Using the Chore Chart (with fines and younger children)

Here are the two previous posts I made about the "fine jar" and using the chore chart with younger children. Several members missed reading these posts, and e-mailed me about them, so I am resending them. If you would like the chore chart, please e-mail me for it, since attachments will likely be removed through Yahoo. (I will try to attach it, you can check for it, in case you'd like to use it.)

USING THE CHORE CHART (with fines):

We have used it for years, attached to their bulletin boards. My DD16, said it was THE REASON why she still keeps her bedroom so neat and tidy!!! The list "trained" her to do regular maintenance. When the 3 weeks were over, I would add up the totals, and pay them a small allowance, which was really motivating for them! (If they didn't do the jobs, they were fined double what the payout would have been!) At the end of the week, the child who did the most work, earned all the money in the fine pot too!!! This was a HUGE motivator! You really need to be specific what a "clear win" is, especially if kids have totals that are very close. You may need to "split" the fine jar between them. Write out all the rules BEFORE you start, if you plan to use that method, so there are no problems on "pay day"!!! Our kids LOVED this!!!

USING THE CHORE CHART WITH YOUNGER CHILDREN:

At the time we first used the charts, I had a brand new baby (my 5th), and my little girl was ony 4 years old! She LOVED checking off her jobs as she did them. I attached the choreganizers cards with velcro to a vinyl chart. We made a lot of our own cards, since I felt that many jobs were left out of the Choreganizers Charts. We laminated them, prior to sewing on the velcro. She loved to pull off the picture of the job that was finished, and then put it in the plastic "pamphlet" holder rack that we screwed onto the cork bulletin board. It worked quite well!!!

PS/ The link to the "Modified Choreganizers Chart" is in my blogspot, in case you missed my previous post. You may have to "scroll down" to find it:

http://organizingannie.blogspot.com/2005_09_01_organizingannie_archive.html#112723760569707451

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

XBX EXERCISES (Great for homeschoolers too!!!)

A FREE download to the XBX (Royal Canadian Airforce Exercises for women), is at this link: (The book is no longer in print, and can be possibly found at used bookstores, or through used on-line bookstores.) I have found an extremely helpful link below:
http://www.interactive-xbx.com/
(Interactive XBX Plan with help to select your target exercise level!!!)

My goal for February is to start up this exercise and STICK to it DAILY!!! I need to get in shape, and I have done these exercises before and know that they work!!! Using the "Army Walk" along with this exercise, I've been able to totally "tone up".

So here goes....to this latest challenge of mine..........any takers???? Who will join me????? This exercise program is FREE!!!!!!!

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Grocery Checklist Help

"MyGroceryChecklist.com is pleased to announce that is has been selected as one of 2000's Most Useful Hot Sites by USA Today!!"

http://www.mygrocerychecklist.com
(Note: They have a $10.00 annual fee.)

A FREE link to a healthy grocery list is:
http://www.mygrocerychecklist.com

A helpful "blank" grocery list template is:
http://www.mygrocerychecklist.com

A grocery list with boxes to "check" off is:
http://www.mygrocerychecklist.com

Any other suggestions to helpful "grocery list" links, will be most welcome!!!

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Re: Are you exercising?

Thanks, Cheryl for sharing this link!!! The specific location for the free download of the Xbx exercises is below:

http://www.statesa.com/gettingfit/xbx.php

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com
*************************************************************************************

Cheryl wrote: Hi, I am new to the group and I just wanted everyone to know that after reading the blog about this plan I found a site where you can download the original pamphlet for free. The web address is:

http://www.statesa.com/gettingfit/simplefitness.php

I hope this helps everyone.

Cheryl

--- Organizing Annie wrote:

It is important to keep physically active. There are various exercise plans available, which enable you to exercise at home. One of my FAVORITE exercise plans is the Xbx plan by the Royal Canadian Air Force. It takes only 15 minutes a day, out of your busy schedule. I love this program, since this is a manageable block of time to work with. Their program starts you off VERY gradually, and builds you up your endurance slowly. It is adapted to your specific age group. There is also a 5bx program for men. (My father used it for years!) If you would like to read more about it, please visit my blogspot. All you will need, is a timer, exercise mat (or towel on your carpet), and the pocket book, which is very reasonably priced.

A link for the book is: XBX EXERCISES
(I do not recommend paying more than $20.00 for this book, since used book sellers are selling it for under $20.00.)

