Thursday, July 31, 2008

WHAT MATTERS MOST IS YOU!!!




As we come to the end of the month of July, I look back on all the things that have occured this month and I have to smile. There is so much that were meaningless and so much that was unexpected.

One thing I have learnt: YOU CAN'T TRUST MOST OF THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU. THEIR SMILES AND THEIR SUPPOSED KINDNESS COULD BE A SHAM. WATCH OUT AND KEEP YOURSELF AT BAY. THE WORLD IS A HARSH PLACE.

I want to tell people who have come to this conclusion that they are not alone. Everyday millions of people show their true colours and try to stop the happiness or progress of others. That is life. All you can do is smile and keep your head held high and do your job to the best of your ability and if you can get out, then it may be time to spread your wings and fly.

The pain and suffering you may feel if you stay in the job or situation that is taking all your happiness away is NOT WORTH IT!

There is more to life. Find peace and happiness with those you love and your world will be one you can live in and with.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

ONCE A CHEATER ALWAYS A CHEATER



This is the ONLY advice you need to follow if you suspect your man is cheating on you.
You think your man is cheating on you. The thought has at least crossed your mind. Something he may have said, or done, may have sparked a little doubt in your mind the he is being loyal.

It is far too easy in this situation to say " No, he's not like that," or " he wouldn't do that to me."

Let me tell you: He could, he can, and he will.

When you start suspecting your man is cheating on you, this is your female intuition raising a huge RED FLAG. You need to listen to what you think deep down in your gut, because this is the voice of truth that you NEED to hear and listen to.

12 tell-tale signs that he's cheating on you:
He's broke because all of his cash is going to the other woman.
He's been putting you down lately or picking fights with you (this is a tactic they use to ease their guilt).
They get defensive if you question where they've been or ask about females that he has been spending time with.

The first thing he does when he gets home is take a shower.
He has all of a sudden been meticulous with keeping his physical appearance up.
He doesn't have a lot of time for you, and he may have told you he's "working late" on many occasions.

He goes out at night, a lot. He may use the out with "buddies" excuse. When he's out, his phone is off, and goes straight to voicemail.
He's been getting a lot of calls/texts lately. He may act like he's in a rush to get off the phone.
He puts a password on his phone.
He hasn't put a password on his phone and you notice a lot of unknown numbers. (Beware, men will list their other women as businesses or names of men so you won't second-guess the calls).
Your sex life is non-existent
He asks you where you are all of the time. You think he's being concerned. The reality is... he's making sure he won't get caught in the act.

If any of the above behaviors ( or anything else you may feel is "sketchy" has been happening for an extended period of time, its likely that he is cheating on you. I don't recommend confronting him off the bat. He will lie. Men lie through their teeth because the last thing they want is to be confronted by a female.

10 things you can do to INVESTIGATE if you expect he's been cheating on you:

1. Closely monitor his phone activity and take notes. If he answers calls around you, does he act rushed to hang up with the person? Can you tell if its a female? If you have access to his phone and can go through it without him knowing, DO IT. Take note of all of the names and numbers in his phone book. Write down all incoming, outgoing, and missed calls. Make sure you notate the times and length of calls. If you're lucky enough to have the password to his voicemail. Check his messages from your phone often. If he doesn't keep his voicemail password protected, check his messages from his phone. Keep the following in mind: He might clear his call logs out ( a clear sign that theres something going on that he doesn't want you to see), He may store the other woman as a business or under a male's name, so that you won't pick up on it. Question everything. If he keeps his phone password protected, that is a clear sign he is cheating.

2. After taking extensive notes over a period of time on his call activity, do you notice any trends? A lot of late night calls? A lot of calls to the same two or three numbers? Perhaps some really LONG phone calls? Any phone numbers that raise your suspicion, call them. If you get the voicemail and its a female voice, you've found the other woman. If you get an automated voicemail, keep calling back. If you can't get access to his phone, intercept his mail and take his phone bill. No, its not a charming thing to do, but he's lying to you and all bets are off, just do it.

3. Pay close attention to his car. Are the seats moved around? If the passenger seat has been moved, especially closer to the dash, then its likely he had a female riding with him. Turn the radio on. Is it tuned to a station different than it normally is? Check the CD player for any unrecognized discs, or for any romantic or sexy music. Is your man suddenly keeping air fresheners in his car? Make sure you look in the glove box, under the seats, on the seats, all through the back seat for any sex stains, female hairs, condoms, condom wrappers, stray underwear, or any other evidence of another female.

4. Check the pockets of his clothes frequently. Look for receipts that may indicate a purchase for another woman, look for condoms or condom wrappers, look for anything that might indicate his cheating. Also check his wallet. If you can get a hold of his bank statement and credit card bill, even better. Check for restaurant charges, movie theater charges, hotel charges, shopping charges, and so on.

5. Pay attention to how his guy friends are acting around you lately. Has there been a change? Do they seem a little uncomfortable around you now? Maybe a little avoidant? Keep in mind that when men are having an affair they usually brag to their buddies. They think they're slick that you're in the dark. Listen to his conversations with his friends, does it sound like they have a new string of inside jokes? Does anything sound amiss to you? Whenever possible, talk to his friends as much as possible. If you can, try to catch your man in a lie through gaining information from his friends. Please note that you cannot let his friends know you suspect him of cheating. Guys will always cover up for other guys. However, you can for example ask your mans friend "JIm" what he did this weekend ( when your man isn't around) if he says he took a road trip to Colorado Friday- Monday, you know that your man wasn't being honest when he told you he was with "Jim" on Saturday night.

