tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34344746358316479602024-02-20T12:00:59.124-05:00Adventures of TraciThe Traci-isms and the Adventures that I call Life!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-91275006566792787952020-11-29T10:49:00.001-05:002020-12-11T10:35:21.020-05:00Full Heart- Restored Heart<p> I guess I should have written about the heart update sooner, but I have really be struggling with what exactly to write. I feel like I have been given a new lease on this life of mine. I know my sister too, feels this way. She came close to not being here for Thanksgiving, suddenly. We weren't quite prepared for it, and we are all still trying to get over that shock. </p><p>So, the heart surgery to repair the hole was November 17th, going on 2 weeks ago. Everything went great. I feel so much better and everyday I am getting my energy back. That is not the story though, and I would fall short if I did not share the story with y'all. </p><p>See, I was scared! When they saw how big the hole was and needed to do the TEE (transesophageal echocardiogram) to see just how big that hole was, I got major anxiety! I even went to far as to write my family letters, for when I was gone. I was worried I wouldn't see Mom again or my grandkids! So I had this test done and the Doctor told us it would require open heart surgery. If I wasn't scared before, well I was over the top- NOW!! So, what do you do when life is out of control? You pray- or at least I do. I call in all my prayer warriors and ask them to to pray! I shared my story, and when I did, not only did I get those prayers, I got answers. I got the names of great cardiologist, fabulous surgeons and the knowledge of this clinic at Emory, just for Congenital Heart Defects. I met those doctors and my prayers were also answered. I no longer needed open heart surgery. Meanwhile, my sister got sick, and was airlifted to Emory and put in ICU. More prayer request and more answered!!! I can't ignore what God was doing that week! </p><p>So, when it actually came time for the surgery. I could not defy the Lord and be scared or anxious. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not you HEART be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27</b></p><p style="text-align: left;">I trusted in Him, I didn't feel the need to tell everyone good-bye. I just made sure they knew I loved them. Mainly, because seeing how sudden Cindi's situation was, we don't have time to waste, your moment can come up anytime! Everyone that I sent pictures to, while I was in the hospital commented that I didn't look like I had just had heart surgery. I am going to say, you were seeing the "Light" of Jesus there, holding me up. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw1JJ5BW_3J47wtcFypNbXi5y810Qv8WF0jysaUfHZHnYvsk-R0K8RCA2SvWpcEo4Gqc6KapSrbJDqNiFcU96E1Q5lDwRu6orVw1VJP4GJNmIe03rujkBHFK85EXKWGI9BmG7moC7lA/s944/IMG-6716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="527" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw1JJ5BW_3J47wtcFypNbXi5y810Qv8WF0jysaUfHZHnYvsk-R0K8RCA2SvWpcEo4Gqc6KapSrbJDqNiFcU96E1Q5lDwRu6orVw1VJP4GJNmIe03rujkBHFK85EXKWGI9BmG7moC7lA/s320/IMG-6716.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">This fully restored heart was not just healed of a congenital hole, but it was restored in the faith of Jesus Christ. Hearing the sermon from my church today, finally made me sit down and write this blog. I am a "carrier" , not of the covid-19 virus, but of the love and trust of Christ. God set us apart to go forth and fulfill our work in the body of Christ. He answers your prayers. He is the one in control, so you don't have to be. You don't need to be afraid, trust in Him. </p><p style="text-align: left;"> I will give the glory to Him today and always. 2020 is almost over, we can do this!!! </p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-29843275462444197412020-11-13T18:12:00.003-05:002020-12-11T10:34:56.306-05:00Grateful Heart<p> Wow, so much has happened in my life, I cannot believe I haven't written in this blog. I guess I will have to catch up with a 2020 Covid Blog....but not now. </p><p>Today we have bigger issues. 2020 has really been something else! In January, Lloyd and I were both sick and that illness seemed to last all the way in to March. During an x-ray for a cough, the film showed that I had an enlarged heart. WELL, I could have told you I had a huge heart- ha ha!! Turns out that is a bad thing. It means my heart is working too hard. It's a muscle and it was getting a work out. (the only part of my body that was!) Anyway, I went for a Echo to see what was causing the issue. It turned out that I had a hole in my heart, that was there from birth. Atrial Septal Defect is the medical term, which is a Congenital Heart Defect. (<a href="https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/congenital-heart-defects/about-congenital-heart-defects/atrial-septal-defect-asd" target="_blank">ASD definition</a>)</p><p>In the meantime, Covid hit and we moved to Florida. I had to find a Doctor, go back through the initial visit and get a TEE test to measure the hole. The doctor down here told me that open heart surgery would be needed, because of the size. I'm not going to lie, that freaked me out. I have a perfectly good sternum, with an awesome horizonal scar.....I did not want a vertical scar to mess things up! </p><p>As always, I shared what we were going through. I prayed for answers, and God came through. He put so many people in our life to direct us into the right path. That path has lead us to the Emory Congenital Heart Clinic. So, we will be coming back to Atlanta on Monday November 16th to have a minimal surgery, not OPEN HEART!! The team in Atlanta feels like the hole is small enough to patch through a catheter. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5sRAcOVGiU&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">Video asd closure surgery</a></p><p>I'm a little nervous, not anywhere near where I was with the thought of open heart, but still.....it's my heart. So many people have had strokes due to this defect and not knowing they had it, so I'm grateful that we found it early and it can be patched. Please pray that they are able to patch this hole, I will feel better after the procedure, and I won't have any side effects from this procedure. </p><p>I can only imagine how much I can love life, with a whole heart!! Can't wait!! Thanks everyone for the prayers. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b>Gratitude - </b></span><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;">isn't only a celebration when good things happen. Gratitude is a declaration that GOD IS GOOD, no matter what happens! </b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-small;">Anne Voskamp</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWT3YUVAaJqCe0ecY_0MuvgDLVw7sypxWmhC9S9l9GjxYlvDUnRc1lx7zPvmfDACeSmhMATAE0-cf8wXDGmpGdc_r5cRfKYa5nQu-2egH2BYhZkuyboP6rrzhVVigTYQIr7bKhCFRcpg/s2609/IMG-6671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2609" data-original-width="1206" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWT3YUVAaJqCe0ecY_0MuvgDLVw7sypxWmhC9S9l9GjxYlvDUnRc1lx7zPvmfDACeSmhMATAE0-cf8wXDGmpGdc_r5cRfKYa5nQu-2egH2BYhZkuyboP6rrzhVVigTYQIr7bKhCFRcpg/s320/IMG-6671.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></b><p></p>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-61603869911166680192019-03-14T08:22:00.003-04:002019-03-14T08:22:49.215-04:00Mother - DaughterFor several years now, my sister, brother and I have attended to the needs of my mom. I was driving through town, from Marietta to TN, July 2017 and called to check on her. During that conversation she was not making any sense. She could not form her words, and I just thought she couldn't hear me or she thought I was Cindi. I called my brother and he said she was fine, that he just left her two hours prior and she was doing laundry. Long story short, I called her back, her confusion was worse, so we jumped into action and had my sister-in-law and niece go by and call 911. She stayed in the hospital several days and has needed our care ever since. Primarily with food and medicine.<br />
She has good days, where she remembers every detail, and bad days where she can't remember what she ate or anything else. Taking care of her has been hard on everyone. She lives with my brother, so I guess he has the most responsibility, but then again, with my job and going and coming or my sister's high stress job, it can be said it is just plain hard on everyone. Anyway, we can say in each our own way stress is evident.<br />
Recently, the difficult situation has gotten virtual impossible for all of us and the stress level has doubled, from our own fault, not anything Mom has caused.<br />
However, I came to a realization last week and it has weighed heavily on me ever since I came to the realization. It has depressed me and opened my eyes to all the hurt I am feeling right now.<br />
I took mom to get her hair done for a funeral and we were having some serious conversations, my cousin dying being one. While like I said before, there are good days and bad days, what I should have said: There are good minutes and bad minutes! It (the memory) comes and goes that quickly. My cousin came by to tell mom about her sister and to look through mom's pictures. About an hour after Beth left, mom said, "Someone came to get some pictures- don't let them lose the one of Peggy smiling" She had forgotten it was Beth, that came by. She had forgotten what photo Beth took, but she remembered one that she found after Beth left.<br />
So, during the course of our drive to the hair dresser and my talks with mom, I realized that she can't retain all that I am trying to talk to her about. She was always my "go to", she is the one I always talked over my problems with, and I finally had to admit to myself that she is just not there anymore. It hurts.<br />
I know I shouldn't complain, so many don't even have their mom. I have been blessed with mine all these years and at 93, she has been in great health! But for "the baby", it is hard. We have always had morning chats, even when she lived in Alabama, that was how I would start my day. When I had to tell everyone about my cancer, it was my mom that was the most difficult! I wanted to be that child and break down, but I knew I couldn't. I knew she needed to see me strong and I wasn't sure I could do that with Mom.<br />
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Her hearing failing made those phone chats more difficult, plus my job being so erratic. Our dynamic has changed. I am no longer the daughter that can go to my mom for support and care, I am now the "Caregiver" and I don't like it- It is hard, it is depressing- and it is stressing me out.<br />
And like I said, I know so many people who have had it much worse, and I feel for you and sympathize with all you have been through.<br />
Getting old and growing up sucks! Be thankful for all the mom's out there- being a daughter is such a special part of your life, please cherish it, no matter how old you are!!<br />
<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-63540063394572831752019-01-08T09:51:00.000-05:002019-03-14T07:32:35.810-04:00Hurricane Relief<span style="color: #454545; font-family: "uictfonttextstylebody"; font-size: 23px;">Sure, it’s easier just to pray for the panhandle or send money down there, but doing something and knowing you truly made a difference is better. That’s my opinion. </span><br />
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We had our house up for sale for a brief moment, and we looked at several houses in Panama City. All along I said, if it were meant to be, it would sell fast and we would find our perfect new forever home. As you can tell, things didn’t happen that way, we decided to postpone the move for a bit, then Hurricane Micheal happened! Our favorite house in PC was in the worse area hit, the eye of the storm.Thank goodness someone was looking out for us! So you see, not only is this area our favorite, but we could have been there. We could have been two of the victims of this storm.<br />
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So many people lost everything. Florida, lost a whole town. A Cape was turned into an Island. Families have been displaced, numerous people lost their jobs, and children lost their schools.<br />
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It could be easy to go about my life and ignore these facts, but I can’t! </div>
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With the help of my friends, my cry for donations was met and exceeded! Soon, after the storm I flew two suitcases full of donations to a man I never had met. (Still haven’t) He worked at the Panama City Airport and lost everything. I was also able to give his supervisor, who also lost a home, and another girl $50 each, to purchase some necessities. I had so much stuff, I was able to help 9 medical workers, 2 Baker County residents and a new mother in Albany.<br />
Still, with so much still left over, I was worried it would still take us two trips to get all the donations we had, to the Gulf Coast. My husband saved the day and rented a u-haul! <img src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/94a806a3-dccd-4e26-993a-e365aad3273f" /><img src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/2c215ae4-c5c5-440e-9b15-72f2a9d48311" /><br />
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My brother questioned why I was doing this, my answer was, “because I CAN!” My question to him should have been, “why not”? Lucky for me, my husband has got used to my shenanigans, and he is willing to help!<br />
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I had a list of people and the specific needs they had, and I organized the truck, with those stops in mind. The first stop was to be for a lady and her daughter. Her daughter is pregnant and she is disabled. I was taking a good bit of stuff to them, but she didn’t answer her phone and we had to skip her. The next person was this really nice mom and her two kids. She was living in a tent beside her torn up trailer. She asked for clothes and blankets for her kids. I said, “surely there is something more”. She said it would be nice to have some toys to occupy their time when they have to stay in the tent, because of rain. She told me what they liked and off I went to target with the donated gift certificates to get clothes and toys! They thought we were Santa when we pulled that trailer through all the debris into their trailer park!<br />
