WIDGET OA from Claudio Torres

Nós da Organic Agency | OA temos o orgulho te poder estar modestamente envolvidos n a divulgação da pesquisa sobre Marketing Digital que o *Claudio Torres está desenvolvendo!

Ação:

Criamos um WIDGET especial para blogueiros. Essa ferramenta tem a finalidade de otimizar a divulgação dessa importante pesquisa nos milhares de blogs existentes.

Compartilhamento:

Basta o blogueiro copiar o código que está no website da pesquisa, e colar na lista de widgets do seu blog!

Moral:

Inteligência coletiva com 100% de interatividade! como uma pesquisa de Marketing Digital deve ser disseminada!!!

*Claudio Torres é engenheiro eletrônico, formado pelo Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA), com mestrado em sistemas pela Universidade de São Paulo (USP) e pós-graduação em marketing na Suécia, além de diversos cursos de especialização na Alemanha, Suíça e Inglaterra.

É palestrante e consultor de marketing digital, publicidade on-line e mídias sociais e cria campanhas publicitárias na Internet para várias agências de publicidade.

É diretor da Infobot (www.infobot.com.br), empresa especializada em marketing digital, consultor de mídias sociais do Clipping Express (www.clippingexpress.com.br), sócio da empresa de monitoramento de mídias sociais Post Express (www.postx.com.br) e editor do blog Enochatos (www.enochatos.com.br), sobre vinho e gastronomia.

É sócio de vários projetos na internet, como a Vila Virtual dos Brichos (www.brichos.com.br), portal de entretenimento infantil da marca Brichos, MeusParabens (www.meusparabens.com.br), serviço on-line que lembra ao internauta do aniversário dos amigos e a eles do seu, e do Meetango (www.meetango.com), site que une pessoas que desejam fazer atividades juntas.

É palestrante, autor do Social Marketing (www.agenciabit.com.br/cursos/), curso sobre marketing digital e publicidade on-line, e tem um blog exclusivo para este livro e seu curso (www.claudiotorres.com.br), com diversas informações que complementam e atualizam esse trabalho.

Bíblia do MKT Digital

*Sigh*  I knew going into the holiday that it was going to be rough.  I always have a tough time when  there is a buffet of some sort.  I’m pretty good with “meal” foods, but it’s the buffet of desserts that gets me.

The first step of OA is to admit that you are powerless over food. Well, once again I have proven that this is certainly the case with me.  I am weak.  It’s as if I can’t be trusted around certain foods.  It makes me feel disappointed in myself, that I don’ have the self-control to stay away.  I should never take the first bite.  I won’t bore you with the details of what desserts I ate, but suffice to say that I took the proverbial first bite, thought the bites were really good, and had some more bites.  This happened with four different desserts.  At home , on a regular day, I can take the first bite, but when I’m not in my home and it is some occasion where there is a lot of desserts, this sickness clouds my rational thoughts.

Now, the fact of the matter is that I only went over my calorie count by about 250 calories.  I could have done tons more damage, and in the past I would have in a heartbeat.  I consider myself as having kept my abstinence because even though I compulsively ate more dessert than I planned on,  because thankfully I was able to put on the brakes before it got worse, I didn’t continue the eating at home and today I’m right back on track.  But ugh, I still felt a little full after we got back home last night.  I never eat until I’m full.  For SO many years I used to eat until I was physically ill, but for close to two years I have not done that.  I did not like feeling that fullness I felt last night.

In the grand scheme of things, I know that going over my count by 250 calories is not the end of the world.  It was the compulsive behavior that was so upsetting to me.  It is just always a hair away from the surface and can easily cross the surface at any given moment. 

I have put Thanksgiving dinner behind me, there is nothing I can do about it now.  All I can do is make today a good one (which I did) and continue to take it one day at a time.   Still, it sucks to feel week, powerless and out of control.  I know all the tricks, made my plans, didn’t frame the desserts in some negative way and yet, I still succumbed to the compulsion.  It’s like I can talk the talk but I can’t walk the walk. 

I hate that I’m probably going to go through this for the rest of my life.  While I would love to avoid family dinners, special occasions, etc. and stay safe in my home cocoon, I know that that is not a reality.  I have to live my life, which includes these dinners and events.  I need to either find a better way of dealing with the compulsion, or just assume I’m going to go a little overboard, let it happen within reason, be kind to myself about it, then just get back on the horse the following day. 

This sucks.

