Disconnected But Content

It’s been a few weeks, as we (Ashley and I) have been packing and moving – Ash to Boulder, CO and me a week later onto Ojai, CA.  Oh, and I might add Tammie, our soon to be 14 year old shih-poo, also traveled via plane for her first time!

As we have navigated the busyness of preparing to move, things moved along quite well.  Long days and nights, but to be expected.  Altogether, we packed and hauled 45 boxes to UPS!  A few angels dropped in along the way.  An old friend found my card buried in his papers, reached out to connect and offered to help us pack – what a help!  My cousin then called to offer their SUV for the night before our flight and again, we could not have made this all work without these gracious and timely offers.

Tammie was really good for a high-strung dog, but we realized that she needed some form of sedative for our solo flight a week later – me, the bags and the dog!

Upon arriving to Boulder, we were once again mesmerized by its beauty and stayed in an adorable lodge at the foot of the mountain – comfy beds, so needed for the upcoming week ahead.  Once settled into Ashley’ apartment, I began receiving notices from UPS that I had provided a wrong address for my packages.  Indeed, I had transposed the numbers – I call it my dyslexic fatigue.  Spent a number of hours on the phone with UPS to fix errors and while we are missing 1-2 boxes, all in all, the move went pretty well.

Love the area where Ashley will be, love the program that she is involved in – a therapeutic model that fits our philosophy and lifestyle.  Each day bring new blessings into her life which of course feels multifold for me!

Upon arrival to Los Angeles, I had it perfectly planned – or so I thought.  Picked up my vehicle at the airport marina dealership, concluding that selling my car prior to moving, working with an agent to have the car ready to roll would make sense and indeed, this worked well.  Along the way from LA to Ojai, I had also ordered a daybed – the same one purchased for Ash – as it doubles as a decent mattress and a sofa.  Picked that up and after leaving, started for home.  Tammie and I arrived about 9:15pm.  Went to turn on the lights and nothing.  I chuckled realizing that I had made very sure that Ash was set for utilities, internet etc, but forgot about my electricity.  Now the installation for internet would be also delayed.

Luckily, I carry a tiny flashlight in my purse and we navigated the apartment quite well.  Think it is all those carrots that I consume that help the night vision!  In a humorous way, I felt like a pioneer and there was something a bit thrilling about being disconnected for a few days.  After two days, met my neighbor who graciously gave me an extension cord, a lamp and thankfully, I could make my morning coffee.  The next day, she offered me her wifi so that I could continue business as usual.

I’ve done skype (actually HIPPA skype called doxy.me)) in Boulder, now Ojai and am keeping my schedule on EST for the month.

Life is falling into place.  I love being here – a small town of about 7500 people – and already feel a connection to the folks I’ve met.  While I will always cherish my home in Boston, it is time for a new adventure and a time to bring forth my gifts in a climate where integrative health is the norm.

Sending love and well-wishes to all,

Julie

A Goodbye With Fond Memories and Gratitude

As I wrap up my three short years in Marblehead, I am so grateful for having had the opportunity to live here, yet not without major life challenges.

My folks grew up in Lynn and as a teen, I would ride my bike through town and once in college, dreamed of someday owning a bed and breakfast where I would teach health classes and cook my healthy food for people.

When I moved here a few years ago, I began networking and building relationships with local businesses but unfortunately three months after arriving, I developed a staph infection that required surgery since I had a rare leukemia that suppressed my immune system.  Following a lengthy hospitalization and chemotherapy, I reacted to the chemo and was quite ill for months on end.  So much for getting business off the ground!

Luckily, I lived in a condo within walking distance to town and the pharmacy, so I began to improve my stamina with short walks.  Once able to get back to yoga, I was there at The Loft, most days of the week.  Randy and Laurel’s smiling faces always made me feel welcomed.

I began to work with Steve and Rob at the Landing, creating the SeaFit menu and with Jon and Joan at Marblehead Cable TV, doing health interviews with local health professionals.  Additionally, Mary at the Reporter, welcomed my contributions to the newspaper.

Once feeling better, I did begin the process of creating a health retreat here in town and while many people liked the idea, there was also concern about bringing a larger business as this to town.  I do believe that one day there may be an opportunity to revisit this idea, but the timing needs to be right for embracing a more holistic style of health and wellness.

Last summer, my daughter was married at Crocker Park and the day could not have been better.  It was a highlight of my being here in this beautiful town.  Shortly after, I embarked on a business trip to talk with leading healthcare professionals about integrative healthcare and as I voiced my frustrations, it was suggested that I consider a few other areas of the country, where my gifts could truly blossom.  I began to consider this possibility, knowing that my children also had interest in moving to other areas of the country.

My process was definitely sped up with health challenges that my daughter has faced and the reality of once again needing to sell my home for financial reasons.  For those of you who have followed my articles over these past few years, you know that I come from a place of seeking the silver lining, looking at the gift in the challenge. And this is exactly how I see it.  I feel blessed and complete having been here, hoping that I have touched some lives with inspiration, and I look forward to my new chapter in Ojai, CA, a small community of forward thinking healthcare and spiritual professionals.  I will still be available for consultations via a HIPPA compliant form of telehealth, doxy.me for my east coast folks.

  

With sincere thanks,  Julie

"Oh What A Night" - Or Something Like That!

