Heal Yourself Magazine

The Music Industry, Cyberspace Highway, & Bands Surviving On Tour

Rebbekah — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 23:46:52 +0000

Can you imagine anyone having the guts to stand up to the big boys in the music Industry today, and tell them; I know something you apparently don’t want to know or, you are just too stupid to accept the coming attractions in your very own industry?

Well. I’m here to tell all of those big boys, and girls with their multimillion dollar jobs that we little peons in this industry have a much better grip, and understanding of just what is taking place right in front of their noses here on the Cyberspace Highway.

I am going to share this tidbit of information with all of you musicholics now; So, when it all comes to pass for those Conglomerates in Nashville, New York City, and California; all of you can say, “Geez” I remember when MzMona wrote an article way back when saying the writing was on the wall for all of us to see even as far back as ten years ago.

As all of you know, who have kept up with my forty two year career in this industry, I have never been wrong when I am telling all of you the very things that affect my own livelihood pertaining to what we can all expect to see changing in our very near futures concerning every aspect of the music industry as a whole. This is not new to any of us who have paid close attention to what is happening here. We’ve seen it looming in the distance for the last ten years, and now it’s just over that musical horizon.

For these last ten years I have been writing articles just like this one telling everyone in this industry that the “Internet” was going to be the new avenue for all bands to reach the masses!! I was laughed at, and told I was out of my mind; really? What are you doing right now on your computers? Listening to your favorite artist’s newest CD I bet? I have been told that there is no way that I could have the pulse on what the public would do when it comes to the music industry in today’s society.

Once again, I was right as I told the big boys or, as I call them; “The Powers That Be” who run our lives from their high dollar offices with not one good leg to stand on because, I have the support of every band, and solo artist on the charts today to back me up on this; the big boys should sue their own legs for non support; you people don’t have a clue on what is happening all around you right here online in your own industry.

Just an aside here for all of you!! Five years ago I partnered up with a man from Rockford, IL. To form an online.com company called, “ Liveonlineconcerts.com”. This company truly was the first of its’ kind back then. We were the first to bring to Cyberspace Musicholics a new way for them to see their favorite bands perform live. Ours was, and still is the first to bring to everyone with a computer, “Pay Per View” live online concert coverage.

Our shows were not pre recorded like Pay Per View Television where you paid a hefty fee to watch a wrestling match from a previous month or, even a boxing match that was also pre-recorded a month before. We brought you concerts that were e-streamed back to the net live as they were happening on stage at that precise moment in time. We all saw the same things go down with nothing edited out at all.

Just remember folks all of the “Powers That Be” laughed at a young man years ago named “Bill Gates”, and you are using one or, more of his products to read this article right now. So, when the big boys get tired of laughing at those of us out here in the trenches of the real music industry long enough to realize that they are letting one of the best things on the Cyberspace Highway Horizon pass them by; they will all be crying in their high dollar office chairs saying to themselves; Damn!!! I really wish we had listened to that little Bama Idiot Entertainment Journalist at the very least about five years ago.

I personally started writing about how the artist’s were going to utilize both the conventional ways of selling their music, and the Cyberspace Highway many years ago now. I told all back then if each artist would go digital with their music they could then put it online for sale as soon as their CD’s were ready to market. I knew if they would allow digital downloads before they hit the four major outlets that all record companies use today for major distribution such as; “Wal-Mart”, “Target”, “Meijer”, & “ Best Buy”, they would at least have a shot at doubling their sales.

How much money do you really believe the artist’s make off of the sale of each CD that goes out of each of those Distribution Store Outlets? The only people who make any major money off of an artist’s CD are the record companies not the artists’. With our economy the way it is now the music scene for them alone has had to really hit them in the pockets too. It costs’ these bands an enormous amount of money just to stay on the road to bring their music to you live. I can’t imagine how too many of them are even surviving out on the road tours today?