6.If he calls and asks you where you are, or ask what your schedules going to be like, LIE. If he doesn't know where you really are at any given time, he has more of a chance of getting caught in the act. If you live together, and you can find time, drop by your house on break, at varying times of the day, even if he's suppossed to be at work. You may very well drop by the house at 2pm on a Monday, and catch him in the act because he wasn't expecting you to be there. You can also try dropping by his job once in a while. Try not to make your prescence known. Oh, was he out to lunch? Does he USUALLY take his lunch with him and work through his lunch hour? You might want to take a quick drive around the area and see if you spot his car at any local hotels, restaurants, bars, etc.

7. On a night that he's going out with his "buddies" try to follow him. You have to be really discreet. If you don't think you can follow him without having him realize it, have someone you trust follow him. Did he do what he told you he was doing? If he told you he was going to be at such and such a friends house, drop by there with an excuse like " I'm locked out of my house, is my man here?" If he isn't, boom, he's lying to you.

8. Pay close attention to how he functions in his relationship with you. When you ask him what he did today, or yesterday or what have you, is he over explanatory? Does he take a long time to think up what he did? Does he look to the left ( a signal he is lying), does he avoid contact? Has he been so busy lately that he doesn't have time for you? Has he stopped buying you things, taking you out for special nights, or has he been sleeping over less? Does he seem really stressed out when you try to talk to him? Have you been fighting a lot lately? Men who cheat find themselves in fights with their significant others because they are on edge as they know they are two timing, they become more and more defensive and guilty acting.

9. Stop initiating physical contact with him. Don't be a cold fish, but let him make the moves and observe. Is he as "hot and heavy" for you as he used to be? Does he tell you he loves you anymore? Is your sex life dwindling? Does he withdraw if you initiate contact? If you ARE still having sex with your man. Use protection, you don't know who this other woman is or where she has been.

10. After you have gathered enough evidence and are pretty damn sure there is a possibility that your man is cheating... DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.


You may not have been lucky enough to catch him in the act, but if the signs are there, and your gut is correct, that is just as good. You can try to confront him, but very few men fess up. If you do confront him, do you believe his excuses? Listen to his gut.
Again, IF YOU THINK YOUR MAN IS CHEATING ON YOU HE PROBABLY IS.

Now some of you might be asking " Well I can't be 100% sure he is cheating on me, I don't feel right breaking up with him, innocent until proven guilty."

And my response is: If there are any signs that lead you to believe your man is cheating on you, you should leave him RIGHT now.

Are you going to wait until you find him and the other woman in your bed? Are you going to wait until he brings home a STD? Are you going to wait until he decides to leave you for her and you're left with no integrity?

If your man is being hot and cold, displaying sketchy behavior, is running around at all hours of the night doing god knows what, racking up numbers from women, getting his phone blown up by females...thats enough reason to leave him. I don't care if you have kids with this person, if your man is cheating YOU DO NOT GIVE HIM SECOND CHANCES What type of example would you be setting for these children if you took your man back? That its okay for men to act like this because women are so forgiving? Come on, you have more self-respect for yourself than that.

Giving your man a second chance only shows him what a sucker you are, and remember, once a cheater, ALWAYS a cheater.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

THERE WILL ALWAYS BE HATERS IN YOUR LIFE



HATERS

By Maya Angelou

A hater is someone who is jealous and envious and spends all their time
trying to make you look small so they can look tall.
They are very negative people to say the least. Nothing is ever good
enough!
When you make your mark, you will always attract some haters...That's
why you have to be careful with whom you share your blessings and your
dreams, because some folk can't handle seeing you blessed... It's
dangerous to be like somebody else...
If God wanted you to be like somebody else, He would have given you what
He gave them! Right? You never know what people have gone through to get
what they have...
The problem I have with haters is that they see my glory, but they don't
know my story... If the grass looks greener on the other side of the
fence, you can rest assured that the water bill is higher there too!
We've all got some haters among us!
People envy you because you can:
Have a relationship with God
Light up a room when you walk in
Start your own business
Tell a man / woman to hit the curb (if he / she isn't about the right
thing) Raise your children without both parents being in the home
Haters can't stand to see you happy, Haters will never want to see you
succeed, Haters never want you to get the victory, most of our haters
are people who are supposed to be on our side. How do you handle your
undercover haters?
You can handle these haters by:

1. Knowing who you are & who your true friends are *(VERY IMPORTANT!!)
2. Having a purpose to your life? Purpose does not mean having a job.
You can have a job and still be unfulfilled. A purpose is having a clear
sense of what God has called you to be. Your purpose is not defined by
what others think about you.
3. By remembering what you have is by divine prerogative and not human
manipulation.
Fulfill your dreams! You only have one life to live...when its your time
to leave this earth, you 'want' to be able to say, 'I've lived my life
and fulfilled 'my' dreams,... Now I'm ready to go HOME! When God gives
you favor, you can tell your haters, 'Don't look at me...Look at Who is
in charge of me...



'A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ that a man should have to
seek Him first to find her?'
Maya Angelou

Monday, July 28, 2008

SOFT, JUICE DRINKS CAN GIVE YOU DIABETES



Soft, juice drinks daily ups diabetes risk
BOSTON (UPI) -- Daily consumption of soft drinks and fruit drinks is associated with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes in African-American women, U.S. researchers said.

