Teaching Gardens and the AHA

In all of my doctors appointments lately (yes, I did want to punch a young resident  this week as he said to me there is nothing more we can do as long as you are taking all your medications) but instead I just cried; however, it got me thinking about natural health remedies and what we eat. I have been having so many side effects from my treatments and medications and then they give you another pill to offset the effects...its a spiral effect. When my Mom passed she was taking TWENTY SEVEN pills a day. I am up to 10. It reminded me of food. I know, its hard to believe but food can heal. Growing up in Georgia my Mom was a southern cook. FRIED was our dinner and Crisco was a staple. She also made us eat chicken liver but fried it just tasted like a bad mussel. The one thing I remember clearly, mostly because I got to pop beans for HOURS was my Grandparents farm. They had a huge garden and every year we got so many fresh veggies. They also had grape vines so we could eat right off the vine and often did. OK so the crab apples made me really sick but I think I ate about 50 of them but there is something amazing about fresh fruit and veggies. Its hard in the winter to grow things but it can be done. Spring is coming so my goal is to start my new garden and teach my family how fun it can be!

The American Heart Association has a lot of incredible tools and a lot of incredible initiatives. One that is important to me are the Teaching Gardens. Through fundraising efforts, the Teaching Gardens are put in schools that may not have access to fresh veggies and help to teach the children how fun health can be. If they plant it and watch it grow, veggies become a part of their diet in a way that is fun and healthy! This can be done at home too!

I won't fry food for my family even though I love to cook and I know those options are just a part of almost every menu. My goal is to make food fun, nutritional and a part of a healthy lifestyle that can help to prevent so many ailments in our lives.

About the teaching gardens:

Obesity is one of the most expensive health care problems in America. One third of U.S. children are overweight or obese putting them at higher risk of heart disease and stroke.

The American Heart Association is taking a new approach in the fight against childhood obesity. We’ve teamed with noted child-nutrition activist and philanthropist Kelly Meyer to create the American Heart Association Teaching Gardens planted in elementary schools across the country that become real-life learning laboratories for students to learn what it means to be healthy.

Aimed at first graders through fifth, we teach children how to plant seeds, nurture growing plants, harvest produce and ultimately understand the value of good eating habits.

Garden-themed lessons teach nutrition, math, science and other subjects all while having fun in the fresh air and working with your hands.

Together, we can dramatically change the way America thinks about and consumes food.

To learn more log onto www.heart.org

Here's to your heart and your health~

Deanna

Only human

THE DAY MY DADDY DIED~ Harold Thomas Pemberton

It's always been hard for me to share the core of who I am yet I seem to wear my heart on my sleeve. I am a walking contradiction. Strong in spirit and weak in reality at times but not all the time. When I was a little girl I just wanted my Parents to be proud and happy of me and of themselves. My Dad was so strong and stubborn. He had his demons and family was tough at times but to the core he inspired me. He shut off (a familiar guy trait), a gift I am glad I don't have but in some pretty deep scenario's he became my Daddy. The one I thought I never had. Maybe this is why I chased him even when they moved and forgot to give me a forwarding address. Approval, love, he was my Daddy. He did so many little things and some pretty big that offset anything else. I think that is called being a parent.

My Dad owned a business and was 54. My mom had been sick for many years and my Dad even made a room in their business for when she came.  I never doubted their love for each other. He was the healthy one.

I was working at HSN as a beauty buyer and his business was on the causeway not far away. I still can't remember why I did not have my car that day but I called numerous times to check on him and he kept saying to me tell your Mom I'm ok. My Mom stayed home that day and my Dad had gotten upset with an insurance agent and was not feeling great. This started around 9 am. My Dad also cut his finger off a few months prior in a die cutting machine and drove himself to the ER. He was stubborn.

My Dad finally called my Brother around 5pm because he just did not have the strength. In the morning with him getting so upset he blew out a valve and starting going into congestive heart failure. He was filling up with fluid so he just felt full.

We all came to the hospital and my Dads aortic valve was replaced. On the morning of his surgery, I drove across the wrong bridge. It was 5 something in the morning and I was so lost and worried.  I sat with him everyday for two weeks. Same surgeon that my Mom had had so it became routine for us of sorts. He never woke back up and I wonder often if he knew I was there.

We were called to the hospital and I arrived first.  His blood gases were dropping and I just sat there. There was nothing I could do. That was my Daddy. 2 hours later,he met his golden wings. He was 54 and it was Fathers Day.

I am writing this for a few reasons. One is heart month should not be just a month because it was never a minute, hour, month or year for me. It's my lifetime. The reality is if my Dad would have gone in a week earlier for a stress test or earlier that day because he was not feeling right he would still be here. I am absolutely selfish and a martyr when it come to my parents because I miss them.

Everyday

The day of my Dads surgery I walked outside and took a deep breath thinking he would be ok. I have never taken that breathe again. I really thought he would. I forget where I put things all the time yet that moment comes with such clarity to me.

I talk a lot about heart but as I am missing my family and sitting alone typing this I would give so much to have them here.

The day my Daddy died I lost faith and belief because he was the strongest man I ever knew. In so many ways he will always be.

Heart disease is known as the silent killer but yet it says so much. My Dad proceeded my Mom but both died of Cardiovascular disease and both had valves replaced. I am the third. They say 1 in 3 die of heart disease and I am the one in three that lives yet heart disease is nowhere near silent to me. I hear it in my food choices, my lifestyle choice but my genetics, that screams at me.

