Raw Hemp Meal Replacement

From Earth Shift Products

Now that I've gotten into a pretty intensive daily workout routine it's been very important for me to get not only a great protein source for after workout but a full punch nutritious meal to start my day off. I'm not a big breakfast eater so a shake is a perfect way for me to start my day. That brought me to do a review of an old favorite, a Raw Hemp meal replacement. The easiest way for me to consume it in the morning is with one banana and some almond milk, and a few ice-cubes to cool is down, for a delicious treat at breakfast. The taste is something I'm very used to, so I would say it's delicious, but if you are very new to healthy protein drinks you may find it slightly earthy, but easy to get used to and love.

It's also Vegan approved and Paleo diet compatible!

Hemp Protein Elixir MRE is a revolutionary freeze-dried powdered vegan raw food from organically grown green super foods, many kinds of whole grains and sea algae.  

NON-GMO, VEGAN, ENZYME-RICH and DAIRY FREE are designed to "Fuel Your Fitness" of all lifestyles.  Nutritionally balanced and rich in raw, organic ingredients, Elixir can boost energy, enhance metabolism, strengthen the immune system, cleanse toxins and waste materials and improve your health.

Soy FREE. Gluten FREE. Hexane FREE.

Our hemp protein powder contains all 20 essential amino acids including the 9 essential amino acids (EAAs) our bodies cannot produce. Proteins are considered complete when they contain all 9 essential amino acids in a sufficient quantity and ratio to meet the body's needs. Hemp seeds contain an adequate supply of these high quality proteins (EAAs) for a well balanced diet. Hemp seed oil has been dubbed "Nature's most perfectly balanced oil," it contains the perfectly balanced 3:1 ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 essentials fatty acids, required for healthy human nutrition. It also contains smaller amounts of 3 other polyunsaturated fatty acids in gammalinolenic acid (GLA), oleic acid and stearidonic acid. Many common illnesses are related to deficiencies or imbalances of specific fatty acids, in the body. Symptoms are related to a lack of Omega 3 & Omega 6 fatty acids.

A healthy diet that includes a balanced ratio of essential fatty acids, promotes healthy skin and a strong immune system. It has been proven in several clinical studies that dietary supplementation with EFAs or their metabolites (such as GLA) will often prevent or even cure certain illnesses. Since hemp seed oil contains both EFAs in a desirable balance while also providing two of the EFA metabolites, it is a good resource for the prevention and treatment of certain illnesses. Hemp seed oil also provides an adequate supply of antioxidants (Vitamin E), carotene (precursor to Vitamin A), phytosterols, phospholipids and a number of minerals including calcium, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorus, along with modest amounts of iron and zinc. Hemp seed oil also provides a good source of chlorophyll. And lastly, unlike other Omega-rich alternatives (flax, evening primrose, borage or fish oils) that are sold mainly as a vitamin supplement, hemp seed has a flavorful "nutty" taste that can easily be added into most any recipe to obtain a balanced diet!

• Excellent source of essential fatty acids including Omega 3, 6 and GLA
• Lower blood ldl CHOLESTEROL LEVELS
• Lower blood pressure
• Improve cardiovascular circulation and function
• Improve organ function
• Improve immunity levels
• Increased energy levels and metabolic rate
• Reduce symptoms of PMS and menstrual cramps
• Reduce inflamation and the symptoms of arthritis
• Improve recovery of muscles after exercise
• Reduce and treat dry skin and hair conditions
• Reduction of many degenerative diseases through preventative measures
• Hemp products are GMO-Free, Gluten-Free, Herbicide free, pesticide free and peanut free
• Vegetarian approved
• No THC and tryspin inhibitor free

Post-Workout Smoothie

Ultimate Green Protein powder - The Ultimate Post-Workout Smoothie

 Today marks my one month anniversary since I joined a gym. Haven't missed a day of working out! It's been wonderful, and I've noticed such a great improvement in my energy and vitality.  I do a session of cardio for an hour each day with weights every other day.  My focus is to build strength, and tone my body.  

I'm well aware of the importance of protein consumption after working the muscles. It's important to feed the muscles within the first thirty minutes after a workout with a healthy clean source of protein.  This brought me to search for the best source available. 