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What you can’t phantom until you see it, is these people and their pride. This lady was standing on a dirt road with trash, debris and mangled trailers all around her, she was listening to praise music and brushing her daughters hair for church, beside the TENT that they were living in! She didn’t want to ask for help! She was doing all she could to be normal in a horrible situation! So often we put off going to church, we say we are too busy. She asked me if we attended a church. I said yes. Truth is, I need to take a look at Lena, living in hell, with no hope of this getting better, she took the time! She can’t take a shower, but she can go praise Jesus! Her daughter is into to some tv show called, Jojo. Little did I know Jojo is the hottest toy of the season and is all over the shelves of Target! Anyway, I was joking about Jojo and Lena said, Jojo is a good kids role model, she makes little girls believe they can do anything! Well......yes we can! Because of all my woman friends, we were able to help a whole lot of people!!<br />
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Thank you to everyone who supported me with the donations and helped me collect. It meant a lot to the people of Panama City, particularly Callaway, Parker and Fountain.<br />
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Thank especially to my husband who never questions my crazy ideas and helps me when those small ideas, become mountains!!<br />
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Update, we bought our dream home on the bay and closed on it in January. Our plan is to move in about 12-24 months. We love that area and can't wait to help it to re-build and be better than ever! #850STRONG<br />
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-25789318429860146472019-01-08T09:37:00.000-05:002019-03-14T08:27:58.883-04:002019- Goal SettingI have been thinking about goal setting a lot lately. Do you set goals for yourself? I remember the first time I set a goal or a vision, right now it seems a little superficial, but it was the beginning for me. I will go way back to explain where the vision came from:<br />
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When I was in high school, my best friend and I always said, "When we turn 40, we will get a convertible Mercedes." I know back then what that really meant, was...when we turn 40 we will have our husbands purchase these awesome cars for us! Well, fast forward to when I was 40- I didn't have a husband or a significant other in my life that would purchase a matchbox car for me, let alone a Mercedes convertible. If it was meant to be, it would be me purchasing it for myself. Which as fate has it, was the best thing I ever could do! I started doing my research and switched gears- my dream car didn't have a back seat to tote my high school daughter and her friends around, so I needed a different convertible car. I talked to my local BMW mechanic, in a bar and he advised me against the BMW, so I decided on a Volvo. Well I needed to save and find the right one in my price range, plus I was picky about what color I wanted. I put the picture of this car, in my garage. Every time I drove in the garage, I visualized the car I wanted. Finally, I saved up and found the car in Chattanooga and drove up there to purchase it and pick it up. So, I ended up with the car I wanted, it may have taken a while to get- but with my goal set, I was laser focused and able to accomplish the vision. Side-note- the local BMW mechanic became my fabulous husband, sold my Volvo and put me in a "convertible Jeep Wrangler".<br />
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The second experience I had with setting goals and getting a vision, came after I read the book "The Passion Test". I was sitting on the beach in San Juan for my 41st birthday (I think it was), reading it and making my passion list. Basically it is making a list based on your passions of how you want your life to turn out.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday trip to San Juan 2006</td></tr>
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Some of the items on that list was:<br />
1. Make a happy, comfortable home for my kids to want to come home to, after they go away to college.<br />
3. Be in a relationship with someone who is honest, fun, respectful and supportive of me.<br />
2. Be with a man that loves my kids, will love my grand kids and be an influence on their lives.<br />
3. Expand my business ( I owned the travel agency at the time)<br />
4. Find a way to help others, especially women<br />
5. Travel and share that love with my girls.<br />
6. Be an influence on others<br />
7. Re-connect with my roots and my old friends<br />
8. Spend periodical time alone growing and getting to know myself<br />
9. Continue my close relationship with my sister and our "Sister time"<br />
At the time I was making this list, I looked over and knew the person that I was with was NOT the person that could support any of these items on the list. It was a wake up call for me. We broke up and I went out with the above noted BMW mechanic. On our very first date I shared this list with him. I let him know this was my goal in life and it was where I was at the moment, working on these goals. He was real quick to be supportive of ALL those goals! Even when it meant, starting the Pink Suitcase Sisters and traveling without him.<br />
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Ever since then, goals, dreams, visions, and my passion list has become important to me. Every year at this time, I sit down and visualize what I want to accomplish for the year and where I want to end up, things I wish to do, and things I need to purchase. You can also do this with a vision board, to look at throughout the year to remind you of those goals. I keep mine in the laundry room and go over it while folding clothes.<br />
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The thing about goal setting is you have to make the goal attainable. When my goal was to get healthy and to lose weight. I was specific (lose 10 pounds), I set a date (March 1st, after my anniversary trip Feb 24th) and I made it attainable by setting the goal at losing only 10 pounds. I actually ended up losing 29 AND getting off my RA meds, so the goal was surpassed by a bunch! It is so important to write down your passions. From there, you can make them into goals you set for yourself.<br />
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My husband and I share goals and work on some of them together. The one right now goes back to number one on my Passion List- My kids and grand kids are my passion, and to have a happy, comfortable, fun home for them to visit, is at the top of my list.<br />
This month we will be purchasing that home and fixing it to be just that! It also checks off some other bucket list items- to be on the water and to live in Florida. Plus, with this house we are able to keep our Marietta house and continue to be here for my Mom. Life is good!!<br />
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Mark Twain said it best! "Without Dreams and Goals, there is no living, merely existing, and that is not why we are here!"<br />
Make 2019 your best yet!!Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-51843910566874796512018-05-01T15:39:00.001-04:002018-05-07T15:13:42.639-04:00To Begin The Ketogenic Journey<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">To Prepare for our 2 week Challenge:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">1. Get in the right mindset, do your homework and make sure this is the plan for you. Then, follow our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/276700569438352/" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a> to stay motivated, get new recipes and ideas, and share your accomplishments! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Read these books! <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1623158087?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1623158087" target="_blank">The Complete Ketogenic Diet For Beginners</a></span><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1628600071?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1628600071" target="_blank">Keto Clarity</a> and the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1628600160?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1628600160" target="_blank">Keto Diet</a>. Also, on Netflix or on Amazon Prime, watch <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078H4J7G1?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B078H4J7G1" target="_blank">The Magic Pill</a>. Great movie about the benefits of eating keto.<br />
Once you have the mindset- (we are going to take a baby step for this challenge) You are going to begin with a date in mind {May 7th-21st}, we want to make an attainable goal to cut out all carbs (including alcohol and WINE...it's two weeks people!!!), keep track of what you are eating, and to lose 5 pounds in those two weeks.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">2. Calculate your body fat- (you will need this number in step number 3 </span><a data-ft="{"tn":"-U"}" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ffitness.bizcalcs.com%2FCalculator.asp%3FCalc%3DBody-Fat-Navy&h=ATNRzvumu4pfHzhD8prHoe2d8ZxnLUSihNcZ6Fpm_OuqmNzFYxdIXWyYuhjUHw5j4X519w8KcFu5qB5n69XFR6vTAWwtXZSDulFGd3gU-3n1HPHVGBYy4XBOvzYYUbtqixoHLrb2U0ccfwVGsffpfTWl0kA" href="http://fitness.bizcalcs.com/Calculator.asp?Calc=Body-Fat-Navy" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://fitness.bizcalcs.com/Calculator.asp…</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">3. Calculate how many maconutrients you need to be eating daily <a href="https://www.myketokitchen.com/keto-calculator-for-ketogenic-diet-macronutrients/" target="_blank">Keto Calculator</a>. Typically it is around 5% Carb, 25% protein and 75% Fat! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">4. Download an app to help you track carbmaster (free) or MyFitnessPal(1.99 a month to track macros), and track everything you eat. It will keep track of your macros for you! Once you have been keto for a while, you won't have to do this, you will be able to gauge your food without all the tracking. Edited- I am starting to track again. I hit a plateau and I think it is because things go in my mouth that I am not being mindful of- a handful of nuts here or there adds up! </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br />5. Journal, this is the best way to keep track of how you are feeling, what you are eating and how they are tied together. Please, the most important thing about this journal is your measurements!! Make sure you take the time Sunday to record your weight and your measurements. Also, write down your "why". Even if you don't want to share your story on our Facebook page, have your story written down for yourself. You will want to go back and read it when you are having a bad day or you need encouragement. </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br />6. Try to meal plan- I am not good at this, but there are tons of Pinterest sites and books with meal plans for the keto lifestyle. Make a list of foods you need when you go to the grocery store and get your house prepped for the challenge. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1623155207?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1623155207" target="_blank">Bacon and Butter</a> the Ultimate Ketogenic Cookbook is a great cookbook to help with some easy meals.</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br />7 Buy <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MUB7BUV?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B01MUB7BUV" target="_blank">Keto Strips</a> to track your ketosis- My favorite part, because it is like a competition for me!! Or a Ketone Blood Meter if you really want to get precise- It will show you when you are in ketosis and what you eat that knocks you out of ketosis. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076VRLBWK?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B076VRLBWK&th=1" target="_blank">Blood ketone meter</a></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br />8. Throw your thoughts about FAT out the window and start eating the right portion of it by adding it to your food and your coffee!! This <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00R7FFOLG?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B00R7FFOLG" target="_blank">XCT oil </a>is what I use to add to my coffee! </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">9. NOW- let's get ready, now that you are prepared. Make your plans to go to the grocery store, because you need to go ahead and throw your carbs in the trash and eliminate the ability to cheat. Mark your calendar and buy your journal!! </span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/traci.hildreth/videos/10160247322350034/" target="_blank">Video for Day 1 Motivation</a></span><br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1971982649"></span><span id="goog_1971982650"></span><br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-71496686615150862832018-05-01T14:53:00.003-04:002018-05-01T15:43:18.376-04:00My Keto Journey and How it Began<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1d2129; direction: ltr; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 28px; margin: 0px auto 28px; white-space: pre-wrap; width: 700px; word-wrap: break-word;">
December 2016, I decided something had to be done. I was not comfortable with my weight or how I looked. My daughter had posted this picture of me, from June, and I could not get it out of my head. <br />
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Did I REALLY look like that?? I had been saying forever that I needed/wanted to lose weight. I had tried EVERYTHING- weight watchers, shakeology, advocare, plexus, low fat, you name it, I had tried it! So as I sat in the bathtub, looking at that “monster belly” I told myself to make a plan! </div>
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My plan was, FIRST, to get my husband involved. See he does a lot of our cooking and without him in on this plan, it wasn’t going to work. I asked him to look at me and really hear what I was saying. I was crying and telling him that he had to help me. Second, I made a date. That date was March 1st. I wanted to get myself through the holidays and our anniversary trip. Not only was I going to change my eating habits, I was going to give up wine, for as long as it took to meet my goal. My goal was 10 pounds. I was starting with baby steps. I knew I had more to lose, but I didn’t want to overwhelm myself. </div>
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I wasn’t sure how I was going to lose the weight, but I had my “WHY”, now I needed my “HOW”. That was when a friend of mine posted a video about her new diet. She shared her health issues and what the diet was doing for her. The I saw a post- a really long one, from another friend. She was doing this same diet- I started doing the research, along with reading the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1583335544?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1583335544" target="_blank">“Wahl Protocol Diet</a>” and I formulated my HOW! I found that t this diet plan was a little restricting, but the Keto diet followed the same concept. That is when I read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1628600071?ie=UTF8&tag=thil2633-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1628600071" target="_blank">Keto Clarity</a>, and switched to the keto lifestyle. </div>
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I met my first goal pretty quickly, then I moved the carrot- 30 pounds is my goal- right now I am maintaining right at 27, but that is well enough. This year my goal is to get into shape. I never really exercised this past year, as I was losing the weight, so this year I will tone up this new body. </div>
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When I lost 24 pounds and finally posted the beginning pictures and the results, everyone thought I was selling a product. I wasn’t- I was just so happy with what I found and thought so many people could benefit from this lifestyle. See I don’t think of it as a diet anymore, it is a way of life. People ask me if I am going to quit now that I have lost the weight, or they say, “when you can eat normal again”. .... The answer is, no I will always chose this way of life over rice, or bread, or candy. Sure, I have some cheat meal- like when we decide to go to eat Mexican, but I limit it and is rare. </div>
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This journey is not for everyone and I will not push it on anyone, but if you are going to give it a try, please share with us. Join our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/276700569438352/" target="_blank">Facebook group</a> and share your recipes, share your struggles, share your thoughts, share your pictures and your accomplishments! I would have never found this way of living, had it not been for my friends who shared their story and put themselves out there for all of facebook to see!! Thank you Amanda and Diana, because of them, my life was changed!! </div>
Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-20036869911192558902018-02-14T07:58:00.000-05:002018-02-14T07:58:16.328-05:005 Years, Really? It's been 5 years,<br />
5 years since I went to my last chemo infusion,<br />
5 years since I felt the relief that I could possibly be cancer-free,<br />
5 years since I had the uncertainty of what my life might look like from now on.<br />
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<b>5 Years, really? Let the celebration begin! 2-14-18</b></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgkP6OoRWJzElmyPoiKqps73-GKMRIvbL_f3s_1wxAorda_jMzSAaTJ4uPwPsa7SKMG3dr0jRg1cAE_Hop9v_tvwv3gtxByIiEOrFnxJvdHHx9y72FbvX753Wrd36QhwDjNcmF8jnc2A/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="960" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgkP6OoRWJzElmyPoiKqps73-GKMRIvbL_f3s_1wxAorda_jMzSAaTJ4uPwPsa7SKMG3dr0jRg1cAE_Hop9v_tvwv3gtxByIiEOrFnxJvdHHx9y72FbvX753Wrd36QhwDjNcmF8jnc2A/s320/8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soldiers in my Army, on my last day of chemo</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdx7-bwyRbZNG6QIGUup5hIxc0Jktjj4Qh9WQ8ebMtMQGF3i5rdDWl3Ab2L4gZo9YB_n72T_xdJdaXx-oYybmJBl8D4FQuk-oaXd4tit1KGQzTxGDo20dNV2MGvhNGF2B9RsSqz6-HfQ/s1600/maria+hardin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdx7-bwyRbZNG6QIGUup5hIxc0Jktjj4Qh9WQ8ebMtMQGF3i5rdDWl3Ab2L4gZo9YB_n72T_xdJdaXx-oYybmJBl8D4FQuk-oaXd4tit1KGQzTxGDo20dNV2MGvhNGF2B9RsSqz6-HfQ/s320/maria+hardin.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Maria my chemo nurse</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1PQWJ2PveVOFnwbKCGoBaJtOLOc-VRGBKGAb_TQ8e1j56fkIMmVSN1gpU9U02kiwwS9JI71M2axVoFELLT9RdtYfzGYq7RrBDobfelkv_2B8ww4ZL-qgY2nvz7h1iuPc6RYp3mXWwA/s1600/my+army+of+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1PQWJ2PveVOFnwbKCGoBaJtOLOc-VRGBKGAb_TQ8e1j56fkIMmVSN1gpU9U02kiwwS9JI71M2axVoFELLT9RdtYfzGYq7RrBDobfelkv_2B8ww4ZL-qgY2nvz7h1iuPc6RYp3mXWwA/s320/my+army+of+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only Kimmie can make chemo fun!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cUt5-Jo5STAe5pnXE5YFjiZElS_rwnLkG7S3KloPbgo0mANiGyl6kp5y9Jy7DQddsTzFpwadUsJ6vD-i77DzONpO6G5xM1mzDYOu1xUXR9Mlju-IvY4yzo42p89X9KHxPOh-iZGi_A/s1600/rebecca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cUt5-Jo5STAe5pnXE5YFjiZElS_rwnLkG7S3KloPbgo0mANiGyl6kp5y9Jy7DQddsTzFpwadUsJ6vD-i77DzONpO6G5xM1mzDYOu1xUXR9Mlju-IvY4yzo42p89X9KHxPOh-iZGi_A/s320/rebecca.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And Nurse Becca Coppola, the best!!</td></tr>
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This 5 year mark is supposed to be a big deal. I have been told that with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, your odds of re-occurrence is stronger <b>before </b>the 5 year mark.<br />
So, I should celebrate this anniversary! I do breathe a sigh of relief, but this life of mine has forever been changed! How, you ask?<br />
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RELATIONSHIPS- I love more deeply....everyone! I remember all of those people that offered the support and the friendship to me during this time and I appreciate it so much. I have also forgiven all of those that have hurt me in the past. Letting go of that was important in my healing, even if they never know they hurt me or that I had something to let go. My friendships are so important to me. It is so important to express your gratitude for those that you are close to, those that mean something to you. Tell them today!!<br />
Family is my life! I know that there is no guarantee of time and we must value every minute together. Make moments count and don't put off the experiences that you can take NOW!<br />
People on the most part are good. We need more love in this world and less hate!<br />
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WORRY- I use to worry about little things, but now I measure everything to the "cancer scale". I used to get upset easily and hold grudges. But now I ask, how important is it really? Does it compare to cancer? Nothing really does- so I really don't get rattled by much. Plus, I know I can't worry about other people. They and only them, are responsible for themselves- their happiness, their unhappiness, their stress, their attitudes. I can only focus on my being, not worry about others, not worry about what happens or what is to come.<br />
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The most significant change that came with cancer, and has a lot to do with the release of my worries-<br />
MY FAITH! I believe that God played a huge role in my cancer story, and it is a story he wanted me to share. He didn't give me cancer, but he did give me the strength to deal with the illness. He was there for me, I re-dedicated my life to him, and I give the glory to Him!<br />
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<b>Philippians 4:6-7</b> <i>Do not be anxious about anything, but everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known by God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. </i></div>
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MYSELF- I changed and I really hope that it shows! I hope that everyone can see I love more deeply, that I care more about others, and that my light shines brighter because of what I have been through. I hope that when I am around people that they feel that heat from my light and they in turn can love deeper, feel God in their life and worry less.<br />
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There was a reason for that chapter of my life, I am not sure what it was yet. (Or if I will ever figure it out) But I know that THIS, this anniversary- is the beginning of a whole new book! THIS is where I shut the door on this evil cancer saga and throw open the window to a whole new beginning. Will I forget that saga? NO- It is forever etched into my being. It carved out the "new person" that I am. It bred in me the knowledge that things can change in life, with one phone call, one Dr. visit, and one minute life can be altered. So THIS NEW BOOK, will be lived out in full color, in audio with the volume turned WAY UP!! My life will shine with the knowledge of having lived and learned the cancer story. I am blessed to have a husband that is right there by my side, with all the changes, (most of the time) he can handle living in the intensity of this light of my life!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2w0oHnrtVqrv3-9f6iOADNaNpabjz7Cd77qLViDt3G86_TrHISb70v2jMYG2PrcK1R_76CWP8tureahDTTjC8fpPBAcuDjg1QMpVjvgffgfD0ZHGfm_LnLs_ufTyEDK7lL5CX2DBt-A/s1600/1505490068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2w0oHnrtVqrv3-9f6iOADNaNpabjz7Cd77qLViDt3G86_TrHISb70v2jMYG2PrcK1R_76CWP8tureahDTTjC8fpPBAcuDjg1QMpVjvgffgfD0ZHGfm_LnLs_ufTyEDK7lL5CX2DBt-A/s320/1505490068.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9QU4h0kFBkik8jvxHLZiItjEs_sXuZJ6VoRFK4YFdYRyVgxwhNmPimNfRCKzFYPwZsXhGgqe9xiPbLSpiJ7C6X_C5r2TuhzPOEkDbSqtuJIYKut8H10mlAon3_Y3ujB9YhXk4dyVAA/s1600/Making+Strides+2013+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1290" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9QU4h0kFBkik8jvxHLZiItjEs_sXuZJ6VoRFK4YFdYRyVgxwhNmPimNfRCKzFYPwZsXhGgqe9xiPbLSpiJ7C6X_C5r2TuhzPOEkDbSqtuJIYKut8H10mlAon3_Y3ujB9YhXk4dyVAA/s320/Making+Strides+2013+011.JPG" width="258" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRx0nGm49pxej5QfqmONwwgrfqV6Pd5LfbY7a5e-Xd_SiC_QP6vnAkFff7xjLTnEbwENt2BtOa55ttXEBwOLRbxXsySZ6k_PRA7CkatXfFDpho12SvLkUE-VVeVy9bRPkuVeGIs6NzZw/s1600/valentine+ribbon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="328" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRx0nGm49pxej5QfqmONwwgrfqV6Pd5LfbY7a5e-Xd_SiC_QP6vnAkFff7xjLTnEbwENt2BtOa55ttXEBwOLRbxXsySZ6k_PRA7CkatXfFDpho12SvLkUE-VVeVy9bRPkuVeGIs6NzZw/s320/valentine+ribbon.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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My prayer for everyone that knows me is that you learned through MY story and you don't have to live it to learn it! My prayer for those of you that have already been through it, or are going through it, I pray that you embrace the changes that you are going through, that you have faith and find your warrior spirit to get through it; with the help of your friends and family.<br />
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So I throw a BIG HEART into the air this Valentines Day and wish everyone a great year ahead! Today the new door on my life is opening up with a burst of light! I am ready to step through- I love you all!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7orQygkJo6gtn6jkU0jllepvV1a68olUjGOoRZ1JBJmg-ursUb0LjTwva2q-kGub-EayvkwFs1pPjPIGjWlygv2GYORwsNp0UNosA7gtYaeug9s_5p4k-n708TmB7mU4w4oQqd0fQw/s1600/my+valentine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="836" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7orQygkJo6gtn6jkU0jllepvV1a68olUjGOoRZ1JBJmg-ursUb0LjTwva2q-kGub-EayvkwFs1pPjPIGjWlygv2GYORwsNp0UNosA7gtYaeug9s_5p4k-n708TmB7mU4w4oQqd0fQw/s320/my+valentine.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-24742346883512683482017-10-12T10:28:00.000-04:002017-10-12T10:28:12.014-04:00My Pink 'Out"As October comes and goes, we see the "pink" everywhere- Up to our eyeballs in PINK!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62NIIXUcANGogc4eFrriqJXSKAsF8tC7VHpPAFf6zGAq89YYOZ3IIoakvbiARFYTr0s3DHabva4Xk8EQ_8bSQ4r-n_fyaej1fjcwg1GYzap5wJ5S33roK9_tusQ-l9_B1LWjRCxJzjw/s1600/tutu+traci.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62NIIXUcANGogc4eFrriqJXSKAsF8tC7VHpPAFf6zGAq89YYOZ3IIoakvbiARFYTr0s3DHabva4Xk8EQ_8bSQ4r-n_fyaej1fjcwg1GYzap5wJ5S33roK9_tusQ-l9_B1LWjRCxJzjw/s320/tutu+traci.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
We all know what the pink stands for and some of us get mad and in a rage about seeing it, some of us think we are contributing when we purchase the pink items, and some of us make money off of said items, while I think of it this way:<br />
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Awareness is important! There are a lot of people that when October comes around and they are surrounded by pink ribbons and every store is selling every imaginable item in pink, those people remember to check their breast or schedule their mammogram.<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>For that reason, this survivor doesn't mind the on-sought of pink products! </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>I welcome ANY awareness that is out there! </b></span></div>
There are only a few organizations that I support, though. One- It is on a local level and I believe in the organization, I love the founders of the organization (two of my chemo nurses). I know they work tirelessly to provide whatever is needed for cancer patients! <a href="http://lovingarms.support/" target="_blank"> Loving Arms Cancer Outreach</a><br />
The second is The <a href="https://www.cancer.org/?_ga=2.120991048.130015889.1507814051-2130357491.1507814051" target="_blank">American Cancer Society</a>- I know you say the CEO gets the money, blah blah blah- but when I had cancer, that is where I turned. They answered questions for me, their website was educational, and their programs were awesome- for me personally. So I utilized their resources and sponsored them through Making Strides and the Pink Ribbon Tournament. Lastly, is a new one that every breast cancer survivor needs to support- because if it comes back, this is where we will get help!! <a href="http://www.metavivor.org/" target="_blank">Metavivor</a><br />
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Today I have a different feeling towards Breast Cancer, than I did back then. I was in Survivor mode in 2012, I was doing every thing I could to get through it- I used humor, humility and relied on my God, family and friends. Today, 5 years later I am in living mode! I want to live every day as if it were my last- I want to "be right" with God, my Family and every one around me. I want to be a light that shines on someones darkness. I want to treat my body with the respect it deserves and fight cancer coming back into my body, with a vengeance the likes of cancer has never seen before! </div>
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What Pink-tober doesn't show you is what cancer is all about, and looking back I didn't show you either. Every picture I took- even on my diagnosis day I had a smile on, to be strong and show my strength. </div>
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I didn't show my break-downs(and to be honest not many close to me knew about them either), I didn't show my scars, I didn't show all the medication I had to take, or the ugliness of my drains hanging from where my boobs were amputated. I didn't show the worry of going to my oldest daughters wedding 10 days, after the amputation. </div>
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I couldn't make you feel all the pain I was enduring or the anxiety that comes with the diagnosis. I couldn't make you feel what I felt, when I had to shave my head and KNOW that everyone would be able to see that I was sick and battling cancer! I couldn't explain that I just didn't feel like getting up, that I was exhausted from just being awake. I couldn't let you know that that face, that smile, it was all for you- so you didn't have to endure the heartache I was feeling inside! If I put on that face and you thought I was strong, it would take some of the pressure off you.<br />
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So when you see the Pink, remember the persons behind the pink. Remember what they are really going through. Even if they don't show you! Remember that even 5-10-15 years later, those battle scars are still there! Remember those precious ones that didn't make it out of the battle alive! Remember Pink is not all that bad! Everyone needs Pink and Glitter sprinkled in their lives!! Dance like there is no tomorrow!!<br />
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-15426975758351644902016-02-01T13:15:00.001-05:002016-02-01T13:15:13.348-05:00Goodbye Lookout Mountain (written around 1993 or so) Addendum written today<i>Yesterday Lloyd and I went retirement- house hunting on top of Lookout Mountain, it reminded me of this story I wrote after my uncles funeral. I wrote it sometime around 1993 or so, I can't remember when he died exactly and I didn't date the story. With it being the month of love, and I loved Lookout Mountain,I thought I would share the story here:</i><br />
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Growing up, Lookout Mountain was my second home and my second place of being. Second only to Marietta. It was definitely a place where I belonged, if only from time to time. It was a place where the land was unspoiled and where the houses were cozy and where it seemed time had stood still.<br />
My grandparents lived there most of their lives. My grandfather and his family left the Pumpkinvine Creek by wagon and moved to Dekalb Co, Alabama. My grandparents lived in a three bedroom house with a pond, a creek (Bear Creek), and woods. I cherish the memories I have of that little house and the warmth it had. ( I mean that quite literally, my grandmother would keep the heat on about 90 degrees!) The rocks behind her house seemed to be as big as houses; the woods seem endless, but I felt like I knew every acre and could name every rock back there, behind her house. I would climb to the top of the rocks and have picnics, or play Indian princess.<br />
Even though I was not raised on Lookout Mt, my dad was, and his stories were my connection to the Mountain and his adventures brought it to life for me. This was the mountain my grandmother was afraid to leave, looking back she was a little neurotic about leaving. I never could figure out why you would live on a mountain, if you were scared to drive off of it?? Well, she really didn't need to leave. She never got sick, thanks to her endless supply of Lysol she kept sprayed and wiped all around her house. She never ran out because next door was the little country store, that kept her supplied with all the necessities, such as Lysol. She always worried about everyone, but I think her greatest worry was that someday she would be left on the mountain without Papa Wills. She ended up leaving the mountain first, by ambulance. She later died of the stroke she had on Lookout Mountain. That was in 1989, and that was the first time a bit of that mountain was taken away from me.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama Wills with Kristi 1986</td></tr>
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My dad stayed there the next year taking care of his dad, Papa Wills, until we had to move him to the nursing home. He later died in 1990, just after celebrating his 99th birthday. We tried so hard to keep him on the mountain and in his own home, as long as we could.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papa Wills and the pond</td></tr>
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Funerals are usually held at Wilson Funeral Home in downtown Ft Payne, Alabama. Even though this is not my hometown and the funeral director is not an acquaintance of mine, those front doors seem too familiar to me. The quality and the longevity of my grandparents lives made it easier to mourn. Their funerals almost seemed a celebration of their long lives.<br />
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Soon more pieces of the mountain seemed to be fading. My father's aunt and uncle passed away soon after Mama and Papa Wills. We were all close to them. They didn't have any children and so they treated us as their own. I had a cement foundation about the size of 7' x 7', where I played store and restaurant, in my grandparents backyard. Anytime that uncle pulled up in the yard next to my "restaurant" I made him order something. He always would purchase my make-believe food, with a nice crisp one dollar bill, that he let me keep! He even continued that tradition when my kids were born, even though they were too young to make him my famous Lookout Mt Mudpie, they still got a dollar from him.<br />
My parents moved back to Lookout Mountain to take care of my grandparents. They bought 20 acres down the road from them and started remodeling an old farmhouse. It was where my dad wanted to be the whole forty years he lived in Marietta.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Dad right before they moved back to Alabama</td></tr>
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I guess that is why is was appropriate that he was there, when he passed away. But for me it is not appropriate, it is not fair that he is gone! He needs to be here. He needs to be teaching my daughters how to fish, he needs to be here to get irritated with them when they don't set the hook and the "big one" gets away. He needs to be here to see the humor that my kids have. But no, that was not the plan. We have to keep those stories and the ones of Lookout Mountain alive with "Porky Stories". (My dads nickname) My dad died looking at the stars that seemed to shine brightest on Lookout Mountain, and breathing the air so clean and digging the dirt that was as fine as powder. He died just before he got his trout pond filled. That was when the biggest chunk of my mountain started fading away. Standing on my parents deck, after his funeral I felt as if I could see all the way to heaven or maybe this was heaven. The ponds, the creeks, the woods, the huge rock formation, and all the family. This was my father's heaven! That is why in God's scheme of thing my parents picked up and moved back to Alabama. Since that time, my mom has moved back to Marietta and we haven't been back to Ft Payne, much. I didn't feel I had enough mountain to go back and these memories were almost too heavy to carry up the mountain.<br />
Yesterday, I passed through the double doors of Wilson Funeral Home, once more. I sat in the same family pew, again. I said good-bye to my daddy's younger brother. I stood at the cemetery and looked at the majestic Lookout Mountain. I saw the beauty that filled my grandparents and my father everyday. I went to the top of the mountain and stood in my uncle's driveway; looking down at my grandmother's house, and the old pond. I took a mental picture. It hit me, that my mountain was gone.<br />
As I drove down the mountain the sun was setting in my rear-view mirror, the most gorgeous sunset with the colors vibrant oranges and reds. The new moon was starting to rise in front of me, so bright, with a wonderful glow.My tears are flowing like the waterfall at the Little River Canyon, as I say good-bye to my mountain, to my father and to the rest of the family and pieces of this beautiful Lookout Mountain.<br />
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<i>Addendum to this story:</i><br />
<i>I have since gone back for more funerals- </i><br />
<i>One was for my partner in crime and mudpie making cousin; Pam died in 2009. Much too early, at 57. She instigated taking turnips from Papa Wills' garden for our "store and restaurant" and to mix in our mudpies. She also showed me how to go buy bootleg beer, because Ft Payne was a dry county at the time. She showed me how to have a cattail fight. Our best adventure (although scary at the time) was getting stuck in the mud, in the middle of no where off a dirt road, somewhere near the brow, in her Camero. No lie, someone in a horse and buggy saved us. There is a lot more to this story, and it will be saved for the grandchildren, like a Porky Story, that is hard to believe.</i><br />
<i>Also to be added to my mudpie story, just last year my mom brought me a rolling pin. She said, "Your dad picked this up in Mama Wills' yard, and wanted you to have it. He said it is the one you played with in her back yard." I could have cried at that piece of my mountain coming back to me, and that rolling pin is now displayed in my kitchen. Maybe one day, Kinsley or one of the other granddaughters can make mudpies for me and I can buy them for a dollar. </i><br />
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<i>Yesterday I visited this mountain again- this time with new life. We saw an old farmstead that is in need of TLC and we looked at the river flowing past the place. I guess after all this time has passed, you can go home again and see the mountain with happiness and not the sorrow I had when I wrote the first story above. </i><br />
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<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-19334605753051455092015-09-13T20:50:00.000-04:002015-09-13T20:55:09.980-04:00God Winks This story was too amazing for me not to share-<br />
Lately, I have had a Bone Scan and Cat Scans, tomorrow is the PET Scan. It is going to be nothing, but for the past few weeks I have been worried.<br />
I had a trip Thursday and really wanted to fly with my friend Nessa, so she could distract me. That is where this story starts! I told Nessa to send the two flight attendants on my trip, a message, to see if one of them would let her take their place. She did and got no response. So Thursday when I checked in, I asked the girl on my trip if she had received the message from Nessa. She said, "No, that is weird I didn't get it, there must be a reason I am on this trip with you. I can't wait to see what it is!!" Her name was Tiffany.<br />
So later, Tiffany and I went down for dinner. She started telling me about an injury she had a couple of years ago. I told her my story, my shoulder injury, my cancer, ya da ya da ya da..... She looked at me and said, "Are you ok right now?" I was kind of taken back by the way she said it, and I looked at her and said, "yeah, um no, um well....I am having scans right now and that is why I wanted to fly with my friend." She said, "Oh my gosh, that is why I was supposed to fly with you!!! I have a book for you to read" I looked at her very curiously. I told her that not only did Nessa send you a message, that you did not get, but I did as well! She started crying and said that there was no way she would not have received those messages and that I really needed to read this book she had to share.<br />
I know there are some of you out there that don't believe in God and you don't believe in His hand in any of this, but I do. I know that God puts people in your life at the right time for the right reason.<br />
I had been worried, I had been scared- I was a little more than a little nervous that cancer was coming back into my life. I read the book Tiffany gave me, so tonight, the night before my PET scan, I am not scared or worried. The book was <a href="http://hopefaithprayer.com/books/Healed%20of%20Cancer%20-%20Osteen.pdf" target="_blank">Healed of Cancer, by Dodie Osteen</a>. I found by reading her book, that I believed in my heart I had been healed, but my head was wavering. I was allowing the Devil to make me scared and get in my head. I needed to check my spirit and faith.<br />
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There was a passage in the book that spoke to me, Nathum 1:7 <b>The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble and He knows those who trust and take refuge in Him. </b><br />
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So, because of this fabulous woman, because of the God Winks of this week and His intervention in my life, I am calm tonight and can share this story with you. I trust that no matter what He has in store for the rest of my life- HE is the one in control and HE will heal me. <b>"By the stripes of Jesus, I am healed!"</b><br />
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Thanks Tiffany for your awesomeness, your spirit and your testimony. I am so glad God put you in my life this weekend.<br />