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Take Some Time for YOU!!!

You are precious is the site of God!!! You are commanded by scriptures to look after yourself. If we don't look after ourselves properly, how can we care for our families the way God intended us to?

"Love your neighbor as yourself." (Leviticus 19:18)

Take time to fellowship with family and friends! Try to get out at least once a week, to attend a Bible study, or other activity to get you out of the house, so you are not isolated. Don't neglect your own interests. Dr. Dobson has an interesting article devoted to Christian husbands. The link is below:

http://www.family.org/married/comm/a0019596.cfm

The work you do for His children, is precious in His sight!!!

"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)

http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/mesg/tsmileys2/40.gif

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Free Family Newsletter (from Focus on the Family)

My brother, a pastor, just sent me this information with useful articles and links from Focus on the Family:

http://www.fotf.ca/familyfacts/target=

You can sign up for their FREE newsletter. The newsletter is called: "TODAY'S FAMILY NEWS".

The website for Focus the Family is

http://www.fotf.ca/familyfacts/target=

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Waist-Trimming Exercises

An excellent "waist trimmer", is to sit on a chair, with a broomhandle or vacuum bar handle (just the tube part), and rotate from side to side. Hold the bar behind your neck, just above your shoulders. You twist from left to right as far as you can go. Start with about 10X to each side (alternating each time), and then the next month go to 15X, then 20 X, 25X and then maintenance at about 30X to each side. This exercise is a great one to firm up the muscles around the waist!!! I found this one on the "Shape-Ups" exercise chart, that my chiropractor gave me.

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

An EXCELLENT Pedometer!!!!

If you are looking for a REALLY accurate pedometer, that is 99% (or more) accurate, I found one, after doing a LOT of research on the internet. It is made by YAMAX, in Japan. (The Japanese were the first to pioneer the "10,000 Steps" program, and we in the west are JUST catching on!!!) The model I bought was a Digi-Walker SW700, and sold through:

http://www.stepscount.com

(It records steps, calories burned and distance.) It sells for ~$41.99 CAN. funds, and you can purchase replacement parts for it, which most pedometer companies don't do. (This is the only company that I know that does this.) When our clasps broke after two years of use, (my DHs and mine), we ordered new replacement parts for $6.95 each, which is a LOT cheaper than buying a new pedometer! I LOVE my pedometer! It comes with a book, and a safety clasp, so you don't accidentally "flush" your pedometer if it comes off. (Believe me, this DOES happen....since a friend of mine told me that her mother flushed her $50.00 pedometer down the toilet!) :( So, hopefully these tips will help somebody out there!

~Annie :)

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PedometerLadies/ ~A pedometer group!

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Re: Will I Make It?

Shannon wrote: "I am really starting to wonder if I am going to
make it, Ladies. I love my children (ages 3, 2, and 5 months). We moved about a month ago for my husband to begin full-time church ministry. Every room is
still filled with boxes." *************************************************************************************
Annie wrote:

Hi Shannon! I've been through multiple moves with little ones:

Move #1 - with the birth of my second child (six weeks old) ~ 2 kids then
Move #2 -- with the birth of my third child (only days old) ~ 3 kids then International Move #3 -- to Africa with a 18month old ~4 kids then (2 in diapers) International Move #4 -- 7-8 months pregnant with # 5!!!

The worst move was the international move to Africa. I dejunked like mad, and gave away TONS of stuff. I could not have managed without the help of dear friends, relatives, and the prayers of others. God's grace was wonderful!!!

THIS IS MY ADVICE:

1) Pray, pray, pray!!!
2) Try to get help from somebody! Can you hire a homeschooled teenager to babysit the kids, while you unpack?
3) Is there a relative or a friend who can help you out? 4) Call your church, and let them know you need help! (Someone should be there to help your family out. Many churches have diaconal help.)

My two older daughters are now helping out another young mom (expecting her 3rd) several times a week. They are paid minimum wage, and are thankful to be able to help her out. This may be a solution for you. Keep us posted! You will be in our prayers! I can TOTALLY relate! If you are new to the community, please contact a church to help you. I found a lot of prayer support and help through Aglow:

http://www.aglow.org
(An international Christian womens' group, with chapters around the world.)

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Getting kids to help you at home......