Lead author Julie Palmer of the Boston University School of Public Health examined data from the Black Women's Health Study -- an ongoing prospective study of 59,000 African-American women from all parts of the United States that included information on height, weight, demographic characteristics, medical history, usual diet and other factors. Every two years, follow-up questionnaires requested updated information on lifestyle factors, occurrences of diabetes and other serious illnesses.

The researchers found 2,713 participants developed diabetes during the first 10 years of follow-up in the study.

The study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, found women who consumed two or more soft drinks a day had a 24 percent increase in incidence of diabetes relative to women who drank less than one soft drink per month. A similar association was observed for sweetened fruit drinks, with a 31 percent increase observed for two or more servings per day relative to less than one per month.

"The public should be made aware that sweetened fruit drinks are not a healthy alternative to soft drinks with regard to risk of type 2 diabetes," Palmer said.




Copyright 2008 by United Press International

Sunday, July 27, 2008

A HELP FOR CANCER TREATMENT FROM ED DRUGS



Erectile dysfunction drugs boost chemo
LOS ANGELES (UPI) -- Medications prescribed for erectile dysfunction increased delivery of cancer-fighting drugs to treat malignant brain tumors, U.S. researchers said.

Researchers at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute said Viagra, or sildenafil and Levitra, or vardenafil, are known as PDE5 inhibitors because they block an enzyme, phosphodiesterase5, that interrupts a series of biochemical events that cause the decreased blood flow of erectile dysfunction.

A laboratory rat study, published online ahead of print in the journal Brain Research, found that similar biochemical interactions in the small vessels of the brain play a major role in the blood-brain tumor barrier, which impedes delivery of anti-tumor drugs into brain tumors. PDE5 inhibitors were found to open the barrier and increase drug transport in this early animal study.

"This is the first study to show that oral administration of PDE5 inhibitors increases the rate of transport of compounds across the blood-brain tumor barrier and improves the effectiveness of the anti-tumor drug adriamycin in the treatment of brain tumors in a rat model," neurosurgeon Dr. Keith L. Black said in a statement.




Copyright 2008 by United Press International

Saturday, July 26, 2008

A RECIPE TO DIE FOR



Herb Marinated Chicken on Spring Greens
8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp. fresh basil, chopped
1 Tbsp. fresh oregano, chopped
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp. lemon zest
Combination of salad greens like watercress, baby spinach, radicchio, romaine and curly endive.

Dressing Ingredients:
One half cup olive oil
One third cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
One half tsp. dried tarragon or 1 Tbsp. fresh
One half tsp. dried thyme or 1 Tbsp. fresh

Combine Dressing Ingredients and place in a shaker container

Combine garlic, basil, oregano, 1 cup olive oil and lemon zest together and stir. Place chicken in a large baking dish and pour marinade over chicken. Place in the refrigerator for several hours. Place chicken breasts on hot grill and cook until thoroughly done. Slice chicken into bite sized pieces. Place salad greens in 8 equal servings on dinner plates and place chicken slices on each plate, top with dressing.

The Skinny: Make sure you use skinless chicken breasts.

Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella

8 small potatoes washed and thinly sliced
One half cup olive oil
One half cup fresh parsley, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup grated Mozzarella cheese

Place potatoes in a large bowl. Combine olive oil, parsley, garlic and salt and pepper together and mix well. Pour over potatoes and toss. Place one half potatoes in a greased baking dish and top with one half cup of each cheese, follow with the rest of the potatoes and the rest of the cheese. Bake for 45 - 50 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

The Skinny: Use low fat cheeses.

Friday, July 25, 2008

NO SE HABLA INGLES



No Speak English

A Russian woman married a Canadian gentleman and they lived happily ever after in Toronto . However, the poor lady was not very proficient in English, but did manage to communicate with her husband. The real problem arose whenever she had to shop for groceries.

One day, she went to the butcher and wanted to buy chicken legs. She didn't know how to put forward her request, and in desperation, clucked like a chicken and lifted up her skirt to show her thighs. Her butcher got the message, and gave her the chicken legs.

Next day she needed to get chicken breasts, again she didn't know how to say it, and so she clucked like a chicken and unbuttoned her blouse to show the butcher her breasts. The butcher understood again, and gave her some chicken breasts.

On the 3rd day, the poor lady needed to buy sausages. Unable to find a way to communicate this, she brought her husband to the store...

AND GUESS WHAT HAPPENED????




What were you thinking? Hellooooooo, her husband speaks English!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

HAZ PENSADO EN QUE BUENO ES LA VIDA ULTIMAMENTE?



HAVE YOU STOPPED LATELY TO THINK HOW GREAT LIFE IS?

I seem to not be having a lot of free time for myself during the week but when the weekend comes I try to make time for myself and my moving out of Corozal has helped to do that because if I stay at home work follows me in the guise of people who come to see me about school. Don't get me wrong I love my job but I need my privacy and my free time so jumping across the border has created that for me. I always wondered what good it was that my parents chose to have me in Mexico City. Today I am really glad they did. My second choice would have been Puerto Rico but that I can deal with because I have hopes of visiting that country one day. It is a dream I have had since childhood and one I hope will be realized one day.