I had a few points my source needed to include. I wanted an all plant base, vegan source, that was USDA certified organic that included superfoods for an extra boost.  It also needs to be dairy free, soy free, gluten free and egg gree.  I also wanted it to be something simple that I could have within a half house after working out.  Since I love smoothies so much, it made sense to find a green protein powder. 

Enter in the perfect product for my post-workout, the Ultimate Green Protein powder from Earth Shift Products.  Not only is it organic, and an all plant-based product, but it includes superfoods that holds a perfect balance of green nutrients that help to mineralize and alkalize the body while providing substantial protein for musculloskeletal development and maintenance, just what I needed. Each serving gives me 16g of highly digestible protein! And only 2g of sugar. It's also a great source of Vitamin A and iron.

Each serving of Ultimate Green Protein powder offers a complete source of essential and non-essential amino acids. It also includes live bio-available enzymes, bio-available plant-based vitamins and minerals. It also provides essential chlorophyll, as it includes organic Chlorella and organic Spirulina (two superfoods I highly recommend and try to consume as often as possible).  It also qualitfies under all my "musts", as far as being soy free, dairy free, gluten free, egg free and vegan.

 I prepare my smoothy fairly simply.  I include one frozen banana, three fourth cup of frozen blueberries, strawberries, one school of green powder and enough almond milk to mix it all together.

  Ultimate Green Protein powder from Earth Shift Products

  Ultimate Green Protein powder back label. For a more thorough explanation for all the amazing benefits of each ingredient please visit the ESP website here.

 The ingredients in each scoop of Ultimate Green Protein powder include:

Organic Brown Rice Protein, Organic Hemp Protein, Organic Chlorella, Organic Spirulina, Organic Whole Leaf Stevia, Organic Wheat Grass Juice Powder, Organic Oat Grass Juice Powder, Organic Alfalfa Grass Juice Powder, Organic Barley Grass Juice Powder and Organic Kamut Grass Juice Powder.

 All ready to blend up...

The result is a very thick, very dark purple mixture.

 A great way to end an amazing workout session!

100% Pure product review

100% Pure - Coconut Nourishing Body Cream -

I love this cream! It smalls really good and very nourishing. I had it recommended to me, and after reviewing the ingredient list I was very happy to try it for an alternative to using coconut oil or olive oil.

100% Pure - Vanilla Bean Nourishing Body Cream -

I love this cream! It smalls really good and very nourishing. I had it recommended to me, and after reviewing the ingredient list I was very happy to try it for an alternative to using coconut oil or olive oil. 

 100% Pure - Fruit Pigmented Healthy Foundation - 

• 100% Natural, 100% Vegan, Gluten free
• Colored from the pigments of fruits and vegetables rather than being colored from minerals or synthetic dyes.
• Rich and creamy, full coverage makeup that conceals all imperfections so you look like you have perfect skin without looking or feeling heavy.
• Cream to matted powder finish makes your skin velvet soft.

Rich and creamy, full coverage makeup that conceals all imperfections so you look like you have perfect skin without looking or feeling heavy. Crème to matted powder finish makes your skin velvet soft. Formula is enriched with antioxidant packed super fruits, vitamins and other skin nourishing nutrients. Colored from the pigments of fruits and vegetables rather than being colored from minerals or synthetic dyes. Medicinal Ingredients: w/w 15% Titanium Dioxide, 10% Zinc Oxide - Acts as a physical barrier against UV to protect against sunburn

 I don't usually wear foundation, bu on my quest to find a healthy option I came across this and am really happy I tried it out! It's light and very efficient as a foundation. It does a wonderful job of not making the skin look like it has make up on, it's very natural looking and leaves the skin soft and silky. 

Mastrad A01900 Purefizz Soda

 A simple kit that you can bring anywhere and fizz up your drink:) Fruit juice, wine, coffee, tea and cocktails, are all fair game for the Mastrad, unlike other soda machines and siphons, whose warranty is voided by using anything besides water. This widely expands the capabilities of what you can make with the Purefizz.   
Available for Purchase on Amazon for $65.99 with free shipping.
The Seltzer Chargers  are also available on Amazon. Prices vary according to how many you want to purchase at a time. I got the pack of 100.

To make soda, a CO2 cartridge is placed with the small part at the top.

 The cartridge is screwed into the carbonation cap.