As March begins and heart month ends, we should not be silent because it is a great deal about lifestyle and about choices. I look back and think what I could do and can change. I am a human with many faults but each day I am trying to be there for my family, make smart choices and TRY (I say TRY), to work on my emotional and lifestyle stress.

Spring is in the air, somewhere (LOL) but being active, knowing your numbers, managing your stress and managing your lifestyle choices can all to help and save your life.

Your heart talks to you. Please chose to listen~

Here's to your heart~

Are you speaking up?

As a heart attack and stroke survivor I am often questioned. Some say, where is your scar and some say you don't look like someone with health challenges. I once, true story, was asked to wait outside of triage so they could evaluate an older man when I was having the same issues. Even those in the medical profession still tend to discard or assume because hey I'm glad I didn't fit their mold but frankly my body had a very different opinion! It bothered me and the President of the hospital called me personally afterwards but it just leads to the realization that heart disease and women is so often over looked. I was asked, did you loose a lot of weight? Did you smoke? Are you diabetic? The answer was no. I will admit I will always welcome any weight loss or a winning lottery ticket but no.

Working with AHA for so many years has taught me so much. Its not just what I have read or learned but honestly a lot about the people whom I have met and their stories. I lobbied with "You're the Cure" last year and we were divided by States and Districts. This to this day was probably one of the most amazing few days I had ever spent. Survivors from all over the US coming together for a cause and sharing our stories. Their were Doctors, survivors, advocates and just people with one voice. NIH funding and Million Hearts.

The questions I was asked were very valid. People don't "see" heart disease.

Cardiovascular Disease effects EVERY part of your body. It remains the number one killer of men and women and a leading cause in disability  with stroke.

Heart month may be coming to a close but the heart beats everyday. Imagine a battery in your favorite item and then imagine wanting or NEEDING to use it to save your life.

The heart matters. Check your engine and understand when the cars not working, you don't go anywhere.

www.heart.org
www.goredforwomen.org

Deanna

Don't close your eyes

My country soul came from my Dad. He was Barbra Mandrell, Patsy and some Yehaw but he always told me to go with the story. This is an incredible song that rings so true. Telling or sharing a story is the artistry in music.

True country, true heart and what a story.

Have a Coke and A Smile~

John Stith Pemberton was

John Stith Pemberton

the inventor of the Coca-Cola beverage. In his day Pemberton was a most respected member of the state's medical establishment, but his gift was for medical chemistry rather than regular medicine. He was a practical pharmacist and chemist of great skill, active all his life in medical reform, and a respected businessman. His most enduring accomplishments involve his laboratories, which are still in operation more than 125 years later as part of the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Converted into the state's first testing labs and staffed with Pemberton's hand-picked employees, these labs almost single-handedly eliminated the sale of fraudulent agricultural chemicals in the state and ensured successful prosecution of those who tried to sell them.

Early Life and Career

Born on January 8, 1831, in Knoxville, in Crawford County, Pemberton grew up and attended the local schools in Rome,

Coca-Cola Bottles

where his family lived for almost thirty years. He studied medicine and pharmacy at the Reform Medical College of Georgia in Macon, and in 1850, at the age of nineteen, he was licensed to practice on Thomsonian or botanic principles (such practitioners relied heavily on herbal remedies and on purifying the body of toxins, and they were viewed with suspicion by the general public). He practiced medicine and surgery first in Rome and its environs and then in Columbus, where in 1855 he established a wholesale-retail drug business specializing in materia medica (substances used in the composition of medical remedies). Some time before the Civil War (1861-65), he acquired a graduate degree in pharmacy, but the exact date and place are unknown.

The analytical

Pemberton House

and manufacturing laboratories of J. S. Pemberton and Company of Columbus were unique in the South. "We are direct importers," the company claimed, "manufacturing all the pharmaceutical and chemical preparations used in the arts and sciences." Established in 1860 and outfitted with some $35,000 worth of the newest and most improved equipment—some of it designed and patented by the company—it was "a magnificent establishment," an enthusiastic reporter from the Atlanta Constitution proclaimed in 1869 when the labs were moved to Atlanta, "one of the most splendid Chemical Laboratories that there is in the country."

Pemberton served with distinction as a lieutenant colonel in the Third Georgia Cavalry Battalion during the Civil War and was almost killed in the fighting at Columbus in April 1865. In 1869 he became a principal partner in the firm of Pemberton, Wilson, Taylor and Company, which was based in Atlanta, where he moved in 1870. Two years later he became a trustee of the Atlanta Medical College (later Emory University School of Medicine) and established a business in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where his own brands of pharmaceuticals were manufactured on a large scale. He also served for six years (1881-87) on the first state examining board that licensed pharmacists in Georgia.

Pemberton was "the most noted physician Atlanta ever had," according to the Atlanta newspapers, but he is best known for his expertise in the laboratory, where he perfected the formula for Coca-Cola.

The Origin of Coca-Cola

A few years before Coca-Cola began its spectacular rise to international acclaim, a drink known as Pemberton's French Wine Coca was extremely popular in Atlanta. Its fame spread throughout the Southeast, and the demand for the tasty beverage was high.

In 1885 a reporter from the Atlanta Journal approached the creator of French Wine Coca and asked him for a detailed analysis of the new drink. Pemberton replied, "It is composed of an extract from the leaf of Peruvian Coca,

Vin Mariani Bottle

the purest wine, and the Kola nut. It is the most excellent of all tonics, assisting digestion, imparting energy to the organs of respiration, and strengthening the muscular and nervous systems." He explained that South American Indians considered the coca plant a sacred herb and praised its beneficial effects on the mind and body. With the aid of the coca plant, the Indians had performed "astonishing" feats, he said, "without fatigue." Pemberton then admitted that his coca and kola beverage was based on Vin Mariani, a French formula perfected by Mariani and Company of Paris, which since 1863 had been the world's only standard preparation of erythroxylon coca.