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!

WHAT IS HIP RESURFACING SURGERY?
Let’s start by understanding the anatomy of the human hip.

The normal hip joint consists of a ball rotating inside a socket. The ball is called the head of the femur and the socket in the pelvis is called the acetabulum. The surface of the femoral head and the acetabulum (i.e. the ball and the socket) is covered by a protective layer of cartilage. This makes the joint smooth and reduces friction during movements. It covers and protects the bone like the rubber of a car tyre.

Any condition that damages the cartilage will lead to pain, dysfunction and eventually arthritis. Cartilage can get damaged due to a number of reasons including:

• Injury
• Infection
• Ankylosing Spondylitis
• Avascular Necrosis (loss of blood supply to bone)
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Osteoarthritis (OA)
• Developmental problem like bone Dysplasias (Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip or DDH)
• Slipped upper femoral epiphyses
• Avascular Necrosis (AVN)
• Inflammatory Arthritis, etc.

Hip resurfacing (also known as hip resurfacing surgery, Birmingham hip resurfacing, Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery, BHR, Articular Surface Replacement, ASR and surface replacement arthroplasty), an orthopedic procedure, is an approach to the treatment of hip pathology. It’s a technology that replaces the worn surfaces of the hip joint with caps of high carbide cobalt chrome.

Hip Resurfacing Surgery is a bone-conserving alternative to conventional Total Hip Replacement (THR). In a hip resurfacing, the head, neck and femur bone are preserved in an effort to facilitate future surgery should it be necessary and to enable the patient to take advantage of newer technology or treatments in the future.

BENEFITS OF HIP RESURFACING SURGERY

1. More of the natural bone is preserved
2. A resurfaced is similar to the natural hip joint resulting in increased stability, flexibility and range of motion
3. The risk of dislocation is virtually eliminated
4. Higher activity levels can be achieved with less risk

Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) is an alternative to Total Hip Replacement (THR) in younger and more active patients. Typically, physically active patients, under 65 years of age who suffer from hip arthritis, hip dysplasia, avascular necrosis of the hip or inflammatory arthritis are candidates for BHR. Patients over the age of 65 can also benefit from BHR if their bone quality is strong enough to support the implant. You must discuss your suitability for hip resurfacing with an orthopedic surgeon.

HIP RESURFACING PROCEDURE DETAILS
After making incisions into the skin, the surgeon approaches the hip joint and prepares the bone for resurfacing using specialized instruments. He prepares the head of the femur to receive the resurfacing component. The socket is then shaped to accept the new resurfacing cup. Then the socket is inserted in a position to give stability to the hip, and allow the bone to grow around it. This encourages long-term security in the newly refinished hip joint. Finally, using bone cement, the resurfacing head component is fixed into position. The incisions are then closed with sutures. Watch hip resurfacing procedure video.

RELATED LINKS

• Check out medical tourism for affordable high quality hip resurfacing surgery
• Get a FREE assessment of your case and a FREE cost estimate for hip surgery by providers on Healthbase network

GET FREE QUOTE FOR SURGERY
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Overcoming the obstacles that arthritis presents isn’t “easy” for anyone!

Difficulties show up for people of all ages and ability levels. I can say, however, that overcoming arthritis IS something that definitely can be done! As author Melinda Winner (“Cooking with Arthritis“) once said, we are arthritis survivors – not arthritis sufferers. Many “warriors” (as I like to call us) deal with chronic and sometimes debilitating pain and illness on a daily basis, but we fight through it.

This week’s Arthritis Radio guest, Pennsylvania State Representative Jennifer Mann is one example of a person who was diagnosed with arthritis at the young age of 2 and who is thriving and flourishing in spite of her condition. Last week’s guest blogger and Arthritis Radio interviewee, Miss Three Rivers 2010, Shauna Rice, is another example of a young person who’s taken control of her life despite her chronic pain from polyarticular arthritis. I personally have a friend in Texas named Kim Satterwhite who battles Sjogren’s Syndrome (one little-known form of arthritis), severe back pain, and fibromyalgia…yet; she manages to devote herself to teaching first graders and maintaining a positive attitude while dealing with her personal physical struggles, and fundraising/advocating for her disease!  She is not only a friend but an inspiration to me.Also, take a look at chairman of our board, Jim Taylor. By age 50, he had both hips replaced due to osteoarthritis and is a positive and inspiring man, nonetheless, who, with our chapter, is doing great things to help further arthritis awareness. We’ve had amazing and inspirational honorees for our Fall Arthritis & Wellness Walk (Deora Matvey, Mona Britz!), and the upcoming Jingle Bell Run, (Maddie Genest!) as well as past events. My “Nana” and my young aunt both deal with Rheumatoid Arthritis, and so does my AF co-worker Lori Knapp — all strong women. I too deal with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Celiac Disease, yet, we ALL manage to be strong, stay positive, and continue on with our daily lives. This just shows that YOU TOO can overcome arthritis!

I’m not saying it is easy. There may be days where you hurt, can barely move, and feel ill. On these days, remember the good things. Some days are harder than others. Aside from the physical pain, stiffness, and inflammation, there are emotional struggles that come along with it, as well as occasional complications, coexisting conditions, or side effects from medications. Yet, there is so much you can do to not let your illness take control of your life!

As I’d mentioned in my portion of Arthritis Radio last week, I think it is important to find things that you love to do, and to surround yourself with a strong support system of people that you love. Some people find solace in also joining support groups. In fact, any group you can join or hobby that you find provides a great outlet for dealing with invisible illness and chronic pain. The Arthritis Foundation offers land exercise, water exercise, and self-help programs, as well as awareness sessions. There are many online communities that you can join for support from all over the world.  Your feelings of isolation will go away as you communicate with people through blogs, social networks, and other virtual mediums — you are not alone!! Yoga, tai chi, Pilates, or dance classes are also great ways to stay active and build up a new network of friends! Some people enjoy scrapbooking, others like gardening, and others like reading, journaling, sports, or animals. Find something that interests you, that soothes your soul, and that makes YOU happy.

After all, as drugless practitioner and nutritional health counselor Janet McKee said in a past Arthritis Radio episode — a positive attitude and a positive lifestyle of wellness can truly affect your health. And through it all, never forget – laughter is the best medicine! So if you are feeling down in the dumps, smile, and keep a positive attitude and a sense of humor. You have arthritis – it doesn’t have to have you! Being diagnosed with a chronic illness such as arthritis  is not a life sentence. Remember this. Sure, you’ll have to make adaptations, and you’ll have some bad days – but try not to let that consume you.

** I want to hear what you do to “overcome” in the face of adversity! Please leave a comment and share YOUR thoughts and triumphs with us! Also, don’t forget to check out this week’s Arthritis Radio!

Stay well,

-Ashley Boynes

Community Development Director

Western Pennsylvania Chapter

voted, “Best Blogger in Pittsburgh!”

I realize that this weeks New Comic Day has already come and gone but since this is going to be a weekly thing I figure we can just try it out now and make sure it’s pretty and ready for showtime next week!

ADVENTURE COMICS #4

THE OUTSIDERS #24

SUPERMAN/BATMAN #66

GREEN LANTERN CORPS: EMERALD ECLIPSE HARDCOVER

Let’s see…

The rut I was in a few weeks back has passed, although I’m still not thrilled with how life is going. My hours were raised after my boss found out I was complaining about my hours being cut. I think it’s his way of kissing my ass and reinstalling the fact that he has the power to do anything he wants. Every once in awhile he’ll throw in a, “I just want to make sure you have a ton of hours; you’re one of our best workers.” I hate that! YES, I’m grateful my hours were put back in place, but at the same time I wish he could just tell me the truth instead of kissing up.

I’m still looking for another job at the same time. I interviewed with a tutoring place, but they never called back. I’ll be following up tomorrow I suppose.

Working Step 2. I should post some of my answers in here. Trying to get to meetings; one of my friends from work has been interested in the program. That’s been helping me with recovery as well. We’ll see how that goes.

Not thrilled with my weight, either. I have these thoughts, “Just fuck OA. Just starve again. Just get back down to a decent weight and then do program again.” Of course, this would be going against what I tell virtually everybody on the planet who wants to lose weight. Losing weight doesn’t work with starvation or diets, it works with a lifestyle change that I must commit to. I just am too lazy.

And don’t get me started with our house — pig sty central. I wish I had the will and motivation to keep a house clean.

Osteoarthritis (OA) or what we often call the wear and tear kind of arthritis, becomes increasingly more common as we age.  We all know someone who’s had a hip or knee replaced as the result of osteoarthritis.  An injury to a joint can accelerate the onset of of OA, but for most patients we’re going to see that OA isn’t actually isolated to just one joint, but is commonly found in many joints throughout the body.