I  decided to make a diluted orange water/juice

 I squeezed one sweet organic orange

 then topped the rest with chilled clean water...pour until it reaches teh bottom of the funnel

 After a small spike punctures the CO2 cartridge, shaking for around 20 seconds integrates the carbon into the liquid.

  Then, the excess gas is released though a pressure valve on top, (a feature not seen in other siphons).

Then and after a few minutes of settling, the soda is ready to be consumed. If storage is necessary, the Purefizz comes with a storage cap that fits over the carafe for one-vessel production and storage

It was delicious! Finally bubbles are back in my life ^_^ 

Workplay Mercury II running pack

  For those longer runs or times when you need a little hydration and don't want to hold onto a waterbottle, the workplay Mercury has a 5 liters capacity with 1 liter water pack. It also has lots of handy internal pockets and a small MP3 / gel pocket on the shoulder strap. 

It is super comfy and secure with shaped shoulder straps and a sternum strap cut high above the bust.  It is also really useful for Skiing, Snowboarding and cycling.

front of pack with reflective designs for safety when running in the dark

 it's very thin and hugs close to the body

 The hydration tube has elastic loops to hold in place, nicely out of the way. The shoulder straps also have reflective material.

 5 liters capacity for water and plenty of room to hide away private items on a run.

Plenty of storage in the back

 small pocket on top

This active female specific fit women's Bike and Run and active lifestyle backpack by workplay bags - specialists in women's fit and function bags for an active life. This bag is 5/ 6ltrs in capacity and includes a 1ltr water pouch so you can drink while riding. You can also use the bag as a secure and stable backpack for general day and travel use. Looks cute, fits women and has lots of discrete safety reflective trims. Can be purcahsed at www.workplay-bags.com
Click her to View video review

Face scrub & toner

Favorite products of the month! 

I tend to stay pretty basic with the same products when it comes to skin care, but after getting a recommendation for this face scrub and toner I just had to try it and absolutely love them both! I can't see myself wanting to use anything else.

 

Brightening Facial Scrub by Acure Organics. For all skin types. Seas the day with brightening exfoliation from the ocean Remove impurities and stimulate new cell growth. 

Ingredients: Organic Curoxidant Blend (Organic Euterpe oleracea (Acai) Berry Organic Rubus fruticosus (Blackberry) Organic Rosa canina (Rosehips) Organic Sambucus nigra (Elderberry) Organic Urtica dioica (Nettle) Leaf Organic Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry) Organic Lycium chinense (Goji) Berry Organic Rubus idaeus (Raspberry) Organic Punica granatum (Pomegranate) Organic Vaccinium myrtillis (Blueberry) Organic Calendula officinalis (Calendula) Organic Matricaria recutita (Chamomile) Fair Trade Certified Organic Ilex paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) Organic Aloe Barbensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Vegetable Glycerin Walnut Shell Powder French Green Clay Organic Lemon Peel Granules Saponified Organic Cocos nucifera (Coconut Oil) Sodium PCA (Vegetable) Cellulose Gum Fair Trade C 

Available at Amazon for $13.56 with free shipping with purchase $35 and over.  

The tiniest amount goes a long way! Half the size of a pea was enough to exfoliate my entire face and leave it super smooth and clean. 

 

Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Toner with Certified Organic Aloe Vera Formula
Gentle, Moisturizes with Vitamin E.
Over 120 years ago, Rose Thayer, niece of Henry Thayer M.D., developed an all-natural recipe for extra-soft, youthful-looking skin. As she aged, many would comment on how she always looked 10 years younger than she was. Now, for the first time, her secret formula of Rose Petal water blended with Witch Hazel extract, Certified Organic Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, is being made available.Witch Hazel helps to tighten pores, and to smooth and beautify skin without drying. Thayers® proprietary Witch Hazel extract (derived from the bark) is not distilled, thereby maintaining all the beneficial natural tannins. Assay of hamamelitannin shows that Witch Hazel bark extract is 31 times richer in hamamelitannin than the leaf extract and 87 times richer than the stem extract (Resource: Vennat, B., "Tannins from Hamamelis virginiana" Planta Medica
Alcohol-Free
Paraben-Free
Propylene Glycol-Free
Un-Distilled Witch Hazel (with all the beneficial natural tannins)
Moisturizes
Cleanses
No Animal Testing
Made in the USA with only American Ingredients

Available at Amazon for $9.95 with free shipping with purchase $35 and over. 