In 1886 the city of Atlanta introduced prohibition, which, among other things, forbade the sale of wine. Pemberton decided to make another version of his popular drink. He dropped the reference to wine in the name of the beverage, substituted sugar syrup for the wine, and coined the name "Coca-Cola" to identify his formula. Henceforth, he would call Coca-Cola the ideal temperance drink, both on the label and in advertising.

Realizing

Coca-Cola Logo

that he needed financial backing to market this nonalcoholic version of French Wine Coca on a large scale, Pemberton formed a company for that purpose. He put his son Charles in charge of manufacturing Coca-Cola, and after prohibition ended in 1887, he again produced French Wine Coca. He announced that he would retire from active practice, sell his drugstores in Atlanta and elsewhere in the state, and devote all his time to promoting his beverages. Meanwhile, a group of businessmen responded to Pemberton's appeal to finance the new Coca-Cola Company. He was to receive a royalty of five cents for each gallon of Coca-Cola sold.

It was Pemberton's practice to organize a business as a copartnership and then convert it into a corporation. In March 1888, after being in business for eight months as a copartner, he filed the petition for incorporation of the first Coca-Cola Company in the Fulton County Superior Court. Five months later, on August 16, 1888, he died at his home in Atlanta.

On the day of Pemberton's funeral, Atlanta druggists closed their stores and attended the services en masse as a tribute of respect. On that day, not one drop of Coca-Cola was dispensed in the entire city. At sunup the following day, a special train carried his body to Columbus, where a large group of friends, relatives, and admirers laid him to rest. The Atlanta newspapers called him "the oldest druggist of Atlanta and one of her best known citizens."

 

You have to get up and try

I can't fully understand the power of my Grandmother. She just is so strong, so amazing and so willed. This past Tuesday, she went through her second round of chemo. 17 years ago she survived colon cancer, last year an aorta valve replacement and bypass and this year the cancer came back but spread.

I look at her strength and her vision. She keeps me in check. She raised 5 boys. I was in the first round of Granddaughters but we have had plenty of boys in the mix. Our life growing up was complicated like so many. There is nothing about my story that has not been heard before but to me the music in my lyric is my Grandma, Memaw.

She did share with me tonight a lot about our family heart history. We are threaded and most did not live past 60. Scares me a bit. She too had 5 Brothers.

My Grandmother is stunningly beautiful, much like my Mom was so on this flashback Thursday, I thought I would share.

Headache and Heartache

A few years ago I had a very awakening conversation with a friend. We were speaking of blogs, texts, conversations, etc. Some people just seem perfect. They talk perfect. They look perfect. You can't help but think they are perfect. This frankly makes me feel less than perfect. I don't think its anyone's natural intent to do that, ok maybe some, but I just feel like no one is.

I know my blog post sometimes are a bit all over the place but they are real. I think all the time, worry all the time and like everyone I have my ups and down's. Family to me is the most important. This past year has made me realize that more than ever. Faith, Family, Fluffies (family), Friends and Forever love. Corny. Absolutely. I hear a song in everything I do. Music is my rhythm and cooking my latest victim. When I post a song, its not a target but just a really awesome song. I am a writer so I appreciate story tellers. I do realize I need an editor at time and my English teacher would be horrified at my comma slicing but I write like I think. A little all over the place.

Heart is so important to me. I worry. This is not meant to be morbid but what about my children and fur babies? Families are dynamic so the responsibilities are always a tough decision if you have to make them. Some get mad if they aren't chosen as a God parent but then are like what......Heart health is my battery. I was devastated by the loss of my parents, Grandfather, Brother and all that followed. So I absolutely wear everything out there. I am scared everyday but not as a victim but as a Mother, a person. Did I dot the I's and cross the T's? Will they be taken care of?

Heart to me is more than a picture. Its about love and longevity. We all want love. We all want hope. We all want health. We all want hope.

Everyone matters. Everyone has a story. Everyone is born. Everyone dies. These are the FACTS.

The heart matters, in everyone.

Happy Valentines Day!

NBC & Heart Awareness

On the Viewpoint at NBC with Pat Lawson

I had a great morning at NBC News speaking about Go Red for Women and Heart Disease. It was a 30 minute segment and also very informative. Even though I was part of it, I learned too! It was a little strange as I was sitting there hearing about the fact that women are more likely to die after having a heart attack and stent placement within 5 years. My mind started to count! My heart attack/stent  was in 2010. Ok, that was a little unnerving! It just made me further realize that I need to be on top of my health every day! I'll post a link soon.

Although its heart month, don't forget to take care of yours everyday!

Log on to www.goredforwomen.org to learn more!

Here's to your heart!

What does GO RED mean?

Over the years that I have been working with the American Heart Association I have been involved with many of our initiatives. There are valuable tools to educate every age group and make heart health fun too! One of the many initiatives is Go Red for Women. It is celebrating its 10th year and helps to raise awareness of women and heart disease. I remember when my Mom had her congestive heart failure and valve replacement women were just seen as the unlikely, stressed and probably to emotional. When my Mom started showing early symptoms the first thing she was prescribed was an anti-depressant. She was not a 50 year old male that was over weight? She was petite and young. It was not until her and my Father were watching ER, ironic I know, and she suddenly could not catch her breathe that it came to the realization that something was going incredibly wrong. She was taken to the hospital and had a double valve replacement and a triple bypass. She had a zipper and the recovery, well even in the next 15 years she never recovered. I did find it funny that with her mechanical valves that St Jude gave her a warranty card.  