So have you stopped to smell the roses lately?
I have. And I have looked at the sky also. And I have looked at love square in the face and I have had love look back at me. So then, you may say, her world is complete. Ahhh, it almost is. But, I have a dream. It is a dream that one day... Sounds like Martin Luther King's speech doesn't it! But it doesn't have to be. YOU can all dream and you can all have dreams come true. So I have a dream that one day my world will be complete. And guess what? I am almost there! But while I work on it and nourish it with love and attention I ask you again, have you stopped to think how great life is?

Take time for yourself soon. Don't be crushed by work and deadlines. Push on and push out. Life is all it can be but you must stop and find time for that which brings you joy.

I am back. The travel was long and hard but the brain is ready to continue the fight and the struggle continues. And maybe one day the dream will become reality.

Have a great day. And remember to STOP AND TAKE A LOOK AT HOW GREAT LIFE IS AND HOW WONDERFUL IT IS TO BE ALIVE.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

BECAUSE YOU CAN



You think,
Because you can,

You work,
Because you can,

You smile,
Because you can,

You share,
Because you can,

You give love,
Because you can,

You tire,
Because you can,

But you go on,
Because you can,

So keep it real,
Because you can,

And all will be true,
Because they can,

And the world will be better,
Because it can!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Monday, July 21, 2008

ON THE COROZAL BAY




Hot sun glaring down,
Sea breeze blowing around,
A beach filled with sand and colour,
A tree in the park in full flower.

Speed boats zipping in the water,
Everywhere there is music and laughter,
The smell of barbecue fills the air,
As the blue sky overhead is ever so clear.

The beach side is packed with holiday makers,
As the catamaran takes to the breakers,
Then the band starts to play,
And adds to the joy of the holiday.

Orders for corn on the cob covered with cheese,
Or sliced pickled mangoes, your taste buds to tease,
Add to the ever so perfect day,
As everyone enjoys Easter on the Corozal Bay.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Saturday, July 19, 2008

A FRIEND



A friend is someone special,
A friend is someone true.
A friend will always be there,
When you need someone there for you.

A friend always listens,
A friend never says "good for you."
A friend will cry when you cry,
And wipe your tears by and by.

A friend will say just the right words,
A friend will share your pain.
A friend will be more than one of the girls,
Who will listen as you tell the tale over again.

So be a friend and you will see,
What treasure there is in caring,
For if you are a friend to me,
There will be much we will be sharing.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Friday, July 18, 2008

DON'T MESS WITH AN ATTORNEY... A JOKE FOR YOU

Sleeping Rough
A police chief, a fire chief and a city manager were traveling together by car to a municipal management conference in a distant city. Their car broke down in a rural area, and they were forced to seek shelter for the night at a nearby farmhouse.

The farmer welcomed them in but cautioned them that there were only two spare beds, and that one of them would have to sleep in the barn with the farm animals. After a short conference, the police chief agreed to take the barn.

Shortly after retiring, a knock was heard on the door of the farmhouse. The party inside answered to find the police chief standing there, complaining that he could not sleep. There were pigs in the barn, he said, and he was reminded of the days when everyone called him a pig. The fire chief then volunteered to exchange with the police chief.

A short time later, another knock was heard at the door. The fire chief complained that the cows in the barn reminded him of Mrs. O'Leary's cow that started the Chicago fire, and that every time he started to go to sleep, he started to have a fireman's worst nightmare, that of burning to death. The city attorney, in desperation for sleep, then agreed to sleep in the barn.

This seemed like a good idea until a few minutes later, when another knock was heard at the door. When the occupants answered the door, there stood the very indignant cows and pigs.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

A CAKE TO DIE FOR




Pineapple-Coconut Layer Cake EW (Test Kitchen)

For everyone who loves the flavors of the Caribbean, this festive cake has it all. Two layers of coconut-flavored cake are filled with sweet pineapple curd and topped with creamy coconut frosting, chunks of fresh pineapple and toasted coconut.

Servings: 16 servings
Total Time: 2 1/2 hours
Ease of Preparation: Moderate
Health: Low Cholesterol, Low Sodium


Ingredients:

Cake
1 1/2 cups cake flour
1 cup whole-wheat flour , preferably white whole-wheat (See Ingredient Note)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/3 cup canola oil
3 tablespoons butter , melted
3/4 cup nonfat buttermilk or milk
2 tablespoons coconut rum or dark rum
2 teaspoons coconut extract
3 large eggs , separated (reserve 2 yolks for pineapple curd)

Pineapple curd
2 large egg yolks
1 6-ounce can pineapple juice (3/4 cup)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 teaspoons cornstarch

Frosting & garnish
12 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel), at room temperature
1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar , sifted
1 teaspoon coconut extract or rum
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups finely diced fresh pineapple , divided
2 tablespoons toasted coconut (see Kitchen Tip)


Steps:


1: To prepare cake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat two 9-inch cake pans with cooking spray.

2: Sift cake flour, whole-wheat flour, baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt into a medium bowl. Beat 3/4 cup sugar, honey, oil and melted butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Whisk buttermilk (or milk), rum and coconut extract in a small bowl. With the mixer on low speed, alternately mix the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients into the sugar mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients and scraping the sides of the bowl as needed, until just combined.

3: Clean and dry the beaters. Beat 3 egg whites in a medium bowl with the electric mixer on medium-high until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whites into the batter in two additions until just combined. Divide the batter between the prepared pans, spreading to the edges.