I posted a message at my blogspot, with a photo of our "Modified Choreganizers Chart":
http://organizingannie.blogspot.com/2005_09_01_organizingannie_archive.html#112723760569707451

The checklist with the 16 specific bedroom jobs is in the FILES for my groups. If you would like have a copy, please e-mail me. I used multiple homemaking books, to create this chart, which includes a pretty comprehensive list of bedroom chores!

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Homeschoolers Discussion Board - S.H.E. Link

I thought that some of you might find this homeschoolers link helpful!!! There are a LOT of topics being discussed. If you don't see one that interests you, you can start a new thread!!! I LOVE these forums!!! They are wonderful!!!

http://www.sheforums.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=3

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Grocery Checklist Help!!!

"MyGroceryChecklist.com is pleased to announce that is has been selected as one of 2000's Most Useful Hot Sites by USA Today!!"

http://www.mygrocerychecklist.com (Note: They have a $10.00 annual fee.)

A FREE link to a healthy grocery list is: http://nutrition.about.com/library/ngrocery_list.htm

A helpful "blank" grocery list template is: http://www.organizedtimes.com/grocery.htm

A grocery list with boxes to "check" off is: http://www.bluesuitmom.com/food/activities/grocerylist.html

Any other suggestions to helpful "grocery list" links, will be most welcome!!!

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Re: The Bleach Pen (A HUGE laundry help!!!!)

Thanks TZ!!! I found the link for "Tide To Go" at:

http://www.tide.com/tidetogo/;jsessionid=XPJNWADEQGGQJQFIAJ10YEQ?_requestid=179782

Thanks for the helpful warnings and tips about the bleach pen and using (straight) bleach on fabric, with the Qtip and some water! I'll have to try that too!

~Annie
*************************************************************************************TZ wrote: "Gotta be careful on fabric with the bleach pen. It can ruin fragile fabrics, even bleachable ones, because the pen is so concentrated. I've found that dampening the stain and "painting" it out with a q-tip dipped in straight bleach works well. Remember to wet the stain first, though, and to watch it as it bleaches out -- then rinse the bleach out and wash as usual. Another miracle I've found is Tide To GO. Use it before you wash the item. It must have enzymes because it works wonders on fresh food stains."

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

The "Bleach Pen" ..... (A HUGE laundry help!!!)

This morning I was ready to get rid of my DS7's sweat shirt, due to all the food, dirt and grass stains on it. I thought that it was "beyond help"! Well, I suddenly remembered the "Bleach Pen" that I purchased several weeks ago, and used it!!! What a miraculous transformation!!! ALL the stains came out, including some "very old" ones, and the shirt came out LIKE NEW!!! This pen is dual-tipped (with a "pen-tip" for precise bleaching, and and a "brush-tip" for bigger spots.) What a HUGE saver!!! I LOVE this pen, since it saves bleaching the entire garment, which you do not want to do, when other colours are on the garment, plus it isn't great for the fabric OR the environment. I wish I had photographed it for a "before" and "after" photo!!!

I found a link for the pen at: http://www.cloroxbleachpen.com

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

FOOD 411

"food411.com is the ultimate food resource for everything on the Web related to online food shopping opportunities; gourmet foods, ingredients, recipes, cooking, and dining, food blogs, unique gift ideas, meals delivered--each and every listing has been carefully reviewed and hand-selected. An invaluable resource, whether you're looking for specialty food ingredients, unusual kitchen tools, a memorable food gift, or the very best brownies! We uncover new products/sites ( with a focus on artisanal products) & update daily, so be sure to bookmark us. Sign up for our monthly email, they are creative & informative."

http://www.food411.com

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Order and Peace

"God wants you to live a life of order and peace. Where there's no order, there's no peace." ~Elisabeth Elliot - "A Heart for God"

"God is not a God of disorder but of peace." ~I Corinthians 14:33

Let's work hard at keeping order in our homes. With the Lord's help, we CAN do it!!!

"Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman"

One of my favorite books that I read in my early years of marriage, was called:

"Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman" (by Anne Ortlund)

I found a link for it at: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0849929830/103-9105480-4218262?v=glance&n=283155

This book was easy to read, inspirational and most of all, motivational!!! The website for the ministry of Ray and Anne Ortlund is:

http://ortlund.org/

~Annie

THE THIN COMMANDMENTS

"THE THIN COMMANDMENTS. Stephen Gullo, medical doctor and founder of the Institute for Health and Weight Sciences in New York, builds on the ideas in his best-selling THIN TASTES BETTER with this new guide. Gullo leads the willing reader into the lifestyle changes necessary for lasting weight loss. In THE THIN COMMANDMENTS, dieters will find specific, concrete instructions that bring Gullo's years of experience together with inspiring new ideas for optimum results. The simple and straightforward plan presented here opens with a "turbocharge" beginning stage, and follows with continuing step-by-step guidance."

http://product.ebay.com/The-Thin-Commandments-Diet_ISBN_1579548989_W0QQfvcsZ1388QQsoprZ43393223

Has anyone heard of this book or "The Institute for Health and Weight Sciences" (in New York)???? Feedback would be appreciated!!!!

~Annie

Marriage Resolution.......

Greet Your Spouse at the Door!!! "If the dog can greet your spouse at the door, why can't you?" I heard this comment on the "Intelligence for Your Life" show today. A 10 second kiss (not just a peck) helps to release those "feel good" hormones and diffuses a lot of stress at the end of a day!!!

http://www.tesh.com

Try it!!! Then you can "kiss "n tell" the rest of us!!!

"Live Your Life for Half the Price"

"Without Sacrificing the Life You Love" (by Mary Hunt)

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product/?item_no=79101&p=1010575

I just heard this link on the radio this afternoon, on the John Tesh radio show: http://www.tesh.com

He said he'd post this helpful link on his site:

http://www.freecycle.com

(Apparently one women said she outfitted her child's entire room for FREE using this website!!!!!!!)

~Annie

S.H.E. (Side-Tracked Home Executives) Forum Links

If you prefer to post your "To Dos" and "Ta Das" at a ladies' forum, this one may be of interest to you!

http://www.sheforums.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=6

Since there are thousands of women on the members list, there are always women working on this challenge!!!

Favorite Cleaning Supplies

I purchase my favorite cleaning supplies and products, from my favorite cleaning author and inspirational housekeepinig speaker, Mr. Don Aslett!!! He is a best-selling author, and his books have been published in other languages. A humourous one is, "Is There Life After Housework?" (The video by this topic is hilarious!!!) His website, to receive his free newsletter, is:

http://www.cleanreport.com

CHANGES I MADE IN MY CLEANING HABITS:

1) I use professional spray bottles, cleaners, squeegees, etc. It really makes a difference!!! Washing windows with professional tools was one of the best changes I made. He teaches you how do clean professionally in his videos and books.
2) I use toilet mops!!! It sure beats the toilet brushes!!! You can actually clean under the rims with them!!! By pumping the water out of the bowl like he recommends, you actually get the cleaner in contact with the grime, and use less product! (It's not diluted with water.) I used to work as chambermaid, as a student, and we ALL had to use the mops to clean the toilets!
3) I use the refillable bottles!!! It is more economical to refill the sprayer bottles, than to keep buying new ones!!! (ie. Windex) Another point I like, is that I make fewer trips to the store, hunting in the cleaning supplies for cleaning products! If I run out, I just go to my stash of concentrates, and refill my spray bottles! What a time saver!!!

~Thanks to my dear sister-in-law, who introduced me to Don Aslett and his hilarious and helpful housekeeping books!!!

~Annie

Re: "CHALLENGE TO PLAY" (Are you taking time for "brain workouts"???)

Well, I decided the word search books I had at home were too large to carry around, so I found one, that will keep me busy for awhile! This one is virtually pocket size (large print, for us over 40!) and I can stash it in my purse as I dash out the door! I plan to take it with me to the poolside this weekend, while 6 of my kids take their swimming lessons. That way I can exercise my brain! For those of you who missed the first post that opened this discussion, you may wish to check out the links on the importance of doing "brain workouts". It will definitely improve your memory! For us "forgetful types", we need ALL the help we can get! (It only cost me $2.00 at the Dollar Store and will provide hours of entertainment!)

Now to "beef up" this challenge a bit, how about SETTING A TIMER, and seeing how fast you can complete each search???? Try set a record (for yourself), and then "beat the previous record"???

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com
http://www.advicefromannie.blogspot.com

*************************************************************************************

"THE "CHALLENGE TO PLAY" (my previous post in case you missed it!!!)

"Play - believe it or not, playing games helps your memory. Crossword puzzles, word searches, and other games help with information recall."