Here I am in San Luis Obispo, CA, waiting at Whole Foods until my flight leaves to return to San Francisco.

It has been quite a week - a truly amazing one at that.  Last Saturday, Lindsay and Scott were married in Marblehead, overlooking the ocean and we celebrated with family and a few close friends.  What an amazing event.  They are truly a couple who is not only in love, but are two people who shine as individuals as well.

On Monday morning, Ashley and I boarded for a 3-day grad school trip, to scope out colleges for holistic psychology.  The apples surely have not fallen far from this tree!  We spent a spectacular day in Boulder, CO, riding cycles from campus to campus and into town.  My kinda travel.  The air and surroundings were so crisp and clean.

The next day, we flew into San Francisco and visited another school - fabulous program, but in the center of the big city - neither of our favorite surroundings.  We drove to the highest point in San Fran for the overlook - what a view!

Third day was "Do You Know the Way to San Jose" - remember that song?  Visited our final school, then strolled into the shopping area abutting silicon valley.  Had a great lunch, viewed the area than headed back to San Fran for the "rice-a-roni" ride.  How thrilling!  We hung on the outside moving straight up and down the streets of San Fran.  What was more thrilling (or shall I say, fearful!) was the ride up and down the road in the car.  At one point, we could not even see over the top of the car.

Next morning, Ashley boarded for Boston and I, SLO.  I've been checking out like-minded communities with a relocation consideration and I must say, the environment is more open than in Boston.  I have met some wonderful people who truly subscribe to functional and integrative medicine and tomorrow, I see three more communities for comparison.  In the end, I will still be available for my clients, whether I am on the east coast or the west and in fact, have one client who recently moved from Boston to San Fran.  My other dear student is back in Japan.

Life is certainly interesting, full of opportunities for growth, self-introspection and appreciation for the many gifts.  My message to you is to embrace what life has to offer.

With love,
Julie

Humor in the Humanness Part Two

As I approached each morning for about two weeks, I felt more stiff, more foggy, more forgetful.  Hmm, I even started to preface my conversations with my girls stating, "I may have told you this but . . .", and this was mildly disconcerting yet funny at the same time.  I envisioned myself as having my finger in a socket and my hair standing on end, fried and burnt out!

All of a sudden, I had this feeling that it had been a really long time without changing the 3 month estrogen support and when I checked the calendar, voila, I had forgotten to mark it in place.  Now I was about two weeks overdue.

How ironic, this feeling of age and cognitive dullness really impacted my state of well-being.  It was also comical how "ditsy" I felt.  Soon, I began to laugh, called my girls and told them the story.  I also realized once again on a personal level, how much our lives as women are impacted by the communication of the hormonal ebb and flow.

As I look over my history, I was diagnosed with Pituitary Insufficiency which means that the master gland which directs the precursors to hormones, does not work properly in my body.  I've had infertility, hypothyroidism, adrenal imbalance and over the past few years, had really noticed a difference in memory retention and clarity in thinking, until my endocrinologist suggested hormone replacement.

I had been dead set against HRT given all the bad press, but as I've learned more about personalized approaches to replacement, I became more open to the idea.  There was a lot of trial and error in the beginning, but once we established the right doses for each hormone - estrogen, progesterone and testosterone - I began to feel human again.  Eureka - the fountain of youth!

The lesson here is that we are all unique in our individual needs and it is important to seek assistance from professionals who "think outside the box" and who listen to the needs of their patients.

May you feel blessed,
Julie

Plastics Toxicity and You

As I read the about the reminder of the plastic bag ban to go into effect on May 5 in my town, it brought back memories of my post-grad training in functional medicine and how in this paradigm, we are seeking root causes of a lack of wellness and not endpoint disease.

Our present medical system is based on identifying endpoint diseases rather than looking at symptoms and syndromes that lead to these diseases.  In the “functional approach”, the quest is to halt the process altogether or at least slow it down.  Our country does have excellent emergency medicine however, and it is not appropriate to completely bash the system, but rather to begin to look at how we can create better “health” care systems that focus on prevention.

Back to plastics.  As was brought out in the article, we have become a disposable society  and as a result, losing convenience will be a tough habit to break.  There will be anger, frustration, a lack of ideas about what to do instead, thus the educational component comes into play.  Board of Health member, Michelle Gottlieb put it nicely – “It’s creating new habits”, “We have to relearn and reinvent the throwaway society that we have created”, “It won’t happen overnight”.  This so rings true in my practice as a nutritionist and wellness consultant.  Breaking old habits and creating new ones can be challenging, thus support and education in order to stay focused and motivated is key.  I work very hard on establishing and maintaining relationships with my clients to stay focused in the process.

Chemicals found in plastics have known toxins and these are BPA and phthalates.  These are known endocrine disruptors, chemicals that show evidence for increasing  the incidence of infertility, cancers, malformations in utero, as well as influence on the thyroid, and increasing obesity.  Phthalates, known as plasticizers, are found in cosmetics, perfumes, aerosols, paints, lotions, shampoos, nail polish and I could go on, but you get the idea!  Our bodies are bombarded in ways that we don’t even think about.  Research has shown over 280 chemicals identified in newborn cord blood and of that, 180 cause cancer in humans or animals.  Some of these statistics are from the Environmental Working Group.

