URL : http://www.flashgame-girl.com/Puzzle-board/Sort-My-Tiles-Happ-Feet.html

Game description :

Sort them out before they get into more musunderstanding.

Game controls :

Use mouse to interact.

In the interest of exploring all things foot oriented, I have been doing some research on reflexology

Here is what wikepedia has to say about it

Reflexology (zone therapy) is an alternative medicine method involving the practice of massaging or applying pressure to parts of the feet, or sometimes the hands and ears, with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general health.^{[citation needed]}

The Reflexology Association of Canada defines reflexology as: A natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears and their referral areas within zone related areas, which correspond to every part, gland and organ of the body. Through application of pressure on these reflexes without the use of tools, crèmes or lotions, the feet being the primary area of application, reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body.^[1]

There is no consensus among reflexologists on how reflexology is supposed to work; a unifying theme is the idea that areas on the foot correspond to areas of the body, and that by manipulating these one can improve health through one’s

Concerns have been raised by medical professionals that treating potentially serious illnesses with reflexology, which has no proven efficacy, could delay the seeking of appropriate medical treatment. A systematic review of the efficacy of reflexology found one study showing a statistically significant effect in the treatment of urinary symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients. All other conditions reviewed in this study showed no evidence of any specific effect.

On a personal note, I have been to a reflexologist several times and thought I’d died and gone to heaven.

Photographed by lille abe

If you like my work and wanna show it by inviting me to one of your groups, you are very welcome to do that, but please do not leave any graphic logos! I’ll delete them.

View On Black

– License

The hands & feet are polymer clay beads I’ve been making. The darker ones I painted.  The face is going to be a pin.  The round beads are an experiment.  I started making them in paper mache.  Didn’t like the look,  so I covered those in paper clay.  Then I used foil w/paper clay.  Painted multicolored.  Then mixed a satin varnish with gold pigment.  Then the rest  with bronze.  Fun to do.  Now I have to redrill the holes in some of them…. and see how I like them.  This isn’t a fast process.  Takes lots of time and space.  I love trying new things during the holidays.  Have a fun safe Thanksgiving!  I hope you’re with people you love!  xoxo PJ

Disclaimer: The Arthritis Foundation of  Western Pennsylvania always advises that you consult your doctor and take their advice. The essay below is a personal story of one young woman, and a humorous look at how living with arthritis or other chronic illness can affect one’s life in the most seemingly simple, or silly, ways. The AFWPA does not ever endorse ignoring any doctor’s advice….and the author now has to have another orthoscopic knee surgery as a consequence….as they say, beauty DOES come with a price! – AB

“No! Not the SHOES!” – by Ashley M. Boynes

Here’s the thing: in addition to Rheumatoid Arthritis and Celiac Disease, I suffer from a third disease. This condition is called “Chronic Shoe Lust.” Shoes are my sanctuary. And here’s my frustration: I don’t want to give up my cute shoes, even when my logic — and my doctor — tells me to. While they aren’t Manolos, Louboutins, or Jimmy Choos by any means, my closet is filled with pair after pair of (more affordable!) adorable, uncomfortable, and sometimes dangerous-looking shoes. I love them!

Sometimes, it is so hard to be reasonable. It can be especially difficult when you are 26 years old and have a seemingly endless list of rules to follow, what not to do, what not to eat, which medications to take, which supplements are helpful, when the next doctor’s appointment is, and so forth. Add in a pinch of human emotion and a dash of impulsion – and you’re surely bound to slip up here and there.

I have rheumatoid arthritis in ALL of my joints, but my right knee is a particular mess: I have a torn meniscus floating around, both RA and osteoarthritis, cartilage damage, bone spurs and calcium deposits. I’ve lost my full range of motion – my knee doesn’t fully straighten or bend – and it is constantly swollen.  It sometimes physically locks in a 90-degree angle. I have walked with a slight limp since the sixth grade. With no other choice, I’ve gotten used to my not-so-friendly knee and the pain it causes my whole right leg – from hip to ankle.

And this cranky knee? Along with my doctor and family members, it has chastised me time and time again for wearing kitten heels, stilettos, wedges, pointy-toed pumps and other variations of cute and fashionable shoes. These shoes hate me, though. My difficult knee has teamed up with said hip and foot to cause horrendous wear-and-tear to any pair of heels that I slide on to my feet, ruining the shoe by making the heel slanted and bent inward with no hope for repair. This sad display makes me unable to walk in them any further – but yet, as I consider fashion (especially shoes) an art – I do not have the heart to throw them away! That being said, however, I cannot imagine the damage being done to my joint if that is what occurs to each pair of shoes. Hmm…

Now, I AM a logical young woman. I follow my strict gluten-free diet, I take my pills on time, I take my vitamins and rarely miss a doctor’s appointment. I try to take care of myself, and try not to take on more than I can handle.

But I refuse to give up wearing cute shoes. Cute, painful, inconvenient, fabulous shoes!

I’m not sure why this is. I do enjoy the confidence-boost that I get when a stranger compliments me on a particularly stylish pair. It makes me feel good about myself, and I consider shoe-collecting almost a hobby. I know that, given my condition, the “reasonable” and “rational” thing to do is to wear flats, sneakers, or some sort of more “accommodating” shoes. Yet, I wear platform Mary Janes, open-toed kitten pumps, sandals with little-to-no support, and 4-inch stilettos…I just can’t help myself!

I know, I know. I’m “going to kill myself walking in those things.” It’s “no wonder” I limp. “Of course my knee is killing me — look at those shoes!” -  I’ve heard it all. But when I’m traipsing back to the parking garage at the end of the work day, I don’t feel so badly – because I’m joined by countless other women limping along, teetering on the edge of sanity with their sky-high heels. In that moment, I’m not alone.

Could this be why I torture myself with the heels? Maybe a part of me thinks it is easier to hide behind the guise of “it’s just the shoes,” rather than a chronic illness with no end in sight. It’s the blame game — and blaming a physical ail on having fashionable feet is much easier than the reality of the situation. I also think it’s my pride. I want to hold on to any sense of normalcy that I can, since sometimes my life isn’t exactly that of a “normal” 26-year-old. Do I have to give up something that, as silly as it is, makes me happy?

I know that I’m being stubborn, and I’m probably hurting my knee further, but here’s how I justify it: I’ve sacrificed enough. I have given up pizza, beer, “regular” baked goods, my beloved Twizzlers, and, really, any sense of being carefree. I’ve sacrificed sports. I’ve sacrificed nights out with friends. Isn’t it OK to be stubborn just this once?

I know there are far worse things that could happen in life – after all, they’re only shoes. But shoes are something I can control. The other things that bother me about chronic illness are things that I might not be able to change, ever, even if I want to. So forgive me for wanting to hold on to my shoes. After all, I need to be well-heeled while I take the steps to kick these symptoms!

What do you think, reader? What have you sacrificed because of a health condition — trivial, or serious? Do you ever “cheat” and stray from what your doctor says, like I do with my shoes?  As always, I want to hear your comments…and I’m sure I’ll be blogging before and after the surgery that my unfortunate shoe habit has, in part, led me to have to schedule. Have a Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the AFWPA, and we hope you enjoy reading our blogs as much as we like writing them! We are “thankful” to have you as readers and as supporters of our chapter as we fight to spread awareness about arthritis and to provide a community of support for anyone suffering from one of the 117 types of arthritis & related illness! Again, comments are always welcomed and encouraged.

Be Well,

-Ashley Boynes

Community Development Director

Western Pennsylvania Chapter

voted, “Best Blogger in Pittsburgh!”

PS: Are RUNNING SHOES more your style? Be sure to sign up for our December 12th Jingle Bell Run/Walk! This 5K takes place in Pittsburgh’s North Shore and should be a fun time — all for a great cause!

For those of you who are lucky enough to live in the Midwest like me, you understand the importance of being prepared for any kind of weather. A huge essential is having the right pair of shoes for rain/snow. There are several options, but one option is by far the very best.

When choosing a rain/snow boot, you should first consider where you are going to be wearing them. If you’re going to be hanging around a ski lodge all day and hiking and being atheltic, then a simple rubber boot will not suffice. However, if you’re just going to be running errands and such, then the options are endless. Also, keep in mind the type of traction you will need, and when trying the boots on, be sure you’re not slipping around the store. In addition, rain/snow boots come in a variety of heights, so you can find something no matter what your activity.

One of the best options for rain/snow boots is a rubber boot. Rubber boots come in thousands of varieties and colors and can easily be worn year round. Hunter makes some of the  very best boots, and I highly recommend getting yourself a pair. A great way to multi-purpose your boots for all seasons is to add a fleece liner or leg-warmer under your boots in the winter. This will make your feet think they are sitting inside a fresh pair of Uggs, but you won’t be worried about ruining your boots with the weather. Also, buying rubber boots frees you of weather proofing, and they are always ready to wear. You can wear your rain/snow boots under or over anything, and Hunter boots add a very nice touch to most casual outfits.

There are a few don’ts though. DON’T wear rain/snow boots under your pants and show up to a function with your pants soaked on the bottom! The entire purpose of these boots is to keep you dry and looking fab! DON’T wear your rain/snow boots when the weather is sunny just because you love them so much. Save them for a rainy day DON’T let these be your only shoes for the day. It’s a great idea to only wear these outside and bring a change of shoes into the office with you or to your next holiday party.

You can really have a great time shopping for rain/snow boots and below are a few options of just how fun all of these boots can be. Enjoy!

I could raise a sail

Look to the horizon and

Cast off in in his shoe

I just want everyone to know, we now have a forum dedicated to the happenings of this blog! please join it and talk about what you want to see, what you have seen, and many other thinks. our URL is http://gagesboiforum.freeforums.org

In today’s economy it is becoming more important to maintain a professional and polished style, in and out of the office. One of the best ways to enhance your professional wardrobe is with the right pair of shoes.

Finding the best pair of shoes for work can be tricky, especially because there are so many different dress codes out there. One of the most important things to remember is to dress with class and comfort. This is vital to finding the right pair of career shoes.  One of the best options is something that isn’t too flashy or tall. Keep it simple and chic. One of the perfect career shoes is a simple black patent pump, pictured below. You can find these anywhere and buy them no matter what your budget. They look great with dress pants, skirts, suits and dresses alike. Also, these shoes are a staple to any wardrobe and are worth the investment if you spend a lot on them.

Another important thing to keep in mind when choosing your career shoe is your daily activity. If you sit behind a desk all day and only walk to Starbucks and to lunch, you can probably push it a little bit and wear a taller heel. However, if you are like KMG who wrote in about her unpredictable job tasks, something flatter might be a better alternative. There are plenty of flat options for working girls with tons of style infused. Flats come in so many varieties, that it’s hard not to fall in love with a great pair. For the winter, it’s a good idea to wear some boots while outside, and switch to your flats once your toes warm up inside the office. If you can’t do this, then a flat stylish boot, like the few seen below would be ideal.

Finally, when going for an interview, be wise in choosing your shoes. You DON’T want to pick a shoe that you can’t walk around comfortably in. Sometimes interviews are rigged with stairs, narrow hallways and slippery floors. It will not be in your best interest to topple over because your heel is too high. Also, DON’T wear the same shoes you go bar-hopping in to work regularly. Usually, shoes that you wear out to party get beat up fast, and although it’s hard to tell in a dimly lit, vodka hazed atmosphere, you don’t want your boss to think you are a party animal that can’t keep up with herself. Be sure to wear clean, polished and chic shoes. Further, DON’T wear sky-high heels every single day. Platform heels are acceptable once in a while, but when you’re wearing pants especially, there is no reason you can’t tone it down a bit. Save your heels for great skirts and dresses instead.

One final, important DON’T–Don’t be afraid of color! Shoes should always be your best accessory

Here are some pics of perfect career shoes. Enjoy!

i thought i would double post because this boy looks like one of my friend, Kyle

i just wish i could see him like this

Pampering yourself can get expensive but it doesn’t have to be. Most products can be found at your corner Dollar Tree or around the house. Your preference of product quality or brand name may add to the expense involved. But nothing beats the completeness your body enjoys when it is the sole focus of the pamperer’s attention.  So before you dart over to your favorite body salon, take a few minutes. Engage the pleasures of ‘me time.’

Lets make a list of the essentials.

Tools:

Nail polish remover

Nail polish

Toe clippers

Cuticle remover

Nail Buffer

Foot sander

Skin blade (used to remove dead skin from heels, rims and ball of foot)

Foot sander

Horse-hair brush

Toe-separator (sponge)

Epson salts and/or Dawn Antibacterial dishwashing liquid

Foot scrub

Cotton balls or clean cloth (whatever is available)

Clean Towels (2)

Wash cloth or sponge

Skin moisturizer

12 X 18 Basin (long and wide enough to accommodate both feet at once)

Now that we have our tools assembled, playtime can begin.

1. Remove old polish with cotton balls or other material available in your household. Make sure to use cotton swabs to clear areas the nail bed and nail corners.
2. Fill a basin with hot water. Check temperature with elbow for comfort-level.
3.  Add one teaspoon per gallon of Epson salts or one teaspoon of Dawn Antibacterial dishwashing liquid per two-three gallons of water.
4. Find a comfortable seat and place the towel across your lap
5. Place both feet in basin and soak for 5 minutes.
6. Remove ‘foot A’ and place on towel
7. Gently use toe-clipper to trim toe nails down to desired length.
8. Use cuticle remover to trim away over grown skin on at perimeter of nail.
9. Buff the nail surface until even and replace foot in the basin.
10. Remove ‘foot B’ and follow steps 7-9.
11. Remove ‘foot A’  and place on towel.
12. Gently scrape thick dead skin away from heel, rim, and ball of foot.
13. Buff the sole of the foot, with a foot sander, to remove thin dead skin and even out areas where thick dead skin was removed.
14. Place ‘foot A’ back in basin and remove ‘foot B’
15. Follow steps 12-13
16. Dampen legs to just above the knee with a wash cloth or sponge
17.  Apply an ample amount of foot scrub to damp leg surface
18. Scrub away dead skin from legs in a circular motion and work towards each foot. Make sure to work between toes and soles of feet.
19. Rinse away residue with wash-cloth or sponge.
20. Pat dry feet and legs  and place feet on a dry towel.
21. Massage skin moisturizer over work surfaces.
22. Insert toe separator and apply nail polish.

Now take a deep breath…

By Annie

Did I mention that I love it when people crochet the most ridiculous things? This definitely falls into that category. In honor of Thanksgiving, why not make yourself (or a loved one) this extremely elaborate and large hat that looks like a turkey is sitting on your head?

Photo: Angelicacatrina

My favorite part is the feet that tie under your chin, because I think the hat might fall over if those weren’t there.

In a recent blog post, I wrote about my response to an article on the evolution of distance running. A reader of my blog, Molly Suber Thorpe, posted a comment in which, among other things, she recommended the book Born to Run. I promptly purchased it (on my Kindle) and found it quite interesting. Although the jury is still out for me on whether distance running evolved for the purpose of hunting large ungulates, I was fascinated by the current shift toward barefoot running or running with shoes that serve only to protect the foot from cuts and scrapes rather than build support.

As a child my parents always had arch supports put in my Oxfords. Years later when I purchased all my son’s clothes — including shoes — from thrift shops, a friend said she wouldn’t get shoes at thrift shops because it was so important that they provide the proper support and thus be new. Something about this always perplexed me. Didn’t we evolve with feet? Haven’t we existed as a species for long enough that our feet would, theoretically, be well evolved? Haven’t we been running and jumping and climbing barefoot for an awfully long time? Why would extra support be necessary?

Interestingly, the book Born to Run shares studies and research that suggest that our extra-support running shoes may be responsible for more injuries rather than fewer. We run differently when we have lots of support and padding, and we land on our heels. Run barefoot and you quickly realize that you don’t land on your heels.

It’s funny how recommendations for what’s healthy and MOGO can reverse with the times. Another reminder to trust common sense, consider our origins and years of evolution, and be critical in our inquiries rather than trust whatever trends arise.

~ Zoe
Author of Most Good, Least Harm and Above All, Be Kind

Image courtesy of Linda W via Creative Commons.

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