Source: http://www.bafound.org/support/strategy.php

"The old saying "use it or lose it" describes the aging memory. Some activities that are recommended for maintaining memory as one ages are crossword puzzles and word searches. Proper nutrition entails getting the correct amounts of vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and trace elements that the body needs as it ages. A good physical exercise program helps to maintain overall general health."

Source: http://www.uspharmacist.com/index.asp?show=article&page=8_1228.htm


The article below, is about a girl called Jennifer, who is a post-brain tumour survivor, who works on "word searches, puzzles and writing to people" to
improve her memory! (ie. Posting to this site, is great for improving your memory!)

http://www.irsa.org/publications/BrainTalkV6_1.pdf#search='word%20searches%20%20short%20term%20memory'


As a teacher, I have always given my students wordsearches or puzzles to do, if they had finished their work or exams early, and had nothing to do. (Most do not feel like reading after doing a lot of intensive work.) One day, I saw a group of my students in the mall, and had just finished speaking to a woman in the mall, who was in her mid-90s, working hard on some word searches, in the mall eating center! With her consent, I called the students over, to meet and speak with her. She had just bought "another" word-search book from Wal-Mart, and said she works hard on these, to keep her mind sharp. And sharp she was!!! They were SOOOOOO impressed with her!!! She REALLY motivated us to keep up with these "brain puzzles"! As the saying goes, "You snooze....you lose!!! You don't use it....You lose it!!!" Who would like to join me in the "CHALLENGE TO PLAY"???? (By this, I mean, set aside some time each day, or several times a week, to work on word searches, puzzles, etc.) You could even create your own, for you and your kids, at: http://www.puzzlemaker.com I have used this site a lot, as a teacher. It is easy, and fun to use!!! Kids LOVE creating their own word searches and solving them! (PS/ Make sure you proof-read the spelling words, before they print it off, so they do not reinforce wrong spelling.)

~Annie

Promoting Chastity with our Teens......

Probably the best "vaccination shot" against STDs, is for teenagers to read the book:

"Risky Sex" by Dr. Stephen Genuis (obstetrician, gynecologist)

http://www.winfieldhouse.com/rs_overview.htm (book description)

I had the privilege of listening to Dr. Stephen Genuis speak at a medical conference for nurses and doctors. Through my contacts with Serena Canada(a natural family planning organization), I was invited to attend. It was a shocking, powerful, and hard-hitting presentation!!! He did not mince his words about the horrendous effects of promiscuity, which he had to deal with on a regular basis in his practice. The photo slide-show he put on was gut-wrenching, and powerful. His stories of destroyed lives, and the horrors of the effects of STDs, were shocking!!!. This is "not for the timid"!!! Many individuals do not know what the possible effects of even ONE pre-martial/extra-marital sexual encounter could be!!! The volumes of slides of devastation were "mind-boggling"!!!

You will see Dr. Genuis' name on the "Physicians Council of Canada" for
Focus on the Family:

http://poisonevercure.150m.com/vaccines/physicians_resource_counsel.htm

He is a well-respected speaker and writer, and spokesperson for chastity in
"Focus on the Family". I am thankful to God for the privilege I had to see his
presentation! Yes, the best prevention against STDs is chastity!

"Making Sunday Special"

I found a link to used copies of "Making Sunday Special" by Karen Burton Mains,
copyright 1987. She ties in Jewish Sabbath traditions, with ways to make preparations for the Lord's Day, getting organized, etc.

http://www.alibris.com/search/search.cfm?S=R&qwork=4124357&qsort=p&siteID=KLVmR9fE2yU-S96WRBa9_Llke1zmUY6Hkg

In our "Organizing Annie" group, we use Saturday, as a "Day of Preparation" for
the Lord's Day, a custom that I grew up with as a child. We plan ahead, and do
as much as possible, in advance, so there will be a day of rest from our regular
chores and activities!

http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/organizingannie/

If you would like to read more about the Annie groups, you are welcome to visit the blogspot for this group at:

http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Re: STEVIA - Natural Sweetner

jill wrote: I would recommend that you search places like http://www.mercola.com, http://www.westonprice.com and http://www.mothering.com to read the natural viewpoint:) warmly,jill

Melt pounds away with "The Army Walk"!!!