There are signs and symptoms that may present in a “burdened body” and these include:  fatigue, depression, chemical sensitivity, autoimmune disease, headaches, hormonal imbalances, asthma and allergies, and again, I could list more.  The challenge with identifying toxic load is that there are so many diffuse symptoms that do not fit into the current model of diagnosis and thus, toxic burden is often overlooked.

What can we do in this challenging environment.  First of all, recognize that change is not overnight and begin by learning more about what is in your environment – from food, to the containers it comes in.  Second, do an inventory of your “products” – and by this I mean, not only personal hygiene, but cleaning products as well.  As an aside, May is Spring cleaning month for me and I just stocked up on my jug of white vinegar for washing walls, appliances etc.  Gone are the days of pleasant smelling sprays and scrubs that used to be in the closet.

Check out www.EWG.org, a wonderful resource for listing the safety of foods, personal care, cleaning products and more.

Consider a “functional medicine” consult to review body systems, look at tests that may identify toxic burden and if you choose to embark upon a “detox” or “cleanse”, consult with your practitioner to make sure that your body can handle the three important phases of detoxification.

Lastly, use this plastic bag ban as an opportunity to re-think what is in your environment and consider taking small, deliberate steps to cleaning up the environment for yourself and our planet.

Squeaky clean,

Julie

Nutrition in the Firing Range: Time for Resolution or Revolution

The past two weeks have been quite eventful for the dietetics profession.  Our governing agency, The American Dietetic Association chose to support/endorse/align with Kraft's Healthy Kids initiative, thus supporting the use of Kraft cheese as a healthy food.

For many of us, this collaboration was not something that we would have agreed to, especially given that the cheese is highly processed, contains many chemicals and unhealthy fats.  In fact, the ADA rarely asks its members what they think and what companies align with the values of health.

As the emails poured out about leaving the association, I was struck with how entrenched people were on both sides and how angry and emotional responses were to the governing folks at ADA. My reaction following the shock of such an endorsement was to wait a few days for emotions to settle, to read how the ADA responded to dissatisfied members and to then formulate my letter.  I will include my letter in this blog because it supports who I am and how I operate.  This is not to say that I am right and others are wrong - there is no right or wrong - only an endpoint desire.  As a person, community, nation, world, do we want peace and collaboration or revolt that further divides?

I truly believe in clean, organic, nonGMO food and our country is certainly lagging in that area, but we need to find ways to repurpose some commodities.  Instead of processed cheese that can stay on the shelf for months, we can educate people about organic cheeses that must be consumed in a shorter time, and that these organic cheeses do not contain hormones that increase the risk for certain cancers.  Yes, it is time for all of us to take responsibility to get back to basics and while this may be less convenient in the short run, it will create a healthier environment for ourselves and our future generations.  

And as we approach "hot topics", consider taking time to listen to both sides, to not react, but rather thoughtfully consider the best interest of all involved.  A peaceful resolution will support a world that exists in harmony,

In peace,

Julie

March 23, 2015

To Whom It May Concern:

I have chosen to wait before sending my letter of concern about the recent Kraft issue because I wanted emotions to settle, to hear both sides and then to formulate my opinion.   I have read the article, the various discussions and comments about this situation and must say that I feel very strongly that establishing alliances in any way with companies that provide processed foods with multiple chemicals in them, is not an acceptable message to be sending to the general public.  There is mounting research and evidence to show that these highly processed foods are contributing to the nation’s obesity epidemic as well as other illnesses and health concerns.

A recent viewing of Fed Up, not only reinforced my practice style, but clearly showed how these food companies are really not looking into the best interest of the population, but are more interested in monetary gain and power.  This is just not right!

I also feel that words are “poised”, creating a semantic dilemma for many – especially the uneducated and confused public.  Words like alliance, endorsement, “seal of approval”, support etc.

I have always been proud to be a dietitian, continue to love what I do and want to be represented as a healthcare professional, not a quick fix option with multitudes of side effects – akin to the pharmaceutical industry.  “Cure for the short-run, but kill in the end.”

My desire is always collaboration and I sincerely hope that our organization can work towards listening to all, sharing opinions and making decisions in the best interest of humanity.

Thank you for taking the time to read our letters.

Sincerely,

Julie Freeman

Preparing for the Nor'easter

Being my first year living by the coast, I had no idea what to expect for this upcoming storm.  It seems in these past few years that predictions are far from accurate, but I thought it may be a good idea to do a little planning for the "just in case".

As I viewed reports and listened to a few folks, there was a definite concern for the coastal regions due to the high tides.  I wondered if that meant just the cape or up here on the northshore.  All new territory for me.

I took Tammie for her usual walk, stopped off at the grocery to pick up a few items and decided to get a jug of water in case I needed it.  I saw people buying emergency candles and of course, the store was bustling.

My main preparation of course, was in the food department.  God forbid, I do not have enough food!  I cooked up extra hard-boiled eggs, made up burger patties and cooked enough sweet potato cubes for multiple meals.  Always thinking of my proteins, starches and of course the veggies can be raw.  I made up extra iced coffee - my guilty pleasure and vice!

The storm was wild yesterday, winds blowing so hard that it hurt to open my eyes.  I donned my red face mask (the girls gave it to me a few years ago when I would jog at 6am), double layers of pants, a vest, mittens and my jacket.  Tammie had her new storm coat on and we ventured out for all  of just a few minutes.  I loved it but needed to wait for the wind to die down a bit.

Later on, I decided to dig out the car.  Well, that was a project - the whole front of the car was buried due to drifting, so getting inside was not doable.  Our condo manager came by with the plow and made the process so much easier.  I met new neighbors - something I have always loved in these storms.  People come out and come together - something to be said about being humbled by the elements - the forces above and beyond us.  It felt great and I felt strong,

Since we did not lose power, I had food already prepared and was able to just focus on my creative work and skyping with clients - we were all safe and warm in our homes.

This morning's creation was a hard-boiled egg, turkey bacon, mashed with mayo, mustard, pepitas, roasted red tomatoes, chunky parmesan and wrapped in a coconut wrap with lettuce.  Additions were chopped carrots, fennel and oven roasted sweet potatoes.  Of course, I add the yummy organic ketchup!

Today is brighter, so fresh and clean and I will take Tammie for her snow walk - a favorite for us both!

With Eagerness
Julie

Pollution Everywhere

As the snow came down yesterday, it looked so pretty - white fluffy stuff clinging to the trees and coating the ground as if a carpet. And then came the snow melt! I have found that this new melt sure does do the job, but Tammie's paws don't like it and I usually feel more allergic - owing it to this new-found chemical miracle that clears the snow as soon as it hits. Of course this brought me on a field trip in my mind about "other chemicals" that live with us daily, assuming no harm - or is there? I generally no longer clip coupons as I used to because I have become such a chemical-free snob or shall we say an enlightened consumer! But on this day, I decided to look through and it dawned on me that every page was filled with products that I used to think were safe, got the job done, and have stood the test of time.

While I am not singling out the product companies - the names have been blackened - I am definitely interested in raising awareness that not one item in this collage photo is in the "green" per EWG (Environmental Working Group), an organization dedicated to rating consumer products for safety. This is distressing because daily each of us use products that may be declining our health and that of our families. Just look at newborn cord blood and you will see how polluted we are as a human population. Tests Find More Than 200 Chemicals in Newborn Umbilical ... www.scientificamerican.com › … › What’s eating us? 232 Toxic Chemicals found in 10 Babies - Mercola.com articles.mercola.com/.../31/232-toxic-chemicals-found-in.. Environmental Toxins Found In Newborns' Cord Blood:... www.huffingtonpost.ca/...toxins-found-newborns-cord-blood... How do we begin to change these challenging areas that affect each of us whether we are aware or not? Begin by checking EWG and look at just one section to start with. Focus on small steps so as not to become overwhelmed. Over time, your household will become a cleaner environment and this will assist in you and your family being healthier, having a stronger immune system and also contributing in a positive way to the environment. Now is the time! Begin to shift. Julie

From Fruitcakes to Pumpkin Bread

As I wrapped up the pumpkin chocolate chip breads and flourless almond, peanut and peanut chocolate chips cookies to distribute to my colleagues and friends as holiday gifts, I was drawn back to my days as a child and adolescent of baking mini pastries and eventually three dozen fruitcakes. The fruitcake became my signature item, beginning on Thanksgiving weekend preparing and baking them and then brushing them with the finest cognac weekly for four weeks before sending them around the country to my relatives and delivering near and far. I maintained this tradition for years and my older daughter, Lindsay, would help me in the kitchen. One year, I recall having a bad snow storm and needing to get to the post office. I loaded up Lindsay's carriage, which was now used for our dog, Krissy, with all the fruitcake boxes to send and we walked to the post office. Of course, the carriage lost a wheel on the trip, but we made it! Since that time, I have found as hobby as well as part of my mission of healthy eating for all, to take wonderful recipes and to create healthier versions of them, and now with gluten free flours since so many are affected by this very hard to digest and modified protein in wheat. My versions for quickbreads - banana-walnut, punmpkin-chocolate chip and apple-cheese, are wonderful - the taste, texture, crumb - you name it, they pass the "tri-test"! Roll back yet again to college days. We were expected to experiment with ingredients and then use the food lab for testing and this tri-test remains quite vivid in my memory. Height would be measured, the size of the holes in the texture, how it would crumble and then of course, blind-folded taste! I use these general principles without the equipment, to this very day! This year, I have really enjoyed getting back into a few of these traditions that have been disrupted for the past few years - there is something grounding and so positive about holding onto those traditions and memories that fuel our happiness and gratitude and for me, feeding people, sharing love with food, has been a theme throughout my life. Try "breaking bread" with this delicious, yet nutritious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread - I am perfecting the Paleo version as we speak! With love, Julie PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP BREAD 1 1/4 CUPS GF FLOUR MIX 2 TBL OIL 1/2 CUP BENEFIBER 3 TBL UNSWEETENED APPLESAUCE 2 TSP BAKING POWDER 2 TBL SUGAR 1 TSP XANTHAN GUM 2 EGGS 1/2 TSP SALT 1 TSP VANILLA 1/4 TSP BAKING SODA 1 CUP CANNED OR STRAINED MASHED PUMPKIN 1 TSP CINNAMON ¼ CUP CHOCOLATE CHIPS 1) OVEN 350 2) STIR DRY INGREDIENTS TOGETHER 3) BEAT OIL, APPLESAUCE AND SUGAR. ADD EGGS AND VANILLA. BEAT WELL 4) ADD FLOUR MIX ALTERNATELY WITH PUMPKIN, BEGINNING AND ENDING WITH FLOUR 5) MIX UNTIL COMBINED. ADD CHOCOLATE CHIPS. DO NOT OVERBEAT 6) POUR INTO GREASED 9X5X2 LOAF PAN AND BAKE 60-70 OR UNTIL TESTER COMES OUT CLEAN YIELD – 12 SLICES EACH SLICE: 125 KCAL; 30 GM CARB; 4 GM FIBER; 5 GM SUGAR