I like most people just did not expect my Mom to have a major heart attack. I didn't expect to have a heart attack and stroke myself and I knew better!

There are disparities in this world. They are gender, racial and personal. This is why education and using resources is so important. I can be dressed in the heart man suit, and I have, and will still see people argue that heart disease is not the number one killer. Did you know that heart disease kills more than all Cancers combined? Most people don't because we don't wear it on the outside. It is known as the silent killer for a reason.

This acronym was shared with me and it really to me defines what Go Red means:

• Get Your Numbers: Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Own Your Lifestyle: Stop smoking, lose weight, exercise and eat healthy.
• Realize Your Risk: We think it won’t happen to us, but heart disease kills 1 in 3 women.
• Educate Your Family: Make healthy food choices for you and your family. Teach your kids the importance of staying active.
• Don’t be silent: Tell every woman you know that heart disease is our No. 1 killer. Raise your voice at GoRedForWomen.org.

Change can is happening but it only can happen to spread the word and advocate for the #1 killer of women. Please help me share the message and although red is for the heart, GO RED means even more!

GO RED for your Mother's, sisters, friends, aunts. Imagine if it was yours.

Here's to your heart~D

Pageantry, People and Purpose

Like all or most little girls I watched Miss America. That was the dream maker and it had talent. I felt it was obtainable and all though I appreciate the Universe system as a little girl it was America. Like so many things in life I had no clue how to get involved, did not have resources and my parents weren't thrilled at the thought. We weren't the honey BOBO family. I also never felt pretty enough but it was a dream. Life is built on them.

I was a little late in the pageant world. Side lined by a life event but came back to Florida and got a job modeling full time on the Home Shopping Network. I was the fairest, unique in appearance and not model like but different. I had someone who believed in me named Barry Loper. Thank goodness! So I worked all hours of the day and would get fan mail. Most were screened as the convicts loved me but one day I received a letter. They suggested I compete in the Miss Seminole Florida pageant and were on their board. I reached out to have the blessing of having Denny and Judy Pieczonka in my life. The first local I did was Largo. I had NOOOOO clue. I rented, begged and borrowed. I came from theatre at the American Academy so I went Broadway. I even rented a costume and these girls were fierce and I just looked so out of place. I came out in this HUGE gown and it was shameful but probably funny. They had incredible gowns and sang incredible opera's. I was and still am a contralto. I am loud and strong and contemporary country. I rented a white swimsuit from someone and a gown that I taped up the bottom because it was to long.

So there I was, white blonde hair, fair as snow dressed in a gown with no one in the audience to cheer but I am sure I got a few heckles.

I was determined and not shamed. I found out I won interview but bombed the stage. I think I was screaming lost and I was so blessed to have Mary Petre and Don Morgan take me in as another daughter. They drove me to every local and took care of me. Even as far as Orlando. The year Jamie Bolding won Mary Petre told me she would win and hey I did crown Nicole Johnson in Florida and she should have won Florida prior to her winning Miss America but she did ok for herself:) 

I really don't know how to put this but to say my Mom was amazing, beautiful and did her best. Supportive, not really. She told me I won't watch you compete because I don't want to see you loose.

I committed myself to only three locals a year. I was the 1st ru and I just wanted to win Mary Petre's pageant. She drove me everywhere, I stayed with them, they were family.

I competed again in Largo and Mary Petre was in the hospital with lung cancer. I never new a Mother's love like that before. I was first ru and just broke. Two weeks later I won Seminole, she passed two days later. She was always the wings for me.

Denny and Judy Pieczonka took me in as parents and I just forever am taken back by the heart of people. I lived with them and they are and will always be a huge part of my life,

If you ever question pageants, people or faith....I was so lost and someone believed in me when I could not believe in myself.

Because of their support I won Seminole and competed at Miss Florida America and Miss Florida USA.

Dream on......

Chef one day maybe:)

I am a self admitted emotional, passionate and sensitive person. Oh geez don't I wish I could adjust a few of those qualities but I can't. I guess you have to love or like me for being who I am. My biggest accomplishment is being a Mom, although my stomach might like to argue the fact as well as my chest. I think I need birth certificates just for the twins on my chest. They deserve one's of their own. Thank you childbirth!  Probably TMI but as I am really into cooking these days the most important thing is to not eat everything I cook! Healthy choices, right? Moderation...oh and working out A LOT! I am excited for the culinary institute and OBSESSED with cooking shows. I was very happy to learn Rachel Ray never went to a culinary school and she is just amazing but I think I need that extra edge. Having been in live shopping for many years and my name is not Rachel Ray or Bobby Flay, I need that to have some fun on a network with some cooking segments. Here is hoping. I have always been in cosmetics, which I love, but who doesn't eat, right?

You want to be my family or neighbor. I am cooking like crazy and not eating it. I do "taste" while jumping rope (kidding) but it must be the family in me that ALWAYS cook family style. I have learned to adjust menus for the little loves in my life....Bella can't eat fat because of her VLCAD but she did like my cauliflower puree. It was so easy to make! Carter eats puree and Holston is still trying to figure it out. I  also have great friends who are Gluten Free and I never new the menu restrictions but after battling a sickness for the past 6 mos, I get eating things that agree with you. Although I do put Kale in almost everything. I made a pizza from scratch yesterday (a first) and put Kale on it. Much like the crunch you get with kale chips, yum!

Here's a few of my recent recipes!