**THE ARMY WALK**

The "ARMY WALK" is amazing! It literally MELTS the pounds away! If you can do it at least four times a week for 15 - 30 minutes at a time, it will really help to get in shape FAST! My father taught me how to do this walk, when I was a little girl, and late for school. (It was TOO far for me to run all the way!) He said, "DO THE ARMY WALK!" ....and away I went!! (He had learned to do it in the reserves, while he was a teenager. You can keep it up for long distances without getting tired!)

WHAT IS THE ARMY WALK?

a) 50 paces of running (every time your LEFT foot hits the ground, count one)
b) 50 paces of walking (count the same way) ....this is your "recovery"

I searched for this method of running on the internet, and could only find a few articles similar to it, called, "Fartlek". I found one at the link below:

http://www.kasd.org/hs/tlindenmuth/NewStrengthSite/Articles/Fartlek2.htm

Please do not do any exercising without the approval of your doctor! Hope this helps you out!

© Organizing Annie 2005

Re: What is your "waist to hips" ratio???

"A result greater than 1.0 implies that your waist is bigger than your hips. This indicates an increased risk for illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes."

Source: http://www.vhi.ie/experts/fitness/FIT_Q038.jsp

What is your "Waist-to-Hips" ratio?

What is your "waist to hips" ratio? This is a good indicator of your fitness level! You may find these links helpful!!!

http://www.vhi.ie/experts/fitness/FIT_Q038.jsp

http://www.chmed.org/wth.htm

http://www.ring.com/health/kent/W2HR1.htm

~Annie

The latest research release: Body Fat NOT Healthy!

Normal blood pressure and low cholesterol are not enough to be healthy.

http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/diet.fitness/01/10/obesity.risks.ap/?section=cnn_latest

A thank you to my father, who e-mailed me this information yesterday, to forward to my groups!!! My parents have always been an example to the rest of us, demonstrating a healthy lifestyle of eating right, and participating in aerobics classes, even in their mid - 70s! My mother's pedometer read over 11,000 steps yesterday! She has recently recorded steps of over 19,000 in one day! As senior citizens, age is not "slowing them down"!!! What an example for the rest of us!!!

"Women and the Body Blues" (Are you feeling tired, stressed and eating too much???)

I just found this link this morning, after hearing it talked about on the John Tesh
Radio Show, "Intelligence for Your Life":

http://www.thebodyblues.com/

http://www.tesh.com

http://www.tesh.com/showpage.asp?code=statementfaithmd

"CHALLENGE TO PLAY!!!" (Please read this.....)

"Play - believe it or not, playing games helps your memory. Crossword puzzles, word searches, and other games help with information recall."

Source: http://www.bafound.org/support/strategy.php

"The old saying "use it or lose it" describes the aging memory. Some activities that are recommended for maintaining memory as one ages are crossword puzzles and word searches. Proper nutrition entails getting the correct amounts of vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and trace elements that the body needs as it ages. A good physical exercise program helps to maintain overall general health."

Source: http://www.uspharmacist.com/index.aspshow=article&page=8_1228.htm


The article below, is about a girl called Jennifer, who is a post-brain tumour survivor, who works on "word searches, puzzles and writing to people" to improve her memory! (ie. Posting to this site, is great for improving your memory!)

http://www.irsa.org/publications/BrainTalkV6_1.pdf#search='word%20searches%20%20short%20term%20memory'

As a teacher, I have always given my students word searches or puzzles to do, if they had finished their work or exams early, and had nothing to do. (Most do not feel like reading after doing a lot of intensive work.) One day, I saw a group of my students in the mall, and had just finished speaking to a woman in the mall, who was in her mid-90s, working hard on some word searches, in the mall eating center! With her consent, I called the students over, to meet and speak with her. She had just bought "another" word-search book from Wal-Mart, and said she works hard on these, to keep her mind sharp. And sharp she was!!! They were SOOOOOO impressed with her!!! She REALLY motivated us to keep up with these "brain puzzles"! As the saying goes, "You snooze....you lose!!! You don't use it....You lose it!!!"

Who would like to join me in the "CHALLENGE TO PLAY"???? (By this, I mean, set aside some time each day, or several times a week, to work on word searches, puzzles, etc.) You could even create your own, for you and your kids, at: http://www.puzzlemaker.com I have used this site a lot, as a teacher. It is easy, and fun to use!!! Kids LOVE creating their own word searches and solving them! (PS/ Make sure you proof-read the spelling words, before they print it off, so they do not reinforce wrong spelling.)