During the course of taking a history of a patient with suspected OA of the feet, one of the first things that I do is look at the patients hands.  Bumps on the knuckles of the fingers known as Heberden’s nodes are a dead ringer for OA of the feet.  Since we know that most OA is symmetrical, we can bet on the fact that a patient with OA in the fingers is also going to have OA in the feet.

OA of the feet is caused by either an early injury to the feet or due to a predisposition to OA.  An injury to the foot can be any number of different problems.  I’ve seen a a patient in her mid forties over the past several months who sustained an injury to her arch in a high school basketball game.  The injury, known as a Lisfranc’s dislocation was undiagnosed for all these years.  Over time, the untreated injury slowly progressed to a stage where the patient was unable to bear weight on the arch.

Another more common form of injury is repetitive use.  Structural deformities of the foot can place excessive and unbalanced (eccentric) load on the arch.  These structural deformities include a high arch foot, flat foot or metatarsus adductus.  With each step, this imbalance will apply excessive load to the foot resulting in an injury.  Over time, this will predispose a patient to OA.

How do you treat OA of the midfoot?  Methods used to treat OA are pretty much the same regardless of the location in the body.  Those methods include bracing, use of an anti-inflammatory or surgery.  As a foot surgeon, I’ll be the first to tell you that surgery on the midfoot for OA is difficult to say the least.  Success rates are not the best.  If we compare surgery on midfoot arthritis to say a knee replacement or hip replacement for OA, I can say with certainty that we have a long way to go to get better at our art.

Anti-inflammatories?  Anti-inflammatory medications can have mixed results when treating OA.  Some folks will respond to simple OTC medications like Glucosamine while others have difficult even with the most potent of Rx medication.  I think you have to keep in mind though that the further along the OA, the less effective the anti-inflammatory medication.

Now let’s get to the heart of what I really wanted to talk about, and that’s bracing.  Whoever invented the Oxford shoe was a genius.  Sure, it isn’t pretty, but when it was first invented, the Oxford shoe was used as a brace.  Over time we’ve incorporated it as a fashion statement.  Paint it white and put a little swoosh on the side and you’ve got a running shoe which is really an Oxford in disguise.

The attributes of an Oxford, when used as a brace, are three fold; stiff shank, tied upper and a little heel.  This combination of attributes not only protects the foot but also creates a brace that can support problems such as OA.  A little heel will weaken the calf to decrease force that is applied to the OA with each step.  And the stiff shank enables force from the calf to be carried where it is most effective at the ball of the foot.  And the ties?  The ability to tie the shoe simply lashes the foot to the stiff shank.  Honest, the folks that invented the Oxford really had it all figured out.

We’ll often tweak a shoe to work better when treating OA.  For instance, if you have a tennis shoe that has a soft shank, we’ll but a still carbon graphite spring plate into the shoe.  In that way you can still use your existing shoes and not have to buy new shoes. 

Treating OA can be rewarding is you just stick to the basics of care.  Bracing is so important in treating this condition.  But as mentioned above, bracing can be quite simple.  Many of us will already have the solution lying in the bottom of our clothes closets.

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM
Medical Director
Myfootshop.com

by Peter J. Tomasi (writer), Patrick Gleason (pencils), Rebecca Buchman & Tom Nguyen (inks), Randy Mayor & Gabe Eltaeb (colors), and Steve Wands (letters)

The Story: Along with their new Indigo ally, the Green Lantern Corps make their last stand defending the central power battery.

What’s Good: This is probably the best issue of Green Lantern Corps since Blackest Night began in earnest, and that’s largely due to all of the black lanterns coming together for one attack. The book has felt far too scattered and disparate over the last few months thanks to the black lanterns singling out characters and their change of tactic is welcome, as it brings all of our heroes together. This feels like a coherent narrative once again as opposed to a series of 3 pages vignettes.

As a result, our protagonists feel like a team and not simply a bunch of tangentially related people doing different things in different places. This helps foster some very strong character moments. The character death at the end of the book is certainly a gut-punch and it’s only the book’s newly regained cohesion that makes it possible.

Strangely though, my favourite scene involved Kilowog. The combination of rage, denial, and sadness was fantastically executed and oddly touching. It was a fantastic summation of the emotional reaction, and aftermath, that the black lanterns are capable of bringing forth. Kilowog’s tragic dialogue is only so effective because it hints at deeper, existential issues and personal pain that the character has harbored, and concealed, for a very long time.