 

Spaghetti with kale, polenta and homemade meatballs

Eggplant non breaded parm with argula salad and carrots

Stuffed peppers with spinach salad

Homemade pizza with kale,ilives, mushrooms, chedder, parm, oregano and olive oil

Pan fried sirloin with roasted red baby potatoes and mushrooms

Macy's Goes Red!

This is the 11th year for Go Red for Women and one of the major sponsors is Macy's! In fact, if you wear red at any Macy's you get 20% off your purchase! This morning, I was asked to speak at their rally! What a great team and great staff. Everyone was excited and wearing red! Thank you to Tyson's Corners Macy's in McClean VA for all of your support to the AHA and Go Red for Women!

 

 Here's to your heart!

Why I GO RED!

In January 2010 I had a heart attack. My son was one at the time, my husband was active duty so not initially with me. I just felt like something was stuck in my chest after battling a cold and my son was on O2 so I was having a hard time lifting him out of the crib. He was one. I did not initially go there but spoke with my husband who was around the Pentagon and he said call 911 or lay down. Laying down just gives you anxiety and I am not wired that way. How could some my age have anything wrong but anxiety? I called 911 and they were less then thrilled to see me and an infant on 02. I looked like a drama queen. My EKG was normal, I don't smoke, not diabetic, not over weight but I did have my genes working against me.  I was not crazy, crying or anything but just new something was not right. Trust in your body and be your own advocate! They took me to the hospital. Initially, they assessed me as a young women with a special needs child who probably needed just a break. The first cardiologist said well we will keep her and maybe she needs a stress test?  Another cardiologist, maybe the attending, said, well she has a very strong family history so lets do a  workup. Blood does not lie.

At this point, Andy arrived at the hospital, They came, suddenly  and said , relax you are having a heart attack, My cardiac enzymes came back and in fact my dismissal of what might be true was happening, I had a major blockage in my LAD, often called the widow maker, and if they would have sent me home, I may not be here today.  My parents died at 54 and 56 but  was 20 years younger. They placed a stent in my LAD.

Because of my vascular disease I have ischemic optic neuropathy. This has also caused child birth issues.

I have spent far to much time in the ICU from my caths and strokes. It has come to some understanding that I have vascular issues. I am blessed for great friends, great love, the AHA, Adventist Healthcare, Mike Chen, MD and my Go Red Family!


I am FOREVER BLESSED!

Here's to your heart~D

GO RED Rally!

Heart month is among us! Saturday I'll be speaking at Tyson's Corner in Virginia at the Macy's Go Red Rally at 9:45am. Please visit your Macy's department stores this month to help support the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women.

 Don't forget to wear red this Friday!


Here's to your heart!

Go heart, go red!

I am so happy that January has come and gone without a hospital stay! It may sound weird but for the past 5 years, I have spent January in the hospital so my only New Years Resolution was to get through January! I did! I am a heart attack and stroke survivor. Its funny, I was wearing a strapless gown at heart ball a few days ago and someone said to me I don' see your scars. I have stents which means they go through your groin. Hey I have had more action down there than I like and not in a good way. A few months ago I was back in the cath lab and asked if they could at least shave their initials:) My strokes cause some issues. I had to TIA's and one major. My eyesight took the hit and not that I could walk before but I don't think I will ever glide again. OK, I never was graceful.

Heart disease is scary and every day I am afraid. What Bella is going through makes me terrified. She is 8 and your heart is the biggest muscle so the biggest worry is sudden cardiac death. Heart survivors aren't visible for a few reasons. The biggest one is we wear it on the inside. It is heart month. Heart disease kills more people then all cancers combined. Just because you can't see it, it does not mean we don't wear it.

My Glass Slipper

I was so blessed to be at the heart ball last night. I changed at the ball to drive home. I am currently in Virginia Beach. There was a hole in my garment bag. I lost a shoe...how funny. Ok I am upset I lost my glass slipper at the ball before midnight.

The funny thing was when I call the hotel and said, "So I was at the ball last night and I lost my shoe. Ironically it is clear and looks like glass". You can only imagine the laughter.

So if you find a glass slipper in Baltimore and its a size 8....

Cinderella  Cinderella

Baltimore Heart Ball

With former AHA President, Gordon F. Tomaselli, M.D., professor and director of the Division of Cardiology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. I had the please of lobbying on the hill with him last year!

Last night I attended the 30th Annual Baltimore Heart Ball. It was a great event with a lot in attendance. It was an amazing event full of everything you would expect in an American Heart Association Heart Ball! Beautiful gowns, beautiful people and a lot of beautiful hearts! I have to say one of my favorite parts of the evening was getting a picture with the Baltimore Orioles Mascot! It was also great catching up with so many beautiful title holders! Thank you so much for taking the time to be involved with the event!

With my beautiful friend, Mrs Hampton Roads, Tamika Jefferson! Her amazing Mom was there also. Love them!

30TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT SPONSORS

Recess Premiere Partner

30th Anniversary Event Chair

Recess 30th Anniversary Signature Partners

  

Beer, Balls, Birthdays, Bowls or Bust. Its just another weekend!

I love busy but coming off this week I would not mind a cat nap or 12 of them! I have company coming in tonight and a Birthday party tomorrow. One of the great parenting joys is going to parties. You want them to come to your children's. It is kind of how many of your weekend's go. I would say its a bit of parental responsibility.  I have the card and gifts done. I always find a girl easier. I just head for the bling:) I am in so much trouble in the future. The first time I ever travelled with my son I brought 22 pairs of shoes for him. Hey he was changing three times a day. LOL. Throw a girl in family and well lets just pull out the rental van for a weekend trip!

