving, to take the next step, to forgive (self and others), to let go and just be fully present in this moment — it is possible! In order to do so, see your life on a continuum — see yourself in-motion, living a life that is in-progress. It is only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it were the only one we had. ~Elizabeth Kubler-Ross Begin to think about a sequence of events — a strategy — that has a beginning, a middle and... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2326598 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:40:57 +0100 2326598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2306944&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F04%2Fcalling-dr-death-calling-dr-death.html Compassion and Choices (formerly Hemlock Society) has been mighty peeved lately that so many ethical doctors are refusing to supply assisted suicide prescriptions to their patients. As I noted yesterday, Montana's doctors are apparently refusing to cooperate with the suicide agenda, and so C and C has issued a pitch for willing death doctors to jump to the fore in Montana with their prescription pads in hand.It's ethical. Really! And polls show that many doctors support "aid in dying," don't you know? (Unmentioned is that virtually every professional medical organization in the world opposes euthanasia/assisted suicide.) And, why, did you know that assisted suicide is consistent with the Hippocratic Oath? From its blog: "The Hippocratic Oath demands this foremost from physicians: Do No Har... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2306944 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 16:28:00 +0100 2306944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2326600&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F04%2F06%2Farriving-at-amazing-by-way-of-goals-part-1%2F Photo Credit So, raise your hand if your life feels like a Three-Ring Circus. It goes something like you swinging by the seat of your pants — three rings of multi-tasking, with a crowd of people watching while you work away. And there are lions and tigers and bears! Oh, my! Most of us assume the role of Ring Master for years until we realize how close that keeps us to absolute chaos. This realization is likely repeated during said years — until one day (as you pull your head out of the lion’s mouth one last time …) you make the connection! You realize you have never really been in control. You have been lost in a maze of dictated “must’s, should’s and shall’s” … And you are tired. Very tired. And probably angry. Very angry? You have been running around �... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2326600 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:01:35 +0100 2326600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2299038&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F30%2Fgoals-and-clarity%2F Photo Credit For the past three months I have wondered if I would ever move past the baseline of my Life-Plan. I had what I needed to move forward: Goals (my plans, my notes and tons of research) — as well as the ever-necessary dash of CreAtive inspiration! And I had Clarity. Clarity is the proverbial tugboat that maneuvers Goals to their final destination. It has the ability to push or pull a Goal through a difficult phase. The “difficult phase” for my Goals has been my roller-coaster-wellness. (And although I am “more well” — the adventure continues …) Despite these physical challenges, my ability to nurture and focus upon the vision regarding my Goals remains constant. Um, ‘cept for those darn periodic black-outs and power surges. Last week I ... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2299038 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:15:35 +0100 2299038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2299039&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F27%2Fsimple-delights%2F Life is full of simple delights … Pleasures within our days that we, all too often, zoom past without notice. These pleasures inspire thoughts, enable us to exhale just a little more completely and provide proverbial pieces to the multiple life-puzzles in our mind and memory. Cloud formations are a common simple pleasure for me. Especially when framed by the lens of my camera … Each afternoon,  my canine grrls and I enjoy a “recess” … We walk around our little country acreage, exploring this and that — enjoying the fresh air, the busyness of birds and squirrels and the big, ever-changing country sky! One afternoon, camera in-hand — clicking away the images of the day — I spotted this view! It proved to be a visual solution to the random, undefined... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2299039 Fri, 27 Mar 2009 19:12:51 +0100 2299039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2287228&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F03%2F24%2Fwant-to-cut-your-risk-of-death%2F We often talk about happiness and well-being on the blog, or how to reduce your depression or cope with anxiety here. But none of that’s going to do you a whole lot of good if your life is cut short by making daily unhealthy food choices. So while I don’t usually write about general health topics here, occasionally a piece of research rises to the level of demanding our attention. And the research published yesterday linking red meat to a higher risk of death over the study’s 10 year period of time is just such research. The study of more than 500,000 middle-aged and elderly (aged 50 to 71) Americans found that those who consumed about four ounces of red meat a day (the equivalent of about a small hamburger) were more than 30 percent more likely to die during the 10 year... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2287228 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:56:31 +0100 2287228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2299041&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F22%2Fstuck-on-fast-forward%2F God whispers in our pleasures …  ~C. S. Lewis So, did you realize that last Friday was the official first day of Spring?? We typically move through our lives — rarely allowing ourselves the simple pleasure of noticing such days. Or taking any sort of “Spring Break” … Work, personal duties and plain ‘ol real-life seem to fast-forward us through days, weeks, months … and years. We often forget that it is our index finger pressing that proverbial button. We forget because we wake up and jump on the treadmill of life — seeking out the shortest distance between two points — in order to get through our days as fast as we can. Our plans typically include the quickest steps from one part of our day to another, with the goal of “getting it all done” … In... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2299041 Sun, 22 Mar 2009 21:17:08 +0100 2299041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2270320&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F03%2Fcompassion-and-choices-admits-to.html Compassion and Choices, the assisted suicide advocacy group, has admitted to undermining proper hospice care. That's not how they put it, of course. It brags that nearly 100% of Oregon assisted suicides last year--88% with which their representatives were involved--were in hospice. From the C and C press release:Compassion and Choices, the nation's largest advocate for end-of-life care and choices and steward of the Oregon Death with Dignity Act, today noted that nearly 100% of terminally ill individuals using the law in 2008 were enrolled in hospice. Hospice enrollment among those using the Act increased to 98%, with 59 of the 60 individuals enrolled. Over the prior 10 years of the Act's existence, 86% of patients using the Act were enrolled in hospice, in itself a very high rate of use.T... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2270320 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 18:12:00 +0100 2270320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2268010&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F16%2Fwhat-is-your-guide-word-for-this-week%2F If you could select a theme, an adjective, a mood to be your guide word for this week … What would it be? Life is about attitude. Attitudes are determined by what we focus upon. What has your focus? Your attention? Your time? Who — or what — is guiding your life? Are your intentions guiding your life? Or [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2268010 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:37:09 +0100 2268010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2270322&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F03%2Foregon-compassion-and-choices-assisted.html The assisted suicide law called the Oregon Death with Dignity Act--as if dying without poisoning yourself to death isn't dignified--should instead be called the Oregon Compassion and Choices Assisted Suicide Enabling Act. It turns out that representatives of the assisted suicide advocacy organization--formerly the Hemlock Society-- are involved with the great majority of the assisted suicide deaths that take place in Oregon.Physicians for Compassionate Care former president Kenneth Stevens, MD, has gone through the statistics and come up with some startling--and telling--numbers. From his report:Officers of the assisted-suicide-proponent organization Compassion in Dying/Compassion and Choices of Oregon are authors of Oregon's physician-assisted suicide law and self-proclaim they are the st... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2270322 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 01:56:00 +0100 2270322 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2266683&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F03%2F15%2Fonline-dating-too-many-choices-may-be-bad%2F Could too many choices in online dating be a bad thing? According to some newly published research out of Taiwan, it may be. Marketing from online dating sites often suggests that having more choices is most beneficial, because you have more options from which to choose. But what they don’t say is that the more options you have, the more work you have to do to find profiles that actually match what you’re looking for. Larger doesn’t always mean better. The participants were 128 youths and adults from southern Taiwan (69 men, 59 women; ages 18 to 36 years) who had membership in online-dating Web sites, as determined on a screening questionnaire. Participants were assigned to view one of three profile groups — large (90 profiles), moderate (60 profiles), or small (30 ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2266683 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 11:01:08 +0100 2266683 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2258166&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F03%2F11%2Fwhat-is-the-payoff-for-your-emotional-choices%2F Yes, you read the title correctly. There really is a payoff for every emotionally-driven behavior and thought. And to a certain extent, these are controllable elements of your life. So when you behave or think in a way that is directed chiefly by emotion, what actually happens in your favor? Pouting, giving in, refusing to give in, self-pity, yelling - they all have payoffs. Let me explain and you may find a little bit of yourself by the end of this post. How Do You React Internally And Externally? When you are faced with a challenge or conflict, you are likely to have an emotional response. You are also likely to have thoughts that reflect your beliefs and life priorities. From those elements, you will officially have some kind of reaction. It may be shock, disgust, anger, despair, confus... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2258166 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 21:09:46 +0100 2258166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2258167&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F03%2F11%2Fspruce-up-your-mental-health-bring-the-green-indoors%2F Midweek Mental Greening I read an interesting article over at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer a few weeks ago about the mental health benefits of all things green (we’re talking actual living plants this time, folks – not recycling and cutting down on carbon footprints). In the article, Mike Roizen and Mehmet Oz (or, the You Docs – the guys behind RealAge.com), outline some of the benefits of being surrounded by leafy green plant life and why city dwellers (or anyone who lives in a not-so-green area, really) should consider welcoming a new green addition or two to the family. Such benefits included lowered blood pressure, reduced stress, lung protection, and fewer sick days. I’ve never been big on houseplants. Don’t get me wrong – I love them and would have them in every room... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2258167 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 13:37:00 +0100 2258167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276193&cid=t_373839_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspergerwoman%2F%7E3%2Fcal3x-nLCQQ%2Fautism-and-choicesbuying-new-mobile.html A few years ago the government decided a (mobile) phone trade liberalization would be necessary. Customers would have more choice. Now we can choose between providers. Soon my mobile phone membership ends and now I have to find a new phone subscription. There are attractive deals which include a new phobile phone number for free. And you can have internet on your mobile phone too, that sounds nice :-). And how much do I want to spent on a mobile phone? An autism friendly thing like Navigation might be a good idea to prevent me getting lost. Questions questions questions. Sigh. This drives me quite mad. My coach and I have been looking online for the best offer, but we seem to get a bit lost. The bid is just far too much. I wonder if it would be a wise idea to suggest the Dutch Autism Socie... The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276193 Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:28:00 +0100 2276193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261922&cid=t_373839_165_f&fid=37959&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthskills.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F10%2Fcollaborating-with-our-patients%2F Have you noticed how some of the literature on pain management seems to distance the therapist from the patient as if the therapist is the ‘expert’? I’m not sure where this started - perhaps with the behavioural approach where reinforcing well behaviour is carried out alongside ignoring or not responding to sickness or pain behaviour. Or maybe it was the ’stinking thinking’ or ‘maladaptive thoughts’ of cognitive therapy that brought about the idea that patients are ‘doing it wrong’ and therapists know all… Or maybe it’s an impression that patients get sometimes, that therapists ’should’ know everything, so that if they do as they are ‘told’, and it doesn’t work out, the therapist carries the res... HealthSkills Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261922 Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:15:41 +0100 2261922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2236122&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F03%2Fgot-pruners%2F We can’t do everything … But we can prune back! I confess. (In the event you don’t already know …) I am a dreamer. Pruning is not something that comes naturally for me — by any stretch of the imagination! However, I am ever-so slowly learning to prune back the distractions and errant limbs [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2236122 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 02:33:44 +0100 2236122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2224566&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F28%2Fmotivation-to-change-the-road-forms-a-t%2F Living in a rural area, I am used to a road dead-ending … Usually at a barbed-wire fence border around a country field; the pavement forms a “T” … A place where I will have to make a turn — take a new direction — in order to get back to the direction I was [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2224566 Sat, 28 Feb 2009 18:47:59 +0100 2224566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2222389&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F02%2Fresisting-assisted-suicide-guidelines.html Compassion and Choices (formerly the Hemlock Society) has played a crafty game of pretense about the ultimate goals of its assisted suicide campaign. In debates (including those in which I have participated), in media interviews, in press releases, etc., its representatives have claimed that C and C wants only a very narrow legalization of "aid in dying," and that to be under strict regulatory control to ensure against abuse.Well, now that the drive to legalize assisted suicide has gained some traction, the ideological zeal of the group's leadership has caused them to go off that carefully tailored script. Kathryn Tucker is the legal director of C and C who got a sympathetic judge to impose a state constitutional right to "die with dignity" on Montana. As I noted in the Weekly Standard--co... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2222389 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:12:00 +0100 2222389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2207533&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F23%2Fmake-the-choice-the-hard-choice%2F We all face The Hard Choice. The Hard Choice to pull off the layers of complaint, of self-loathing, of disdain for everyone else and the overall sense of discontent, emptiness and a sorrow that goes beyond words. To get-real. To put aside what we are feeling and to ask God, “What are You doing?” and “What [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2207533 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:38:28 +0100 2207533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2196346&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F18%2Frhythms-of-grace-how-to-avoid-crashing-waves-and-other-adventures%2F Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2196346 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 22:03:30 +0100 2196346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2195766&cid=t_373839_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F541881207%2F Hiroshi Komiyama, President of the University of Tokyo and Chairperson of the Global Agenda Council on the Challenges of Gerontology I am a member of, just provided council members with a brief update of his participation in the recent World Economic Forum. Part of the proceedings are public - you may enjoy reading this panel write-up of the session Healthcare under Stress: - "Japan has the world’s oldest population. Health and longevity create wealth and, thus, “health begets wealth”. It is documented that nations that develop a five-year life expectancy advantage also create a larger GDP. A healthy childhood and adulthood contribute to a more productive old age. New markets and industries are arising – “silver industries” such as financial services, health, housing and h... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2195766 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:28:34 +0100 2195766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2192507&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F16%2Fare-you-a-people-pleaser%2F Ever have shining moments of blinding revelation? I had one this morning. Said revelation actually started dawning on me last summer … It had to do with a comment made to me by a close friend. Her exact words escape me at the moment — probably because I was in a state of semi-shock when she [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2192507 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 21:05:16 +0100 2192507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2185033&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F13%2Fyou-have-today-what-will-you-do-with-it%2F So many times we get caught up in the notion that we don’t have time. A odd notion that somehow we have time to worry about the time we don’t have — instead of merely doing something with the time we have! You have today. What will you do with it? I know from my [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2185033 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 13:05:35 +0100 2185033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2182386&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F02%2Fcompassion-and-choices-seven-principles.html Compassion and Choices (formerly Hemlock Society) is the abundantly funded, prime mover and shaker for the assisted suicide movement in the USA. It unquestionably had a good year in 2008 with the passage of I-1000 in Washington and the imposition of a fundamental state constitutional right to "die with dignity" in Montana. It has now issued its "Seven Principles" to "improve end-of-life care and expand patient choices." A clear and literal reading of these "principles," demonstrate that the goal is an essential death on demand. From its press release: Our Seven Principles can help guide lawmakers and policy experts to remember what’s important, and make sure our health care system and its providers are putting the patient first: 1. Focus. End of life care should focus on the patient’s ... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2182386 Thu, 12 Feb 2009 16:46:00 +0100 2182386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2175253&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F10%2Fmothers-and-daughters%2F Breakfast in Bed, Mary Cassatt There are specific topics, such as politics and religion, that seem to strike a loud and resounding cord within us. The subject of mothers and daughters is probably one most of us include in that musical genre and host of melodies … And perhaps we more frequently hear it as clanging [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2175253 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 18:57:50 +0100 2175253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2169034&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F07%2Fno-parking-anytime%2F Is there a part of you that cannot simply be? Able to shift gears, and park … And be still? Does the absence of words and activity sound an alarm in your head that results in immediate (idle and endless!) chatter and frantic movement? Do these circumstances seem to scream: “Quick!! Say something! Do something! [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2169034 Sat, 07 Feb 2009 14:10:19 +0100 2169034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2158083&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F03%2Fgratitude-is-a-many-splendored-thing%2F splen´dor n.    —    Great brightness; brilliant luster; brilliancy; as, the splendor of the sun. Right up front, let me be clear: I am writing this more as a reminder to myself more than a proclamation. Because I am so-o not feelin’ it right now! And while it is accurate to see gratitude as a [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2158083 Tue, 03 Feb 2009 21:38:21 +0100 2158083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145391&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F30%2Fhello-fear%2F You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, “I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along. …You must do the thing you think you cannot do. ~Eleanor Roosevelt        [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145391 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:16:41 +0100 2145391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2142577&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F29%2Fis-there-ever-enough%2F ♥ In the absence of clearly-defined goals, we become strangely loyal to performing daily trivia until ultimately we become enslaved by it. ~Robert Heinlein There are so many tasks, situations and people literally demanding our time, money and energies. How about just for today, we promise one another to do only what we have “enough”  [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2142577 Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:30:44 +0100 2142577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2131384&cid=t_373839_151_f&fid=35797&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnewrecovery.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fwell-said-in-washington.html The Bush years, by wide consensus, were a dismal era for science.  But by a strange paradox, some bright stars emerged in what is normally a dismal field under any administration: addiction science.  One is the brilliant Nora Volkow, who brings a rare mix of research experience, clear thinking, and leadership ability to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).  Another is Mark Willenbring, Director of the Division of Treatment and Recovery Research at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).  In a letter to the current New Yorker (the one with the cartoon of Obama as George Washington on the cover), Willenbring precisely skewers a piece that this normally astute mag published in its December 1 issue.  The article, titled "Special Treatment," by Amanda Forti... New Recovery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2131384 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 21:13:00 +0100 2131384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2096242&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F11%2Fa-topiary-and-a-monster%2F to·pi·ar·y adj.  — Of or characterized by the clipping or trimming of live shrubs or trees into decorative shapes. What can I say? I get these keywords in my head and I just begin writing … It is all because of those three Hershey bars and three words! [Do.Fail.Read] Although I must admit that inspiration today comes [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2096242 Sun, 11 Jan 2009 23:01:20 +0100 2096242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2090857&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F08%2Fconnect-the-dots%2F The necessity of bed-rest and sleep for the past four days has granted me a lot of time to “connect the dots” — to draw lines between the points on the page of my Life Plan. Said points (and squiggles and visual cues) include: Securing a work-from-home, part-time, paid staff position Continuing to work freelance and to [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2090857 Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:15:26 +0100 2090857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2077160&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F03%2Fthree-hershey-bars-three-words-inspired%2F Yesterday was a cold, colorless, cloudy day here. Blah! Double blah! Just the sort of day that beckons you to curl up with a cozy down comforter and simply nap through the hours. Except even that didn’t even sound appealing! Actually — nothing seemed appealing! So … I did what any women does in the [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2077160 Sat, 03 Jan 2009 17:46:57 +0100 2077160 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2077161&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F01%2Fa-boarding-pass-for-2009%2F I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work. ~Thomas Alva Edison I remember the first time I flew on an airplane. It was a gloomy, rainy, cloudy day. I boarded, found my seat and prepared for take-off. As the plane ascended through the clouds … the bright rays of the sun filled [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2077161 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 17:50:26 +0100 2077161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2077162&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F31%2Fdealing-with-overwhelm%2F As I ponder the possibilities for 2009 — I rejoice! And, I rejoice for the first time in a very long time. I am usually kicking the “old year” out the door and urging the “new year” to come in quickly! Assuming that surely a bright, shiny new year has to be better than an [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2077162 Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:26:56 +0100 2077162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2077163&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F30%2Fi-dont-make-new-years-resolutions%2F Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. ~Hal Borland While I know zillions of folks are in the midst of their annual ponderings of “How can next year be different?” or “Oh! I want to (fill in the blank).” or [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2077163 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:51:00 +0100 2077163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2077164&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F28%2Fpondering-my-branches%2F Seeds of inspiration fall into my pocket when I breath in the fresh country air and soak in the warmth from the sun as it shines over my gardens. These seeds — various and a sundry — take root in my heart as I tend to them with the fertilizer of commitment and sprinklings of [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2077164 Sun, 28 Dec 2008 20:16:45 +0100 2077164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2066309&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F25%2Fits-a-wonderful-life%2F Admittedly, going into this Christmas season, I have been somewhat in need of my own Clarence — my own guardian angel to remind me what is truly important. And she would have most certainly earned her wings last night! Actually, I have several precious guardian angels. Every day they remind me what is important and are ever-faithful [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2066309 Thu, 25 Dec 2008 15:03:38 +0100 2066309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2061182&cid=t_373839_93_f&fid=36697&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjeffreyleow.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F23%2Fsurgical-specialty-considerations%2F updated this post so ill republish it. i added “again” because i previously blogged about this here. i took this online test that predicted what specialty i might be doing. it was a very superficial consideration, hardly well thought out. i suppose this is a question that should be, with good reason. the advice out there is to decide as early as possible as a student (even for undergraduate medical students).  i was chatting to a Cambridge-educated urology registrar after outpatients one day, and he asked me about my interests for the future. He obviously knew i was interested in surgery because we attend a weekly surgical research group meeting / journal club. So he advised that in considering surgical subspecialities, its important to think about (1) lifestyle issues (2) whe... monash medical student blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2061182 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:05:56 +0100 2061182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2056206&cid=t_373839_93_f&fid=36697&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjeffreyleow.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F22%2Fsurgical-specialty-considerations%2F updated this post so ill republish it. i added “again” because i previously blogged about this here. i took this online test that predicted what specialty i might be doing. it was a very superficial consideration, hardly well thought out. i suppose this is a question that should be, with good reason. the advice out there is to decide as early as possible as a student (even for undergraduate medical students).  i was chatting to a Cambridge-educated urology registrar after outpatients one day, and he asked me about my interests for the future. He obviously knew i was interested in surgery because we attend a weekly surgical research group meeting / journal club. So he advised that in considering surgical subspecialities, its important to think about (1) lifestyle issues (2) whe... monash medical student blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2056206 Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:05:56 +0100 2056206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2054836&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F19%2Fnew-day%2F Ever carry baggage from the previous day with you into the “today”? As I sip on my mug of café mocha (will post some recipes later …) I am pondering this about myself. Why do we do that? Why do we insist of beating ourselves over yesterday? Today has quite enough worries and anxieties of [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2054836 Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:04:30 +0100 2054836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2036246&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F15%2Fwe-cant-do-everything-but-we-can-set-priorities%2F Winter Sky During the past couple of months, I have challenged myself to live up to my bio. What does that mean? Well, if I say I am a gardener, that means I enjoy time in my gardens. Other selected habits in my bio: writing; photography; beading; collage art; various activity and miscellany regarding social entrepreneurism. That [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2036246 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:10:27 +0100 2036246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2026821&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2008%2F12%2Fassisted-suicide-advocates-dont-really.html Kathryn Tucker, the lawyer for the euphemistically named Compassion and Choices, who won the trial court ruling establishing a right to assisted suicide in Oregon (and I contend, much more) has shown a bit of the real agenda behind the movement. In reacting to the victory, she suggested that the state would look to Oregon for guidance on death regulations, but would have to be less stringent. From the story: Attorney Kathryn Tucker--who brought the case for right to die groups--expects Montana to look to Oregon and Washington for guidance. But she says Montana will have more freedom. Kathryn Tucker: "Let's just take the example of the waiting period. In Oregon there's a minimum 15-day waiting period. That provision very possibly would not survive constitutional scrutiny because it would be... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2026821 Tue, 09 Dec 2008 21:12:00 +0100 2026821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2008293&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F03%2Ffirst-days%2F Today is the first day of the rest of your life. I have always liked that saying. It inspires me to consider new beginnings, letting go, moving on … New directions! What will you do with today? Pursuing one’s dreams — making little micromovements — too often begins “someday” or tomorrow. Got dreams? Why not [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2008293 Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:18:27 +0100 2008293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1993806&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F27%2Fgive-thanks%2F Thanksgiving Day is a jewel, to set in the hearts of honest men; but be careful that you do not take the day, and leave out the gratitude.  ~E.P. Powell Although I routinely record my Spoons (ala Mary Poppins) … It is my habit to compile a record of what I am thankful on Thanksgiving. Amidst preparations [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1993806 Thu, 27 Nov 2008 14:28:13 +0100 1993806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1964994&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F17%2Fitsy-bitsy-spider%2F So, I am a nature nut … Spiders in my gardens are a blessing since they help with unwanted insects. Besides they are fascinating! This particular spider was spinning away at the intricate lines of his web one morning while I was nearby planting pansies in my garden. The very same morning I had just reached [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1964994 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:24:02 +0100 1964994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956573&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F12%2Fgoing-off-grid%2F There are times when one is completely tapped; nothing more to offer … Barely able to close the window blinds, unplug the phone and turn off all things plugged-in, in order to achieve off-grid status. Going off-grid. That is how I moved through this past Sunday and Monday. Too much information being processed and running faster [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956573 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:07:02 +0100 1956573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1947737&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fbreast-cancer%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fplastic-bottles-and-cancerdeciding-if-plastic-water-bottles-are-safe%2F Sister bought me an aluminum water bottle to use this summer and made me promise to never buy water in plastic bottles. Her concern was over the press about the estrogen and carcinogens people were exposed to from the plastic in the bottles leaching into the water. We use a pitcher with a filter for tap water at home. I found it all very confusing and stopped buying bottled water, (except for my son’s energy water) to appease sister but mostly because I believe we should be somewhat sensitive to the environment. Those ads about water bottles piling up at the dump got to me. I make the Big Guy take his energy water bottles to the recycling center and was relieved to find that the plastic PepsiCo uses is safe. Lately there has been some real clear-headed info about which bottles are sa... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1947737 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 18:23:11 +0100 1947737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1941065&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F06%2Fsit-down-shut-up-and-enjoy-the-ride%2F I learned countless life-lessons while mothering and caring for my three children. And honestly, the long-term value of said education makes my “official lesson-learnin’” seem like kindergarten! One such lesson was: Sit down. Shut up. And enjoy the ride. This means: quit spinning, stop muttering and get on with It. (Whatever It is …) In the [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1941065 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:33:39 +0100 1941065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1933394&cid=t_373839_93_f&fid=36697&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjeffreyleow.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F05%2Fspecialty-considerations-again%2F i added “again” because i previously blogged about this here. i took this online test that predicted what specialty i might be doing. it was a very superficial consideration, hardly any thoughts. i was speaking to a Cambridge-educated urology registrar after outpatients one day, and he asked me about my interests for the future. He obviously knew i was interested in surgery because we attend a surgical research group meeting / journal club every week. So he mentioned to me in thinking about surgical subspecialities, its important to think about (1) lifestyle issues (2) where the specialty is heading in the future (3) the kind of care and cure you can be providing patients. Let me further illustrate: (1) lifestyle issues: its clearly different when i am merely a medical student,... monash medical student blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1933394 Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:05:56 +0100 1933394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1931494&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F04%2Fno-parking%2F Excellence is the difference between justification of one’s status (strengths and weaknesses) and accountability. Justification leads to mediocrity and probable “same ‘ol, same ‘ol” … Accountability leads to achievement via goal-setting and living on-purpose (instead of hopin’ and wishin’ things could be different). And both Excellence and Accountability are gentle guides on the path of Progress. A [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1931494 Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:01:49 +0100 1931494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1918678&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F30%2Fnot-what-ships-are-for%2F A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for. ~William Shedd If you are convinced that you have had enough “adventure” and will simply settle for safety — never to set sail for another voyage of discovery — just remember: A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1918678 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:55:13 +0100 1918678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1907012&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F25%2Ffull-spectrum-resilience-energy%2F A year ago I discovered something I refer to as full-spectrum living: Embracing and experiencing one’s life within the bounds of black and white — delighting in every color in between! Full-spectrum living acknowledges the dark times; however, it also can be still in said times as there is an assurance of proverbial color [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1907012 Sat, 25 Oct 2008 16:03:27 +0100 1907012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1877271&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F15%2Fsomeday-now-%25e2%2580%2594-part-2%2F Let’s review: We set goals! Everything “feels” great and life is good! Full steam ahead! The road begins to wind — and we begin to doubt our destination. We drive faster (hurry/scurry) — with emotions rising! Desperately hoping that busyness is the same as progress. We succumb to our emotions … And we quit. [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1877271 Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:03:23 +0100 1877271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873893&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F14%2Fsomeday-now-%25e2%2580%2594-part-1%2F My son and I drove to Colorado last month. We decided upon a return route that took us back into our great state by way of New Mexico’s state highway 456. If you have never personally traveled the stretch of this highway from Raton, New Mexico into the panhandle of Oklahoma, you have missed an [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873893 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:54:39 +0100 1873893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873114&cid=t_373839_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Ftackle-it-tuesday-rewards-and-awards.html You have nothing to lose by going green***Everyone needs a pat on the back sometimes. As the nights draw in and the schedule comes under pressure, it can be hard for children to stay on track. This is where motivation is key. We all respond well to praise, recognition and rewards and this is a way of helping our children realize that we not only notice their efforts but we appreciate how hard they’re trying. First it’s important to narrowly taylor your reward to your particular child. For example, many struggle with homework. It may be that you want to award them for completing their homework in a timely manner over a period of time, such as a week or a month. However, that may be setting the bar too high. Maybe an award for their best efforts is more appropriate or perhaps an award fo... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873114 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 06:59:00 +0100 1873114 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1871494&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F13%2Fdirection-of-my-dreams%2F If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours. ~Thoreau After my first chemotherapy treatment I became physically limited. To this day there is no clear explanation of what actually occurred to restrict movement and [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1871494 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:42:00 +0100 1871494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1868564&cid=t_373839_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FIQlSHm8IJGM%2F With genetic testing companies sprouting everywhere, people now have the resource to know their risks for certain types of disease. Companies like Navigenics, 23andme Inc. and DeCode Genetics all offer genetic tests to their consumers to show whether certain genetic mutations make them more likely to develop diseases such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes. But is it enough to know? Or will knowing what the inherent risks are motivate a person to make changes to his lifestyle to prevent the disease from developing? Surprisingly, no research has been performed that answers this question. "There are a lot of anecdotes about this, and the question is, What is the impact? It’s been dangling for a while and no one has really orchestrated a project like this until now to study it... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1868564 Sat, 11 Oct 2008 07:46:03 +0100 1868564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1857426&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F07%2Fbegin-today%2F There is something absolutely inspiring about watching clouds. A storm front moved through last evening. It came around the time for the sun to set on the horizon. This allowed for wonderful shades of orange and blue with the natural beauty of trees to frame the dramatic changes … It’s time to start living the life you’ve [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1857426 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:56:51 +0100 1857426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1849028&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F03%2Fim-not-dreaming-i-am-planning%2F Clouds in the awesome blue of an Autumn Oklahoma Sky Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning. ~Gloria Steinem If you have been convinced that you are merely a legend in your own mind … You live with your head in the clouds … [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1849028 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:45:49 +0100 1849028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1842049&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F01%2Fcant-walk-and-chew-gum-at-the-same-time%2F Sunflower Crop — Seiling, Oklahoma Well, I have to admit that it appears futile for me to consider blogging and “doing” at the same time. Recent “doings” include: completing the redesign and declutter of both my studio (de creativity) and my chamber (de restore); final notes regarding high school transcript for my (rejoicing to see the [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1842049 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 13:36:42 +0100 1842049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1830895&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F26%2Fwatercolor-life%2F Watercolor Sky, July 2008 (the drive-home was paused to enjoy this glorious sunset…) The notion of a watercolor life comforts me. It would include canvases of delicate, muted lines and broad strokes of color on pure-fiber archival paper and canvases … gentle mingling of pigments as each flows and transitions across the page … the clarity of [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1830895 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 21:06:40 +0100 1830895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1827262&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F25%2Fseriously%2F The conclusion of the day when I realized … It’s time to start living the life you’ve imagined ~Henry James        (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1827262 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 13:03:38 +0100 1827262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1827263&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F24%2Fstrength-%25e2%2580%2594-in-good-times-and-bad%2F Goldilocks napping in the place of “Just Right” This morning as I sipped on my extra chocolaty café mocha — in not-so Autumn-like temperatures (::pout::) and steadily moving toward The Whiney Place — I had an epiphany! While we would simply prefer fair weather and good times — easy times, times without struggle — [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1827263 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:44:58 +0100 1827263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1818952&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F23%2Fcome-hell-or-high-water%2F Life is the art of drawing without an eraser. ~John W. Gardner The truth is more important than the facts. ~Frank Lloyd Wright Somewhere in my personal history I came to know about this phrase. I can hear my maternal grandmother’s distinct, and rather loud, voice broadcasting these words. Perhaps this is the personal origin for [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1818952 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:33:59 +0100 1818952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1813232&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F22%2Fthe-key%2F Well I know it wasn’t you who held me downHeaven knows it wasn’t you who set me freeSo often times it happens that we live our lives in chainsAnd we never even know we have the key ~The Eagles, Already Gone Vision is not enough; it must be combined with venture. It is not enough to stare [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1813232 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:20:14 +0100 1813232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1810565&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F20%2Fin-check-as-in-chess%2F This morning as I sipped my café mocha (comfortably situated on my patio … embraced by the soothing, crisp Autumn air …) the concept of “in check” (as in Chess) popped in my head. As I am not much of a Chess player, when I came inside I googled for clues as to what this [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1810565 Sat, 20 Sep 2008 14:27:48 +0100 1810565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1807414&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F19%2Fassessing-in-order-to-progress%2F Apparently, I am completely unable (unwilling?) to sort my proverbial To-Do without blogging it here. I have been pondering the realities of the universe — especially my universe — for most of two hours now and … Well, I simply must blog to think sometimes! So … here we go! First of all, [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1807414 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 15:07:09 +0100 1807414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1803911&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F18%2Falarm-clocks-habits-and-life-unscripted%2F Seeing “home” with new eyes can be a bit disconcerting. Because there are scenes which occur daily and yet are unscripted. They just happen because these scenes have become familiar. Said scenes are habits. Yes, habits: an acquired-over-time pattern of behavior which occurs automatically. Habits occur without even a moment of thought or consideration regarding what [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1803911 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 15:43:23 +0100 1803911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1791974&cid=t_373839_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2008%2F09%2F14%2Fsafe-seafood-west-coast%2F Seafood Watch from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Still looking to answer the question about what are safe seafoods to eat, the pocket guide from the Monterey Bay Aquarium will help you figure out the right seafood options for your region. Carry one with you to help you choose ocean-friendly seafood wherever you live or travel. Choose the guide for your region. The different guides include the National Guide, West Coast Guide, Southwest Guide, Hawaii Guide, Central U.S. Guide, Southeast Guide and Northeast Guide. Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program has been recognized for its influential role in transforming seafood buying habits across the United States. The information below comes from the West Coast Guide. For concerns about Mercury levels in fish, look for those fish with *... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1791974 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 19:28:13 +0100 1791974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783926&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F11%2Flocked-in-the-loop%2F What a visual for the process of determining Life Choices to ensure the current destination! Honestly, using a map is not one of my strengths. I am more of an On-Star gal; better yet just provide me with a personal driving assistant! However, out of necessity (as I am somewhat of a spur-of-the-moment road-tripper!) [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783926 Thu, 11 Sep 2008 13:04:10 +0100 1783926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1761409&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F03%2Fchanges%2F The night I knew things would change … Tada! Wow! I adore this new template! And I was pondering a change to reflect the beginning of my favorite “one-third” of the year! (And my life-changes as I move into the next leg of my journey …) So, ta-da! Happy September! ♥ My blogging absence reflects the reality that [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1761409 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 20:12:13 +0100 1761409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1729622&cid=t_373839_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2Flpw8EOBy4N8%2F Here is another reason that we see so many admissions to hospitals due to diabetic complications… the doughnut hole. Just what is this you ask? Medicare beneficiaries were responsible for pay as soon as they incurred costs of $2,400 among pharmacy costs. After a beneficiary then spent $3,850 out of their own pocket- coverage kicked in again. That coverage gap is commonly referred to as the doughnut hole. Mind you this doesn’t apply to low-income seniors who qualify for a subsidy. It was found that 15% of those who hit the doughnut hole stopped taking their medication all together and another 1% cut back on their medication use…while 5% switched medications. So darn scary. Just think what this does to an elderly persons diabetes. We need to come up with solutions to end these ... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1729622 Sun, 24 Aug 2008 00:07:26 +0100 1729622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728181&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F23%2Fcourageous-patience%2F USS Missouri docked at Pearl Harbor — Oahu, Hawaii “Good ideas are not adopted automatically. They must be driven into practice with courageous patience.” ~ Admiral Hyman Rickover (About) Patience is not one of my favorite subjects. And yet, let me tell ya’, I have endured lots (and LOTS!) of instruction regarding the Lessons of Patience! [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728181 Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:11:32 +0100 1728181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1724458&cid=t_373839_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2008%2F08%2F22%2Fnew-olympian-michael-phelps-now-a-junk-food-spokesperson%2F People are wondering what kind of a role model Michael Phelps is going to be to the growing population of overweight and obese children. His choices of foods to sponsor and endorse caused many child obesity experts to denounce his endorsements. Kellogg Co. announced on August 19 that Michael Phelps, winner of eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics, will be featured on upcoming boxes of Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes and Kellogg’s Corn Flakes. No longer is Wheaties the breakfast of champions in stead it’s Tony the Tiger’s GREEAATTT cereal. Phelps has also been serving as ambassador for a program sponsored by McDonald’s to bring Chinese children to the Olympics and serve them American fast food. Consumer Health advocate Mike Adams, offered these words on the questionable c... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1724458 Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:46:41 +0100 1724458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728182&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F21%2Fmoving-day%2F Photo Credit It is moving day for me! (Figuratively not literally!) However there is some literal decluttering going on throughout my house as I walk around with large, heavy-duty garbage bags — and an attitude of raw forward thinking! I have been here before … And I hope to be here again. It is a wonderful adventure [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728182 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:21:53 +0100 1728182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1713994&cid=t_373839_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2F368649776%2Fpost-1.php To be honest, I am rather sick of the side effects of metformin, which...make me sick to my stomach.  It's affecting me not just at home, but also at work.  I'm not sure I can control diabetes with just diet... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1713994 Tue, 19 Aug 2008 03:09:57 +0100 1713994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728184&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F18%2Faction-within-the-glory-and-the-minutiae%2F I watched very little of the Olympics due to a variety of circumstances and priorities of the past days. However, one particular Olympian caught my eye early on: Michael Phelps. For this reason, articles and commentaries about his road to his record-breaking performance in Beijing certainly captured my attention. One of the opportunities he had to [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728184 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:39:24 +0100 1728184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728185&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F17%2Fgood-bye-yellow-brick-road%2F Achievement seems to be connected with action. Successful men and women keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit. ~Conrad Hilton Farewell to the road of yellow bricks that merely takes me back to where I came from (and never want to return). Mentally revisiting my roots (beginnings; things familiar; experience) merely as a springboard [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728185 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 22:54:24 +0100 1728185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728186&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F13%2Fropes-and-bombs%2F Okay … My thoughts for this post began with this quote: Heroism consists of hanging on one minute longer. ~Norwegian Proverb Then I thought, “Ah, end of rope … tie a knot …” Then I thought, “This is the last day of ‘this’… “ Then I thought, “Ah, ‘last day’ means tomorrow is a new day — a new [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728186 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:39:33 +0100 1728186 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1701407&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FBreastfeeding123%2F%7E3%2Fbk3eQWY6Atg%2F Please do not take this list of advantages of a home birth to mean that I think every woman ought to give birth at home. Each woman should choose as she pleases and as is appropriate for her situation, and I know there are advantages to a birth center birth or a hospital birth (room service comes to mind!) These are just some advantages of a home birth that I appreciated. 1. Never having to get in the car during labor or soon after the birth. 2. Getting to (being encouraged to!) eat and drink during labor. 3. Being able to open the windows for fresh air. 4. Resting completely undisturbed after the birth. No one woke me or the baby to check vital signs or for any other reason. 5. The baby was never separated from me (as my other children had been for a bath, a blood test, or a hearing scree... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1701407 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 22:08:55 +0100 1701407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728188&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F11%2Finvisible%2F P.S. For those who know … My appointment is at 9:00 a.m. CST this morning. (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728188 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:35:59 +0100 1728188 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728189&cid=t_373839_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F10%2Fdont-wait%2F Sunset after the Rain … I don’t wait for moods. You accomplish nothing if you do that. Your mind must know it has got to get down to work. ~Pearl Buck (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728189 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:24:25 +0100 1728189 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1701168&cid=t_373839_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2FwC3BM9ITwnQ%2F Sometimes I am proud of myself for making the right choices Sometimes I am frustrated for having to But it is all worth it!     Tags: choices, Diabetes, diabetic, family, feelings, frustrations, inspiration for people with diabetes, type-2-diabetesShare This (Source: Diabetes Notes) Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1701168 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 13:13:21 +0100 1701168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1554527&cid=t_373839_93_f&fid=36697&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjeffreyleow.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F30%2Fmy-future%2F So i was reading The Differential and Ben was talking about some online tests you could do to help ascertain your interest in a specialty. I took it honestly and answered all 130 questions of the Medical Specialty Aptitude Test developed by several doctors from U of Virginia. i found that it kinda matches what i’m gunning for: 1    general surgery    46 2    plastic surgery    46 3    obstetrics/gynecology    46 4    nuclear med    45 5    orthopaedic surgery    45 6    thoracic surgery    45 7    infectious disease    44 8    colon & rectal surgery    44 9    anesthesiology    44 10    otolaryngology    44 Not so sure about the nuclear med one, but gen surg and colorectal surg are certainly the big ones i’m intere... monash medical student blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1554527 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:05:02 +0100 1554527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1446016&cid=t_373839_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2008%2F05%2F16%2Fmy-pick-healthbolts-top-5-posts%2F I suddenly realized that Liberty and I have just passed our 5 month anniversary as Healthbolt bloggers. Wow, how time flies when you’re having fun. And it is fun. Getting to research and post on all the interesting, informative, bizarre, and oddball health and medical things is like a dream come true… I did some maths and five months working on ‘the Bolt’ equates to around 250 posts between us. That’s a whole lot of words. My choice for Top 5 Posts… Doing a Hasselhoff…new medical slang and it’s companion piece Pumpkin Positive - more medical slang would be my all time favorite post to write. I simply laughed my way through it. On the other hand, it was tears and laughter when writing Randy Pausch’s ‘The Last Lecture’ Revisit... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1446016 Fri, 16 May 2008 11:52:25 +0100 1446016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1417901&cid=t_373839_85_f&fid=36195&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealth.tesstermulo.com%2F%3Fp%3D455 There are three little stories I’d like to share for this week’s TBR. One is that, when I was a clerk, there was this one time during a 24-hour duty that I found myself smoking some Marlboro outside the hospital with a co-clerk. We could have been slapped with an out-of-post demerit of 7 make-up 24 hours duties just for being found outside the hospital without permission. But then, those were times that we felt we needed a break from the stress inside. And so we were there, near the vendors’ stalls in front of the hospital. Then we saw a fellow (a doctor in training for a subspecialty) still wearing his long coat hovering near us. I thought we were goners, as he might just tell our residents that he caught us outside the hospital on unofficial business (official business ... Prudence, M.D. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1417901 Sat, 03 May 2008 03:49:41 +0100 1417901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1392552&cid=t_373839_140_f&fid=35448&url=http%3A%2F%2Fseemedlikeagoodideathetime.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F04%2F22%2Flearn-from-my-mistake%2F   or, in other words, “DO AS I SAY NOT WHAT I DO!” I’ve been feeling really lousy physically for about 10 days now. Steadily worse and worse. Since, I was pulling my well known stunt of deciding to quit some meds, I attributed a lot of the illness to withdrawal. Well, my head and throat started filling [...] (Source: bipolar chicks blogging) bipolar chicks blogging blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1392552 Wed, 23 Apr 2008 02:06:50 +0100 1392552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1156030&cid=t_373839_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F217643607%2Fbeat_the_pathology_of_aging_br.html Choose ice water over ice cream. Walk the stairs rather than wait on elevators. Laugh. Make new friends daily. Give away rather than hoard. Learn technologies that interest teens.  Step to music at times. Your brain is larger than life led by most people … whenever you take advantage of its magical intelligences.New imaging techniques highlight where to begin to live ... beyond the mind of a slug. Exercise and you stimulate brain hormones that aid memory. Laugh and you add enzymes for learning. Use  multiple intelligences and you’ll produce dendrite brain cells  that keep your mind sharper as you age. A great deal is written lately about nuns who learned to beat the pathology of aging and then worked to reduce the damage by ratcheting up their mental functi... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1156030 Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:52:20 +0100 1156030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1148218&cid=t_373839_151_f&fid=35797&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnewrecovery.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F01%2Fhumility-r-us-not.html It's been six years since AA Trustee Dr. George Vaillant's article in the AA Grapevine, saying that "It doesn't hurt at the level of the GSO for AA to have humility and understand that 60 per cent do it without AA." Source. He was talking about the research finding that 60 per cent of alcoholics who achieve at least five years of abstinence do it without using AA.It's been six years, and Vaillant's plea for humility has either not been heard or already forgotten. In this months' issue of Addiction Professional, columnist Carlton Erickson reports that "fourteen experts" recently met at a "consensus conference" in Rancho Mirage CA to define "recovery," and came up with a definition that embodies "peer support groups such as AA and practices consistent with the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions."In ... New Recovery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1148218 Mon, 14 Jan 2008 05:50:00 +0100 1148218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1131928&cid=t_373839_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2008%2F1%2F6%2Fjack-la-lanne.html Brian Klepper Some things are timeless. I remember watching Jack La Lanne, the TV health fitness evangelist, when I was a boy, 45 years ago. My Mom would turn him on, and would occasionally bend and stretch with his show. You couldn't help but admire his strength and vitality. It was clear he was doing something that everyone ought to do.It turns out, of course, that his advice - exercise and diet - was solid then and is solid now. Now 93, Mr. La Lanne's life and achievements are chronicled in, of all places, the Costco Connection. If nothing else, in checking out this article you'll learn, for example, that in 1956, at age 42, he set a new world record by doing 1,033 pushups in 23 minutes on the TV show You Asked For It. Or that in 1984, at age 70, handcuffed and shackled, he swam 1.... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1131928 Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:32:17 +0100 1131928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2512235&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36041&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fchrista-life-with-psoriasis%2Fsurveying-the-changes-in-psoriatic-arthritis%2F I was surfing the web looking for anything of interest, as you do, and I came across the published results of a survey: “The study of impact of psoriasis/psoriatic arthritis on lifestyle choices” conducted by the PAA (Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance) in 2005. The main conclusions of the survey were that: • Early diagnosis and appropriate interventions remain key to long term positive outcomes • Education on psoriasis of healthcare providers is still perceived to be low • Awareness of psoriasis should be more visible and positive • Many people cope well and do not let the conditions affect their lifestyle choices • Psychological impact should not be underestimated; physical disease severity is only one aspect How have things changed since 2005? It is clear that individual psoria... Life with Psoriasis blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2512235 Fri, 30 Nov 2007 20:13:56 +0100 2512235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1063079&cid=t_373839_129_f&fid=36041&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Flife-with-psoriasis%2Fchrista%2Fsurveying-the-changes-in-psoriatic-arthritis%2F I was surfing the web looking for anything of interest, as you do, and I came across the published results of a survey: “The study of impact of psoriasis/psoriatic arthritis on lifestyle choices” conducted by the PAA (Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance) in 2005. The main conclusions of the survey were that: • Early diagnosis and appropriate interventions remain key to long term positive outcomes • Education on psoriasis of healthcare providers is still perceived to be low • Awareness of psoriasis should be more visible and positive • Many people cope well and do not let the conditions affect their lifestyle choices • Psychological impact should not be underestimated; physical disease severity is only one aspect How have things changed since 2005? It is clear that individual psoria... Life with Psoriasis blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1063079 Fri, 30 Nov 2007 20:13:56 +0100 1063079 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1013421&cid=t_373839_151_f&fid=35797&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnewrecovery.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Fchoice-philosophy.html A new publication by William L. White and Ernest Kurtz gives a boost to the principle that persons in recovery deserve a choice. Read about it in the LifeRing Convenor blog, here. (Source: New Recovery) New Recovery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1013421 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 09:27:00 +0100 1013421