4: Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 26 to 30 minutes. Cool in the pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Turn out and let cool to room temperature, about 1 hour.

5: To prepare curd: Whisk 2 egg yolks, pineapple juice, 1/4 cup sugar and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until thick and beginning to bubble, 3 to 5 minutes. Let cool completely.

6: To prepare frosting & assemble cake: Beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, extract (or rum) and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

7: Place one cake layer, top-side down, on a cake stand or plate. Spread evenly with the pineapple curd, stopping just short of the edge. Scatter 1/2 cup diced pineapple over the curd. Place the remaining layer, top-side up, on top. Spread the frosting over the top and sides. Decorate the top with the remaining 1 cup pineapple and toasted coconut.



Nutrition: (Per serving)

Calories - 317
Carbohydrates - 45
Fat - 13
Saturated Fat - 5
Monounsaturated Fat - 4
Protein - 6
Cholesterol - 48
Dietary Fiber - 1
Potassium - 101
Sodium - 205

Equipment: Two 9-inch round cake pans

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

BERRIES ARE ALL GOOD AND YUMMY




The Total-Body Benefits of Berries
By Brierley Wright, EatingWell.com
When it comes to health, berries have a fabulous reputation. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, called anthocyanins, that may help keep memory sharp as you age, and raspberries contain ellagic acid, a compound with anti-cancer properties. All berries are great sources of fiber, a nutrient important for a healthy digestive system. But if you need more reasons to dig into summer’s sun-kissed little fruits, look no further than two new studies, which suggest that berries may be good for your heart and your bones as well.


In a study of 72 middle-age people published recently in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, eating just under a cup of mixed berries daily for eight weeks was associated with increased levels of "good" HDL cholesterol and lowered blood pressure, two positives when it comes to heart health. Included in the mix were strawberries, red raspberries and bilberries—similar to blueberries—as well as other berries more common in Finland (where the research was conducted): black currants, lingonberries and choke berries.


"At the moment we do not know which berry, or berries, could have been the most active," says Iris Erlund, Ph.D., senior researcher at the National Public Health Institute in Helsinki and lead author of the study. But, in fact, the diverse range of polyphenols—a broad class of health-promoting plant compounds that includes anthocyanins and ellagic acid—provided by the mix of berries is likely responsible for the observed benefits. Polyphenols may increase levels of nitric oxide, a molecule that produces a number of heart-healthy effects. One is helping to relax blood vessels, which subsequently results in lowered blood pressure, says Erlund.


Polyphenols may also help preserve bone density after menopause, according to new research in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. Our bones are constantly "turning over"—breaking down and building back up. After menopause, when estrogen levels plummet, bone breakdown outpaces bone formation, and the result is bone loss, a risk factor for osteoporosis. In the study, rats that had their ovaries removed (to mimic an estrogen-deprived postmenopausal state) and were fed blueberries every day for three months significantly increased their bone density, scientists at Florida Study University discovered. "We believe that polyphenols in the berries slowed the rate [of bone turnover], ultimately saving bone," says Bahram Arjmandi, Ph.D., R.D., the study’s lead author and professor and chair of the department of nutrition, food and exercise sciences at FSU. More research is needed to know for sure whether the benefits translate to humans but, says Arjmandi, the data suggest that eating even a small amount of blueberries each day—perhaps as little as 1⁄4 cup—could be good for anyone’s bones.


Bottom line: Dig into a variety of berries regularly to reap the "total body" benefits of their polyphenols.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

CHARGING MORE THAN FAIR FOR A BRA

Retailer under fire for big bra surcharge
LONDON (UPI) -- British retailer Marks & Spencer has been pressured to justify a $4 surcharge on bras sized DD or larger, following complaints from large-breasted women.

The company claims the surcharge is necessary because larger bras are more difficult to construct, The Daily Telegraph reported.

Critics say the fee amounts to discrimination against curvy women.

Outraged shopper Beckie Williams said she organized a group on the social networking site Facebook to convince people to get Marks & Spencer to reverse the policy.

"Busty ladies, and anyone else with a vested interest in busty ladies, in fact anyone with a vested interest in simple justice, join forces to end this blatant discrimination," the Busts 4 Justice Internet group urges.

A Marks & Spencer spokesman said many women are "happy to pay a small premium" for the extra work that goes into making the bras.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International

Monday, July 14, 2008

LADIES, PLEASE DON'T APPROVE SEXIST SIGNS

City to take down sexist signs
ATLANTA (UPI) -- Atlanta officials said they would remove "Men At Work" signs from the city after an outspoken women's magazine editor complained they are discriminatory.

Cynthia Good, 48, editor of Atlanta-based PINK Magazine, called on officials last week to take down signs reading "Men At Work" or "Men Working Ahead," the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported Wednesday.

Public Works Commissioner Joe Basista said he would satisfy Good's request by replacing 50 old signs with new ones reading simply "Workers Ahead."

"We're calling on the rest of the nation to follow suit and make a statement that we will not accept these subtle forms of discrimination," Good said.

Good demanded the signs be taken down after Atlanta authorities tracked her down at work last month on suspicion she painted "wo" onto a sign reading "Men At Work," the newspaper said.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International

Sunday, July 13, 2008

PORQUE SIENTO...



Porque siento el frio?
Porque siento que ya no eres mio?
Porque siento un inquietud?
Porque siento que hay algo en tu attitud?