RE: What's your favorite exercise video?

Wonderful!!! I forgot to mention that we purchased a "Sit-Up Bar" for $19.99 CAN. that clamps to the bottom of a door. I found a website link with the same bar on it, selling for $19.95 US (Free shipping in the USA).

http://www.megafitness.com/sit-up-bar-mar0016.html?GCID=C1766x005&engine=megafitness+sitematch&keyword=Sit+Up+Bar

I think most sports outlets sell items like this. My kids LOVE doing "crunchies" with this bar, and it might help flatten my "post baby" tummy!!!

~Annie

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W. wrote: Great idea Annie, We did that too We bought a treadmill and have exercise videos, arm weights, exercise bands, bicycles We do floor exercises, go for walks, rollerskate, etc. When we go to visit my mother in the city, I take my oldest to the ice rink, she loves it.

-----Original Message-----
On Behalf Of Organizing Annie
Sent: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 9:19 PM
Subject: Re: What's your favorite exercise video? (Curves)

I think that Curves is quite expensive, if you add up the monthly fees for a year. I did it, and now invested in some simple equipment, and do our circuit training at home with the kids. (They preferred that I spend the money on equipment we could all use together!!!)

We use: weights, an exercise bike, skipping ropes, a stepper, an exercise tube, exercise mats, squares to jog on, etc.

~Annie

STEVIA - Natural Sweetener

I have begun to use Stevia in my beverages (ie. coffee, tea, hot cocoa, etc.), and thought I would let you know where I found it......Wal-Mart of all places!
(It was kept in the pharmacy section by the vitamins!) you can purchase little packets, or a dispensing bottle, that looks like a little "baby vitamins bottle".

Stevia is 100% natural, made from stevia powdered leaf extract, is sugar and calorie free and has 0 carbohydrates!

http://www.herbalselect.com

I like the little "dropper bottle", since it has no waste paper to throw away, and no clean up!

~Annie

Re: What's your favorite exercise video? (response from my sister)

Hi there! I have been using "Power 90" DVD exercise program. It is excellent. You can visit their web site at "beachbody.com". I have been working out with their videos for three months now. Day 1 is cardio and the next day is sculpting. I have been working out 6 days a week. I feel great! My body is getting smaller, stronger and tighter! The company sent me the complete program for $19.95! It includes info on health, nutrition and the exercise DVD's. They send me encouraging weekly e-mails and they have a "virtual work out" web site (WOWY.com) to log on with others who will work-out at the same time with you! It's a lot of fun. My family is now joining me each morning!

Another natural sweetner.....XYLITOL!!!

Someone just e-mailed me this link for XYLITOL. This is another natural sweetner that I was not aware of. Have any of you tried this one before?

http://www.nowfoods.com/index.php?action=itemdetail&item_id=19899&F=1

Improving Your Marriage.....(You'll love this one!!!)

I heard this on the John Tesh radio show today, and did a "Google Search" and found the link:

http://www.altavistabaptist.org/parentpages/What_Your_Teen_Really_Needs.doc

"Long kisses. Make a habit of squeezing in at least one 15-second kiss every day. And don't be afraid to do it in front of the kids. They might think it's gross but they will find more security in that kiss than they'll ever admit. Keeping your marriage strong is one of the best things you can do for your teenager. So put down some of those plates and get busy reconnecting with the love of your life."

~This was discussed on "Intelligence for Your Life", a program hosted by John Tesh:

http://www.tesh.com

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

CHALLENGE TO PLAY!!! (Please read this!!!)

"Play - believe it or not, playing games helps your memory. Crossword puzzles, word searches, and other games help with information recall."

Source:
http://www.bafound.org/support/strategy.php

"The old saying "use it or lose it" describes the aging memory. Some activities that are recommended for maintaining memory as one ages are crossword puzzles and word searches. Proper nutrition entails getting the correct amounts of vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and trace elements that the body needs as it ages. A good physical exercise program helps to maintain overall general health."