I am looking forward to the Heart Ball tomorrow. Nails and Toes are done and I think I have a gown that will work. I have been having some eye issues this week so I am hoping I am not wearing a patch tomorrow night but we shall see.

Sunday I am excited for the Superbowl! I love to cook and have the menu planned. As much as I want to do heart healthy and there will be options but I am doing homemade meatballs, cheese pancetta pockets (homemade, wish me luck) , stuffed olives, beer burgers and stuffed mushrooms. Yes, at my Superbowl party the spirit starts upon arrival and no one leaves with their keys.

Who am I routing for? I am Tampa Bay but since we have not been there in a while, I may go for Seattle. Why? In a state that rains a lot, when the sun breaks free its glorious. It may just be time for the sun to shine.

  

Your're the Cure

Excited to hear the great news from March of Dimes today. The U.S. Senate passed the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act by unanimous consent. This legislation helps to protect the health and well-being of every infant born in the United States.

Blue Rose

I have been involved with many non profits over the years. Having been a Director with the American Heart Association and a survivor, I can say that most who are committed are because it has effected them in some way. The Blue Rose story touched me in a personal way. One, I am a Mother and secondly I am the Mother of a former preemie. As I sat in the NICU for 165 days with my son, I saw loss. Its the worst pain and the worse fear.

 I am so honored to be involved with this organization and I wanted to share their story.

The Story

The Blue Rose song is dedicated to my daughter, Taryn Maryse - my Blue Rose

It seems like just yesterday when I was transferred by ambulance as a patient from a Daytona, Florida hospital to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Women and Children because my baby was going to be born prematurely. I remember being told that my baby would receive better and more advanced care there, and this is where my relationship with this hospital began. While the event that left a hole in my heart gradually faded into the recesses of my mind, I cannot deny that the past 18 years seemed to have vanished away, denied of too much emotion.
Although I was never able to bring my tiny daughter, Taryn Maryse, home - I recognized that her dignity was preserved in the arms of this magnificent hospital. Taryn stayed in the NICU for premature babies for one month from August to September, 1994 - and I can't think of a better place for her to have been. To this day I am glad she was there under those circumstances.
At the beginning of this difficult journey, I was angry about the loss of my baby. So I vowed to myself to never sing again, though singing was something I have done throughout my life.
It wasn't long afterward that people started coming to me, asking me to sing for this event or some happening, and I couldn't say "No." I later realized that my way of forgiving and dealing with my personal tragedy was to sing my heart out. Singing was actually easier than talking during this difficult time in my life. To help me get through it all, I now believe that the gift of song came as a rescue to me.
Time has now passed to 2012. Included on the Blue Rose Song page I have written how the song Blue Rose was born. Please visit the "Blue Rose Song" page to get the rest of the details. I believe you will find it interesting!
The main theme of the Blue Rose song is that "Anything's Possible…" in our lives if we make it so - and have the right mind-set about whatever our journey may be, realizing that life has its challenges along the way and things aren't perfect. You understand…
Perhaps you may even have a Blue Rose of some kind too…in your own personal experience.
I hope you enjoy this song - a labor of love written in a sparkling and positive spirit - and through it realize inspiration in your life for whatever resides in your hopes and dreams.
http://www.bluerosepress.com/story.html

Hug someone today~Here's to your heart~

Photography!

Working in TV and pageants I have had a lot of pictures taken.  Some are good, and some well not so good. I clearly have better angles but we all do. I admire the selfie taker. I guess the good thing is you can always delete and retake. Instagram just scares me! A photographer I have been so lucky to work with since 2006 is Clay Spann! He is a miracle worker. The amazing thing to me is over the years he shoots as the trends are changing so a very high caliber of artistry. I was excited to receive this picture last week!

I kind of want to state the obvious. Do I look like this in the morning, no. Under beer goggles and a single flicker of candlelight, ABSOLUTELY! Why is it so wrong to want to look your best? Why not work with the best? Why not allow yourself to feel the best? He also is one of the only photographers to capture me and all my teeth! I tend to look very serious. If you know Clay, he just makes you smile and might I add also shares a flair for cooking!

I feel so lucky to have Clay, Joey and Terry  in my life to create the magic that just makes me a better me. I highly recommend taking a visit to Dothan Alabama to visit the Competitive Image and Clay Spann Photography. I was once a Alabama queen and with them in my life, I am forever a BAMA fan UNLESS the Gators are involved. Chomp chomp!

www.clayspannphoto.com
www.thecompetitiveimage.com


Here's to your heart!

It was about a year ago that I lobbied on the hill with You're the Cure. One of our goals was for NIH funding. Medicine is a collaboration and something that effects all of us. It may be a family member, a friend or a stranger but having the dollars for research is so important. Think how far we have come.

It was just a few weeks ago when a doctor said to me, if I were you or you or you were my wife, I would send you to NIH. We do have some genetic issues and frankly a lot that do not make sense. Its like a puzzle with a few missing pieces. You are diagnosed with XYZ yet there are zzz's that don't fit into a text book.

I get so frustrated in speaking with doctors. It is just so black and white for many of them and like they don't care. I worry about Bella, Carter, Holston and just future generations. This is why advocacies are so important. You can save lives with a click of a mouse. You can advocate for issues that matter. You matter. I cannot hope and pray and encourage more.

YOU ARE THE CURE!

Yourethecure.org

Here's to your heart~

A little laugh

Find someone to believe in you because you are worth it.

Sometimes you meet someone that makes you better.

