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Mary Marder of My Daily Choice: Hemp Products and More

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Mary Marder of My Daily Choice

Hemp Products, Pure and Effective

Her name is Mary Marder, and there’s a noticeable spring in her step.  She’s clearly happy to be a representative for My Daily Choice, a multi-faceted company that sells hemp oil/CBD products. She’s a retired special education teacher with 32 years of teaching experience.  And now she’s onto the next chapter of her life.

Mary Marder of My Daily Choice with her rescue dog Miss Independence

“I am a better version of myself since I joined this network marketing company.  Their sole purpose is not sales…it’s personal growth and development,” says Marder. My Daily Choice offers free weekly trainings for an hour each week.  Some of their trainers / speakers include: Bob Proctor (known for the Law of Attraction, author Eric Worre and founders Josh and Jenna Zwagil.  “Last weekend we had our virtual convention, and the title was ‘Manifest 2020’ – last year’s focus was on mindset,” says Marder excitedly. “Next year’s title is ‘The Awakening.’”

“If it weren’t for My Daily Choice, I could be in tears right now,” says Marder, who experienced a lot of back soreness after a traumatic injury. “My spiritual development has

expanded, and now I willingly give and graciously receive.” My Daily Choice offers pure CBD oil; in fact, the FDA says My Daily Choice “has set the gold standard.”

 

I asked Mary Marder about the benefits of using hemp oil/ CBD oil.  She explained that it allows the body to repair whatever system needs to be repaired: whether it’s neurological, cardio, reproductive or another system.  When hemp oil/CBD oil is used consistently over time, the bodily system will start functioning at homeostasis, the optimal level of functioning.  She explains, “Hemp and CBD help to restore, not just repair.  Big Pharma just tries to alleviate our discomfort, while hemp and CBD restores them.”

Of course, there are a lot of misconceptions about using hemp/CBD oil.  “A lot of people think it’s the same thing as THC,” says Marder.  Actually, industrial hemp has less than .3% THC.  Marder explains, “It’s just enough THC to create the entourage effect.”  THC provides relief from symptoms only.  With hemp and CBD (combined with a little THC) not only the symptoms will be relieved, but the body will start repairing itself.

My Daily Choice is a “house of different brands,” says Marder. Their first brand they introduced is called “My Daily Sprays,” oral sprays. These are all natural, containing no CBD and no THC.  Their best seller now is called Trim 365 – which allows you to lose weight without being on a diet and without exercise.  One of their new sprays, which definitely addresses this challenging time, is a combination of Vitamin C and Zinc spray. “One of my favorite sprays is the Shield, which has everything to build your immune system.  I’ve been going for two years using the Shield plus taking CBD oil, with not even a sniffle,” says Marder.

Another brand that My Daily Choice offers is Mantra Essential Oils, therapeutic grade oils.  You can apply them to your skin, in addition to diffusing them.  Instead of applying directly to your skin, you would mix the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil.  Essential oils include: lavender, Clary sage, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, lemon, frankincense.  My Daily Choice also offers a private travel club, with a 24/7 concierge.  You can join with a monthly or yearly membership.  You can book trips around the world, including flights, rental cars and activities.  There’s a travel referral program – High Life Travel Club.  With each referral, they put money in your credit wallet for future travel. More recently, My Daily Choice just added another area – Crypto currency, bit coins, etc.  CEO Josh Zwagil, partnered with Akashx, a very well regarded brand in the cryptocurrency world.

“Of course, our best-selling and fastest selling brand is HempWorx.  It’s number one in the cannabis industry worldwide,” says Marder.  On April 20th, which is known as National Pot Day, My Daily Choice’s HempWorx sold more than 5 million dollars’ worth of CBD oil.

Progress through HempWorx

In her 32 years as a special ed teacher, Marder worked closely with students who were on the autism spectrum.  One 13-year old, autistic boy, who doesn’t usually speak and is easily agitated found that taking CBD oil can calm him and help him get along better in his family life. While Marder explains that the best way to take CBD oil is by putting drops under the tongue, this boy couldn’t do that.  “We made a game of it,” she says.  “I told his mother to put the drops in his belly button (2 or 3 times a day).” In fact, there’s a rich bundle of nerve endings at the belly button, only second in number to those outside of the brain.  She got a phone call from the boy’s mother one evening. The mother was overjoyed, saying, “We just all sat for dinner.”  In 13 years, he never sat for dinner until then.  His mother reports that he’s doing well, his behavior is better, and his grades have improved.

Another customer had a horse who sustained an injury, after a nail went into the hoof the wrong way.  A vet took the nail out.  Even so, the horse could barely put his leg down.  Marder gave her friend 750 mg of CBD oil with peppermint.  “I told her to scrape the area, put a full dropper right in, and then wrap up the hoof.  Also, I told her to put drops rubbed into his gums.  And to do this three times per day.”  The horse’s hoof healed quite quickly.