This toner smells so good! It makes my skin feel so amazing, and won't dry the skin because it's alcohol free:)

Injinji Women's Run Lightweight No-Show socks

Injinji Women's Run Lightweight No-Show 3-pk

• Poly Blend
• No-show length
• Fabric: 67% CoolMax polyester with Cordura, 28% nylon, 3% Lycra
• 200 needle count
• Mesh top
• Metatarsal arch support

The Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show toesock can be used under a traditional sock or worn alone, offering an ultra-thin interface for performance in any shoe, climate and terrain. Perfect for wearing with Vibram FiveFinger shoes...which is why I purchased them.  This lightweight crew sock features a seamless design that properly aligns the toes for better posture, grip and balance. The anatomical, five-toe construction allows the foot to function naturally and freely, eliminating friction, and protecting against blisters, hot spots, moisture build-up and neuromas. Constructed with moisture-wicking CoolMax XtraLifeTM polyester and Cordura fibers, nylon and Lycra for stretch, the Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show sock forms to the contours of the foot for a truly customized fit.  I love the defined heal, and how it comes just up high enough over the heal for comfort with any shoe. They were not cheap, with the 3-Pack it came out to be $12 per sock, but very worth it!

Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus by John Gray

 

Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, an enormously popular book by author John Gray, contains many suggestions for improving relationships between men and women through understanding the communication style and emotional needs of the opposite sex. As suggested by the title, the book asserts the notion that men and women are as different as beings from other planets, and that learning the code of conduct of the opposite sex is of essential value even if individuals do not necessarily conform to the stereotypical behaviour.

Chapter 1: Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus

It is important to remember that men and women have reciprocally different natures. Men and women need to appreciate these differences, and cease expecting each other to act and feel the way they do.

 

Chapter 2: Mr Fix-It and the Home Improvement Committee

Men love to have their abilities recognised and appreciated, and hate to have them scorned or ignored; women love to have their feelings recognized and appreciated, and hate to have them scorned or ignored. Men don't rate feelings highly as in their view they can result in hotly impassioned, wildly unstable behaviour; women don't rate abilities highly as in their view they can result in coldly dispassionate, aggressively competitive behavior.

Men like to work on their own, and exercise their abilities by solving problems quickly and singlehandedly; women like to co-operate, and exercise their feelings through interactive communication with one another. Men value solutions, and view unsolicited assistance as undermining their effort to solve problems alone; women value assistance, and view unsolicited solutions as undermining their effort to proceed interactively. Men desire that their solutions will be appreciated; women desire that their assistance will be appreciated.

 

Chapter 3: Men Go to Their Caves and Women Talk

When faced with tough problems, men become non-communicative so they can work out how best to help themselves, while women become communicative so that others can work out how best to help them. Men like to demonstrate their abilities by being allowed to solve problems without interference; women like to demonstrate their feelings by being allowed to relate problems without interference.

When men do communicate, they like to get to the point, and generally only want to listen if they feel the conversation has a point; women enjoy talking for its own sake, and are happy to listen unconditionally.

 

Chapter 4: How to Motivate the Opposite Sex

A man's instinct is to look after himself, even if it means sacrificing others; a woman's instinct is to look after others, even if it means sacrificing herself. In a relationship, a man has to learn how to care for his partner rather than sacrificing her needs in favour of his own, and a woman has to learn how to be cared for by her partner rather than sacrificing her own needs in favour of his, so that the needs of both are met. If they do this successfully, both win, unlike their instinctive behaviours where one person gains from another’s loss. This has to be worked at, because if either partner feels their efforts towards the relationship are not being successful in pleasing their partner, they may feel hurt and decide to revert to their instinctive behaviour. Unfortunately this then causes the other partner to do the same, and the relationship unravels inexorably.

In a relationship, a man needs to feel that his attentions are needed, and a woman needs to feel that her needs are attended. To achieve this, a man has to express his desire to fulfil her needs and her worthiness to receive his care, and a woman has to express her desire for his care and his worthiness to fulfil her needs. Both must remember to appreciate, accept, and forgive the other, and avoid blaming them when they fail.

 

Chapter 5: Speaking Different Languages

Men talk in very literal terms for the purpose of relaying information; women employ artistic licence and dramatic vocabulary to fully express and relate their feelings.