Giving Thanks and Thanksgiving

For many of us, this holiday represents many memories of all that we are thankful for in our lives - a time to truly reflect upon our blessings. Interestingly, my younger daughter, Ashley, has always made sure that Thanksgiving maintained its character of being an important holiday needing its place BEFORE beginning the Christmas commercialism. She even tweeted and snap-chatted about how disgusting it was to have stores opening at 6pm on Thanksgiving! Go Ash! For our family, this was a time to create new traditions, keeping the importance of fond memories in tact with some replication. In fact, my older daughter, Lindsay, chose to be with our family instead of her boyfriend's once again, given the sensitivity of losing her Gram last year, my move from our home of over 22 years, and the Summer/Fall challenges with my health. For me, I want my girls to choose what they want and need for themselves because this was not how I grew up. While I so appreciate many of the ways that my parents raised me, as for all of us, there are blessings and curses! Being able to choose was not an option, thus I never truly learned what I want, need, nor what really makes me tick - not until very recently. This holiday was beautiful in so many ways. I prepared the traditional meal, as you will see in Lindsay's plate - organic chicken (but, we'll pretend that it is turkey!), bread stuffing (Mom's recipe with a few edits!), oven roasted butternut squash and turnip (a little different from the mashed, but delicious!), green beans almondine, homemade cranberry sauce (sweetened with stevia instead of sugar)and real gravy from the pan-drippings. We enjoyed our meal, talked, reminisced and chose to go the new Hunger Games movie since Dad was sleeping over and he loves movies. I walked with Tammie for some fresh air and to feel the calm energy of the ocean - one of my daily grounding rituals. The interesting thing is that so many opt out of the exercise piece on this day, and yet, the physical activity offers a re-set, a grounding and an opportunity to digest - in more ways than one. We digest our food physically and we digest our emotions with our breath and being in touch with nature. It was so very special to share this time with my Dad and my girls and I remain thankful for the love that we share. I also thank my Mom, who is smiling down on us all as she shares her spirit with us. Thank you Mom! With love and gratitude, Julie

Traditional Bread Stuffing and Fond Memories

Over the past few weeks, as I am preparing the traditional Thanksgiving meal for my family, I have been reminiscing about my Mom's "best in the world" bread stuffing! I also thought about how my best friend, Jeanne (we even talked about it today!), would come over on Thanksgiving evening in order to have some of Mom's stuffing and apple pie. I can even remember the pan she cooked it in. Of course, I've been tinkering in my head how to reproduce this gem with many fewer carbs and calories, while still keeping the flavor and texture. Not always an easy task, but one of my fun, creative activities! While Mom would saute the onion and celery in a whole stick of butter until translucent, I have chosen to cut some of the fat with chicken broth - one of my best kept secrets! My girls and my Dad will be here for the day and overnight, so that we can keep some of the tradition in tact, given that so much has changed over this year. First of all, Mom passed away last Fall, I moved mid-winter and landed in the hospital for a good part of the summer. You know what, we have so much to be grateful for and I, for one, am very excited to bring the old and the new together. Please enjoy the Bread Stuffing recipes and if you prefer, good old, regular (GMO fortified!) bread, enjoy - it is only one day of the year. With Blessings and Gratitude, Julie Gluten-Free Bread Stuffing 1 loaf gf bread, cubed and dried or lightly toasted 300 for 5-7 minutes ¼ cup butter melted ½ cup chicken broth ½ cup each: chopped onion and celery 1 Tbl Bell’s Poultry Seasoning ½ tsp salt, pepper to taste Paleo Bread Stuffing 1 loaf paleo bread, cubed and dried or lightly toasted 300 for 5-7 minutes ¼ cup butter, melted 1/3-1/2 cup chicken broth ½ cup each: chopped onion and celery 1 Tbl Bell’s Poultry Seasoning ½ tsp xanthan gum ½ tsp salt, pepper to taste Directions: Saute onion and celery in butter. Add chicken broth Mix bread cubes with dry ingredients Knead all ingredients lightly to as not to pack down too tightly Bake 375 to warm and crisp approximately 20-30 minutes