Porque siento que estes lejos,
Porque siento una distancia en tus besos?
Porque siento que no me quieres?
Porque siento que mio ya no eres?

Porque siento que el deseo se fue?
Porque lo siento, no lo se.
Porque siento que ya te perdi?
Porque siento que es asi?

Porque hay otra?

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Saturday, July 12, 2008

THE RESULT OF TELLING LIES - LIARS AND THE LIES THEY TELL




I guess people have been telling lies from the beginning of times so it is no doubt a thing we have all done at one time or many times in our lives.

Ever realized that eventually the lies you tell seem to be real and you are unable to separate reality from that which is no true? we could get taken up in our lies that we start believing them ourselvs.

One thing is obvious. IF YOU ARE GOING TO LIE BE PREPARED TO BE CAUGHT IN THOSE LIES. A warning to those who live there lives decieving others. Your lies are eventually found out and soone or late the people to who you tell the lies are award of your deception and just look at you when you lie and they lose their trust in you. You may be a good person in everything else but when you tell a lie you become slime.

Things Commonly lied about:
1. Your job
2. Your bills
3. Your fidelity
4. Your past
5. Your health
6. Your feelings

Why people lie:
1. To have others look up to them
2. To get others to feel sorry for them
3. To get money from others
4. To have control over a person
5. To get things from people

How often are these LIARS caught:
EVERY SINGLE TIME IF THE LIES INVOLVE MORE THAN ONE MORE PERSON.

What should a LIAR do?
1. theRe are counsellors whom they can talk too
2. They HAVE TO stop telling lies
3. They should accept that they are doing something that hurts them and the people they tell the lies to
4.They have to admit that they have a problem
5. They need to make a clean break and start over without lies.

YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE. THERE ARE QUITE A FEW OF YOU OUT THERE. DO A SELF EVALUATION. 99.9% OF THE PEOPLE YOU TELL LIES TO ALREADY KNOW THAT YOU ARE DOING IT. YOU ARE ACTUALLY JUST MAKING AN ASS OF YOURSELF. STOP ADDING PAIN TO INJURY. IF YOU DON'T CHANGE YOU WILL BE THE ONLY LOSER IN THE END.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre, BA

Friday, July 11, 2008

CONTROLLING MEN




It seem like everyday there is mention of brutality in the home across the nation and around the world.

The cry is out. How do we stop men from trying to control us? In the first place, who died and made them gods? We have got to step up to the plate and re-possess our lives if we are to survive in these trying times.

For every women who has to live with a man who is over protective or over-possessive it is a well-known fact that her life is one of stress and frustration. You lose your identity and if you do not recover it some time soon you are lost forever in his world. Trust me, it is not the right place to be. It is not the life you were brought into this world for. If you want to regain you self esteem you have got to recover from the madness that the controlling bastard has on your life.

Get up, woman! This is the dawn of a new day. Don't make me write in vain. It is 3:49 a.m in the morning and I am willing to give you sound advice. Can you hear ME?

There is so much in this world that you can do. If HE cannot appreciate you then it is time to move away and try to make a life of your own. It is time for you to realize that these idiots are never going to change. They may cry and beg you to stay when you try to leave and they will try to pretend that they can change. For a while things will be beautiful but then they will fall right back on track and the abuse will begin again. MEN CAN'T CHANGE. It is not in their frame. It is not in their make-up! If he is cheating on you, he will always cheat on you. Those promises that fall on your ears MUST fall on DEAF EARS if you are to survive.

DO NOT BELIEVE A LION IN SHEEP CLOTHING.

I am the voice of wisdom. I am the voice of life. I am the voice of choice. I AM WOMAN! HEAR ME ROAR!

LOOK OUT WORLD. WE ARE ONLY JUST BEGINNING! A NEW DAY HAS COME. NEW LIFE HAS BE CREATED AND YOU, MAN, WHO TRY TO CONTROL, HAVE CREATED A MONSTER OF CHOICE. THE TIME IS NOW. THE END IS NEAR. AN YOU FEEL IT YET? WE NOW RFUSE TO BE HELD BACK, PUT DOWN AND TURNED AROUND. YOU ARE NOW A PAWN ON THE CHESS BOARD OF A NEW GAME CALLED - WOMAN IMMORTAL!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

FEMALES FUGITIVES GET MORE SYMPATHY




Claim: Female fugitives get more sympathy
DETROIT (UPI) -- U.S. society has less compassion for male fugitives than female fugitives, psychologists and image experts claim.

Experts say people may be more forgiving of female fugitives because of intrinsic, almost primitive, attitudes they have regarding motherhood, The Detroit News reported Monday.

"The mother is a deified status," said Michael Bernacchi, a marketing professor at the University of Detroit Mercy.

Experts have compared the separate cases of Roger Crona, 61, and Susan LeFevre, 53, two Michigan residents arrested in California after fleeing the Midwest in the 1970s.

LeFevre, a prosperous mother who fled Michigan 1976 after admitting to selling cocaine, has been the center of a frenzy of publicity and public support since her arrest in Southern California.

Crona, a father who fled a Michigan prison in 1972 after being jailed for license plate forgery, received sparse media attention after police found him in February in Santa Barbara, Calif.

Experts say the public's divergent reactions to the similar cases suggest society may perceive women in a more sympathetic light.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International

Thursday, July 10, 2008

PARA MEJORAR TU SALUD HAY QUE SER OPTIMISTA




Want better health? Be an optimist
BOSTON (UPI) -- Studies suggest that optimists enjoy better health than pessimists, a U.S. newsletter reports.