Men like to sort their thoughts out before communicating them, and have the tendency to become distant and non-communicative as they ponder their concerns. At this time, a woman needs reassurance that her partner still rates her as worthy of being taken care of. Women like to sort their thoughts out in the process of communicating them, and have the tendency to pour forth a litany of general grievances as they relate their concerns. At this time, a man needs reassurance that his partner still rates him as worthy of taking care of things. Both must try to avoid feeling personally to blame when their partners are dealing with problems.

When a man is troubled, he does not want his partner to express concern for him, but loves to be told that the problem is easily within his abilities to rectify because of the implicit vote of confidence in his abilities. When a woman is troubled, she loves her partner to express concern for her, but does not want to be told that the problem is a simple one to solve because of the implicit dismissal of her concerns about the issue. A solution should be sought once her feelings have been fully listened to: too quick a solution justifies his abilities but devalues her concerns, too enduring a problem justifies her concerns but devalues his abilities.

Men feel validated and gratified when they are left to sort things out by themselves, and feel undermined by being offered sympathy or unsolicited assistance. Women feel validated and gratified by being offered sympathy or unsolicited assistance, and feel undermined when they are left to sort things out by themselves.

To accommodate their partners' responses, each should make small changes to their behaviors and communication towards the other, but without compromising their own true natures.

 

Chapter 6: Men Are Like Rubber Bands

Men periodically bolt for cover when they suddenly fear that their self-sufficiency is becoming threatened. At these times they may become utterly unapproachable, demanding the right to be left on their own and to be allowed not to express their feelings, but if given support by being afforded space for a little while, they will soon feel better and spring back into their usual loving selves once again. It can be hard for women to handle the suddenness and speed with which men bolt for cover, and then subsequently spring back.
At times when men retreat into themselves, they can assist their partners not to be overly concerned or take it personally by providing some brief reassurance that they will return in due course. Women should resist the temptation to try to drag their partners back prematurely or criticise them over this natural behaviour.

 

Chapter 7: Women Are Like Waves

Women periodically sink into a depression when they feel it is time for emotional cleansing and resolution. At these times they may become utterly negative in their outlook, dwelling on every problem which troubles them, including long-standing ones which will generally have been raised and addressed before, and if they cannot find any real issues to concentrate on, then they will find some random other things to worry about.

They suspend their normal giving natures, demanding the right to express their feelings and not to be left on their own, and if supported and allowed enough time to express and release their negative feelings, they will begin to feel happier again and return to their usual loving selves. The slowness in which they sink into depression and subsequently recover may be hard for men to handle.

At times when women sink into themselves, they can assist their partners not to be overly concerned or take it personally by providing some brief reassurance that it is not their partners’ fault. Men should resist the temptation to try to lift their partners back up prematurely or criticise them over this natural behaviour.
Men demand the right to be free from time to time; women demand the right to be heard from time to time. When a man feels free he finds it easier to support a woman’s need to be heard; when a woman feels heard she finds it easier to support a man’s need to be free.

If a man’s periodic need to be free coincides with a woman’s periodic need to be heard, the best solution is for the woman to make do with being heard by her friends instead.

 

Chapter 8: Discovering Our Different Emotional Needs

Men and women need to remember that the emotional needs of the opposite sex are not the same as their own. Providing our partners with the wrong type of emotional needs will not be greatly appreciated.

Deep inside every man is a knight in shining armour seeking a damsel in distress who will love him, and shower him with trust, acceptance, appreciation, admiration, approval, and encouragement. Deep inside every woman is a damsel in distress seeking a knight in shining armour who will love her, and shower her with caring, understanding, respect, devotion, validation, and reassurance. Men must listen attentively to women to understand their needs, avoiding getting angry or defensive; women must have faith in men's abilities and best efforts to fulfill their needs, avoiding trying to change or control them.

 

Chapter 9: How To Avoid Arguments

Communication between relationship partners should be loving and respectful; verbal attacks by contrast are highly destructive. It is often not so much what is said that causes the damage, but the tone of voice and body language which accompanies it.

Arguments thrive on men failing to pay sufficient attention to women’s feelings, and women being critically disapproving of men. Either one may be the initial trigger, because a man’s inattentiveness can cause a woman to get upset and express disapproval, and a woman’s disapproval can cause a man to get defensive and stop listening to how she is feeling.