I Don’t Care: A Protective Force

For years I recall saying that very phrase, “I don’t care”. I used it about politics, about organic foods back in the 80’s, about finance and investing. It all felt too daunting and overwhelming, and so I kept my world simple and only learned about those things that I could master. Making mistakes was not allowed! When I look back, there were good reasons for my limited thinking. Politics involved fighting, war, understanding the chain of command. Organic foods were for the “yuppies” or young, rich folk (now I am really dating myself!) and finance/investing was about intricate mathematical formulas that I did not understand, as well as being for the rich and certainly not me! I really get it now and the fact is, I really do care! My folks portrayed the world as an unsafe place, thus watching news or learning about political viewpoints and disagreement really made me feel unsettled. While there was an organic movement in the 70’s and 80’s, my upbringing and traditional dietetics education did not support this style of eating, seemingly only for the well to do and hippie groups. And finally, the world of money was a volatile subject in my home. As an only child, my folks did anything to make sure that I was not spoiled and they fought about money quite a bit. I was taught to be frugal, not self-indulgent and was also not allowed to have a bank account until I left home as a young adult. This is not about blame – my folks wanted to protect me from the world as they saw it. I truly get it, and yet, I have had many opportunities especially in my own adult life, to transform my belief system. I am now quite passionate about the political stance on healthcare, about big industry and how it often suppresses the individual folks working to make the world a better place. I truly believe in organic and non-GMO food availability and education for the public to make informed choices for themselves and their families. And I am in a place where I truly desire financial abundance in order to spread my message of “whole health and healing” to a larger audience. Ironically, as I write this blog, I am sitting in a hotel room with my former boss, attending the Rule Number One seminar from Phil Town, a revolutionary investor and pioneer in this education. It was not quite 6 weeks ago when she asked me to attend on a scholarship and I had no clue what this would be about other than to learn some basic aspects of investing in companies aligns with ones’ values. My best examples would be Whole Foods – a company committed to healthy food, employee and customer satisfaction and a CEO who is passionate about health and “his people”; and Chipotle – a restaurant dedicated to local and organic food, again educating the public and employees about sustainable farming and living practices. While the “math piece” will take a while to learn and understand, the concept of helping to create a world that aligns with my core values based on my investments, really excites me! This paradigm shift in money is so similar to the paradigm shift that I am passionate about in healthcare. The bottom line is that it is important to have full disclosure and education in order to make decisions for oneself that align with one’s values. Take your past, learn from it, choose to live an empowered life and care! With passion, Julie

State Of The Union: Medical Care in MA

What a wild ride I've been on with navigating the healthcare world during these past two years and even more so, since May of this year. On May 23, my older daughter turned 26, which meant that she could no longer be on my insurance policy. Now the fun - or shall we say, not so fun began! I have had the same insurance for a number of years because the coverage was good, alternative services such as food sensitivity and some alternative GI tests were also covered. The price was reasonable for someone self-employed with a family. Then as 2014 started, these tests were no longer covered, compounded medications and supplements were also taken off the list. The starting of the demise of inclusive services. When May 23 arrived, my daughter had already done her homework about choosing a plan, being sure the company paperwork was submitted and on that day our entire family policy was cancelled. I knew first because when I went to renew prescriptions, I was told I had no insurance. The process began. I could not be found in the database by name, date of birth or social security, and yet, I had been with this company for years. My daughter's policy was now my old number and she had wrong data attached to her brand new policy. I started with customer service, but after one month of no return calls, I asked to speak with a supervisor. We made a little headway, then he was gone for extended holiday and no-one took over my case. Start all over again! The next person promised to keep me updated weekly on progress, but that never happened. I was informed that we may have problems for the entire year. During this time, I overpaid bills to doctors, pharmacies etc. I had requested my monthly statements since I was not receiving them. I worked on this while in my "hotel room", as I called it at the Newton Wellesley Hospital, dealing with my own poor health. Once home, I called to request updates on issues that never were solved, thus decided to write the president and CEO. He never returned a call or letter, thus I sent the same letter a second time, certified, return receipt requested. He received it alright, but never responded. I had stated in my letter that I hoped to work out these issues without having to contact the insurance commissioner's office and my state rep and thus decided to follow up with a call. I was transferred to the ombudsman's office and we talked. I requested what seemed reasonable to have 3 months waived from premiums given the money, time and stress that was spent on this fiasco for myself and my daughter. Again, I received no follow up from the ombudsman, until finally an email stating that the issues would be resolved in 3-4 weeks and that the company would not honor my request regarding some restitution. It is now mid-October, almost the end of the year! The very next day, I received a demand letter to pay over $6000 in premiums or my policy would be cancelled in 15 days. While in shock, I chose to contact the insurance commissioner's office, to contact my state rep and he has been very cooperative with me to assist me during this time. While all of this has been going on, I had labs done at the Brigham 2 weeks prior to my doctor visit and when we met, he had not received them, nor could they be found on the site. I called, only to be connected to answering machines, then disconnected. After attempting this for a number of times, I called the operator expressing that I needed to speak with a person in the lab, not an extension, because my labs were lost! Upon speaking with the lab person, she realized that the labs were faxed to a phone and not a fax. She told me that it would be done right away. A day goes by and no labs at my doc's office. I start the process yet again and when I explain that the lab had mistakenly faxed to the phone and that I needed these reports, she told me "when I have time". With my jaw at my feet, I told her that this was unacceptable, that it was now three weeks with lost labs and I that I am dealing with cancer, she still stated "when I have time, by the end of the day." She was not compassionate, sounded irritated and did not apologize for any mistake on their end. I asked to speak with a supervisor and she stated to be the supervisor! Wow - well this is a long and detailed blog, BUT, the upshot is that the state of healthcare here in MA is not so pretty. I feel lucky enough to know how to address some issues being a provider myself and feel very concerned for people who just don't know how to deal with the system - a system that is very broken at the moment. While I still do not know the outcome of the Harvard Pilgrim fiasco and have dealt with less than compassionate lab folks at the Brigham, I do know that there are ways to not be in a place of victim-hood: Gather your data Be assertive and persistent Look outside the box for assistance - governing agencies, state representatives If we all begin to assert our displeasure, we may begin to make some momentum in creating a healthcare system that does work for the people. Rah-rah! Julie

East Meets West

This was a full week of doctor visits, nurse maintenance for my pic line and wound dressing, and I was so very aware and thankful for having the best of both worlds at my disposal! As I've mentioned in prior blogs, I have most always been the bridge or conduit between the traditional and non-traditional health-care professionals and have loved the opportunity over the years to decrease skepticism while enrolling my amazing colleagues into a new (but very ancient!) way of thinking. I have seen this role in my life since childhood and maybe it even predates my existence - family patterns, roles that we take on etc. I have personally delved into traditional therapy, energy work,mind-body training and spiritual pursuits in order to understand my own path as well as to assist others along the way. Most days, I feel blessed to see my challenges in a curious manner, although there are the ones where fear, doubt and just plain old crying, come knocking at my door. I, as well as all of us, must remember that this is truly living - to feel exhilarated in one moment, followed by a crash into despair at some time - as long as we come back to our reality with a sense of balance. I often describe this process to my clients as riding the crest of the wave! While visiting my oncologist, I gave him a packet of materials about how to blend natural medicine with chemotherapy. He was gracious and told me that he is happy to support this process as long as it does not impede what the chemo will do. We discussed how Boston has some of the best medical centers and yet, how narrow-minded the health-care professionals are. He agreed and acknowledged that we need more integration here. Wow - this felt thrilling to me! A few days later, I met my new naturopath and immediately felt as if I had landed in the right place. Luckily, he is one hour away and not three! His specialty is cancer and right away, we spoke the same language about tests, immune system support, the role of nutrition in supporting cancer cell death along with immune system building. He even drew pictures much like I do for patients, showing the process visually. Another Wow - I feel ready for this process! The last piece was seeing my nurse who has been with me three days per week since I came home from the hospital. She has been so supportive, caring and knowledgeable about the technology piece - wound pumps, pic line dressings, flushing out lines, cleaning out my still so deep but healing wound. We have this amazing technology to support the healing process - machines, special dressings and ointments - you name it! As I come full circle in my learning curve, I recognize and honor ancient, natural traditions along with the beauty of scientific advances that will bring newer meaning to blending the "best of both worlds". Now, I am off to the Farmer's Market for some organic food! With love and blessings, Julie

Dusting Off The Yoga Mat

It is now two weeks from having hamstring surgery to remove an abscess and I am moving along quite nicely - not at my "old pace", but taking life and strength in stride! I was finally able to take my full walk without being exhausted or in discomfort from my healing leg and that feels so good! As I viewed the bay with sailboats, I felt such peace and gratitude for the beauty that exists in my life. I decided that today would be the day to clean off my new yoga mat and do some poses - with creativity! Not only do I still have a deep open wound on the left leg, but I have a pic line (a catheter that is inserted into my arm and drops into my vein near the heart) for self-administering medications. I was told not to stretch above my head, not to lift heavy objects, basically, not to move too much with my right arm. Hey, at least I'm balanced - right arm/left leg! As I thought about my yoga, I was excited to think about how to handle rehabilitation for myself. I've had years of training - a personal trainer in the 80's, an aerobics and conditioning trainer, a hatha trained yoga teacher again back in the 80's and now my recent certification with Yoga Of Energy Flow - a remarkable program that not only introduced many styles of yoga postures, but also discussed spirituality, philosophy and the "unseen" energy flow. Since my hospitalization, I have used my breathing and spiritual aspects, but today felt like the right time to begin some postures. While my body is still so very tight, I am able to do some postures with intention, yet not perfection. What a life lesson. I have always been able to count on my physical stamina, being very good at exercises - often pumping more weight than the guys! Today, I am starting from a place of truly listening to my body, my pain being the gauge of how much I can push. Another message worth listening to and I am really listening! I welcome you to do the same - listen to your body - it reveals so much truth! In balance, Julie

HBOT - Back in My Awareness

Today was my first hyperbaric oxygen treatment. What a cool process! I had learned about this therapy back in my Joslin Diabetes days, for patients who had charcot foot and gangrenous lesions due to oxygen starvation as a result of diabetes. A few years ago, while searching for alternative cancer treatments, it was among the options available, given that cancer cells cannot live in an oxygen rich environment - conversely, they thrive in low oxygen or hypoxic environments. There were no centers in the area and I was pursuing other treatments at the time. Within the last two months, however, this treatment was brought back to my attention at least 3-4 times, thus I finally realized that it was time to seriously explore this option. I learned of a center close by from one of my colleagues and began the research process. In my own evolution,I intuit that my cells are still viable but my "generator or starter" is not catching. I liken this to the automobile that keeps turning but not catching. During these past few years, my intuitive sense has become richer and I am able to envision things, often quite accurately. As I sat in the chamber, I was instructed to unplug my ears, as if in an airplane, for about 15 minutes,as I went for the "dive" as it is called. Once at my level, I put on the oxygen mask and breathed in pure O2 for 1 1/2 hours. At the end, there was the "climb" back to normal pressure. Fascinating! I felt great - my vision was very clear and my head felt very clear as well. I take this as a good sign and am excited for my next dive! The take-away here is to listen to your gut when thoughts keep coming back to you and when people come into your life to teach you a lesson that is crucial for your next steps along the journey. With clarity in mind and vision, Julie