The May issue of Harvard Men's Health Watch says many studies have reported optimism influences health. The findings include:

-- Optimistic coronary bypass patients were only half as likely as pessimists to require re-hospitalization.

-- Highly pessimistic men were three times more likely to develop hypertension.

-- People with positive emotions had lower blood pressures.

-- In one study, the most pessimistic men were more than twice as likely to develop heart disease compared with the most optimistic.

But people who are healthy are likely to have a brighter outlook than people who are ill, so perhaps optimism is actually the result of good health instead of the other way around.

To counter this argument, scientists have adjusted their analyses to account for pre-existing medical conditions and these studies found that existing illnesses did not tarnish the benefits of optimism, the newsletter says.

Optimists may enjoy better health and longer lives because they lead healthier lifestyles, build stronger social support networks and get better medical care, or optimism may have biological benefits, such as lower levels of stress hormones and less inflammation, the Health Watch says.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

GOTTA EAT MORE!!




Most U.S. women have 'disordered eating'
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (UPI) -- Sixty-five percent of U.S. women ages 25 to 45 report having disordered eating behaviors, such as skipping meals or cutting out food groups, a study found.

The survey of 4,023 women by Self Magazine and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill also found 10 percent of women reported symptoms consistent with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

"More than 31 percent of women in the survey reported that in an attempt to lose weight they had induced vomiting or had taken laxatives, diuretics or diet pills at some point in their life," Cynthia R. Bulik of the UNC School of Medicine said in a statement. "Among these women, more than 50 percent engaged in purging activities at least a few times a week."

The survey also found:

-- 67 percent of women are trying to lose weight.

-- 53 percent of dieters are already at a healthy weight and are still trying to lose weight.

-- 39 percent of women say concerns about what they eat or weigh interfere with their happiness.

-- 37 percent regularly skip meals to try to lose weight.

-- 26 percent cut out entire food groups.

-- 13 percent smoke to lose weight.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

BELIZEAN RECEIVES EDITOR'S CHOICE AWARD FROM ISP



A personal note from the desk of:

Howard Ely, Managing Editor
________________________________________
Dear Brenda Ysaguirre,
I am delighted to inform you that your poem "Triki, My Sunshine Girl" has been awarded our prestigious Editor's Choice Award because it displays an original perspective and unique creativity -- judged to be the qualities found most in exceptional poetry. Congratulations on your achievement!

EDITOR’S CHOICE AWARD PRESENTED TO

Brenda Ysaguirre
2007
FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN POETRY
PRESENTED BY POETRY.COM AND THE INTERNATIONAL LIBRARY OF POETRY

Your poem is also featured in a deluxe hardbound edition. This anthology, as expected, will soon be sold out. We have, however, reserved a limited number of copies that are now available only to poets included in this distinctive volume. Because you are one of these poets, we wanted to remind you of its limited availability. If you haven't already ordered a copy or wish to obtain additional copies, this is your last opportunity to do so. Don't miss out on owning this unique edition featuring your poem!
Display Your Poem For All The World To See!
Many people have asked if we can make available a commemorative plaque to present their poetry in formal fashion. We are glad to be able to do this. Your poem can be beautifully typeset on archive quality vellum with your choice of borders, then mounted on a walnut-finish plaque under Lucite. These 10 1/2-inch by 13-inch plaques are truly impressive ways to exhibit your work. They also make wonderful gifts. Please see the attached material for further information. Again, congratulations on your achievement!

Imagine Having Your Poem Professionally Recorded . . .
Every so often, as our Editors review the poems that have been presented our Editor's Choice Award, they personally select a few poems that they believe would have a wonderfully expressive quality if read by a professional reader. Your Editor has suggested that you become one of 33 poets whose artistry will be recorded professionally as a special part of a new CD poetry collection -- The Sound of Poetry.
I would like your permission to include your poem "Triki, My Sunshine Girl" in this highly acclaimed and internationally distributed collection. The Sound of Poetry, released as a 33-track, three-album CD set (one track for each poet), features an inspiring introduction as a prelude to the selected artistry, as well as a brief commentary about each featured poem and poet. Captivating Baroque music forms the background to the spoken words.

And Brenda, if you wish to obtain a copy of this three-CD set, select the option on the Artist Proof where it says “Yes, I wish to own a copy of The Sound of Poetry. I must be completely delighted or my money will be promptly refunded.”
Just imagine how your friends and family will feel when they see this remarkable album set, which comes in three high-quality, colorful protective cases all housed in a distinctive slipcase . . . when they hear your name . . . your words . . . all presented as part of this exclusive collection. These albums will instantly become a treasured keepsake to all who see, hear, and enjoy them.
Sincerely,

Howard Ely
Managing Editor
P.S. Go here to commemorate your achievement.

Monday, July 7, 2008

OPPOSING FEMALE BISHOPS

Conservatives oppose female bishops
LONDON (UPI) -- A group of priests, including 11 active bishops, have threatened to leave the Church of England if its General Synod approves the consecration of women.

A letter to Rowan Williams, the archbishop of Canterbury, and John Sentamu, the archbishop of York, was signed by 1,300 members of the clergy, The Times of London reported. About 10 percent of the active clergy and hundreds of retirees are among the signers.

The synod, which begins Friday in York, is expected to vote on whether women should be allowed to serve as bishops.