In addition to selling CBD oil, Marder considers herself a CBD oil coach.  She checks up on her customers often. She reminds everyone to “always check with your doctor or your vet – to see if at least trying CBD oil will help you.” The HempWorx CBD oil is pure and has no added preservatives, she adds.

Marder finishes every message, whether it’s an email, a social media post, a live video with her main mantra, “Take Care of You.”  It comes from her training with My Daily Choice.  She always thinks about, “How do I want to leave this person?”  And “what’s my overall message?”

She started out with no knowledge of business and admittedly knew nothing about CBD oil or hemp just as recently as two years ago.  She’s been a special education teacher, a school administrator and a public servant, far removed from the business world. Marder was having sinus issues.  “My friend Vicki called me and said to try this CBD oil.  She told me to put a drop in each nostril.” And voila!  Marder timed it, and 29 minutes later, she had no postnasal drip and could breathe through both nostrils. Due to a traumatic injury, she had not had a good night’s sleep in eight years.  “I put a half of a dropper under my tongue and then slept for six hours, the most sleep she’d had in eight years.  The next morning, she thought, “I’m in.”  She also thought, “I need to pay it forward.  I’m so blessed to have this relief mentally and physically.”  By the 3rd day, she had control of her left arm and hand.  “My left arm and hand were useless to me for 8 years, now I can use it again.”

Mary Marder is proud of her two adult sons, Frank (40) and John (37).  Frank is an entrepreneur. After Hurricane Michael, a mega church sought out Frank to help build housing for the homeless. Frank buys used portable classrooms and offices; his team re-models and builds them out to be fully functional housing for the homeless.  Her son John moved to Dallas two years ago. “He’s very well known in off road desert trophy truck racing.  He’s raced the Baja 1000 many times, as well as the Las Vegas Mint. After co-driving with an owner of a Jeep dealership (who has high performance Jeeps, his friend created a whole department for John to manage – Starwood Motors High Performance.  He also served his country as a Marine and with the Color Guard during GW Bush’s years.

“I have two beautiful granddaughters – Francesca (6) and Francina (1 ½).”  Her dog Miss Independence takes CBD oil. She had extreme anxiety – after suffering from bad abuse.  She takes CBD oil, half a drop every day. With every vet visit she’s getting better and calmer. “The vet is very pleased with her progress.”

Marder loves being a CBD coach. “I will initially send the customer a serving size chart.  I will continue to talk with the customer until they find their sweet spot.  It’s important to use the CBD oil correctly. You need to shake the bottle really well. Put the drops under your tongue.  Call me when you need me.” She adds, “When you order a product, ‘You’re getting me too.’” And Marder is thrilled with how many new friends she’s made this way.

Mary enjoys giving back to the community.  On a rotating basis she tithes funds to the Palm Beach County Special Olympics, Poplar Creek Cemetery in Athens, AL (as a member of their Board of Directors) and the Farmworkers Council of Palm Beach County.

About a year ago, Dr. Oz sent his investigative team out to check on five CBD oil companies.  His conclusion?  “Be sure you know and trust who you’re buying your CBD products from because it’s the Wild, Wild West out there.”  Read the disclosure statements on Marder’s website (as listed below). And as Mary Marder would say, “Take care of you!”

My Daily Choice

Mary Marder

Hemp products and more

(561) 308-0631

 

 

 

Swank Farm Weekly Farmers Market Kicks off Saturday, October 3rd

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Swank Farm Weekly Farmers Market Kicks off Saturday, October 3rd 

Farm fresh lettuces, vegetables and wildflower bouquets, plus live music 

and 25 local vendors every Saturday from 10am – 1pm 

Celebrating Florida’s diverse agriculture out in the countryside, Swank Specialty Produce is kicking off their weekly Farmers Market on Saturday, October 3rd.  The event will take place every Saturday in season from 10am – 1pm featuring farm fresh lettuces, vegetables, herbs and wildflower bouquets from Swank Farm, along with live music and fantasitc goods from 25 local vendors. Guests can enjoy socially distanced shopping under Swank Farm’s 8500-sq ft open-air pole barn rain or shine.

 

The diverse vendors will offer something for everyone including fresh fish and seafood, organic meats and eggs, gourmet cheeses, homemade pasta, decadent baked goods and breads, delicious prepared foods, imported oils and vinegars, teas, ice cream, flavored honey, jellies and jams, an assortment of plants, succulents and orchids, and much more.

The Swanks of Swank Farm

The Swank Farm Market is family friendly and service dogs are welcome. Masks are required, and the Swanks request that everyone please respect social distancing while shopping. Onsite parking is free and convenient.

 

Participating Vendors:

Independent Seafood

Paulie’s Pasta

Cottage Garden Teas

Gratitude Garden Farm

Tartastic

Circle C Bar Dairy Goat Farm

Christafaro’s

Voice Chocolate

Counter Culture Kombucha

Laurie’s Granola 

JC Bread

Grinuta Cookies

Sunshine Provisions

Red Panda Naturals

Olive Oil of the World

Rosa Ice cream of Jupiter

Creamed Honey Co.