Taking the time

Its hard in life to really figure out the journey sometimes. My niece has cardiac vlcad and back in the hospital because her port is infected. This year alone its probably her 10th visit. It just becomes part of the day. Her parents are amazing, A Navy guy and Carrie is a saint. They also have four adopted children, Bella is biological.

I just can't say enough thank you's.  Bella Boo you are sooooooooooo loved! They sent these messages to her today.

She was granted a Make a Wish for November.

Thank you Amy and Jesse. It means more than you will ever know.

Forever blessed

The strongest come through the smallest souls.

How much is too much and what is not enough?

Social media brings with it some blessings and also some demons. I was speaking with a friend of mine today who just lost a child and was posting. I just spoke with her and she is doing her best. It's tough. It seems more common than some would like to talk about but it just is an awful pain.

When Carter was born 5 years ago most in my life had no idea I was even pregnant. We had had 5 previous losses with no explanation and the previous was late term.  I just felt like every time I went in the tech would leave, the doctor would come in and there would just be that look. At the obgyn I rang like you take her I don't want her no you take her. I took a backlash after Carter from some ,friends they understood my privacy. It has been a long road and a private one. Yes, this past year has been very private also but more because I have learned that there are mysterious people that just like to take every word and twist, turn and hurt with it. Some things are better left private, period. Those who need to know, do and even sometimes they don't care, so why even put some things out there?

This brings me back to my question. How much is too much and how much knowing helps anything? I was reading a FB post from another friend who was questioning someone asking for prayers on FB. I have found comfort at times because no one wants to feel alone. Death, sickness and life changing events can cause someone to feel a lot of loneliness at times. Not everyone has a huge family and even if you do, isn't caring and loving your fellow man part of the scriptures in the bible?

I guess I will continue to write, post, tweet and reflect but also continue to be cautious in doing so. Privacy is important and we all have heard someone say that if you put it out there, expect to be judged. That's probably the best guideline.

One other word of caution, remember when there was a time before social media was out there that you were told to never drink and dial? Well, NEVER, and I mean NEVER, drink and type. Oh that's bad, very bad and you not only virtually but literally can't make it go away. Its out there forever.

Here's to you heart~

The sweetest sound

I have come to a conclusion that I may not ever sleep past 3am again, or at least not for a few more years. As I woke to the sound of crying, to me there is always a level of comfort for me as I am able to cuddle them back to sleep. So now that the house is once again quiet, it made me think about music and my pending new guitar purchase. One of my goals this year is to get back to happy. To me that includes music. Writing, playing and singing are like cooking for me. They are all very soothing  hobbies that give you a sense of completeness when you finish.  I know it may seem silly to say but for me it's true.  So as I am watching Iron Chef, browsing Guitar Center and having a few minutes of quiet time I am feeling blessed.  Peace is good maybe I am just not that excited about quiet. I have the music in me.

Here's to your heart

Food can be the best medicine!

I am trying to make heart healthy choices that will help my cholesterol. Please note this will not be true when I start cooking for my Super bowl party. :) I went off my cholesterol meds about a year ago because there are some side effects that no one likes to talk about like birth defects and leg cramps. It was a personal choice for me. In some cases, they are very necessary, so please consult your doctor before going off any medications but I just prefer to be off the pills. The HDL, HAPPY Cholesterol, is controlled by exercise. LDL, your LOUSY cholesterol is controlled primarily by making healthy life choices. Food is really about moderation so its ok to eat what you want, within reason, but portions can be a huge downfall. When I lived in Germany I lived on cheese and champagne and was thin but I walked everywhere! Oh how I miss those days sometimes! LOL Today I went for the salad. I like sweet and something with some bite so I like to make my own. Lets not even talk about the calorie content in most of the salads prepared at restaurants.

I like a dressing of just a little olive oil, lemon juice and pepper but the combination of the spinach, blueberries, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, peppers and cucumbers was quite good.  I went for refreshe water as my bubbly.

Continuing to work on my Simple 7! What are the 7 ways you control your heart health? Take the Life check quiz from the American Heart Association! http://mylifecheck.heart.org/

My next step of the day...exercise!

Here's to your heart!

Heart Ball~ Baltimore Maryland

 

 

 

The Orioles announced an exciting partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA) that features the club serving as event chair for the 30th Annual Baltimore Heart Ball, scheduled for February 1, 2014. The team donated $75,000 which will go in part toward Recess, a Heart Ball program educating Baltimore City children on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. The Orioles are the first professional sports team to lead such an effort since the AHA’s founding in 1929. To learn more go to: www.orioles.com/AHA.

Last year, the Baltimore Heart Ball campaign raised just over $51 million nation-wide allowing us to fund over $123 million of research and programs across the country and in your community.

Our Mission
Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Our mission drives everything we do

Hope to see you there!

My first Crepe!

I watched Rachel Ray last week and was inspired to try and make a crepe. How hard can it be? Flour, water, egg, vanilla & milk. I decided to go for it. I went to the food network on line to verify my recipe thoughts and tweaked it a bit. I used some substitutions:

• Egg White
• I can't believe its not butter (for the pan)
• Flour
• Skim Milk
• Peaches
• Blueberries
• Powdered sugar
• Maple Syrup

I literally had it made in 10 minutes. I set and rolled it in parchment paper so when it cooled I plated it. This way it would not fall apart.

It turned out great! Now off to jump rope!

Here's to your heart!

My German side!