Gleason’s art is more intelligible this month and also provides some really jaw-dropping moments, with some particularly awesome splashes and spreads. The size and scope of some of Gleason’s work here is astounding, daunting stuff. The character death at the end of the book is rendered beautifully and the mass black lantern assault is a sight to behold.

What’s Not So Good: While it’s much improved, Gleason’s art still isn’t without fault. The chaotic nature of the action still makes it occasionally difficult to decipher. The opening scenes were a bit hard-going at some points and the later sequence involving a released red lantern is nothing short of incomprehensible. Also, Gleason again shows himself to have some difficulty drawing Soranik’s face, which at times feels overly cartoony, even comical, with expressions that feel exaggerated, misplaced, or both.

What really disappoints about this issue, however, is Tomasi’s handling of the major character death.  Putting it simply, he dropped the ball.  It’s clearly the most important occurrence of the book and the most emotionally significant moment of the series for quite some time, but I just didn’t feel as though it was treated as such.    It comes off as random, rushed, and hence, underwhelming.  It takes just long enough that it isn’t shocking, but there’s also not enough build up for it to carry the emotional weight that it should.  It’s just about the most abrupt last stand and farewell that I’ve ever read.

A major character’s dying, especially in such heroic fashion, should garner more of a reaction from me.  Hell, Tomasi could very well have had me tearing up.  Instead, it doesn’t feel as significant or powerful as the character deserves and the fact that I bordered on feeling non-plussed is almost a travesty.

Conclusion: The best issue of GLC in a while, but I can’t help feeling a little soured by the missed opportunity.

Grade: B

-Alex Evans

Idag skriver Örnsköldsviks Allehanda om att utförsåkningsklubben Friska Viljor inte längre klarar av att driva Åsbacken som ligger centralt i Örnsköldsvik.

Att Friska Viljor inte längre orkar har jag all förståelse för. Jag var länge aktiv i klubben och jag vet att backen har krävt stort engagemang från både aktiva åkare och deras nära anhöriga. Särskilt de senaste åren har det blivit jobbigt då allt färre aktiva lett till att det blivit ännu fler timmar och sena kvällar/nätter för de som ideellt valt att hålla backen i skick.

Inte heller ekonomiskt har det fungerat väl. Det är en anläggning som är gammal och som är i stort behov av nya investeringar och i bristen på dessa så har den också lokalt fått ett dåligt rykte vilket leder till lägre liftkortsintäkter. Åtgärder för att förbättra backen, främst för barnfamiljer har gjorts och en ny barnbacke har varit planerad och har också efter bidrag från kommunen också varit under byggnation. Dess planerade invigning var öppningen av backen förra säsongen men projektet har dragit ut på tiden och så vitt jag vet så är den inte färdig än.

Det är synd med tanke på att backen tidigare varit ogästvänlig för barnfamiljer, något som förändrats med den nya barnbacken och något som kanske också gett föreningens ekonomi en knuff i rätt riktnig.

Att Friska Viljor som klubb driver skidanläggningen är en konstig konstellation som inte har varit hållbar och nu begär föreningen att kommunen går in och tar över backen, någonting som inte är möjligt säger Ann-Britt Åström, chef för Kultur- och fritidsförvaltningen på kommunen.

Att man säger att det saknas pengar för att driva Åsbacken känns väldigt konstigt när man samtidigt har råd att skjuta till 8.2 miljoner till Paradisbadet i Örnsköldsvik (2009) och 12 miljoner (2007).

Jag anser personligen att Örnsköldsvik har någonting unikt i sin Åsbacke. Väldigt få städer har möjligheten att ha en slalombacke så pass centralt placerad som Åsbacken är. Tyvärr så har backen under många år blivit lidande då den skötts dåligt (men under förhållandena ändå förvånansvärt väl) och som i brist på investeringar förlorat drivkraften.

Jag tror på Åsbacken och jag tror att den kan växa till sig och bli en dragkraft för Örnsköldsvik om den får rätt stöd och jag hoppas verkligen att kommunen har den i åtanke när de arbetar med Världsklass 2015.