With what one CD costs’ to make; I’m surprised to see so many artist’s still hanging in here, and trying to survive in a profession that chose them. They didn’t choose this way of life for themselves, and their families. It is simply in their blood to do so. However, these artist’s have all made very difficult sacrifices just to bring us great music.

No one, let me repeat myself here; No one has ever been an “Overnight Success” believe me in this music industry. Some of those so called overnight successes’ have been at least ten to fifteen years in the making. They have all paid their dues playing in every bar, juke joint, hole in the wall clubs, and even diners on the local street corners simply because, they love their craft enough to give it all they’ve got for two people or, two hundred thousand people. These artist’s are only trying to survive just like the rest of us nine to fivers here. They are doing their “JOBS” the same as we are, there’s just happens to be up on a different stage every night.

However, it’s getting harder and harder for those artist’s to stay out there on tour due to the high cost of coming to a town near us to put on that show for us. The overhead these artist’s have to pay just to do one gig alone is more than what the majority of us would make in a six month period on our jobs. So, the next time you want to complain about the high cost of a concert ticket just think about this; they personally won’t take home as much money from that show as you think after they turn over all the funds to all those standing there with their hands out to be paid as well.

Although, it is true in my opinion only, with the use of our Cyberspace Highway available to each artist they should sell as many CD’s, and as much personal merchandise as possible from their own Websites. If any of you artist’s really want to see your online sales get a boost? Do yourselves a favor, and have a CD Review done of your latest work or, an Artist Review at the very least. I have found that it truly does increase your sales somewhat. In some cases it has doubled the sales of certain artist’s, and I know of one that it actually tripled their online sales from their website.

When nearly everyone in the world has access to a computer these days they honestly do go to an online music magazine just to read up on their favorite artist, and decide from that review if they want to buy that CD or, not. It is only one more way to generate extra cash flow for you, and your band. This in turn can help to keep you all out there on the road doing your tours which is the one thing you all have in common as musicians; You “Love” what you do. So, take advantage of today’s Cyberspace Highway, and go digital whenever you can. Your fans will increase at least two fold.

I, for one, am very grateful to all of you artist’s out there who have embraced our Cyberspace Musical Highway. I have seen many changes in this industry in my forty two years, and some I too have loved, as all of you have, and some of those changes have left a very bitter taste in my mouth.

Now, my best advice to everyone in this industry is this; when things change, and you see that they are going to change, and there is absolutely nothing you as an individual can do to stop it; just get on board the train with the rest of the musical world, and enjoy the ride that all of these very brave artist’s both men, and women are embarking on to continue to bring us the one thing in this world, that is the true heartbeat of all mankind, our undying need to let the music be heard, and survive one more day; even if it is just one download away here in Cyberspace.

For me I say; Welcome To The Future Music Lovers Of The World One, And All…

MzMona: Entertainment Journalist/On Air Personality/Music Critic/Book Author

Host of The Mo and Bek Show

HEALTHY EATING TIPS DURING CANCER TREATMENTS

Rebbekah — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:12:05 +0000

Written by Karen Jung

A healthy diet during cancer treatments is crucial for many reasons. Enjoying a proper diet can give you the necessary stamina for ongoing cancer treatments and the required physical strength for some exercise. Eating the right foods can assist individuals in overcoming the side effects of cancer treatments such as nausea, weight changes and constipation. A person’s appetite and food tastes can change during chemotherapy treatments. With changes in health conditions and to maintain a healthy body weight, the focus should be on serving appropriate and easily digestible low-fat and high-fibre meals and snacks daily. Natural foods with plenty of antioxidants can aid in cell repair especially with chemotherapy. In addition, healing foods can contribute to a quicker recovery from cancer treatments.

With my experience as a caregiver, I have some tips for healthy eating that you or a loved one may find helpful during cancer treatments.

Plan meals in advance every week so you can shop for groceries properly and cook around medical appointments and tests.
Cook and prepare meals at home as much as possible so you can control fat, sodium and sugar intake.
Limit buying processed and prepackaged foods and snacks with high fat, sodium and sugar content and minimal nutritional benefits.
Have back-up food choices for changing food tastes and preferences.
Eat properly, regularly and on time during cancer treatments, especially with prescribed medications and to maintain physical energy levels.
Check with oncologist regarding dietary restrictions, including dairy foods, during chemotherapy treatments.
Keep track of foods that contribute to appetite loss and avoid them during cancer treatments.
Drink plenty of water daily, at least 8 to 10 cups, to clear out toxins from the body and to ease constipation problems.
Serve water with meals to aid in swallowing and digestion.
Enjoy a variety of foods daily from four food groups which include vegetables and fruit, grains, milk and low-fat dairy products, and meat and alternatives.
Choose high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, bran and oats for meals and snack ideas daily to promote bowel regularity.
Select potassium-rich foods like bananas and sweet potatoes for boosting energy levels.
Choose calcium-enriched foods like skim milk and low-fat cheeses for bone strength.
Plan for one to two vegetarian meals such as pasta or tofu dishes weekly.
Limit red meat and processed meat consumption weekly and select fish and poultry as healthier choices.
Avoid gaseous foods like cabbage, brussels sprouts and some beans which contribute to stomach bloating and discomfort.

In my new book, Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer, there are many cancer and heart-friendly recipes in addition to menu suggestions and snack ideas for during and after cancer treatments.

Karen Jung is the author of Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer. Her recently published book has received numerous praises and positive reviews from prominent cancer and health organizations in Canada, United States, United Kingdom and Australia. She has been an invited guest on cancer talk and health and wellness radio shows in the United States to speak about cancer treatments, healthier eating, and cancer and heart disease prevention. Her various articles on cancer and heart disease have been published in Canada, the United States and Australia. With over 20 years of health care experience, she served for 12 years as Director of Human Resources in several large hospitals in British Columbia, Canada. In addition to being a cancer and health advocate, she was a direct caregiver to family members diagnosed with cancer.

For more information on Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer, visit http://www.granvilleislandpublishing.com/our_titles/cooking/#healthier_eating. Her books can also be purchased through your local bookstores or with Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.ca.

Healthy Eating and Cancer and Heart Disease Prevention

Rebbekah — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:13:02 +0000

Written by Karen Jung

There is a noted increase in cancer and obesity rates in children and adults in some countries. Both cancer and heart disease have a significant negative impact on people’s health, families and the health care system. Given current challenging economic times combined with financial constraints and limited resources, this is an opportune time to assess and monitor our daily lifestyle habits.

Some cancers and obesity are attributed to people eating too much of the wrong kinds of foods, consuming too much bad fats and sugar in their daily diet and not exercising enough. Healthy eating and regular exercise require ongoing effort, commitment, support and leadership from parents, grandparents, siblings, friends and/or care providers. To live without cancer or heart disease, you need to first make the necessary lifestyle changes and then set a good example for others to follow. Do it for yourself first and then do it for your loved ones next.

One of the first steps in adopting healthy eating and living habits is drinking at least eight to nine cups of water daily and maintaining a healthy body weight. Water helps with digestion, gets rid of waste and keeps your bowels regular. Eat lots of colourful fresh fruits and vegetables every day because it contains various vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants that keep cells healthy, improve cholesterol levels, and protect against some cancers and heart disease. A high-fibre and calcium-rich diet is also important as we age. Fibre keeps you feeling fuller longer and helps to prevent bowel problems. Calcium is vital to maintain strong bones and teeth and it prevents osteoporosis later in life.

To maintain a healthy body weight, try cutting sugar intake in food and beverages which can contribute to extra calories. Also, reduce your sodium intake, including salt. Too much salt can contribute to high blood pressure and a greater risk for heart disease and other health complications. Choose treats that are trans fat free and look at the nutrition facts for calories, saturated fats and sugar content. Don’t forget that fruit contains natural sugars. In my new book, Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer, there are many meals and snacks that are both cancer and heart-healthy.

Karen Jung is the author of Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer. Her recently published book has received numerous praises and positive reviews from prominent cancer and health organizations in Canada, the United States and United Kingdom. With over 20 years of health care experience, she served for 12 years as Director of Human Resources in various large hospitals in British Columbia, Canada.

For more information on Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer, visit http://www.granvilleislandpublishing.com/our_titles/cooking/#healthier_eating. Books can be purchased through your local bookstores or with Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.ca.

Cancer and Heart Disease Prevention

Rebbekah — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:10:53 +0000

Written by Karen Jung

Cancer and heart disease are the leading causes of deaths in some countries. As the population in countries grows and ages there is an increase in new cancer cases and related deaths. What you eat and how much you eat can contribute to some cancers and heart disease. Some cancers and heart disease can be prevented by healthier living and healthier eating choices.

You can choose to accept responsibility for your own health by doing the right thing and taking steps to reduce the risks of cancer or heart disease. Some people are overweight because of poor diet, fast food and sedentary lifestyles. Recent studies have shown a direct link between diet, obesity and lack of physical exercise, in addition to an increased risk of some cancers and heart disease for both men and women.

Your health is less at risk if you avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, eat healthier, be more physically active, use adequate sun protection, and follow up with your treating physician for regular check-ups and screening if necessary.

A low-fat diet includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily, low-fat dairy and whole grain products. To avoid high blood pressure and high cholesterol, you can reduce the amount of saturated fat and salt intake.

Physical activity and exercise can improve cholesterol levels and decrease the risks of heart disease. Daily exercise is very good for your overall health because it improves circulation, strengthens bones, burns off fat and promotes better quality sleep.

When it comes to your health, avoid procrastination. Detecting and treating cancer in the early stages can result in higher success rates with curability and quicker recovery. Early intervention in treating heart disease may require some diet changes and increased exercise. Advanced cases may involve the use of prescribed medications which can be costly, and possibly heart surgery with a reduced quality of life in future. Both cancer and heart disease have a negative impact on your family and loved ones.

If you have a family history of cancer or heart disease or you are at risk due to genetics, it is even more crucial to take precautions and to take care of yourself by keeping active and fit and maintaining healthy eating habits. You can still enjoy life with these important lifestyle changes. For instance, moderation is the key when it comes to food treats on special occasions. There are various simple meals that are both cancer and heart-friendly in my new book, Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer.

Cancer and heart disease prevention and management makes ideal sense. You choose - good health and enjoyment of quality of life or costly medical expenses and a reduced quality of life. Do not leave your health at risk for the sake of your family, friends and loved ones.

Karen Jung is the author of Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer. Her recently published book has received numerous praises and positive reviews from prominent cancer and health organizations in Canada, the United States and United Kingdom. With over 20 years of health care experience, she served for 12 years as Director of Human Resources in various large hospitals in British Columbia, Canada.

Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention

Rebbekah — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:08:56 +0000

Written by Karen Jung

For cancer survivors and people living with cancer, antioxidants have a beneficial role in cell repair. Antioxidants can keep cells healthy and reduce the risk of cancer. Foods and spices that are abundant in antioxidants and cancer-fighting compounds are outlined in my new book, Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer.

Your body needs balanced nutrients for the immune system and for cell repair. It is very important to enjoy a variety of colourful foods daily from the four food groups which include vegetables and fruit, grain products, milk and alternatives, and meat and alternatives. Healthier eating choices include a regular diet of orange and green-coloured fresh fruits and vegetables such as apricots, cantaloupe, tomatoes, broccoli, carrots and spinach. Healthier food choices include nuts, oats, brown rice, low-fat dairy, salmon and some lean meats such as skinless chicken or turkey breasts.

Drink plenty of water daily for digestion purposes, to avoid dehydration and to keep your skin healthy in appearance. Add fresh fruit and vegetables to your daily meals and snacks because it contains many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Add different grains to your meals. Choose lower-fat cheeses. Try low-fat yogurt or skim milk. Consider legumes as a protein substitute for meat. Use beans as an alternative to meat recipes. Reduce your meat intake (especially red meat) weekly and add extra vegetables, a salad or non-cream based vegetable soup. Enjoy eating one to two vegetarian meals weekly.

Patients undergoing aggressive cancer treatments may, at times, have difficulty eating certain foods for different reasons. This change in eating habits and food preferences can be attributed to the side effects of cancer treatments including chemotherapy. There is a wide selection of food choices with changing food tastes in my book. For example, blueberry and spinach recipes have been successful with cancer patients from our experience. In addition, many patient-tested recipes in my cookbook helped to prevent weight loss and nausea during chemotherapy treatments.

Karen Jung is the author of Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer. Her recently published book has received numerous praises and positive reviews from prominent cancer and health organizations in Canada, the United States and United Kingdom. With over 20 years of health care experience, she served for 12 years as Director of Human Resources in various large hospitals in British Columbia, Canada.

The Importance of a Proper Diet During Cancer Treatments

Rebbekah — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:06:36 +0000

Written by Karen Jung

A proper diet is essential for patients undergoing cancer treatments, including chemotherapy. A healthy diet helps you to withstand aggressive cancer treatments better and to prepare for the next cycle of chemotherapy treatments. In addition, a good diet gives you the necessary physical strength to exercise during cancer treatments. Drinking plenty of water daily helps to keep your body and skin looking healthy, too.

It is very important to enjoy a variety of foods daily from the four food groups: vegetables and fruit, grain products, milk and alternatives, and meat and alternatives. Eating properly, regularly and on time are crucial during cancer treatments. A combination of smaller meals, larger meals and/or frequent snacks every day is vital.

During chemotherapy treatment an individual’s appetite and taste for certain foods changes. Other common side effects of cancer treatments include nausea, weight loss and constipation. A variety of meals to help maintain or increase weight is outlined in my new book, Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer. Weight gain can occur in some situations with the use of prescribed steroid medications or unavoidable reduced physical activities. Lower-fat meal choices are also included.

Chemotherapy drugs target cancer cells and damage healthy cells in the process, too. Cancer-fighting and antioxidant-abundant foods for cell repair are included in many of my recipes.

During cancer treatments and post-treatment recovery when eating is more challenging, high-energy and high-protein foods are important in one’s diet. High-fibre, potassium-rich and calcium-enriched foods are helpful during decreased physical activity days and to conquer the side effects of prescribed medications. In my book, menu suggestions for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and snack ideas, including recommended recipes during and after cancer treatments, have proven to be very useful.

Karen Jung is the author of Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer. Her recently published book has received numerous praises and positive reviews from prominent cancer and health organizations in Canada, the United States and United Kingdom. With over 20 years of health care experience, she served for 12 years as Director of Human Resources in various large hospitals in British Columbia, Canada.

Cancer Awareness Month

Rebbekah — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:00:16 +0000

Written by Karen Jung

October is cancer awareness month in some countries. It is an important time to remember cancer survivors, people who are battling cancer, and those who lost their battle to cancer. Also, this can be a challenging time for primary caregivers who understand the pain and suffering of their loved ones during the cancer journey.

Many of us, over the years, know someone who has been diagnosed with cancer or who cared for a loved one with cancer such as a family member or close friend. It is a reminder that life is precious and our health can be at risk if we do not take care of ourselves properly. This should be sufficient reason for us to do our individual part in taking reasonable steps to minimize the risk of cancer promotion and to live a healthy lifestyle.

To reduce the risk of cancer, try to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Instead, enjoy a proper and healthy diet by eating lots of colourful fresh fruits and vegetables daily and incorporating fibre, calcium and good protein into your daily meals. Choose whole grain products, low-fat dairy, lean meat like fish or poultry, soy and nuts. Avoid highly processed foods and battered and deep-fried foods which are high in sugar, fat and salt. Physical fitness, exercise and regular check-ups with your treating physician are crucial to maintain an ideal body weight and to monitor any health concerns.

Planning meals in advance every week can save you time, money and stress. Planning ahead allows you to eat well. Cooking meals at home is a healthier choice because you can control the ingredients, amount and type of fats, sodium level and calorie intake. By controlling your food intake, you have a direct impact on your cholesterol levels. Preparing meals at home can be relatively simple, fun and affordable. In my new book, Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer, the large selection of easy-to-make recipes is practical for any busy household.

Karen Jung is the author of Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer. Her recently published book has received numerous praises and positive reviews from prominent cancer and health organizations in Canada, the United States and United Kingdom. With over 20 years of health care experience, she served for 12 years as Director of Human Resources in various large hospitals in British Columbia, Canada.

WE NEED TO ALL GET MAD AND RAISE SOME HECK ABOUT THIS!

Rebbekah — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:56:22 +0000

NOTE FROM ADMIN: Your Turn to Speak is Heal Yourself Magazine’s version of letter to the editor. We reserve the right to not publish emails sent to us, however when letters are published they are the views of the author and not necessarily those of Heal Yourself Magazine or Heal Yourself Network.

I am writing this email to hopefully get some of you to start writing our President, congress, or anyone else that will listen. Please send this to anyone and everyone you can think of who might be willing to fight for something to be done.

I found out this morning that a 24 year old Jonesboro woman died yesterday from an INFECTED TOOTH! She had gone to the doctor, gotten anti-biotics and been sent home. She did not have insurance and did not have money, so she was not admitted to the hospital. Sometime yesterday, she began having trouble breathing, so her husband rushed her to the ER, they tried to do a trach on her, and when they opened her up, infection spread rapidly, going to her heart and killing her.

In this day of modern medicine, NO ONE, I REPEAT, NO ONE, should die from an infected tooth. IT IS TIME FOR ALL OF US TO GET FIGHTING MAD AND DEMAND SOMETHING FROM OUR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM!! THERE SHOULD BE FREE CLINICS IN EVERY TOWN, THERE SHOULD BE NO DIFFERENCE IN TREATMENT JUST BECAUSE YOU HAVE NO INSURANCE!

I have already written to Mr. Obama about this, I urge everyone and anyone to do the same and to contact every government official you can to tell them…….THIS IS UNEXCEPTABLE!!

We, as Americans should not have to live without proper medical and dental care!! Dominique Williams was only 24 years old! This could have happened to ANY OF US! It is time to start demanding better health care!

Please pass this on to anyone who might be willing to keep it circulating. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Jan Ballard

The Magic Button Wish

Rebbekah — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:46:36 +0000

We have all seen that commercial right, about the Easy Button? I think it is for Staples or something, you know what I am talking about, right? Ok, well, did you ever wish for your own Easy Button sometimes when you are working? I have, many times, let me explain.

Ok, countless times each day, I have a customer that walks in the door with his/her ear to the phone, walks around the store carrying on a conversation, and continues to do so as he/she approaches my register. The ones who really get on my nerves are the ones who never acknowledge me as a human being, never say one word to me, and never answer anything I might ask them, because they are so involved in their conversation that they do not even realize they have not spoken to me at all during the entire transaction. Sometimes I wonder if I said something completely inappropriate to them, if they would even notice!!

Well, one day my manager and I were talking about that, and she informed me that her sister, who also works for the same store we do, had a great idea that we really wish someone would invent. The idea was to create an “Easy Button” for us that could be placed at our feet behind the counter, that the customer would have no idea existed, and that we could simply step on as someone approached our register and INSTANTLY disconnect any phone reception. Can you imagine the look on the customer’s face when their phone just went completely dead for no reason at all as they stepped up to pay for their purchase? How great would that be for us?!! We could actually force that person to look at us, communicate with us, acknowledge us as a human being, and answer the questions we asked them!!

But you know, why stop there? What if we all had an “Easy Button” that automatically stopped the car engine of the person who pulled out in front of us on the highway, or better yet, what about one that would shock the socks off someone who tried to pick up something in the store they had not paid for and intended to walk out with? This really does need to be invented, y’all, I promise you.

Anyway, we decided that anyone who is so deeply into their phone conversation that they cannot even speak to us, or acknowledge us, should not expect us to be overly polite or friendly to them either! So, today, this guy came into the store with his ear to the phone and I watched him as he walked all around the store picking up whatever he needed and never once paused in his conversation with the person on the phone. I thought, well, when he gets up here to me, he will surely, at least, speak to me……..but he did not. I smiled and spoke to him, as I do with every customer, and proceeded to bag his items and ask him the standard, “is there anything else I can get for you sir”, to which he did not reply. He reached into his wallet, never making eye contact with me, never speaking to me, and continuing his conversation. I bagged his items, placed his receipt in his bag, and told him to “have a good day, sir”. Never once, did that man say one word to me or even look at me! I thought to myself, “oh, you just wait, mister, one of these days I will have an “Easy Button”, and you WILL shut down that phone and talk to me!”

I understand that today, in this fast-paced world, everyone has to keep connected in order to stay on top of their job and life, but COME ON FOLKS! It is customers like the one described above that make me want to keep my cell phone beside my register, pick it up, and have an imaginary conversation the entire time I am waiting on that person. I bet you half of them would never even notice!! The other half would probably email my corporate bosses and tell them how rude I was to them. DUH, when you approach me with the phone in your ear and never once speak to me, is that not YOU being rude to ME? I think so. So, in conclusion, I will keep waiting on customers who ignore me, I will keep smiling, and doing my job as best I can, but, I will also continue to wish every day that someone will soon invent the “Cashier’s Easy Button”.. How about you, any ideas as to how an “Easy Button” would help you in your job?

Just another day in the life of a cashier. Y’all have a good one, ya hear?

By Jan Ballard

Heal Yourself Magazine’s Newest Humor writer.

The Top 10 Times to Be Intimate with Your Beloved

Rebbekah — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:57:33 +0000

by Diana Daffner

Anytime is a good time for intimacy. Try mixing it up and being intimate at a different time each day for a week! Intimacy can only be experienced in the present moment. These moments can be part of a one-minute intimacy break or an hour-long lovemaking session. Find the time, make the time, take the time… to be intimate with one another.

1. In the Morning

Wake up to your lover’s hands gently caressing you.

2. In the Afternoon

Delightfully enjoy the sunlight draping your bodies.

3. In the Evening

Instead of watching television, look at each other. Instead of washing dishes, wash each other.

4. In the Middle of the Night

Was that a dream or did we ride among the stars together?

5. Before Dinner

Automatic oven-timers are a handy invention!

6. During Dinner

Feeding one another, by hand, as a tantric practice, what fun!

7. After Dinner

Delicious dessert!

8. When You’re Feeling Sad

Intimacy, like singing the blues, opens your soul to its intrinsic joy.

9. When You’re Feeling Lonely

Expand into intimacy, instead of contracting into separation.

10. When You’re Feeling Happy

Let the good energy take you to great places, together!

Diana Daffner, with her husband Richard, leads “Intimacy Retreats” for couples and provides coaching in sexual intimacy as a spiritual path. The Daffners are the authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples: How to Deepen Your Passion in Just Ten Minutes a Day. They originated the Tantra Tai Chi™ program, a partnered movement practice to enhance intimacy in body, heart and soul. For a schedule of workshops, visit www.IntimacyRetreats.com or call 1-877-282-4244 (tollfree).