Frik and Frak

Nisha Indian Foods

Gables Delight

The Garden Shoppe

La Montagne des Saveurs

No Couth Coffee

Caribbean Plants and Produce

SuperNaturals

 

When: 

Every Saturday 10am – 1pm, starting October 3, 2020

 

Where: 

Swank Specialty Produce

14311 North Road, Loxahatchee, FL 33470

www.swankspecialtyproduce.com

@swankspecialityproduce  / Facebook

 

Swank Specialty Produce: Founded by Jodi and Darrin Swank, Swank Specialty Produce is a hydroponic farm that has become regionally famous for their 350 varieties of impeccable pesticide-free vegetables, edible flowers and micro-greens. The 20-acre farm also features an expansive pole barn and stage where they host a free weekly farmers market with 25 local vendors, as well as all-inclusive ticketed dining experiences showcasing chefs from around the country. The farm is also available for private events and weddings.

This Month at PBA 

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This Month at PBA 

Homecoming and Family Weekend —Palm Beach Atlantic University will celebrate Homecoming & Family Weekend virtually Oct. 1-4. Mike Donehey, lead singer of the worship band Tenth Avenue North, will lead a time of prayer and worship, and President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn will give the State of the University address. Watch the activities and view the schedule here.

Wordship Month — Wordship is a new University initiative that emphasizes worshiping God by using words to build up, rather than tear down. Communication Professor Dr. Stephanie Bennett will lead students, staff and faculty through a related study on Tuesday evenings through the month of October. Just as PBA has blessed Palm Beach County through 52 years of Workship, our signature community service program, we would like to bless our divided society by practicing respectful conversation that honors, even those with whom we disagree.

 

Pandemic Perspectives — Due to popularity, the University will launch another session of Pandemic Perspectives, a free community course, on Oct. 1. Participants complete the course at their own pace and may choose to complete all or some of the 12 core sessions, depending on which topics they find most interesting. View the course outline and register here.

Looking Ahead 

Franchise Leader Speaking Dina Dwyer-Owens, author, motivational speaker and franchise leader, will speak 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18 in the DeSantis Family Chapel in conjunction with the Titus Center for Franchising Advisory Board meeting. Contact [email protected] to watch online or make arrangements to attend on-campus.

Need an expert? Professor Dr. James Todd, an expert on the Supreme Court, can speak about the confirmation process and political implications of the vacancy. Members of the Palm Beach Atlantic faculty are available to speak on a variety of topics. For information, please visit our Experts Guide: https://www.pba.edu/news/experts-guide.html.

Back to Virtual School

Back to Virtual School

By Briana D’Andrea

School is in full swing, and no matter what avenue you are taking or what you decide, there’s no right answer. It’s up to us to support one another and in fact try our best not to judge the other person. You could never understand their circumstance, where are they coming from or the needs they have for their family. Our family has decided to begin the school year distance learning until it is deemed safe to continue in person. With that said, my husband and I decided to make back to school a big deal just like we would every other year. Reagan is going into the second grade and Vera into VPK! I am so excited to see both of them blossom this 2020-2021 school year and I’ve put together a couple of things I thought you might like to get yourself organized.

Reagan’s desk and chair are from Wayfair. I chose the black mesh from “Made By design,” for his accessories from Target, to stick with his Star Wars theme.

Mesh Organizer//Mesh Magazine File//Mesh Stacking Letter Tray//Coyer Writing Desk//Rosenbalm Chair

Since Vera’s room is more femme, I went with the gold wire design from Target by “Threshold” and she absolutely loved it! We chose to use the same desk as Reagan’s and paint the hardware gold to match the theme. Her chair is from this website I found called Restaurant Furniture 4 Less, they even let you choose a cushion color for free! Clearly, we went with the gold! lol I love that it’s that clear look and it gives the illusion of taking up less space. I especially love the little reading Lilly Pulitzer chair from Pottery Barn Kids embroidered with her name on it!

Wire Pencil Cup//Wire Letter Tray//Wire Magazine File//Fluffy Pen//Coyer Writing Desk//Pottery Barn Kids Chair

Everything you need from a school supply perspective is here! I always go with Crayola, because they last the longest. I also got their composition books, folders and just some fun journals for doodling, because I knew they were going to want to get right to work!

Crayola Crayons//Crayola Markers//Crayola Pencils//Crayola Paints//Crayola//Marble Composition Books//2 Pocket Pronged Folder//Frozen Spiral Notebook//Minecraft Spiral Notebook//Frozen Headphones

Target has everything you need for a one stop shop for Uniforms! Now I didn’t go crazy, because obviously they will be home for the majority of fall and they both grow like weeds! So, I opted for just a few pieces to get them excited about the new school year! I don’t know about you, but I always loved a new back to school wardrobe!