When men make mistakes they become frustrated and angry, and are best left alone until they calm down. Men consider apologies to be admissions of guilt; women view apologies as expressions of compassion. This difference of perception is why men are generally much less willing to apologise than women.
When engaged in an argument, men use strong and aggressive words to ensure that they win the argument, and women are frequently forced to back down in the face of a totally determined and implacable opponent. Men then feel that they have won the argument, but it is a hollow victory as their partners have not changed their views, but merely buried them in order to avoid an ever-escalating conflict. Sometimes people prefer to evade arguments instead of engaging in them. Men tend to do so by withdrawing inside themselves and refusing to talk; women often just pretend that the disagreement has been forgotten. The resultant peace is a cold one, because the issues continue festering unresolved.

To stop communication degenerating into arguments, men should strive to listen without getting defensive, and women should try to express their feelings without criticizing their partners.

 

Chapter 10: Scoring Points with the Opposite Sex

Men feel loved if their efforts at giving are appreciated; women feel loved according to what they receive. For women, loving someone means knowing and attending to their needs without waiting to be asked, and so a loved person should never have to ask for anything as their needs ought to be anticipated ahead of time. So women give unconditionally, and proactively seek ways to help others, whereas men only give when they feel that their efforts will be fairly appreciated and rewarded, and often will not know how or what to give without being specifically asked. Men often quickly suspend giving when feeling pleased about having done something; women may only suspend giving when feeling displeased with their partners for doing nothing.

Men value results; for women it’s the thought that counts. Consequently, men value big things much more than do women, who feel more appreciated by receiving lots of little gifts instead. A woman may consider a bunch of flowers to be just as good a proof of love as an entire month of hard work towards paying the bills.

If men and women do not take account of these different perspectives, they may fail to give their partners what they actually want. When this occurs, the man will frequently suspend giving as he feels he is not receiving enough reward back for what he has given, but the woman will continue to give unconditionally even though she feels she is giving more and has started to feel unloved, unappreciated and resentful.

Men should try to identify various little ways to give to their partners without waiting to be asked first, and should avoid the mistake of assuming their partners to be happy giving and not asking for anything back. Women should be careful not to give a false impression to their partners of being happy when they are not, and if they begin to feel resentful they should gently reduce their giving, learn to ask for things back, and be sure to keep expressing lots of appreciation of their partners’ efforts so as to encourage them to give more. Men should try to listen lovingly and respectfully to women’s feelings, women should try to express their feelings in a loving and respectful manner. If men give, and women appreciate, both end up feeling happy.

 

Chapter 11: How to Communicate Difficult Feelings

Unresolved negative feelings can cause us to act in ways we really don’t want to, or become manifest in all kinds of compulsive or addictive behaviors. Avoiding our negative feelings doesn’t make them go away, but compassionately embracing them can heal them and enable us to start loving again. By acting as loving parents to our own inner child, we finally allow our repressed feelings to be fully expressed and released.

To ease the pain and win love, men often obsessively seek success, and women obsessively seek perfection. Men may use anger, ego, or oblivion (such as burying themselves in their work) to avoid vulnerable feelings of pain or fear; women may lapse into depression or confusion to avoid having aggressive feelings of anger.

Constructive communication is a learned skill, and many of us must first unlearn the paradigm of negative communication and repression of feelings which we experienced during childhood. Communication works best if it presents the full picture, so that the root of the problem is revealed rather than just the symptoms.

Writing our feelings down is excellent for expressing our negative emotions (anger, pain, fear, and regret) in a controlled manner, rather than letting them explode at our partners in the heat of the moment. Having done so, we can get back in touch with our loving feelings, and are then in a much better state to explain to our partners what we are feeling, and what they can do to help us feel better. It is important to communicate such feelings in a loving atmosphere because we may need to feel securely loved while communicating such intimate and revealing feelings, and our partners may need the same if some of those feelings will be painful to hear, or could be taken personally. At times it is worth discussing them with friends or counselors first.

 

Chapter 12: How to Ask for Support and Get It

Men love to do things which are appreciated, and hate to do things which are demanded. Criticising him or giving excessive instructions will make him feel more like a slave than a loved and trusted partner.

Men love to prove their worth through the things they do, but they generally wait to be asked, and take a long time to learn to offer their services unsolicited. Women should therefore control their expectations of men being able to anticipate their needs, ask for help without making it sound like a demand because they resent the need to do so, and appreciate the help they receive even though it needed to be requested first.

Women should avoid requesting help from a man in a way which either doesn’t sound like a clear request, or carries implicit criticism that he should have already done it. Questions which begin with the words ‘Could you’ or ‘Can you’ are often interpreted by men as questioning their abilities, and they therefore respond more positively to the same questions if they begin instead with ‘Would you’ or ‘Will you’. The difference may seem tiny, but it can feel as different as the man saying ‘No I can’t’ or ‘No I won’t’ in response to the request.

It is best to allow a man the freedom to do things in a way and at a time that works for him. If a man is busy doing something and a woman needs his help on something else, she should feel free to ask him for help, but be prepared for him to request to defer it or even to refuse it; if requests always require positive answers, they are really demands, and men will sense the difference. If a man grumbles about a request then he is actually considering it, and the best approach is to simply wait for him to come to a decision without saying anything further, and aim to accept the outcome graciously.

 

Chapter 13: Keeping the Magic of Love Alive

In relationships, unresolved negative feelings can pop up without warning, and we suddenly become upset, or sensitive, or distant. When this happens to our partners we should encourage them to work through it, accepting that it may take some time and that they may need support from outside as well as from ourselves, and do our best to control any impatience or resentments we may feel towards them during these times.

Love inevitably changes over time: the pristine bliss we feel when we first fall in love doesn’t last forever, and over time our personal faults and negative baggage inevitably become exposed. But if we stick tight through the ups and downs of life and each other, then our initial bliss gradually changes into a mature form of love which can become stronger and fuller with every passing year.

Healthy Deodorant

 When it comes to Deodorant there are several types to apply. The four I will review come in a Cream D.O., Crystal D.O., Roll-on D.O, and Stick D.O. 

In order of pictured- 
Deodomom Deodorant - $10 - 2 ingredients - Water and Magnesium Hydroxide (a mineral safe enough to eat). Will not clog skin pores and leaves no residue on clothing.
Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal - $4 -100% pure and natural, hypoallergenic, and 24 hour protection for underarms. Paraben or PG free; Fragrance free.  Lasts a very long time!  (also available in a spray form:)
Real Pure roll-on - $11 - Made with all Natural & Organic Ingredients & Made in the USA
Sweet underarm Deodorant- $15 - Chemical Free, Gluten Free, and Vegan Arrowroot Powder, Baking Soda, Natural Shea Butter, Candelilla Wax, Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil DOES NOT contain propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, or sodium stearate.


The Crystal and Stick both need to be wet before applying.  The advantage of the crystal D.O. is that it's completely clear, as is the roll on one. And the Stick D.O. does leave a white mark.  I find the Stick D.O. worked really great in preventing sweat and odor, however will stain clothing, unfortunately (I'm assuming from the cocoa butter and other oil ingredients).  
   
The Real Purity clear roll on D.O. is my favorite:) It has a fresh smell and applying it is super easy! No need to apply water, or needing to wash hands after as the cream D.O. does.

Coconut water review

Today's post is a review of 12 popular coconut waters. Six plain coconut waters and 6 flavored coconut waters. Three adults and one child. We all tasted each drink and rated each on taste and preference rating of 1 to 10.. 

The 12 coconut waters from left in the photo to right...

-Harvest Bay - All-Natural Coconut Water RTD

-Amy & Brian - All Natural Coconut Juice With Pulp 

-Nature Factor - Organic Coconut Water

-Vita Coco - Coconut Water 100% Pure Orange

-Amy & Brian - All Natural Coconut Juice With Lime 

-C2O - Pure Coconut Water

-Zico - Pure Premium Coconut Water Natural 

-Vita Coco - Coconut Water Pineapple

-Vita Coco - Coconut Water Peach & Mango

-Naked Juice Coconut Water

-ALO - Coco Exposed Pure Coconut Water+Real Aloe Vera Mangosteen +Mango

-Amy & Brian - All Natural Coconut Juice  

Tester number one being myself, tester number two, Gabe, posing with the flavored coconut waters. 

 

 Tester number two and three, Marita and little Emma, posing with the 100% plain coconut waters.  