Non-GMO vs Monsanto - A Big Monetary Giant

I've never been one to follow politics in my past - always felt that little me would have no real say in the matter and I found the system and understanding how issues are dealt with, to be quite frankly, overwhelming. However, I have been following the GMO debate for a few years now and especially after being in Germany for alternative cancer care 1/2 years ago. The standards for use of pesticides and herbicides in Europe are much stricter than in the US and here, we continue to use very harsh chemicals not only in farming, but in household cleaners, makeup and other toiletries, as well as some of the clothes we wear! While this can be overwhelming to consider, start slowly and begin to educate yourself in order to make informed decisions about the products you are using. It does not happen overnight and if the process feels too stressful, slow down a bit! Check out www.ewg.org (environmental working group). This organization lists products and chemical names to become familiar with. See the attached clip from an article focused on GMO's and the effects on rats. Most of all, see this as opportunity, rather than stressor - I was stuck in the overwhelmed state for years, which resulted in "ignorance is bliss". Now, I pace myself much more in order to take on just what I am ready for! Have a wonderful day! Julie Séralini study on toxic effects of GMOs and glyphosate republished See alsoPolicy & Issues GMO In an announcement made today in France, the Séralini study on the long term effects of GMOs and glyphosate has been republished in the Springer open source journal Environmental Sciences Europe (ESEU, 2014, 26:14). The study by Gilles-Eric Séralini et al., Long term toxicity of a Roundup herbicide and a Roundup-tolerant genetically modified maize, was first published in the Elsevier journal, Food and Chemical Toxicology (FCT) in November of 2012. The study showed massive tumors, kidney and liver damage in rats on a genetically modified (GMO) Roundup-Ready maize diet.

Burn, Bootcamp or Agni Light My Fire

As I walked with Tammie this morning - a beautiful, sunny day indeed, I was struck by the phrases that are used to assist us in getting into shape - burn and bootcamp we re two that I passed by. I immediately thought about my recent yoga training and how the terminology to assist one on multiple levels - fitness, emotional and spiritual well-being - is gentler with a different focus in mind. We have become accustomed to being beaten up or whipped into shape, often doing movements with great intensity that can be more harmful than helpful. In fact, recent research is showing that very intensity exercise is inflammatory to the body. We already live in an inflammatory environment and exercise should not be contributing to that! I recalled learning about "agni" or the internal fire within us and how certain yoga poses and breathing techniques can warm the body and sharpen the mind. This sounds much more productive and conducive to one's well-being, while also toning, enhancing muscle strength and flexibility. As a society, we are learning, but habits are hard to change. Think of being kinder and gentler in your fitness routine, vary what you do and focus on all areas - flexibility, strength and endurance. Be present to your exercise - feel what it is doing, see how you feel following your routine. If you are energized, focused and happy, good for you! In health, Julie

Blooms, Blossoms and Allergies

This week has surely been one of blooming - plants, trees, flower blossoms. What a beautiful sight, yet the dichotomy is one of many of being plagued with allergies. Why should such a beautiful occurrence in nature affect the human body in such negative ways! All too many people suffer with allergies and asthma and the number affected has sharply risen over the years. In part, our body's defense mechanisms have been very challenged by the overuse of antibiotics and decongestants and another pathogen is playing a major role as well - fungus! While yeasts and fungi are common in nature, the overgrowth of these has caused an imbalance in our body's delicately balanced system. A body overwrought with yeast will have a much harder time combating allergies and other immune-reactive conditions. Read the excerpt below: Mayo Clinic On Sinus Infections "New research reveals that over 90% of sinus problems are caused by an immune response to a common fungus. . . . Antibiotics were designed to eliminate bacteria, not fungi and decongestants are incapable of stopping the spread of fungi in the sinuses." What to do: Use your netti pot daily ,especially during allergy season - helps to clean the cilia (nasal hairs that are a protective barrier. Be sure to clean the netti pot well and use warm distilled water Use a broad spectrum probiotic daily - offers protection to balance the good and not so good "bugs" that inhabit our bodies Now hopefully you can enjoy a fresh start to a beautiful season! In health, Julie

Happy Birthday Dad and the Famous Chocolate Cake

Tomorrow is my Dad's birthday and his all-time favorite is my chocolate cake with coffee frosting. I've been making this cake since the 6th grade! Today's version is made with gluten-free flour, but I dare not change anything else to this famous recipe! My mom let me loose in the kitchen at a young age and I really enjoyed baking as a youngster. I recall very clearly the time my aunt was visiting from the Philippines. We rarely got to see her because my uncle was stationed there for work. I decided to make my cake for her and had only done it a few times and not usually without some supervision from Mom. Left to my own devices, I was making quite the mess - flour everywhere. I called my Dad from the basement for help before I was about to get into trouble. Mom was a neat-nick! The cake was great and continues to be so to this very day. While I alter many recipes to create healthier versions, there are some recipes that come out only a few times a year and should remain sacred for the purpose. Happy Birthday Dad! Love, Julie Now for the nutrition tip - try fennel, raw or cooked. Fennel is a wonderful vegetable for calming the digestive system. It has a mild licorice flavor to it and is delightful chopped on salads or sauteed in a little coconut oil with salt and pepper.