Here is a letter that I submitted, and was subsequently printed, in OA’s “Lifeline Magazine” in April of 2008.:

One principle that has made a difference in my life is honesty. Ever since I can remember, I have always loved sweets and sugars. I could never get enough of them. My mom used to hide them from me because she knew I couldn’t control myself to eat a “normal” portion. It never occurred to me that there was something wrong with my mom hiding food from me. It never occurred to me that the quantities I ate were a problem. I never thought that, when I was teen, buying sweets, eating them and burying the empty packaging in the trash so no-one would see them was a problem. I simply had a sweet tooth, right?

Throughout my entire adult life, when I went to any kind of social event, my goal for the evening was not to enjoy the event or my friends, but to enjoy the deserts over and over again. Each time, I would feel awful and disgusted with myself and told myself I had to stop doing it. I just had a sweet tooth, right?

It wasn’t until I was close to my 40th birthday that a thought occurred to me one night. I’d like to think it was my Higher Power who thought I was ready to face the truth about my sweet tooth and popped the concept of compulsive overeating into my head. I immediately got on my laptop and started doing some research. I quickly found myself at the OA website and the list of questions that ask “are you a compulsive overeater?” Wow. I answered most of the questions with a “yes.” The honesty was finally beginning.

I devoured the website and then began to compose a letter to my dear husband to tell him what I have discovered about myself. I was a woman possessed writing down all my food-related secrets. The truth came pouring out of me. Finally. I was completely honest with myself. It was such a catharsis. The reality of what had been going on in my life for over 30 years was now set in front of me. A few days later, after I digested this information within myself, I read the letter to my husband. I cried while I read it, I cried while he held me for a long time afterwards. I continued to cry as I revealed to him even more of my eating habits and secrets that I have never told to anyone.

Now that I had this knowledge, I had to do something about it. I found the OA meetings closest to my home and I started to look for a therapist. Within days, I went to my first OA meeting and had an appointment set up with a psychologist. I clearly remember sitting at my first OA meeting with my eyes filled with tears throughout the whole meeting. These people all had the same problem that I did. Amazing. One woman, J, who I never met before in my life, hugged me at the end of the meeting. Little did she know how much that meant to me. I went out to my car and cried some more. I cried the whole drive home. I cried more the following day for no particular reason.

I heard somewhere, maybe it was on Oprah, that when you cry a lot, it means that you really had something buried deep in yourself. I had no idea that so much emotion about my so called “sweet tooth” was inside of me. This honesty was very powerful and was the beginning of my recovery. Thank you Higher Power for helping me to realize that I had to get honest about my so called “sweet tooth.”

“You just want to say ‘God bless.’ And here’s a Gillette razor.”
Opie and Anthony and “lil” Jimmy Norton Sirus/xm radio

One of the most challenging paradoxes for anyone suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or any other similar chronic pain condition, is that physical activity is absolutely vital in maintaining your health, yet sometimes it seems nearly impossible to exercise whenever you are in pain, stiff, and dealing with severe fatigue. When you are sick and sore, getting even 5 minutes of exercise a day let alone the recommended 30-60 seems like a most challenging feat. Every piece of literature, website, or doctor will tell you that staying active and working out can increase your overall wellness, alleviate symptoms, boost immunity, and prevent further damage to the joints. However, while physical activity is essential to our overall health, it isn’t always easy. Many arthritis sufferers, including myself, laugh bitterly to themselves whenever someone says we have to exercise more — because it is so much easier said than done, at times!

I will begrudgingly admit that I personally have been struggling with body-image issues as of late. I’ve gained a few pounds and a little “puffiness” from taking Prednisone and other meds on a daily basis, and due to disabling fatigue, weekly arthritis flares, and not one but 2 chronic autoimmune illnesses that I live with every day, I have not exercised nearly enough. In fact, I’ll make a confession – aside from walking my dog a couple of times per week, I’ve barely exercised at all for the past month. I KNOW it is good for me, and I KNOW I have to. I’ll openly admit that I don’t particularly “like” exercising for the most part – but only because of the pain I endure afterwards, and sometimes during, and the fact that my body is so stiff & weak. I don’t like feeling like I “can’t” do something well. That being said, I do miss being athletic and fit, and I do want to become stronger, healthier, and more toned. I used to love my body – and now, it is the complete opposite! While I’m small & petite, I’ve lost any shred of muscle tone I once had, and it is quite a downer. I want to practice what I – and what we, at the Arthritis Foundation – preach….and that is EXERCISE! Physical activity is key for anyone, but especially those of us who have one or multiple chronic illnesses or disabilities. Also, being overweight, as some people from arthritis are due to being sedentary, can lead to further pressure on the joints, so it is best for people with arthritis to try to maintain a healthy weight. Exercise combined with diet can help you keep up with a healthy weight…and this protects your joints.