Another vote would determine whether those who disagree would be allowed to have a network of churches with an exclusively male clergy. To complicate matters, another group has said it opposes any special facilities for those who do not support women in the priesthood.

The disagreement in the English church comes as the worldwide Anglican communion threatens to split over homosexual priests. A group of conservatives met in Jerusalem last week and decided to set up a parallel structure that would remain Anglican but would not recognize Williams' authority.

Williams in a statement, warned the dissidents to think carefully about what they are doing, The Telegraph said.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International

Sunday, July 6, 2008

NEW MOMS TESTED FOR HIV INFECTION IN MOTHERLAND



LONDON (UPI) -- Hundreds of new mothers in Britain are being tested for the HIV virus after learning the doctor who delivered their babies has the deadly virus.

Women who had Caesarean section births at two hospitals in Essex were sent letters urging the tests to determine whether they contracted HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, The Daily Mail reported Friday.

Tracy Cause, 33, from Leigh-on-Sea, said she found it unbelievable that someone working with mothers and babies could be infected with HIV and potentially passed along the virus.

"The letter from the hospital said they were aware it could be upsetting but that doesn't even come close," Cause said.

Basildon Hospital in Essex sent 126 warning letters and 66 were mailed to patients at Southend Hospital.

The doctor worked at both of the hospitals between 2006 and 2007 but reportedly was moved to a "risk free" role, the newspaper said.

Dr. Stephen Morgan, Basildon medical director, said, it was "rare" for an infected healthcare worker to infect a patient.

A Health Protection Agency spokesman said patients were being asked to contact a helpline for a "consultation where they will be offered advice, counseling and a blood test."

Copyright 2008 by United Press International

Saturday, July 5, 2008

BE SAFE OUT OF DOORS



PART III
TAKE CARE IN WATER

Do not go swimming alone. Bathing will cool you but remember that fatal accidents can happen very esaily and in the most unexpected conditions. Adults should watch each other for signs of trouble when in the water. Children should always be supevised by an adult who can swim well. Young children should never be left unattended near a stretch of water, even a paddling pool.

If you are going to dive into water, make sure that it is deep enough for you to do so safely. Each year, many people are permanently paralysed as a result of injuries sustained from diving into shallow water.

Friday, July 4, 2008

BE SAFE OUT DOORS



PART II
AVOID INSECT AND ANIMAL BITES


To avoid insect and animal bites. Use insect repellent preparations preferably one containing DEET and cover arms and legs when advised or if you notice that there are too many insects around or biting you.

Animal bites can set up infections which can be serious and sometimes fatal. BE WARY OF EVEN APPARENTLY TAME ANIMALS.

If you go aboard and there is a lot of mosquitoes or biting insects try to make sure your legsare covered after sunset. Sleep in properly screened rooms and employ a knockdown spray to kill mosquitoes in the room. Use a mosqioto net around the bed at night, preferably one that is impregnated with an insecticide. You should make sure that there are no holes in it and that it is well tucked in.

While these are good preventive methods you are still not one hundred percent safe so if you develop a fever, or feel ill, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If you get ill when you are back in your country make sure to tell the doctor that you were aboard and if you know there was malaria or some other disease present in the country then let him know.

REMEMBER: PREVENTION IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN CURE BUT IF CURE IS NECESSARY THE FACTS MUST BE GIVEN TO THE DOCTOR.

Thursday, July 3, 2008

BE SAFE OUT DOORS




PART I
TAKE CARE IN THE SUN

It is summer time and many of you will be travelling in search of sun and fun. The sun should be enjoyed, please remember to avoid overexposure because it can cause sunburn, leading to premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer. It is the ultraviolet rays which cause this; even in cold or cooler countries like England they cns damage your skin, and the ultraviolet rays are more powerful the nearer to the equator you go.

If you want to avoid trouble, TAKE CARE NOT TO BURN. Make sure children and babies are neer directly in the sun for a long time. Nearer on to mid-day - 2 hours around mid-day - avoid direct exposure of the sun. Wide brimmed hats and protective creams
suitable for your skin type can help protect unaviodably exposed prts of the body. Wear sunglasses which filter UV rays to protect your eyes.

Remember that a separate risk of overexposure to he sun is sunstroke or heatstroke, caused simply by overheating. Avoid strenuous activity duing the hottest hours, and make sure you drink plenty of non- alcoholic liquids to balance the loss of body fluid through perspiration. What you drink must be safe either soft drinks from sealed cans or bottles, or water which had been boiled or is bottled.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

LIFE HAAD OUT YA



I wonder what is going on in the world today. We hear talk of food shortage and crime rate going up. I guess the cost of food and other necessities are the reaon why suddenly we hear of robberies and fights and murders.

I seriously believe it is time for us to re-evaluate what we are doing. It is time for us to stop and while we smell the flowers we have got to slow down and not spend unnecessarily. We have got to stop letting our children believe that we can do magic. We must learn to tell them no sometimes.

The Belizean saying "LIFE HAAD OUT YA" which means "LIFE IS HARD OUT HERE" is more true today than ever before. Analysts believe that things will get worst before it gets better. It is time for us to buckle up and face reality.

Brend A. Ysaguirre

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

WOMAN, KNOW YOUR WORTH




Stand tall,
Be someone,
Don't fall,
Because of a man.

You can feel,
You can see,
When all is not real,
You know the woman you can be.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre