Melissa writes with such forethought! I enjoy her blogs immensely...

I have been pondering future social trends. So many things to consider. In 2030, there will be a major growth in the population of seniors and a major nursing shortage. There will also be a major strain on our economy as more and more people need expensive medical care. Rules will be rewritten. Insurance companies will tighten their belts. Social Security benefits? Who knows. World events and its influence? Hmmmmm

I hear wind mills are popping up everyone - France, Illinois, other European countries. One of my close friends just closed up his health food store, and was hired to help build these wind mill farms. Basically, he did it for job security....

I think wellness prevention will become even more popular and preferred than it is now. I think it would be a wonderful time for an 'explosion' of NDs, homeopathic practioners, and exercise and nutritional experts.

I was surprised to learn that while tobacco is the number one killer (diseases), lack of proper diet and exercise is number two. I was researching traditional 'preventitive' medicine (forgive spelling- no time to double check !)and was also surprised to see that we are talking between 4 and 7 years of additional schooling. I was also surprised to discover that as a "Personal Trainer", I am already in the field of prevention!

But I am not happy with my lack of nutritional understanding. Even with the BTD and the genotype diet, it is quite complicated.

For example, the results of my live blood cell cultures has arrived. Oh brother, I have some issues. One would never guess by looking at me that I have some significant issues.

So - what is health and wellness? My blood cells all by them self are quite strong and healthy. No inappropriate agglutination. But I am "low on protein, quite anemic, blood sugar levels are yo yo ing, too many heavy metals in my system, too much yeast, and my Autonomic Nervous System is out of balance. Low in calcium and vitamin p, and there is more....

Now, Dr. Julia explains it like this: It takes 10 years for disease to develop. I am not 'unhealthy'. I just finished running 35 Kilometers this weekend. But I am not 'in balance' either.

Anyway, what is the point? I am an ex-smoker who couldn't run .5 miles previously. Nicotine and coffee used to keep me going. Each year that passes I learn just a little bit more. It's time help others walk up that mountain, just like I have started to do.

Thank you for reading.

My cooking isn't that complicated. I still love to cook, and maybe one day I can turn this hobby into another profitable venture... Meanwhile, life is busy and I am amazed at how simple good nutrition can be..

Sardines were mashed up with artichokes (from a can, I am afraid.) Throw in something sweet, and it tasted satisfying. One tin of sardines yields about 40 percent of one's need for iron. It was easy and compliant. I keep looking for combination organic juices and other compliant but easy and portable choices.

Fresh would still be better. One day, I imagine a work environment where everyone has a built in kitchen at their disposal. The current job gives everyone a solid 90 minute break. It's just dead time for the front desk, so people are allowed to lock the front door and do what they need to do. If there were an actual kitchen available, think of the possibilities! Maybe we all need to work out of our home, for that reason.

Some of you might be thinking "So much salt!" You are right- definately not something I recommend often. But when you are in a rush....

I started work at Health First Rehabilitation. It's a combination chiro, massage therapist, and physical therapy center. It's a busy place, with a very friendly staff. More importantly, it's expanding. I can't help but think that there is potential for a Clinical Nutritionist or Homeopathic Physician to be added someday to the team! (Many years into the future ......) More importantly, I work 8:30 to 12:30 with optional Saturday hours. I can learn and work while the boys are in school and be available for them at the bus stop. Yesterday, I learned to develop X-rays. Today I attempted to learn the computer software entitled "Medinotes" and "Eclipse."

Mechanical traction, electrical stimulation, and other medical terminology are slowly starting to float into my brain. It's a good spot for me to be in right now. I am not certain what to do about next summer and I am worried about the boys. But one step at a time....

My children and I trekked through the wildflowers and towering field grasses yesterday. It was an absolute riot. There were so excited to explore the trails with me, and even more excited to make some of their own. I carried my five year old on my back, and my nine year old trudged forward fearlessly! It was a good work out for everyone.

Today we drove up to the local state park and discovered the pine forest. Many, many trees have been knocked down due to the recent storms. There were plenty of broken branches appropriate for 'teepee' building. Again, it was just a beautiful day.

The kids will visit Dad tomorrow. I am a little weary, still anemic, and grateful for the reprieve. I had to miss my appointment with Dr. Julia, the local ND. Foolish of me I think. I want those test results! I know certain supplements are needed, but I wanted to chat with her first before spending any more money. I am certain she will also recommend a 'cleansing'. My system has been off for so long due to stress......

My little one loves his pinto beans! I simply blended them with olive oil, diced onions and a pinch of salt! I served them with sliced apples or plain rice cakes. I am glad to see him expand once again! As far as veggies, I have comprised and started buying those premade juices. A juicer is still on my want list, and I think the next time I see one in the second hand store, I will pick one up. Thank you for the comments about picking one up on e-bay. It seems there are too many reasons to spend money, of course. I did treat myself, a bit. My birthday is coming up and my feet were hurting from 'overuse.' I bought myself a mountain bike. Here's the good news: it's a great way to get exercise while taking a break from running. It's also a great way for my nine year old and I to bond. He loves riding on bumpy trails!

I am job hunting again. It's hard to figure out which type of employment I should go after right now. I still love my dream, and I still intend to study and grow. But right now, I need some kind of steady part time income while my boys and I adjust to this new life.

The boys will be better off if I or my soon to be ex can take care of them. So - do I look for a completely flexible internet job? Do I go back to school and dig into student loans? Do I work the "Dad" days like a fiend and then take care of the boys during my days? (Scheduling at least one day off, of course.)

And of course, I do not know what his contribution will be yet. Upcoming court dates and all that.

My children are wonderful, special and talented. But they are both just a little bit different, too. My oldest sits on a stability ball and types out his homework. This helps him focus and lessens his frustration. My youngest is tolerating more dairy (not that I care, I stick to the neutral cheeses or yogurts) but it does help that he has more choices than he used to. Lunches are still gluten free, and I haven't had much success yet. The little one cannot wake up in the morning to save his life. And of course, he doesn't want to leave his cozy bed and go to school. Usually, breakfast ends up being eaten in the car. Homemade waffles or muffins, gluten free quinoa, brown rice, buckwheat, etc. (whatever flour I have and whatever gluten free stuff I can add to it.) Both of them hate vegetables now. I keep dicing them up and serving them, but it's just a no go. With winter coming, maybe experimenting with gluten free pizzas (I make a top crust,stuff it a bit, and add a top crust) will receive a thumbs up. I think artichokes will blend in with pizza sauce pretty well, especially if I use a blender.

I love hot soup or stew in the winter, so hopefully my little one will expand his palate. Meanwhile, you can't go wrong with warm peanut butter rice noodles!