Pork Schnitzel

I lived in Germany for a few years and I always was impressed on how Germans can live on fried food and beer and still be fit. Well, they WALK A LOT! When I lived there I tried to stay away from fried or potato's but I had my share of Riesling and cheese. I lost 10 lbs just from walking so much but my alcohol tolerance did go up a bit. Hey, I miss Germany! So today I decided to try and cook a healthy version of pork schnitzel. I had frozen a left over baget so I pulled that out. I was not sure if it would end up as a crouton when I initially froze it but I needed bread crumbs. So I pulled it out and just started crumbling. TADA...I have bread crumbs! I bought some pork on sale and just pounded it. Snitzel is a very thin pork so it was a good time to take out any anger. I made it thin! Instead of eggs, I used egg whites and breaded the pork. You do have to fry it in oil but at the end of the day, it was pretty healthy. I served it with some steam green beans, carrots and wild rice. All in LITERALLY under 30 minutes! I am so proud and it received rave reviews!

 

 

Here's to your heart!

Bella

I am not sure if there is a formula for Mothers sometimes. I am a Mother of two and I do have a special needs child. I have so many friends with children that are special. My niece is one of them. I see post on FB and I even don't want to read them because my heart hurts. Bella's CPK's are back up and she now has a home health care nurse. She is 8.

I don't understand, will never understand why this happens. Special children are given to special parents.

Here's to your heart.

Foodie

Most people don't know but I am a foodie. I have to say that I have become somewhat OBSESSED with cooking over the past year. So much so that I have become a student at the culinary institute. What is ironic is I don't necessarily love to eat but I do like to taste. I am a heart health advocate so my obsession started with cooking every meal in the American Heart Associations Love Your Heart Go Red for Women Cookbook. Most of the recipes are pretty tasty and easy to prepare. I kind of have been feeling like Amy Adams in the "Julia" movie but on the healthier side. I think what I love most is plating. Its like cosmetics for the culinary. If it looks pretty, it makes you want to eat it!

In my quest to start over this year I treated my self with new cookware. Another one of my obsessions is Rachel Ray so I purchased the set. I did the red. I know its not Caphalon or a more expensive line but on the home cooking budget they do the job. Its kind of fun to get new cookware. My next goal is all new dishes. Of course I will stay with the red motif!

Here is my issue with a lot of dishes, SALT! I watch every cooking show and my new favorite is the "Taste", I know  I know but I do like it but why does every chef mention ADD MORE SALT. Its almost as bad as chef  Ludo who wants to ax the Vegan because he doesn't think Vegans can cook something you can't taste. Hey, I don't eat sweets or fried food but I can bake and fry with the best of them. My Mom was from Georgia. I never had a vegetable growing up that was not fried in a baby daddy fryer! My next journey is the weight watchers 15 minute superfast recipes. I'll post pictures if they are plated properly!

Here's to your heart!

Deanna P

Avon Walk!

I have been so blessed with my family. I have spoken about Lois Lane before, my sister,
 but she is a breast cancer survivor and someone who has always been there for me...even in my darkest hours. I love her so much. As an Avon Walk Alumni, I am ready to do it again. 39 miles in two days! I do speak of heart because I am a survivor but cancer, chemo and radiation take a huge toll on your body, especially your heart. I have often said this that one cause is no better than any other but we should work together to make changes and save lives. This walk is for her. Please consider donating or joining me. Its an inspirational event and yes, I am going in for my mammogram soon! Pay attention to your body!

http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR/Walk/WashingtonDC?px=3841838&pg=personal&fr_id=2361

Here's to your heart and your over all health!

Deanna P

Matriach

I often wonder my strength. God gives you only what you can handle, right? Well he clearly has more faith in me than I do in myself.

As I petition, pray , hope for a non eventful January, well its not so good. My Grandmas' cancer is back and at 88 she is moving forward with chemo again. She had heart surgery last year and chemo 6 years ago for colon cancer. I guess I have some strong genes in my bloodline. The cancer is everywhere.

I lost my parents so she is my parent so to speak.

My family likes to one up. I say this jokingly. I have a sister, biological. Way to much Jerry Springer there but I spoke with her last night. The last time I saw her was my Moms funeral. The same day my Grandpa died. Yep, we like to one up. So last night my sister and I spoke. She has cancer. Can we not make a call without a ping pong match?

I spent 3 hours at the hospital today. Timing check here?

I have Ischemic Optic Neuropathy. With my Cardiovascular disease, pregnancy issues, DVT  so much more, what a catch I am! I don't fit the mold. I am so blessed for my children and my life but its often a reminder, and not to seem morbid, but life can and often is short. As heart month is approaching, its important to understand your body. I had a heart attack in my 30's! It just is in my genes.

I believe in love and life. Don't forget to hug someone everyday and be thankful for the blessings in your life.

Here's to your heart.....

Love, Like or lust?

Gosh, doesn't this apply to 99% of our lives! Food, Fashion and relationships. Its a funny dynamic. Shoes are a good example of that and yet so are beer goggles. We want to see the fantasy but the reality is a shoe that may be oh so fab can cause you so much pain and waking up next to someone who may have looked a little different while under the influence, yet that can be scary too. Hypothetically speaking of course.

How do we REALLY decipher? What is real and what is fantasy? Every morning I stand on the scale, sometimes just on one foot in hopes my miracle number shows up. The reality is it won't happen but the fantasy is if I remove all items of clothing, including any rubber band in my hair, I just might be back to the weight I was once when I was 18 :)

This brings me to love, like or lust. I admit, I am a self sleeve wearer. That has really proven to not be such a great trait of mine! I can self destruct with the best of them. Working on that.

I think its all about love in life. Love is unconditional and should not judge. OK, we do but believe a true friend and a true love, will always see through the goggles even when they get a little bit cloudy.

Finding my tune~