Below is a rating from 1-10 for each drink, 1 indicating dislike and 10 indicating love. The favorites of the bunch are highlighted in yellow.  Emma ranked all hers with a 3 because she loved to write the number 3, but from her body language (ie. finishing the can of her favorite and refusing to finish the one she didn't like...we have her favorite and least favorite). Below each rating are a few collective descriptive words for each drink

Amy & Brian - All Natural Coconut Juice    

My rank- 10          Gabe- 9          Marita- 10          Emma- loved

sweetest, one of the favorites

ALO - Coco Exposed Pure Coconut Water + Real Aloe Vera Mangosteen + Mango 

My rank- 7          Gabe- 1          Marita- 6          Emma- liked

very different from the bunch, gel floaties of aloe can be unappealing to many

 

Vita Coco - Coconut Water Pineapple
My rank- 9          Gabe- 8          Marita- 8          Emma- liked

a true pineapple flavor, refreshing

Vita Coco - Coconut Water Peach & Mango
My rank- 9           Gabe- 8          Marita- 10        Emma- liked

sweet, very flavorful

Vita Coco - Coconut Water 100% Pure Orange 

My rank- 5          Gabe- 6          Marita- 2          Emma- disliked

orange flavor too much like medicine flavoring, immune booster drinks

Nature Factor - Organic Coconut Water
My rank- 7          Gabe- 6          Marita- 5          Emma- liked

C2O - Pure Coconut Water
My rank- 10        Gabe- 10        Marita- 10         Emma- liked

yum, well rounded sweetness, a collective favorite

Harvest Bay - All-Natural Coconut Water RTD
My rank- 7          Gabe- 5          Marita- 7          Emma- liked

Milky, nutty, flavorful

Amy & Brian - All Natural Coconut Juice With Lime
My rank- 8          Gabe- 10          Marita- 9         Emma- liked

refreshing, lemonade-like

Amy & Brian - All Natural Coconut Juice With Pulp     

My rank- 7          Gabe- 7          Marita- 8           Emma- liked

milky, mixed reviews on floating stuff in a drink 

Zico - Pure Premium Coconut Water Natural
My rank- 7          Gabe- 7          Marita- 3           Emma- liked

fruity, hint of grape flavor

Naked Juice Coconut Water

My rank- 4          Gabe- 5          Marita- 5          Emma- liked
Plain, lacked sweetness

Organic India: Fiber Harmony

Organic, with No artificial sweeteners, colors or flavors

Description

• Heart Healthy
• With Psyllium, Aloe Vera & Inulin
• USDA Organic
• Sugar Free
• Dietary Supplement
• 48 Servings
• Certified Organic by Ecocert

About Psyllium
India grows 85% of the world's Psyllium crop. Psyllium husk powder is a bulk forming natural dietary fiber which promotes good digestive health and regularity. Doctors recommend Psyllium as a convenient way to increase intake of dietary fiber. Psyllium husk can play an important role in the maintenance of a healthy gastro-intestinal function.

Organic Tri-Active Blend
They combine the benefits of Psyllium, Inulin, Aloe Vera Leaf, and Marshmallow Root to provide us with a daily fiber formula that vitalizes and soothes the digestive tract, keeps our colon healthy and provides us with heart healthy soluble fiber. Inulin, a prebiotic, helps grow beneficial bacteria needed to maintain a healthy colon. Aloe Vera helps promote digestive health by protecting the intestinal tract and aiding protein digestion and assimilation. Marshmallow Root helps soothe the digestive system.

Great tasting, all organic Orange Fiber Harmony is a healthy, effective way to start and end your day!

For heart health soluble fiber from foods such as psyllium in Fiber Harmony, as a part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. A serving of Fiber Harmony provides 2.5 grams of the 7 grams of soluble fiber from psyllium necessary per day to have this effect.

Recommended Intake:
Adults and Children over 12 years: One serving up to 3 times daily. Best taken before or between meals. Mix serving size with at least 8 oz of water, or milk substitute. Stir and drink immediately. If too thick, add more liquid and stir. Drinking an additional glass of water afterwards is advisable to ensure adequate hydration. I find it tastes great just in plain filtered water...but prefer to have it in 2/3 fresh squeezed organic orange juice and 1/3 filtered water.  It added more sweetness, flavor and Vitamin C.