Girl’s Uniform Polo//Girl’s Skort//Girl’s Uniform Safari Dress//Boy’s Quick Dry Polo//Boy’s Quick Dry Uniform Shorts

Teen Tok: A Teen’s Talk on TikTok Skin Care

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Teen Tok: A Teen’s Talk on TikTok Skin Care

By Devi Khanna Ramprasad with expert insights from Dr. Andleeb Usmani, DO, FAOCD

Make sure you consider these tips before getting your skin care regimen from social media, the drug store, or the refrigerator.

 

Apps like TikTok promote to young audiences that in order to have an accepted lifestyle you have to keep up with the trending skincare regimens, which can get extremely expensive, and the advice given varies widely. “Tik Tok is making people aware of the importance of skin care,” says Dr. Andaleeb Usmani, D.O., board certified dermatologist and owner of TruDerm in Wellington, Florida. “Specific products shared on social media may be helpful but not always.”

 

Consider the source

 

TikTok trends almost always end due to conflicting counter-information. For example, social media mega brand Mario Badescu™ was a recent trend, but had an even more recent downfall, when competing social media skin care specialist Hyram Yarbro, also known as Skin Care by Hyram™, revealed on his YouTube and TikTok platforms that the brand Mario Badescu™ “offers no real benefits to the skin” and that they were adding fragrances in their products. Hyram is also well known for giving budget friendly, but effective, skin care alternatives, as well as pointing out faulty ingredients in the most popular brands.

You will undoubtedly have to do your own research, or consult with your dermatologist, before beginning each new skincare routine. “Off brand or generic skincare regimens often have inactive ingredients. If they are not well made they are not as stable. Examples are over-the-counter salicylic acid and especially vitamin C, which have the potential to be poor quality,” adds Dr. Usmani.

Also be mindful that organic does not necessarily mean better.

“Some over the counter products may claim to be organic but that doesn’t mean they are effective or well made,” says Dr. Usmani.

Consider the cost

Caring for your skin is very important but you don’t have to spend your life savings on it. “Effective skincare does not need to be expensive to be good, but it really depends on what we are treating to find the most effective option,” says Dr. Usmani.

Name brand skin care routines cost on average $75 and last 6-12 months while off-brand skin care routine costs on average $40 and also lasts 6-12 months according to my research. Knowing how long your products will last allows you make a more informed decision when investing in your skincare.

If splurging on a product that you aren’t even sure you will like is a concern, there are subscription skin care sample boxes. Ipsy, Birchbox, and Allure are three of my favorites that I’ve personally tried and have found their contents to be of quality.

Consider the kitchen

Homemade skincare masks are also a great alternative so long as you get the formula from a trusted source such as Formula Botanica. “There are ingredients such as Neem or Turmeric which promote anti-inflammatory benefits. We also use masks with honey and lemon in my culture,” says Dr. Usmani.

A common turmeric mask used in India is easily made by mixing a teaspoon of turmeric powder, a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice, one and half tablespoons of organic honey and a teaspoon or milk or yogurt, then applying to the face for ten to fifteen minutes before rinsing off. Use caution as this mixture can stain fabric.

Consider the glow up as you grow up

Hopefully my article encourages you to have the best skin possible and to not neglect your skin. “If nothing else, wear sunblock. It prevents (future) wrinkles, sun damage and skin cancer in one shot. Image is my favorite, at around $35, but Neutrogena is really good for younger people,” says Alyson Khanna, professional makeup artist and owner of Eyecon Cosmetics. Get ready for your middle school glow up on a middle school budget!

My Virtual Reality:  A week in the life of teaching Distance Learning

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My Virtual Reality:  A week in the life of teaching Distance Learning

By Denise Marsh

We are told that we are “essential” workers, but teachers are definitely a different breed.  I don’t want a “super hero” award or an angry, “but it’s your job comment,  I just want you to sit back, close your eyes and imagine (unless of course, you’re a teacher yourself) teaching on a computer to 19 first graders in an empty classroom.  This is a true story.  This is MY story. 

Monday 

“Why am I doing this again?” I pondered the question over and over again-so much that the sole of my soul is fatigued.  I couldn’t teach my students at home with a tiny Chromebook when Palm Beach County delayed the “brick and mortar” return to school and gave us our assignment of distance learning.  Our kids and educators had needed “promises of safety”.  Thus, we continued to teach remotely but this time not with a flexible schedule.  Instead, it was a bell to bell, mandatory schedule that would be “exactly like a regular school day”.  My principal was flexible- she gave us the choice of working remotely or teaching in our empty classroom.  I considered my newfound relationship with my fridge, the t.v. tantalizing me and my leggings in the next room cheering me on.  They would say, “come on girl we’re here for you”.  I knew my decision would be clear as day…

I adopted an extreme path and woke up for work at the ungodly hour of 5am.  Keep in mind that we don’t greet the students till 7:45.  But, I had to be prepared.  I blamed the Capricorn in me!  