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<b><br /></b>Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-27535403223665507372015-07-29T12:45:00.000-04:002015-07-29T12:45:08.517-04:00Changes will occur! I started flying for Airtran on a whim, back in April 2010, but that is not when my love of Airtran began, nor my love for travel and planes.<br />
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I know here in Atlanta we are supposed to love Delta Airlines, but being a travel agent and seeing their customer service from my desk, I was never impressed, if I could even get through to them at all. If I called Airtran, I usually spoke to someone very personable that was sitting in Carrollton, Savannah or Atlanta- it was always the same, they helped me out with any need I had for my client and we carried on a very pleasant conversation while we worked. When I traveled, it was the same- Delta yes, they had meals, but they were usually served by some grumpy old flight attendant that acted like she hated her job. (I do have to say over the years Delta has got better, may it is because they have recently hired a lot of my friends!) Airtran would pass my pretzels out AND carry on a conversation with me. ValuJet was the first airline my kids flew on and we continued flying Airtran throughout their teenage years. Primarily because I would "earn" so many free tickets from work.<br />
<a href="http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=valujet+commercial&qpvt=valu+jet+commercial&FORM=VDRE#view=detail&mid=EE02E415B9BEFA1529B7EE02E415B9BEFA1529B7" target="_blank">Throw back to commercial for valujet changing to Airtran</a><br />
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So you get the picture- I loved Airtran before I started working for them. Soon after I started, we got the news unexpectedly that we were going to merge with Southwest. I have always loved change, so I wasn't too scared, until I realized I was going to have to start commuting. Then I realized we were so small, I knew the people I was flying with, Southwest is huge- I will never see or fly with my friends! Will I ever be able to make friends?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airtran Graduation 2010</td></tr>
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Some of my Airtan Memories!<br />
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And the benefits of flying- taking my girls to Chicago for a little getaway!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Friend</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRaSZMtznY4DYThRzW95MZQoZ2S9Emp1PkhOm3vgDLum6248__ArnesKvQwvXXKW-mut3Zg0rSOEttQIyUMahrtFnWvB69XToFHKfuZ_2C9kPPNrFdC36miR0IHysuYsCxgtXV0Vg5w/s1600/danielle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkA2-xkmtNLDw4qvFdGV3raOCopDouPhVzsADJj6PsxGiKwhCxOduAaYqlHKzYjIJywgR3xI1ft3Zh_N1log5ZCDUZE4zfIS0UfsFwB35VhBpILbXxCbzXuW8bcLEHdgvCdGtx-3UxRw/s1600/heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkA2-xkmtNLDw4qvFdGV3raOCopDouPhVzsADJj6PsxGiKwhCxOduAaYqlHKzYjIJywgR3xI1ft3Zh_N1log5ZCDUZE4zfIS0UfsFwB35VhBpILbXxCbzXuW8bcLEHdgvCdGtx-3UxRw/s1600/heart.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRaSZMtznY4DYThRzW95MZQoZ2S9Emp1PkhOm3vgDLum6248__ArnesKvQwvXXKW-mut3Zg0rSOEttQIyUMahrtFnWvB69XToFHKfuZ_2C9kPPNrFdC36miR0IHysuYsCxgtXV0Vg5w/s1600/danielle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRaSZMtznY4DYThRzW95MZQoZ2S9Emp1PkhOm3vgDLum6248__ArnesKvQwvXXKW-mut3Zg0rSOEttQIyUMahrtFnWvB69XToFHKfuZ_2C9kPPNrFdC36miR0IHysuYsCxgtXV0Vg5w/s1600/danielle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRaSZMtznY4DYThRzW95MZQoZ2S9Emp1PkhOm3vgDLum6248__ArnesKvQwvXXKW-mut3Zg0rSOEttQIyUMahrtFnWvB69XToFHKfuZ_2C9kPPNrFdC36miR0IHysuYsCxgtXV0Vg5w/s1600/danielle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="text-align: start;">Well that change came December 19th- I went from Airtran over to Southwest and I have to say, I LUV it!!! Yes, commuting is hard AND EXPENSIVE, but I still love what I do. I am based in Houston, TX and now I am in love with Texas- my second home! The people I have met and flown with are awesome, and yes I am making friends! AND I am seeing my old friends too! </span></div>
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Don't be afraid of change, it will happen! Embrace it and hold on for the ride!!</div>
Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-2670386780048568762015-07-29T11:03:00.001-04:002015-07-29T11:19:25.032-04:00Do you want to know how to "fly right"?I know it seems like such a simple thing....going to the airport and getting on the airplane, but you would be amazed at the people that just don't do it right, or don't know know what to expect. I wanted to explain some of the important things you need to know about flying- my airline in particular, because we are new to the Atlanta market and we are a little different than other carriers. Plus, I have a lot of friends and family that will be flying us soon and I want them to have a smooth trip!<br />
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*<b>Booking your trip</b>- sign up for the Rapid Rewards program before you book. Go online and book your ticket, it is just that easy!<br />
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*<b>Packing</b>- I joke when I go on vacation that I follow a spread sheet, well it's not exactly untrue....My name is Traci and I am addicted to planning! Ok, folks first off decide on your travel outfit- make it something comfortable, simple and something that you can layer and take off, if the plane is hot and put on if it is cold! Southwest Airlines DOES not have blankets! Don't dress like a hoochy mama and get mad because you are cold. Don't wear belts, lace up sandals or shoes that are hard to put back on, you will be running to the plane barefoot and trying to dress in the jet bridge. Yes, I have seen that!<br />
Second, you can check two bags for free at Southwest!! SO, that means you don't <i>really</i> need to bring all those carry-ons on board do ya? Items to pack in your <b>carry-on</b>, 1. an empty water bottle that you can fill once you get through security, that will save you about $6. 2.Headphones, we don't give them out and you can listen to music, watch movies and tv shows for free on our WIFI with Southwest. 3.make up, a change of clothes, any medication, enough of your essentials to have in case your checked luggage is lost. Please be able to lift this carry-on by yourself! It shouldn't be expected that a flight attendant will lift it for you! As far as that make up in your carry-on, here is the TSA requirements: <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', verdana, arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i>You are allowed to bring one small bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces or less per container. Consolidating these containers in the small bag separate from your carry-on baggage enables TSA officers to screen them quickly.</i></span><br />
<i><strong style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">3-1-1 for carry-ons</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', verdana, arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container; must be in 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. The bag limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring.</span></i><br />
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For your <b>checked bags</b>, you SHOULD NOT pack lithium batteries or ELECTRONIC cigarettes in them. Make sure they are in your carry on. (BUT you may NOT use your E-Cig on the plane)<br />
One more idea for packing that suitcase, take items of clothing that are interchangeable, and preferably wrinkle resistant. Don't pack any valuables, like diamond rings, computers or expensive cameras in your checked luggage.<br />
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<b>*24 Hours prior to your trip</b>-<br />
1. THIS IS IMPORTANT FLYING SOUTHWEST!!! Check in on the computer, EXACTLY 24 hours prior, not 23 and not 25! This gives you the best boarding position and allows you to board first- the A or B group! This is especially important for people traveling together or families with children. OR you can purchase the early-bird check in for $12.50 per ticket and get to check in 36 hours prior.<br />
2. Pack your car and lay out all your documents, keys and anything else you are taking<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6kfPCKekkpVdQ5lNY0J2uJWXSMeu47BxpLQZHBaeTTQpMTk3kJs3XnBHll_pAhvW07FBpR8FRGcm62baxIdarzLTkogXOCXCS_mmMc7JM1p22wuACx3ZoUCTi5T_DWals-of_0hbtA/s1600/20141101_094645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6kfPCKekkpVdQ5lNY0J2uJWXSMeu47BxpLQZHBaeTTQpMTk3kJs3XnBHll_pAhvW07FBpR8FRGcm62baxIdarzLTkogXOCXCS_mmMc7JM1p22wuACx3ZoUCTi5T_DWals-of_0hbtA/s320/20141101_094645.jpg" width="240" /></a>3. Set your alarm, so that you will arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your trip.<br />
4. Practice lifting that carry-on over your head! If you can't do it, then re-think your packing.<br />
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*<b>Day of Travel</b>-<br />
1. Arrive at the airport 2 hours prior, that will give you plenty of time and you won't be rushing. You never know about the TSA line or unexpected issues.<br />
2. Bring your patience and leave your frustration at home. This is one industry where there will be delays, unexpected changes, rude behavior, and some down right nastiness- be prepared for it and SMILE through it! Being upset and ugly yourself, will get you no where, OR kicked off the flight.<br />
3. It is an FAA rule and airlines can be fined a ton of money for allowing drunk passengers to fly, so wait till vacation to get hammered! EVEN if there is a delay and you can stay in the bar another hour throwing back the shots!<br />
4. Watch your backpacks or any other carry-ons when you are getting on the plane. Don't go down the aisle and hit every passenger seated in the head!<br />
5. Don't walk around the plane barefooted or allow your children to!<br />
6. There are changing tables in the lavs, so don't change your baby's diaper in the seat, on the tray table, or on the floor of the galley.<br />
7. Be nice to your flight attendants, we LOVE goody bags or just simple "we appreciate you's"!! Sometimes we work 11 hour days and don't get off the plane- just sayin! And speaking of Flight Attendants, we aren't a fan of making hot chocolate, hot tea or people that want to order two drinks at once- ESPECIALLY on short flights! If the flight is an hour or less, (unless you are dying of dehydration), do you REALLY need a drink at all??<br />
8. AND parents- please take your car seat and buy little Johnny a seat! He should be used to riding in it in the car, so he shouldn't have a problem being buckled and safe. Plus, he will have his own seat and you won't have to sit and fight with him in your lap in a cramped space. If the seat belt sign is on, please don't get up with the child or allow him to get up! I don't want to see a child injured because a parent ignores the rules. Turbulence can happen at anytime, it can not always be expected, and the seatbelt sign is on for a reason.<br />
9. You can not go to the bathroom on the taxi-way- we will stop the plane and delay everyone!<br />
10. Don't bring your own mini's, you can only drink our alcohol on the plane! (that dang FAA again)<br />
11. Can't smoke E-cigs either! If our lav smells like cherry blossom we know you have been puffin, cause we know our lavs don't smell like cherry blossoms!<br />
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That's it for the do's and don'ts, sit back relax and enjoy your ride!!<br />
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It was important to write this blog, because I love my airline and I don't want to hear passengers complain and it is something THEY could have done to prevented their frustrations! Hopefully this helped you, and you will have a happy experience on our airline and love it as much as we do! Unfortunately, we can't do anything for you if you are unhappy with mechanical or weather delays, that is out of <b>all</b> of our hands! Thank you to all the flight attendants and travelers that helped with the writing of this blog!! If you have any ideas or suggestions that need to be added, please feel free to list them in the comment section!<br />
***Disclaimer, these are my thoughts and the thoughts of my comrades, and not the views of Southwest Airlines!<br />
<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-46685815255381439322015-02-23T10:50:00.001-05:002015-02-23T10:50:48.971-05:00A true love story!The past eight years have been an interesting ride, but when I tell you I couldn't have done it without my better half, you better believe me!! God put him in my life at the exact moment that I needed him and he never left my side.<br />
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I was pretty broken (in more ways than one), when I hopped up on the bar stool at Willie Raes. It was a muggy hot night in July, with my sidekick Cindi by my side. We had been out walking and over to a MHS touchdown club meeting and decided to stop in for a drink. She was trying to cheer me up. Lloyd was there that night, sitting at the bar by himself. There were two empty stools beside him, so Cindi and I sat down. I had met Lloyd from the neighborhood and around town. I also knew his Mom, from the church and Cindi had gone to High School with him, so it wasn't like he was a complete stranger. After a few drinks, I went to the bathroom and that is when my sister decided to play matchmaker....not necessarily with Lloyd. She was asking if he knew ANYONE single that would ask me out- she was desperate for me!! Ha ha- anyone that knows the back story, knows why! Lloyd, said "no, he didn't know of anyone".<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Juan 2006- <br />My life has a plan!</td></tr>
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Then next day while I was at work, I got a phone call from an unknown number. It was Lloyd asking me out! I wasn't sure I was ready, so the next week I made Cindi go with me to eat with him. Well needless to say, somewhere within those first couple of dates, we realized immediately that we were meant to be. I had spent my birthday on the beach just the month before, reading the book a <i>Passion Test</i> and contemplating my life and what would make me happy. I made a list of what I wanted and what I wanted to accomplish in life, I had a plan! It wasn't to find a guy in a bar and marry him within 7 months! It was to make sure I didn't "SETTLE". I was going to look for specific things in my next relationship and I wouldn't waste my time on someone that didn't possess those requirements.<br />
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When I met Lloyd, I know that he was what I wanted and with him I could accomplish all that was on my passion list. He made the cut, very quickly. He had the same background as me- grew up in Marietta, raised in the 1st Methodist Church, same ideas about life and family. He understood what my requirements were and they were totally in line with what he was looking for! By October we were engaged, and February 24th we were married! Our two families had come together and everyone was happy!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our blended family! Cape San Blas 2/24/07</td></tr>
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Very quickly my dreams started coming true! #1 on my list was to "make a home that my kids wanted to come home to and feel comfortable in" Lloyd took that challenge seriously in his remodel project of our house on Wright Street- everything I have asked for he has built and made into reality! To say he is the most talented person I know, is an understatement!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My kitchen island, cabinets, and door my husband built!</td></tr>
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Together we added a #1.1 to my passion list- "to have a place where we can get away from it all, with our kids, grand kids and friends. That place is Towee! So there he is making our dreams come true in the form of a little cabin, a farm, 33 acres, great friends and good times! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZev7jbXboboUFDlIQ4l27r7IRkizzvlW1rDSTJPOs5foiofgKO6-njezPzHIJQtMh-uVqYbJORdVqe4xzd1S6MTVhiYPtOfEUvtb9KbNZGqBbQ7bCMy0GyLMmPAMCABRPrCZWdFvOg/s1600/June+TN+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZev7jbXboboUFDlIQ4l27r7IRkizzvlW1rDSTJPOs5foiofgKO6-njezPzHIJQtMh-uVqYbJORdVqe4xzd1S6MTVhiYPtOfEUvtb9KbNZGqBbQ7bCMy0GyLMmPAMCABRPrCZWdFvOg/s1600/June+TN+005.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Lloyd has also been my biggest support system for other dreams I had, even when it didn't involve him. I wanted to make a difference in some small way to women, to step out of my box follow my dreams, and be a role model for my girls. I tried to accomplish some of those goals with the Pink Suitcase Sisters, Infinity Travel and raising money and awareness for Cancer. Going to training to be a flight attendant was defiantly stepping out of that box and following a dream that had a long time ago been forgotten. Every step I took with my endeavors Lloyd was there cheering me on.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYbuj59gm5_XhImQknSAI4pi1Y-miIv4hG83BVQ_m-vNNkXvc7pMtVuTTE1fIzKlMq8KiPmvAqSoeC9E2CUsuPJIPwEes-jx5wgvGOjzZ0sq1IGtQet3Su-tIJBXXzeutlfiN8dSldig/s1600/acs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYFXSuRWQMJTngJN8O0dQzkM-fAM34gMNxJnKJ4KrcgGSR8WBELmK63oWNHQ1jhIHprQHwzpmMRTWJVU33c8Gp5vVWb6rH8LvrXLVJvVOrXn4R3KmBAx7yXB5GSd5sKBA3Ny0pWDhJg/s1600/20141218_073420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYFXSuRWQMJTngJN8O0dQzkM-fAM34gMNxJnKJ4KrcgGSR8WBELmK63oWNHQ1jhIHprQHwzpmMRTWJVU33c8Gp5vVWb6rH8LvrXLVJvVOrXn4R3KmBAx7yXB5GSd5sKBA3Ny0pWDhJg/s1600/20141218_073420.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYbuj59gm5_XhImQknSAI4pi1Y-miIv4hG83BVQ_m-vNNkXvc7pMtVuTTE1fIzKlMq8KiPmvAqSoeC9E2CUsuPJIPwEes-jx5wgvGOjzZ0sq1IGtQet3Su-tIJBXXzeutlfiN8dSldig/s1600/acs.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></div>
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Another top of my list item was to be with a man that my kids respected and could learn from- yes, he passes that test with flying colors! Bradley said it best the other day, "I have tried to explain Lloyd to people, but it is hard. I have never met a man that knows more about everything and can do anything." He is pretty funny to go along with that! Here in his Egyptian tablecloth shirt and camos, JUST because Kristi and I are making them take a family picture!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82V9AgTmaMlWmtl60LYTINaJQZNVwu3k4jqrp6EL69mFTmrhDeMxN9V-Rsxq4XF0hf9wDp85teE8KfzHAwpWRLBVGVGCYYCX9vNqqR9pIMWpE3ZIThNc69KbOIl_TnxFeTsAidCtUzQ/s1600/Christmas+2013+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82V9AgTmaMlWmtl60LYTINaJQZNVwu3k4jqrp6EL69mFTmrhDeMxN9V-Rsxq4XF0hf9wDp85teE8KfzHAwpWRLBVGVGCYYCX9vNqqR9pIMWpE3ZIThNc69KbOIl_TnxFeTsAidCtUzQ/s1600/Christmas+2013+037.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lloyd is my rock, my biggest cheerleader, my cook, my mechanic, my builder, my dryer fixer, my teacher, my gardener, my grits grinder, my love, my everything!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHptsJrXWmETcf-B7jajBkJJWLbxXkWA7DGR0X6V5vsQ5zZv-mPZC4q_i3BdQFcRoc1YhslV49JpPp2HIYy3QosK2Bi-Neum3Dx_ruE1Xhp1RDTACNwEnzMYxbDUUvw1It88HYubXKA/s1600/cape+san+blas+051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHptsJrXWmETcf-B7jajBkJJWLbxXkWA7DGR0X6V5vsQ5zZv-mPZC4q_i3BdQFcRoc1YhslV49JpPp2HIYy3QosK2Bi-Neum3Dx_ruE1Xhp1RDTACNwEnzMYxbDUUvw1It88HYubXKA/s1600/cape+san+blas+051.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a> </div>
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I could not have gone through cancer with out him by my side! I know he was hurting for me so bad inside, but he hid it, so he could provide me with the strength I needed from him. He didn't care that I lost my hair or my breast, in fact he still contends to this day that I am prettiest without hair! No other man would have been able to offer me the support and love that he did through that time! No one else could have made me laugh as they shaved my head! Looking back on the pictures of the two of us during that time, I can see his pain and his love so clearly. I saw it when all was said and done and I spoke at the Making Strides Walk and he was standing there crying....I had to look away! There is never a doubt that he loves me! </div>
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Thank you for the security that you instill in my life EVERY day!!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaving my hair on Black Friday</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last day of chemo and Valentines Day</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making Strides Walk, after my speech</td></tr>
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We have so many blessings in our life and so many more memories to make! Happy Anniversary to my better half!! I love you with all my heart and soul! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first grand boy!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEJ4I__OO_ocT6jCA7R07msEi996Q7mktCCPFuMHm5sUwJ6Cu4UCYTlOzHkHAi8ceGaZvqHnHiJ7SbKmTsrDdvMBtu8nl9sTdC-xJRSM6_gIGwHfmmizXXtcN20MXqjIJ86oUHAYtSA/s1600/mommies+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEJ4I__OO_ocT6jCA7R07msEi996Q7mktCCPFuMHm5sUwJ6Cu4UCYTlOzHkHAi8ceGaZvqHnHiJ7SbKmTsrDdvMBtu8nl9sTdC-xJRSM6_gIGwHfmmizXXtcN20MXqjIJ86oUHAYtSA/s1600/mommies+013.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homer pointing at his baby cousins</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3vLLaSy5U_Uc9cfcZ5h6FhRbyQQLm859M6RhyphenhyphenastozZL_yg1gdiws-vNo6mjMed1Qd1ZsGWf_9qq7W3VOwagSf7jXqcDrK4Qt7EOrmeC72jt5wwFG3J3r_gl_NE67syInm5swDVUsw/s1600/Kinsley+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3vLLaSy5U_Uc9cfcZ5h6FhRbyQQLm859M6RhyphenhyphenastozZL_yg1gdiws-vNo6mjMed1Qd1ZsGWf_9qq7W3VOwagSf7jXqcDrK4Qt7EOrmeC72jt5wwFG3J3r_gl_NE67syInm5swDVUsw/s1600/Kinsley+021.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first Grand Girl!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby blessings galore</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWO6laH68AIRTZoyC71WTg79U8eQjfhc5nAv4Cc76Oj7J8DU1lasnV15_MIiZw0c4L4sVLv50DZD9j8Pflc5JGWWS_2SaN2K_Pm912viEQ_4Cz497FwkBUU6_sM1zJ7lqL3mSm6YRobw/s1600/Christmas+2014+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWO6laH68AIRTZoyC71WTg79U8eQjfhc5nAv4Cc76Oj7J8DU1lasnV15_MIiZw0c4L4sVLv50DZD9j8Pflc5JGWWS_2SaN2K_Pm912viEQ_4Cz497FwkBUU6_sM1zJ7lqL3mSm6YRobw/s1600/Christmas+2014+027.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Rider BB gun tradition with Papa</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 3 boys- my heart!</td></tr>
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-49472603848572879842014-12-31T21:49:00.001-05:002014-12-31T21:49:36.502-05:002015As I sit here sending out my text messages to some of my special peeps, I realize what this year is to us! Two years ago I was in the middle of chemo and freaking out about cancer. Last year I was recouping from my second shoulder surgery, hoping that it was going to work and wondering if I could go back to the job I loved. THIS YEAR 2015- I find myself healthy (except for this ear infection) and back at work- for a new company, Southwest. I am doing what I love. I have become a "double" Grand Mom this year. We are so blessed and they are precious.<br />
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It is also the year that me and all my "way back girlfriends" turn 50. That just blows me away! It seems like only yesterday that me and Kelley would sit and talk in high school about how we wanted to get a convertible Mercedes for our 50th birthday- so stupid but the Mercedes we wanted back then was a current model, not a new futuristic one....not so stupid now, I would still rather have an old classic, than a new one!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGKY3dXVGJgpm-BJNSrjeOQOQn6NaG_IDGwNkG7M8ZjRd6wV1gx7zYdnO7iqpNi4bXYOu_Oc9roO0GtYBcipJ-QnxAG1NyZlAcPg10tpFjxT9ZlNKmWcj4_lFmR9S9XEMYqXOnrI4Vzg/s1600/Brittany'%2Bshower%2BKristi's%2Breveal%2B018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGKY3dXVGJgpm-BJNSrjeOQOQn6NaG_IDGwNkG7M8ZjRd6wV1gx7zYdnO7iqpNi4bXYOu_Oc9roO0GtYBcipJ-QnxAG1NyZlAcPg10tpFjxT9ZlNKmWcj4_lFmR9S9XEMYqXOnrI4Vzg/s1600/Brittany'%2Bshower%2BKristi's%2Breveal%2B018.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Priorities also change as we get older also, or is it just because I had the cancer scare? Mercedes don't really matter, spending as much time with my love ones and "living" is the most important. (Doesn't mean I wouldn't jump up and down for a convertible) but doing things and making memories with the ones I love is the most important. Last year I gave a journal to Lloyd for Christmas and it has stuff I wanted us to do- my New Years resolution is to start marking off those pages and living life. 50 is an important year and I am so glad I made it here!!<br />
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A toast to all my girls turning 50 this year- embrace it and start living it!! To my husband that puts up with me, thanks you are the best, I love ya! To my kids, y'all need to hold tight to those babies, they grow up really quickly! I love y'all!! Happy New Years to all my friends and love ones!<br />
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<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-2793896228932417882014-11-16T22:07:00.000-05:002014-11-16T22:13:37.978-05:00Thankful- Thanksgiving 20142014- Wow what a year and how very thankful I am this Thanksgiving season!!<br />
I might get deep and emotional in this post, so stop ready here if that offends you.<br />
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Today I saw my third grandchild being born. This one was extra special because from the time my first born little girl Kristi, was in this world- all I could imagine, was her one day becoming a mother. When I went through the cancer, all I could think of was not being here to live out that dream. Today that milestone was met with open arms. To be there for Peyton's birth and to be standing alongside her sister as she helped to deliver this baby, was incredible. That room was so filled with love- We were all present, Krisit"s sister and best friend Brittany, Me, her dad, her mother-in-love and Bradley, the love of her life. To see this miracle and to experience this love is the most humbling experience.<br />
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If anyone says they don't believe in God, they have never been brought to their knees asked and begged for a positive outcome or a miracle, and been given that, AND more! There is no way someone can watch the miracle of childbirth (that is truly the only way to describe it) and not believe it is not guided by God's hand. This morning we saw the presence of God, love, and miracles. For that my life is blessed and my request fulfilled to be here for that birth. How could I be thankful for more?<br />
BUT I AM!!<br />
Not only was I able to be around for Peyton's birth, but God blessed me with Brittany's surprise, Baby Kinsley. I have to say....probably because I am her grandmom, but there is not a better, more precious baby girl, than that one born 4 months (to the day) before Peyton! That little girl holds my heart and<br />
I am so thankful for her. 16 is now my lucky number!!<br />
7/16/2014 "Baby Girl" Kinsley Carter Howell and 11/16/2014 "P Daddy" Peyton West Horne<br />
Brittany came up with both of the nicknames. The stress of Kinsley's birth and the prayers that were answered on that one- is just another slap in the face that God is real and I have so much to be thankful for!<br />
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The third little guy in my Grand Mom trilogy is Homer. What a little man!! He lights up my world- and because God put Lloyd in my life and he is an amazing man, I got my bonus son- Jim who in turn gave me our first grandson Homer- born on our Anniversary. And of course behind any awesome man, is an awesome mother- so there is Janet, my daughter-in-love. I am so thankful to have a son, finally and for that son to be such an awesome, different, child of mine!! I am so thankful for having that little family in our life.<br />
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Then other thing that is truly a blessing and I am SO thankful for, is my health. There was a time that I thought this stupid shoulder would never be healed. Or that Stupid Cancer would beat me. This year has proved it different! I healed from my second shoulder surgery and I went back to work!!! YES, I was able to return to a job I love and I am now turning a page and moving on to Southwest and starting a whole new chapter in that novel. (Stay tuned folks!!)<br />
Lastly, all of this would not be possible without the amazing man I have standing by my side. Lloyd was truly a gift from God. He appeared at a low point in my life, he showed me unconditional love, he nursed me back to health through shoulder surgeries and cancer, he cooked for me and encouraged me, and he always supported my crazy dream of being a flight attendant. I know I could never be thankful for all the above things without him standing by my side!!<br />
I am blessed and I am thankful! Thankful to God for all he has given me. There is so much more to mention, but right now: after being up all night birthing a baby, I am too tired to go into detail= I will list just a few.<br />
I am Thankful for:<br />
My Mom- and the time I am still able to spend with her.<br />
My Sister- who I couldn't do without<br />
My Amazing Friends- you all know who you are!!<br />
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Thanksgiving 2014 has given me all the blessings I could ask for!! It goes down in the history books for me!<br />
Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-84747771043811501242014-09-10T20:22:00.000-04:002014-09-11T17:38:18.979-04:00September 11, never forgetI can't help but think about the events of 9/11, not just because I am now a flight attendant; but because at this moment I am staring at Boston's Logan Airport, from my hotel. This is where some of the monsters boarded planes with the sole purpose of killing Americans. <br />
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I know tomorrow my heart will hurt for the 25 flight attendants killed and their families. I will remember how they were the front line of this attack and how brave and calm they were in the face of this evil. I know I joke about my job and passing the pretzels, but I also take it seriously. I take security and safety seriously. My heart will hurt for ALL the victims of this attack.<br />
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I also know that the threat of another attack is high right now. We, as flight attendants need to be alert and aware of our surroundings. We also need to stand up for our safety and make sure that TSA and DHS are requiring the proper identification for passengers boarding planes. We need to continue the fight to keep knives off the plane. Most of all we need to be alert to odd behavior and security breaches of any kind.<br />
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Every year at this time we remember the brutal attacks made on this day in 2001, but we need to remember EVERY day! We need to remember how easily, how calculated and how ruthless these attacks were! Take time to watch some of the broadcast again, or listen to Bety Ong make her phone call. Take a moment to reflect, again. Please never forget. There were so many heroes that day, starting with the flight attendants, and ending with the fire fighters, God bless them all! ..............<br />
8:46<br />
9/11/01<br />
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<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-67592743436762152014-08-24T18:12:00.000-04:002014-08-24T18:15:58.105-04:00August 24th- CancerversaryToday even though I surrounded myself with my love ones and woke up with two of my kids here with their babies, I still woke and had this panicky feeling. Something was off and just not right. I had no clue what it was until I looked at my phone to check my flight schedule. Today was Doom Day, Today was the anniversary of my cancer diagnosis. Lloyd prefers me not to even bring up that day or that anniversary, but it sneaks up on me and takes my breathe, without even knowing. I have spent the past couple of months focusing on work and the girls and their pregnancies, but today the C word came back to haunt me and grab my breathe and sit on my chest. I can't escape the date, I can't not think about it and yes, I think about the fact that I am cancer-free, but it also panics me to remember August 24, 2012. <br />
That day I found out that within a minute, life changes. Life can turn black in an instant. So, it can't be ignored, so let's toast the day my life changed. Cancer, you suck, I beat your ass and I became a new person because of you- now get the hell out of my thoughts I have living to do, here's to all the August 25th's!! Tomorrow is another day and I have too much to be thankful for-<br />
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-82481915068146765952014-06-26T09:48:00.000-04:002014-06-26T09:48:01.845-04:00The Lucky One at 49After dodging a cancer bullet, EVERY birthday is special and you appreciate each one that passes. This year is a real special one for me. The one thing that I was worried about missing when I heard I had cancer, was not being able to see Kristi and Brittany have children. Well this birthday I am anxiously awaiting Brittany's first child and then low and behold, Kristi got pregnant too! I was with them both this week and my heart fills with more joy than I could EVER imagine, when I see them and their big ole bellies!! <br />
I normally celebrate my birthday the whole month of June, but between worrying about Kinsley and working, I haven't had time to reflect too much on it until today. That's not to say that when life settles down a bit, that I won't pull out that Birthday "card" and use it somewhere down the road. <br />
Last week seemed like the gopher game at the fair, every time I seem to have one thing figured out, up jumps another gopher. I have to remember that I just have to trust in God and let him hold the hammer and take care of everything....and he did! <br />
My life is so blessed right now! I am back at work doing what I love, I am getting ready to meet my two precious babies, I am married to the most supportive husband, I have the BEST friends and family a girl could ask for, I still have my mama with me, and I am healthy! <br />
There is not another single thing I could ask for on this 49th Birthday!!! This year is going to be the best! <br />
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-1348822790218911882014-04-09T09:51:00.000-04:002014-04-09T10:00:57.742-04:00Back...Up up in the airThis weekend, I did something that, for the past two years I didn't think I would be able to do.....I returned to the air! My shoulder had been injured so bad, I didn't think it would ever not hurt. Then, came the breast cancer! The dream I had in 2010, when I put on those wings, felt like it was going to be short lived. <br />
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I had dreamed of flying since I was a little girl. I thought it was so cool that my dad built planes. My other friends had more money and their dads were Dr's or lawyers, but that didn't hold a candle to the fact he worked at Lockheed. I was more impressed with his job. Every time I heard the C5-A come screeching across the sky and rattling the windows, I would run outside to look. I still to this day, lift my head every time a plane from Dobbins is flying over my house. The highlight of my childhood was when the Blue Angles were in town and Missy and I would climb on top of my roof to watch them. They felt so close we would duck down when they got near. One year my brother took us to the base to watch them and I felt like I had died and gone to heaven!<br />
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I didn't know anything about commercial flying, so I can't say the dream was to be a flight attendant...just to fly. I struggled to find out what I wanted to be when I grew up. I thought briefly about the armed services, but I was scrawny and didn't think I could make it through one day of boot camp, since I loathed to run!! I thought about teaching, but since I hate math, as much as running, I didn't think I was qualified to teach a 1st grader anything!! As I got in high school and the thought of traveling to far away places, intrigued me, I thought being a flight attendant would be cool. I would wear a uniform, like the military, tell people what to do, like a teacher and get to fly- like I wanted to do. <br />
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Several times during my life, the opportunity came up to apply with the airlines, but it was never the right time. Until 2010- April 28th, I graduated from 4 weeks of training with the greatest group of people! <br />
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After two shoulder surgeries, countless hours of physical therapy, two breast cancer surgeries, 8 chemo treatments, and a week of re-training- I pinned my wings back on Friday and took to the skies! <br />
My first trip was with one of my favorite classmates, Hillary and Ashlee (some random crazy girl we had never met, who is now our bff). We had awesome layovers in Washington DC and Raleigh, my stomach hurts from all the laughing! <br />
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Being a flight attendant is something that is not for everyone. You have to be able to adapt and be flexible. Tuesday was my day off, but we had a mechanical problem and couldn't get home Monday night. Most people would not be able to handle that uncertainty. You also have to have a personality to change someones attitude around, even when they are totally pissed off at you or a situation. I have to say, I love what I do. It is not something that takes alot of brain power- (getting the head count is by far the hardest thing for me. Ha ha) but it takes alot of personality, adaptability and mental fortitude. Plus, we are able to rescue and save your butts in a moments notice. <br />
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We are trained as, teachers, nurses, paramedics, boat captains (I hope to never have to use that skill), police officers, waitresses, counselors, hotel connoisseurs, etc. I am so happy to be back up in the air and I thank my husband for being supportive of this career and my family for being understanding when I miss Easter, or Christmas or other important events. I am truely blessed with my life and I thank God for it everyday!! <br />
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-2546599329228893772014-03-13T10:05:00.002-04:002014-03-13T10:05:33.305-04:00Week 1 of my 3 week planWell I have to say, it's been pretty easy. I have not had any white flour or sugar (unless it was hidden in something I ate). I am down 3 pounds, although losing weight is not the main goal, I'm still encouraged to be getting closer to the number I have in mind for my ultimate weight. I have cheated a little with my wine, (which I admitted would be hard), but when I am sitting in our place in TN and the sun is setting on a gorgous day- I just gotta!! <br />
The biggest positive from this plan has been my energy level- after the past two years of sitting around and then the chemo, I haven't had much energy. This past week, about 4pm and the time I usually wanted a nap- I am ready to go out on my 30 minute walk. One day it was even after 2 hours of physical therapy!! I just FEEL healthy. <br />
If any of you joined me in this plan, share with us any changes you have noticed! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To the park for my walk!!!</td></tr>
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-4120309725453318192014-03-05T15:04:00.000-05:002014-03-06T09:00:10.360-05:00Day 3- Let's get startedSo today is the day that I will put all the research into action. We talked yesterday about what fueled cancer cells. Today I will share what I will be doing religiously, for the next three weeks to fight that fire!! I made several of these changes the moment I found out about the cancer, but it is time to turn into a Warrior and fight to keep Cancer out of my life! I have given myself 3 weeks to focus on all these changes, but I will hopefully make these "life changes". <br />
Another reason for writing these three blogs, was to educate my kids and loved ones. Hopefully, they will make some little changes, to keep Cancer out of their lives! This idea came to me when I opened both of their refrigerators and found huge tubs of Country Crock. Along with sugar, margarine is the devil. Not only is it full of Omega 6, which we want to avoid because of the inflammation that it causes, but one of the ingredients is Calcium Disodium EDTA. This ingredient is made from a concoction of poisons and chelation chemicals. So, I am hoping to teach my loves ones what they can do to avoid the cancer that lives in them. <br />
So let's get started!! Here are the changes that I have made or will be making for the next 3 weeks. <br />
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1. Exercise- I will exercise at least 30 minutes 6 times a week. (It really needs to warm up!!) I am also now wearing a FitBit to remind me how much I am moving!<br />
2. Sugar- will be eliminated from my diet. <br />
3. Trans Fat- Eliminated as well. This is found in processed foods- key words are Hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. <br />
4. Omega 6 is bad and Omega 3 is good- I am not a friend of Salmon so I add the Omega 3 to my diet via <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/06/03/chia-seed-benefits-_n_3379831.html" target="_blank">Chia Seeds</a>. I sprinkle them into my yogurt each morning. <br />
5. Wine and Alcohol- I know what your thinking! (Traci's going to stop drinking??) Well, I really have slowed down already. I usually don't drink during the week and have only a couple of glasses during the weekend. I can kick the habit for 3 weeks, then we will go from there. I do know that when I don't drink, I feel A LOT better and sleep better! And as previously stated, one glass of red wine with dinner is beneficial.<br />
6. White Flour- This will be eliminated. If I eat bread, it will be multi grain or sourdough. Rice will be whole grain or basmati. <br />
7. Stress- No body stress me out, ok??<br />
8. Vegetables- I will be eating a lot more of these guys! Greens are good!! <br />
9. Eliminate Chemicals- This is really hard!! I started with my deodorant- Thanks to Jennifer (aka Jenny from the Block), I have been able to try out most of the natural ones and the one below is my favorite. It really works, which is necessary since chemo pushed me into menopause and those hot flashes are hell!<br />
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Some of my weapons in this fight:<br />
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In the picture above is, my shampoo It is Trader Joes Tea Tree Tingle, my deodorant Crystal Essence, and My Fit Bit </div>
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In addition, to those products:</div>
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1. My yogurt maker- I make my own yogurt from Organic milk and eat it in the mornings, and also make homemade Ranch or Bleu Cheese dressing with it. Way before cancer we stopped buying bottled Salad Dressings and have always made our own. </div>
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2. Nutra-Bullet- I use this to make healthy drinks and my salad dressings. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidGGIqgVCJ6y-dfMSNP7n04khtms4myNtn9C56Yb_WFpT7M_7afe1btxefmvIu4cI6_fvOrUyQcbYji39wpqd8RZCYxoMBqJxE38xoQWKDr6tikWaLZbSHFmBgtD9FrjqTClhW0F9f2g/s1600/20140305_133311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidGGIqgVCJ6y-dfMSNP7n04khtms4myNtn9C56Yb_WFpT7M_7afe1btxefmvIu4cI6_fvOrUyQcbYji39wpqd8RZCYxoMBqJxE38xoQWKDr6tikWaLZbSHFmBgtD9FrjqTClhW0F9f2g/s1600/20140305_133311.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> My Magic Bullet drink</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmv1Nr-Eia-A_JYK9q781JxjNcimSFCCG-1BFBJ82mQo2Y-e5yULV9zWXSPandTK_xsGq8soRZ-bqAqrXC18Rwy36dqV_t1hcweqbBZJqOlWUToa-8mK4I7xLqaDL-ACkxsyfnFDtZfg/s1600/20140305_133906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmv1Nr-Eia-A_JYK9q781JxjNcimSFCCG-1BFBJ82mQo2Y-e5yULV9zWXSPandTK_xsGq8soRZ-bqAqrXC18Rwy36dqV_t1hcweqbBZJqOlWUToa-8mK4I7xLqaDL-ACkxsyfnFDtZfg/s1600/20140305_133906.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>Garden is planted- takes the guess work out of ingredients when I KNOW it is fresh and organic!!</div>
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****UPDATED for Yogurt instructions***</div>
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many have asked how you make your own yogurt- Well you start with a yogurt maker, mine is a Cuisine brand (pictured below) It's really easy, 1. you boil milk (i use fat free organic), to 180 degrees 2. let it cool 3. mix with a yogurt culture (you can purchase this in powder form or use one you previously made or use store bought 6oz container) 4. place in jars that come with your yogurt machine 5. place in yogurt machine for recommended time (9 hours for fat free milk) 6. Then take it out and place in the refridgerator, you will have 7 6oz containers of yogurt. </div>
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I add agave necter, berries and chia seeds to mine to flavor, when I eat it.</div>
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So here is a list of the VIP Foods for Fighting Cancer, lets add them to our diet and see how we feel:</div>
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1.Green Tea- 3 cups a day</div>
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2. Olive Oil</div>
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3. Tummeric- </div>
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4. Mushrooms</div>
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5. Berries </div>
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6. Ginger</div>
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7. Cabbage, Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts 3 times a week</div>
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8. Veggies and Fruits high in Caroteoids (Red, yellow orange colored)</div>
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9. Tomatoes</div>
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10. Dark Chocolate</div>
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11. Yogurt</div>
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12. Drink lots of water to help flush toxins</div>
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This is not some hard diet to follow, it is more just a conscious way of thinking that will help ANYONE keep the cancer cells extinguished. Please let me know if you are going to join me on this road and keep me posted on how you are feeling and any changes you may experience. </div>
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-72730706936850877212014-03-04T09:31:00.000-05:002014-03-04T09:33:10.986-05:00Day 2- Cancer FuelWe began the journey of knowledge, in the last blog and learned some of the "reasons" I believe I was susceptible to cancer. Now we will start talking about what we can do to keep Cancer away. This section is also helpful for people who want to live healthy and not fuel the cancer that lives in their body. Remember fact one in yesterdays blog, EVERYONE has cancer cells lying dormant in their body.<br />
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So here are some things that FUEL those cancer cells:<br />
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1. SUGAR- I had my eyes opened to this little gem, when I went in for my PET scan. They make you drink a sugary drink, then you wait just a little bit, and then get scanned. The glucose in that drink, will go directly to the tumor. That tumor will "light up" on the scan and they are able to see it. When we eat foods with a high glycemic index, your body will release a dose of insulin. That insulin stimulates cell growth. Reducing the amount of refined sugar and white flour we consume, we cut off a life line for that cancer cell. Added benefit to reducing the sugar and flour....healthier skin. <br />
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So here is a list of things we will avoid:<br />
1. Sugar, honey and syrups (try instead Agave necter, dark chocolate and stevia)<br />
2. White/ Bleached Flour, White Rice- (try whole grains, basmati or brown rice, multi-grain pasta, oats, and quinoa)<br />
3. Potatoes- (instead, lentils, peas, sweet potatoes, beans)<br />
4. Sweetened drinks, sodas ( drink instead water or green tea)<br />
5. Alcohol- (red wine ONE glass with dinner is ok)<br />
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2. Inflammation- Yesterday, I mentioned a little bit about inflammation and how I felt it was responsible in some ways for my cancer. Here are some causes of inflammation in your body.<br />
1. Diet of red meat, processed pork products and refined sugars<br />
2. Oils rich in omega- 6 (trans fat)<br />
3. Dairy products that are full fat and non-organic<br />
4. Eggs fed corn and soybeans<br />
5. Stress- The stress hormone cortisol causes inflammation<br />
3. Less than 20 minutes of Physical Activity a day<br />
4. SMOKING and other Pollutants- Do I really need to explain this one? Your putting SMOKE in your LUNGS- Hello??? Lung Cancer is the number 1 cancer causing killer and you can prevent it easily- STOP SMOKING!<br />
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3. Everyday Product- These are now so prevalent in our society, it is hard to avoid. Here are a list of some of the ones of most concern.<br />
1. Deodorants with aluminum, especially for women who shave their armpits<br />
2. Dry Cleaning chemicals- Perchloroethylene- air out dry cleaned garments in fresh air for several hours before wearing<br />
3. Plastic containers made with PVC's- use glass or ceramic containers when using a microwave to heat.<br />
4. Cell phones and electromagnetic fields- <br />
5. Parabens and phthalates in cosmetic products<br />
6. Pesticides and insecticides<br />
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Tomorrow- Day 3- I will write about the changes I have made based on my research. I hope you will also join me in making these changes and continue this journey with me. <br />
<br />Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-38828111100917810212014-03-03T14:25:00.000-05:002014-03-05T15:22:13.547-05:00Day 1- Triple Negative, turning into positivesTriple Negative is the form of breast cancer I was diagnosed with, in August 2012. Last year, in honor of Triple Negative awareness day, I wrote a blog and shared a link. This year, I am spending 3 days researching and writing about ways to keep cancer at bay. Then spending 3 weeks making those changes to my own life and sharing the outcome and difficulties. Wish me luck and feel free to join me!!<br />
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First off, 40% of all cancers can be prevented (YES PREVENTED) by simple changes in your nutrition and physical activities!! That is huge and gives us all a reason to embark on these changes.<br />
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Second, and important....CANCER lies dormant in ALL of us!! No one is free to say, I'll never have cancer. We are all at risk. We might never really know what causes our cancers to show their ugly heads in our lives, but we can try to analyze it and reduce our risk with knowledge. <br />
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This knowledge is what I will be sharing. I have read many books and this is my conclusion: there are proven factors that fuel those dormant cancer cells. For me it was a combination of several, that came together in a perfect trifecta that resulted in my breast cancer. A perfect storm, if you will. <br />
1. My weakened immune system- A strong immune system will keep cancer at bay. At the time of my diagnosis I was taking Enbral a drug prescribed for RA, that suppresses your immune system. We can strengthen our immune system with a healthy anti-inflammatory diet, a positive emotional state of serenity and joy, a positive support system of family and friends, and regular physical activity. <br />
2. Injury that won't heal- Researchers have directly linked 1 cancer in 6 to a chronic inflammatory state. Not only do I have this with RA, I had a shoulder injury that for one year was constant pain. When you have an injury your body produces highly inflammatory substances to heal your injury. The substances like cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes act like gasoline to promote cell reproduction to heal- they also promote cancer cell reproduction,, which can slip right into the neighboring tissue. I don't believe that it is just a coincidence that my tumor was only 3 inches away from my shoulder injury and the constant swollen pain! Plus, my white blood cells are also working overtime to heal the shoulder. This left my defenses down.<br />
3. A Sedentary lifestyle- Again, at the time of my diagnosis I was barely getting out of the house, much less my chair. The shoulder pain was so great and the weight of it "hanging" while I was standing, made me miserable after only a short time of walking or standing. Exercise had been non-existent for over a year. <br />
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When I went for my first check up after all my chemo treatments and surgeries were complete, I asked the Dr; if my boobs have been amputated and chemo is complete what test will we do to make sure we stay on top of this returning, and what changes can be made to reduce the risk of this returning? She said this," we won't be running any routine test (such as mammogram), and there is nothing you can do (that you haven't already done) to reduce your risk. You just need to be aware of any problems or any changes, in your body and let us know as soon as possible. Your cancer will return somewhere else, if it does." (based on research, in my brain or bones) <br />
I have never been one that listened to the words- You can't do something- CAN'T just isn't in my vocabulary! So, for the next three days I will share with you what I find out CAN be done and we will embark on the journey for the next 3 weeks!! We CAN do this!!<br />
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Notice all the 3's? It's in honor of TRIPLE Negative Breast Cancer- Join me on the 3-day learning journey and 3-week implementation! Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434474635831647960.post-26024300247303939392014-02-14T07:41:00.000-05:002014-02-14T09:41:33.415-05:00A year already- do I say cancer-free?Lots of people you meet who have had cancer are quick to say (proudly) I am a _ year survivor, or I've been cancer free for _ years. I just don't know how I feel about saying that. I kinda feel like I am jinxing it to say I am cancer-free or I'm a one year survivor. I probably shouldn't be, but I am uncomfortable saying those words. <br />
Anyway, it has been exactly ONE year since Kim and I loaded up the BMW and headed to the infusion room for the last time. ONE year ago that I experienced the relief of finishing chemo and also the fear of being without the chemo and the doctors being there for me every other week. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last Chemo- Number 8 on Feb 14, 2013</td></tr>
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Cancer changed me and this year I have really grown into this new person. My life is so fullfilled! God has given me the blessing of every new day and I am taking advantage of each and every one of them. He put so many wonderful people in my life during this journey and I hope to nuture those friendships. I have worked on getting my stamina, my life, my hair, eyebrows, and fingernails back from the destruction of chemo. I pretty much feel back to normal. Although, my husband says I never have been normal! So.... normal for me. <br />
I am still scared to death that the cancer will return, but that is the fear most cancer patients live with, whether they are cancer free for one or a gazillon years. I am sure I just get used to living with that fear, eventually.<br />
I never was big on Valentines Day, I always felt like it was just a commercial holiday. Now, Valentines is a day I LOVE- it is a re-birth of my life and all that I love! It is a day to celebrate the end of cancer, the end of chemo and the beginning of the new life to share with all my loved ones. <br />
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So Happy Happy Valentines to all of you!! Please, check your boobs, eat some chocolate, and maybe have a little wine! <br />
I will now go celebrate my ONE YEAR re-birthday and do the same (except check my boobs, since they are gone)!!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OwRJByAlYDU/Uv4oYZAoSWI/AAAAAAAAEqw/hbItJBIoJnY/s1600/14+-+1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OwRJByAlYDU/Uv4oYZAoSWI/AAAAAAAAEqw/hbItJBIoJnY/s1600/14+-+1" height="320" width="320" /></a> One year later.....Happy Valentines</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valentines Celebration 2013</td></tr>
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Tracihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07259952298485731939noreply@blogger.com0