Source:
http://www.uspharmacist.com/index.aspshow=article&page=8_1228.htm

The article below, is about a girl called Jennifer, who is a post-brain tumour survivor, who works on "word searches, puzzles and writing to people" to improve her memory! (ie. Posting on this site, is great for improving memory!)

http://www.irsa.org/publications/BrainTalkV6_1.pdf#search='word%20searches%20%20short%20term%20memory'

As a teacher, I have always given my students word searches or puzzles to do, if they had finished their work or exams early, and had nothing to do. (Most do not feel like reading after doing a lot of intensive work.) One day, I saw a group of my students in the mall, and had just finished speaking to a woman in the mall, who was in her mid-90s, working hard on some word searches, in the mall eating center! With her consent, I called the students over, to meet and speak with her. She had just bought "another" word-search book from Wal-Mart, and said she works hard on these, to keep her mind sharp. And sharp she was!!! They were SOOOOOO impressed with her!!! She REALLY motivated us to keep up with these "brain puzzles"! As the saying goes, "You snooze....you lose!!! You don't use it....You lose it!!!"

Who would like to join me in the "CHALLENGE TO PLAY"???? (By this, I mean, set aside some time each day, or several times a week, to work on word searches, puzzles, etc.) You could even create your own, for you and your kids, at: http://www.puzzlemaker.com
I have used this site a lot, as a teacher. It is easy, and fun to use!!! Kids LOVE creating their own word searches and solving them! (PS/ Make sure you proof-read the spelling words, before they print it off, so they do not reinforce wrong spelling.)

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Forgetful???

Here is a link regarding the TWO MINUTE ALZHEIMER'S TEST (which really consists of two separate tests which last one minute each.)  For anyone worried about Dementia and forgetfulness in old age, this is a "must read"!!!

http://www.meandermagazine.com/page14.html

Another excellent article is: "Keeping Ageing Brains on Top Form"

"A healthy diet, aerobic exercise and mental stimulation all helped to keep the mind young, researchers emphasised at a conference in Dublin. In contrast, prolonged stress and social isolation act to age the brain.....Advocating a "use it or lose it" approach, the scientist stressed that the decline in mental sharpness usually seen in people over the age of 65 is not inevitable, and can be stopped or even reversed by mental exercise."

So ladies, get out those word searches, crossword puzzles, and aerobic mats, and get those minds and bodies to work!!!

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

The latest: "TWO apples a day, keep the doctor away!!!"

Did you know that "two apples" a day are better than "an apple" a day????
According to the latest research, eating two apples a day, lowers your cholesterol by 10%, and has many health benefits.

http://www.personalmd.com/news/n0830071548.shtml

http://www.womenoffaith.com/whatsnew/apple.asp

If you "Google" this topic, you will find many other links on this topic!

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

"10 Second Tidy!!!"

A lady introduced me to the "10 Second Tidy" this week. I had NO clue what it was!!! For those of you who are "green behind the ears" with regards to this phrase, this is what it means: (Before unexpected guests come to your home........)

~A shove of items under the couch.....
~A stash of items under the bed......
~A stack of dishes into the oven..... (Don't forget to take them out, later!)
~A stash of items into the closet......

The rest is up to your imagination!!!

I had NO idea, that this was called the "10 Second Tidy", but my kids or I have been guilty of one or more of these items on this list, on various occasions!!!

Do any of you have anything to add to this post??? (ie. Has this ever happened to you???) Do you have any humourous stories to share?????

organizingannie@yahoo.ca

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

A "best-selling" cleaning author......with a FREE newsletter!!!

I absolutely LOVE the homemaking books written by Don Aslett!!! As a father of six children, and the owner of a large cleaning business, he puts humour and common sense into his extremely helpful cleaning advice. Here is the link to his free newsletter, which offers monthly cleaning tips and help for homemakers:

http://www.cleanreport.com

Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com

Do you need "support"?

After a big hunt, my sister-in-law found a wonderful "sports bra", which provides amazing support!! I had been to countless shops, hunting for the "right one", and she discovered this design, which offers "perfect support"!!!

COMFORT STRAP SPORTS BRA
(available from Mountain Equipment Co-op)

http://www.mec.ca

-plastic-protected underwires for maximum support
-wide,cushioned shoulder straps control motion and disperse weight
-moulded, support cups minimize movement during strenuous activities
-comfortable, non-stretch cups are specially treated to wick away moisture

The specific link is:

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442328633&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302704029&bmUID=1136220748341

Now, I can really get going on the "Army Walk"!!! The description is at this link:

http://organizingannie.blogspot.com/2005_09_01_organizingannie_archive.html#112719428359774354" target="_blank" onclick="return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)

May we have a healthy, blessed, and active new year!!!


Organizing Annie
http://www.organizingannie.blogspot.com