The day  was very, very, very, very, very long.  Did I say enough “very’s? “Of course not!  My breaks, which included fine arts ( Media, P.E., Art, Computers on a rotating basis) were all back to back.  It was wonderful to have all that planning time and my lunch as well but the trade off was 11-2 lasting 3 years.  

I understood how to use my SmartBoard (you know …that gigantic computer )…well. Sort of.  I soon discovered that I should’ve paid better attention at my trainings .  But ,the saying, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” was definitely appropriate here and I was definitely now the “old dog”.

Here is how it “went down”.  Sixteen of my nineteen homeroom students were supposed to “show up”.  I had a few M.I.A on day one, but the rest sat in those “Brady squares” ( my new term for the Google Meets squares.  If you don’t know about the Brady Bunch-stop reading. Just joking!) I was TERRIFIED!  I was sweating profusely.  I wanted all of the power to go out All day!  Suddenly I forgot how to “present” programs and still have the kids in the classroom.  I got knocked off several times.  I even had one kid fall asleep on screen (what a confidence builder!).  I spoke loudly, well louder than usual and it sounded like I was yelling.  The time it took to get to  Recess (my first break) might as well have been the equivalent of waiting for a solar eclipse. How could these tiny people make me feel so insecure? How could a computer screen make me feel so inadequate?  I felt my eyes burning and my head ready to explode-the stress was unfathomable!  I left my Meet open, turned off my camera, muted my mic and put  my head down on my desk/table contraption and cried and cried.

I came home that day and cried again.  I laid in my bed that night and said,” I’m NOT going back, knowing that this could never be my reality.  I opened my Chromebook to check my messages and hidden in all of the myriads of school messages was one from a parent.  “Great, a parent is already complaining” I stated negatively.  But the exact opposite happened.  The email was from a student’s  mother professing that her daughter, “was so nervous about online learning and that I made her so comfortable”. I felt hopeful.

Tuesday

Is it Friday yet? I whispered to my reflection in the mirror.  The melatonin I took to sleep decided to kick in a few hours before my alarm went off. I tried fervently to  psych myself, to think of the comment from the mom but my sleep hangover left me cranky and groggy.  I stared at the SmartBoard angrily and yelled, “ I hate you!”.  Then, the morning bell sounded and the “show” would begin….But, today I was more organized.  I had my materials all neat and organized.  Then, at recess a parent emailed me, (and I am not joking!) if I could “give more breaks or at least give the kids time to socialize”.  I did a doubletake on the email and answered politely that I was not in charge of the schedule and having kids “socialize” on the meets would be difficult.  The kids had already been socializing and when their mute buttons were all turned on the echo was enough to wake the dead!  Note to self: no socializing and no chat (but that’s another story).  And so, the lessons began.  The clock ticked and the schedule moved along.  My back was sore and my eyes felt heavy.  I told myself that I would have to order those blue light filtering glasses when I had the money.  Whenever. Sooner than later. I decided to try to use the “present”feature again and it actually worked!  I felt like a dog greeting its owner, after a long day.   I was doing it! At the end of the day I felt like a geriatric patient-everything hurt.  I said goodbye to my students and as I was clicking off the meet one of my girls said, “ I don’t want you to go!”.  The moment was definitely bittersweet and gave me that little spoonful of hope I desperately needed.  “ But I will see you tomorrow and then again the day after that” I said in a happy tone.  My student smiled and signed off, so I guess I gave her hope as well.  

Wednesday

“Hump  Day” or “when will this week end day?”  My knees hurt and I had huge bags under my eyes-like the bags you get when you buy one of those big pillows at Macy’s.  “ I can do this, I thought.  But the SmartBoard  smirked at me and I swear it sounded like it said, “we shall see”.  Suddenly, programs decided to malfunction. There were technical glitches and blocked sites.  I had messages telling me to “contact the I.T. department.  I felt desperate and overwhelmed!  How will I get through this day I thought to myself, biting my lip to stop from getting emotional?  I was in emergency mode.  No one prepared me to be a circus entertainer when I had my professional development trainings.  I put on a “happy face” and mulled through the lessons. There were a few kids that never got supplies for remote learning because they were on vacation (of course, AFTER the vacation). It was NOT a great day. I felt defeated. I had even tried to play “Simon Says” with them, which by the way is extremely awkward and weird to do on a computer with “Brady squares”.  When we were close to the end of our day, I wanted to teach the kids the meaning of “hallelujah”.  

First graders are notorious for saying random things at inopportune moments, especially during instruction.  “Can I show you my Halloween costume?” one of my girls begged during our math lesson.  I replied, “if you wait till the end of the day you can show me”.  That poor girl…  The  “end of the day” for her must’ve felt like an eternity. I was shocked by her patience and understanding.  And, OF COURSE I made a big deal when she finally showed me her cheerleader costume!  Another day down in the books…well, not quite.  Still hours of planning to do for the next day.

Thursday

One more day until Friday…Today definitely should’ve been named, “Big technology problem” day!  I was even looking forward to the day…well, maybe a little.  I was finally bonding with my students.  I knew  their quirks and their shining qualities.  Thanks to Google Meet each square had a name and was in alphabetical order, although I would get dizzy trying to find out who was talking when they didn’t “raise their hands” or when I just couldn’t find them on the grid!  Then, at out nowhere, there was a power surge which lasted a good 20 minutes.  We literally could not do anything-not even communicate with the squares.  Frustration turned into laughter.  My masked colleagues were in the hall, all talking about how confused the kids would be and how this day was “shot”.  But we were all in the same boat-a sinking one.  

When the power resumed my kids asked, “why were you missing?”  I explained the situation calmly.  The sweet and unexpected thing was, they were worried about me.  I guess I was their “superhero” after all.  This realization got me through the rest of the day.

Friday

T.G.I.F!  The Friday before the long holiday weekend made it even sweeter…Did I mention that I changed my mind about Monday being the longest day!  It was INSANELY hard for the kids to focus and concentrate.  I had to break up the academics constantly and wasn’t thrilled about it to say the least.  I actually did a “Zumba dance for kids” video on YouTube with my kids!  

Later in the day, there was a child learning from daycare having a meltdown and another child who kept showing us her puppy on the screen.  It was a Friday to remember…I was also worried that the student that kept going to the bathroom all day would either forget to close the bathroom door (which was clearly in view of the camera) or bring the computer with her (let’s just say that this HAS HAPPENED before to other teachers.)

At the end of the day, I knew how Mulan had felt when she fought for her father’s honor and won.  But I had no medal of bravery to show off to my audience. When the last bell rang and I said goodbye to the kids I knew that I had earned this weekend!  I DID IT!  We are all still alive…well…barely. But still…

The end, but really just the beginning…

Ladies and gentlemen, that was just one week!  There are no “unicorns” or “rainbows” with online learning.  The Facebook commercials of the happy teacher  waking up and adorned with colorful pajamas waiting to greet a class on camera  of perfectly attentive students is definitely a myth.   The kids weren’t the only ones having the meltdowns, I had plenty myself. I also had moments of triumph and truth.  But currently the greatest challenge will occur on September 21st when schools open, “ Brick and Mortar”.  There will be kids still doing Distance Learning while others return to the classroom.  The children will be wearing masks.  I will be wearing a mask.  How will I teach and monitor the kids at home while simultaneously doing the same with the kids in person”? 

There may not be enough Melatonin…

The Haunted Palace

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The Haunted Palace

BY EDGAR ALLAN POE
In the greenest of our valleys
By good angels tenanted,
Once a fair and stately palace—
Radiant palace—reared its head.
In the monarch Thought’s dominion,
It stood there!
Never seraph spread a pinion
Over fabric half so fair!
Banners yellow, glorious, golden,
On its roof did float and flow
(This—all this—was in the olden
Time long ago)
And every gentle air that dallied,
In that sweet day,
Along the ramparts plumed and pallid,
A wingèd odor went away.
Wanderers in that happy valley,
Through two luminous windows, saw
Spirits moving musically
To a lute’s well-tunèd law,
Round about a throne where, sitting,
Porphyrogene!
In state his glory well befitting,
The ruler of the realm was seen.
And all with pearl and ruby glowing
Was the fair palace door,
Through which came flowing, flowing, flowing
And sparkling evermore,
A troop of Echoes, whose sweet duty
Was but to sing,
In voices of surpassing beauty,
The wit and wisdom of their king.
But evil things, in robes of sorrow,
Assailed the monarch’s high estate;
(Ah, let us mourn!—for never morrow
Shall dawn upon him, desolate!)
And round about his home the glory
That blushed and bloomed
Is but a dim-remembered story
Of the old time entombed.
And travellers, now, within that valley,
Through the red-litten windows see
Vast forms that move fantastically
To a discordant melody;
While, like a ghastly rapid river,
Through the pale door
A hideous throng rush out forever,
And laugh—but smile no more.

It’s Important to Take Care of Your Central Air Conditioner

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It’s Important to Take Care of Your Central Air Conditioner

Jathy Garcia, Your Plumber in a Skirt

By Jathy Garcia

One of the most essential items for homeowners in Palm Beach County, Florida, is a central cooling system. Unlike window-based air conditioners, a central comfort system will help keep you cool and comfortable all year long — especially on those sweltering days.

However, just like anything else in your living space, you’ll need to take proper care of your unit not only to ensure that it runs smoothly but efficiently. Here are some common do’s and don’ts when it comes to maintaining your central air conditioner:

Central Air Conditioner Tips for Homeowners

Do Replace the Filter

Can you recall the last time you replaced (or cleaned, if it’s reusable) your central air conditioner’s filter? If that seems to be difficult to recall, you may want to consider replacing it now. An air filter helps your air conditioner breathe and produce cool, clean air. However, if there’s an obstruction — such as dirt and debris — caked onto the filter, it may be quite impossible for your unit to function correctly.

On average, a pet-less home should consider replacing their air filter at least once every 90 days. If you do happen to have a dog or cat and are looking to keep your unit running efficiently, think about replacing your filter every 60 days. This will prevent your central air conditioner from breaking down unexpectedly, but it can even help improve your indoor air quality.

Don’t Ignore Strange Sounds

When your central air conditioner cycles on, there’s a chance that the unit’s compressor will make a slight humming sound — which is natural. However, if you happen to hear anything out of the ordinary, such as clanking, grinding, or banging, don’t ignore them — turn off your air conditioner and call your trusted HVAC technician right away.

Put bluntly, strange sounds can indicate that there’s a problem within your central air conditioner — such as a loose or broken part that is interfering with the fan inside of the compressor. Regardless of the sound’s intensity, it’s better to be safe than sorry — since neglecting the problem can break down your unit much earlier than anticipated.

Do Have it Tuned-Up Annually

One of the best ways to help your central air conditioner thrive is to have it tuned-up annually. As Floridians, we tend to use our cooling units much more frequently than other parts of the country — and for that reason, you’ll want to make sure your central comfort device can keep up with your comfort demands.

When you schedule your tune-up appointment with your HVAC technician, they may perform some of the following tasks to help your unit run up to par:

  • Vacuum the drain pan
  • Complete a compressor diagnosis
  • Clean the evaporator drain line
  • Secure fan blades
  • Install a new air filter
  • Monitor the refrigerant level
  • Check the electrical connections for burned or loose wires
  • Lubricate the fan motors
  • Calibrate the thermostat

Not only can these tasks help keep your central air conditioner in great shape, but they will provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your central AC will run smoothly without a potential problem.

Don’t Attempt to Make Repairs on Your Own

Remember this: When in doubt, don’t attempt to figure it out on your own. If you do not have the proper training and equipment to work on your central air conditioner, don’t try to complete your own task.

Doing so can not only be dangerous to your well-being, but making the wrong move can damage your unit behind the brink of repair. If you feel as if your unit needs a bit of TLC, call your professional HVAC technician first.

 

At Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air we offer the most advanced and efficient air conditioning systems and we will accommodate a system that suits your family’s needs. For more information visit us at:

https://www.hi-techplumbingandair.com/blog/2020/august/the-dos-and-donts-of-a-central-air-conditioner/

A Simple Case of Cognitive Dissonance

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A SIMPLE CASE OF COGNITIVE DISSONANCE

Berkel and Me

Conversations with a psycho-neurotic cat

By Jon Frangipane

It’s seven-fifteen in the evening. I’m really whipped and in desperate need of peace and quiet.

Berkel greets me at the door. “Hey Jon, it’s so good to have you home. Did you have a pleasant day?

I smell a rat, or in this case a cat. Why is he buttering me up?, I thought. Since I picked up this sly and slippery creature from the animal shelter, he rarely meets me at the door.

“What do I owe for this unusual and magnanimous greeting, Berkel, my friend?”

“It’s our relationship. I think it’s gone to the dogs. No pun intended,” replied Berkel.

“No life is perfect,” I answered. “Even the King of England can have differences with the Queen.”

Berkel gave a long stretch across the carpet. “For your information, England hasn’t had a king since 1952 when King George VI died.”

I kept forgetting that this is the only cat that plays Trivial Pursuit online, and now is a virtual well of worthless information.

“I was simply trying to say that persons at every level of the socio-economic ladder can have differences,” I answered, convincingly.

Berkel looked at me straight in the eye and said, “But would the Queen of England, hypothetically speaking, of course, feed the King of England CHICKEN every single day of his life?”

I tried not to look stunned at his comment.

“No,” I countered, “But I’m not the Queen of England and you’re not the king, so it’s a moot point, my friend.”

“Moot point!” Berkel shouted. Why, you call me those lovey-dovey names like “Berky Baby,” “Berky Puss,” “Berky Boobala,” and then you have the unmitigated gall to feed me dry chicken-flavored mini-turds twice a day?”

Blood surged to my head. Is this cat doing me in? I thought as I picked up a bag of cat food off the kitchen counter.

“Look right here,” I pointed, “You can read. See, it says, ‘Your cat will just love the taste of Gaggle, designed to please the tastes of even the most discriminating felines.”

Berkel’s face became contorted and his tail shot up as usual and quivered like a hula dancer on ice.

“Hey bozo,” he screamed, “I can feel a huge, uncontrollable surge coming over me. I feel this incredible vortex of cognitive dissonance gushing forth, thereby creating an impenetrable wall between us.”

“Cognitive dissonance?” I yodeled. “Have you been watching Doctor Phil, again?

“Chill out, dummy. Let me lay it out for you in very simple terms: ‘Cognitive’ is a word pertaining to the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment and reasoning. Follow me, so far?”

“Of course I do,” I lied.

“And the word ‘dissonance’ means discordant, inharmonious, or cacophonous. Do you get it?” Berkel bellowed.

“Of course I do,” I lied again. “Oh, so you’re saying…”

Berkel was on a roll and wouldn’t let me finish.

“I’m not asking, blockhead, I’m telling you that I want real food. Real chicken. Real sirloin. And you either agree to my terms, or face the consequences.”

At that moment, for some inexplicable reason, I thought about my guitar and wondered what part of a cat they used for cat gut strings. The thought soon passed and tried to make small talk to relieve the tension.

“I was just thinking if maybe you would like to have a new, little playmate. You know, like another sweet, long-haired tabby like you.”

I thought Berkel would go for the bait. I was wrong.

“You get me a playmate, and then I’m supposed to watch you fondle and drool and talk dumb baby talk, until I’m out of my mind.”

“But Berkel. a nice little baby pussycat would be something to satisfy both our needs for love and affection. Something we can both cuddle with.”

“Have you seen my litter box, lately? What am I thinking? No, of course you haven’t. It’s been two days now that I’ve had to tip toe around in that dangerously loaded mine field of a litter box, my friend. And do you really think you can possibly keep a litter box clean for two cats?

I thought I had the answer. “I’ll just purchase one of those mechanical poop-scoopers. No fuss, no muss, no mess.”

Berkel fell to the floor, rolled around in convulsive laughter, and then said, “You’re telling me that you’d lay out three-hundred dollars for a mechanical poop-scooper, when all I ask for is a decent meal twice a day?

A brilliant idea suddenly popped into my head. “I know what. Suppose I treat you a couple of times a week to a nice, juicy Big Mac, or you can have it your way at Burger King! How does that grab you?”

I could tell by the expression on Berkel’s face that he was about to finally concede. But I was mistaken.

“Hey dimwit, Berkel declared, “I am already on a fast food diet. It seems that the cognitive dissonance I spoke about earlier is now distorting your whole perspective on life. Are you aware that you’re a snollygoster of the first order. I demand that I get real food. Case closed!”

I was beside myself. I hadn’t realized I was a snollygoster. I didn’t even know what a snollygoster was. And the simple fact was that the case was closed, and Berkel is now ordering his Omaha steaks online. I’ll allow this for a while, you understand, until I can come up with a better idea. But I have to go now… Berkel just screamed that his steak was too rare.

5 Health Risks Associated With Not Eating Enough Carbs You Need to Know NOW!

5 Health Risks Associated With Not Eating Enough Carbs You Need to Know NOW!

By Cheryl Alker

Hands up those of you who have significantly reduced your intake of carbohydrates in recent times?

Let’s face it, you won’t be alone, as carbs have got a seriously bad rap over past years. In fact there is a real trend of low-carb diet after low-carb diet on the market. It would seem that we are almost being shamed into not eating them!

The truth is though, that carbohydrates are a primary energy source for the whole body and brain so avoiding this macronutrient can do more harm than good.  In fact, research suggests that eliminating carbohydrates and replacing them with animal-based protein and fat sources is associated with a higher mortality risk.

What is the impact of no-carb diets?

When we stop eating carbs our body basically does not have enough sugar for energy.  Obviously our body needs energy to function, so the body breaks down stored fats and protein.  This process is called Ketosis.

Isn’t that what we want though, I hear you cry?

Yes and no! While ketosis has a variety of health benefits, including weight loss and lower blood sugar levels, when the body stores too many ketones (acids produced as a byproduct of burning fat) the blood can become too acidic which over time can cause damage to the liver, kidneys and brain.

Signs of carbohydrate depletion can include:-

  • Lethargy– When you use fat instead of glucose for energy you can often feel lightheaded, dizzy, weak and energy levels will be low.
  • Mood– Cutting down on your carb intake may also cause nutrient deficiencies which can lead to frequent headaches and mood swings.
  • Brain Fog– The brain starts to break down fatty acids as an alternative way to generate energy. This is a slower process and can cause difficulty in concentration.
  • Constipation– Getting enough fiber in our diet is essential for healthy digestion. Fiber is a carbohydrate, so avoiding carbs can leave you feeling a little bunged up!

Time to take the smart approach

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Dietary Guidelines indicate that carbohydrates should constitute 45% to 65% of our daily calories.

So what type of carbs should we be looking for to meet these guidelines without impacting our waistline?

You need to look for complex carbohydrates.  Whole grains, legumes and starchy vegetables take a long time to digest which in turn lowers the glycemic load.

Choose fiber-rich fruits, such as apples or berries and try and consume low fat varieties of dairy products.

Pair it the right way

Ensuring you pair the correct carbs with protein and fat will slow the rate of sugar absorption into the blood such as:-

  • Greek yogurt and berries.
  • Bagel with roasted chicken.
  • An apple with nut butter.
  • Spaghetti with meat sauce.
  • Raw veggies with hummus.
  • Roasted sweet potatoes with a meat of your choice.

We are obviously all very different and our body responds in many different ways with regard to the types and percentages of nutrients we need.  If in doubt, ask your doctor about the type of carbs you should be choosing to stay healthy and fit your lifestyle.