So, I decided to brainstorm some activities that those of us suffering from arthritis can do, when we are unable to get in a “regular” workout of cardio or strength training. Of course, there will be days where we physically just cannot do any sort of exercise, and that is acceptable, given the condition and its unpredictability in severity. No one expects you to run a marathon – but if you are able to, kudos to you! We all have different skill levels and ability levels of what we physically are able to do. Not only will this vary from person to person, but also from day to day for each individual living with arthritis or a related condition.

There will be days when some of us may even be well enough to go for a run, or hit the gym. But, what about the majority of our days, where we can’t get in the type of workout that a “typically” healthy person can, but also are feeling “ok” enough to at least do something to stay active and feel better about ourselves? With discipline and a positive mindset, we CAN keep our joints moving, energy levels up, and “fight the flab!”

Of course, walking is an obvious exercise for the arthritis sufferer. While it may be easier some days than others to get around, even going for a short walk down the street or around the block is better than nothing at all. To make your walks more enjoyable, take your dog, walk with a buddy, or listen to music. Or, why not bring a camera and take photos during your journeys? You do not have to go far; you do not have to jog or speed-walk. A normal walk can get the joints moving and blood flowing, which ultimately can aid in bettering our health. To REALLY give your walk some extra “oomph”, you may want to bring light hand weights, or strap on an ankle weight…or even try walking with Nordic poles! Always make sure you are wearing the proper attire and comfortable walking shoes. Make sure that you stretch beforehand, too – even if it is a short jaunt, and wear any braces or supports that may be necessary.

Aside from walking, we’ve mentioned yoga and tai-chi in past blog entries. Both are great ways to stretch and meditate while toning the muscles and increasing flexibility. The Arthritis Foundation recommends tai-chi. If you are really incapacitated, try bed yoga or chair yoga! There are special books and DVD’s about how to exercise through yoga even if you are on bed rest or in a wheelchair, and these may be options for you to look into for when you are having a particularly bad day.

Another fun way to exercise, if you’re willing to make a small investment is the gaming system Wii Fit! Wii Fit offers a variety of exercise options for all ages and skill levels. It also works with you to set and maintain goals. Included are yoga training, strength training, balance training, aerobics, and skill games, but there are other games you can buy and use with the Wii Fit board. Wii Fit gives you tips on improving posture and balance, maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index, and is just a whole lot of fun to play! Another hint for using the television to stay active in your own home is Exercise TV – Comcast OnDemand and other cable packages offer Exercise TV or versions of it. This is nice because you can pick and choose activities that are on YOUR personal ability level and do it all in the comfort of your own home! Unlike exercise DVD’s, these are free and you are not stuck with them if you do not like it. Plus, it offers a wide variety of choices for you to do.

An option that you may also want to try is water aerobics. The Arthritis Foundation offers Aqua Exercise programs, and you can also find similar programs at your local gyms, YMCA’s, or even local schools. Aqua exercise is a great, low-impact option for anyone suffering from any one of the forms of arthritis. It can really tone muscle and, swimming or treading water, like any exercise, are good for your heart. This is important because some studies have shown a link between arthritis and heart disease.

Also good for stretching and toning are resistance bands. (I personally am not very good at using these, but I do recognize their value!) The Arthritis Foundation recommends using these exercise bands, as well, so they are definitely a good option for those of us who may not be able to do free weights. Balance balls are also good to use!

If you are able to, biking is a great exercise for those of us with arthritis – and it is a great way to rehabilitate your knees! Whether it is a stationary bike or you’re going for an actual bike ride outdoors, this is a great way to keep moving & break a sweat!

I tried to think outside the box for other activities that you may be able to do, but may never have thought of, as well as some helpful exercise tips. Here are some hints:

• Do some cleaning around the house. It isn’t what one would think of as typical “exercise” but you ARE staying active and burning calories, while keeping your joints in motion.
• Ballet! Yes, ballet! You can purchase a free-standing or portable ballet barre for your home – or could even have someone make one for you! You can hold on to the barre for balance while practicing stretches and posture. If you are feeling extra-ambitious and want to get out of the house, you could even join a beginner ballet class!
• Shopping! Walking around pushing a grocery cart, just like doing household chores, can burn calories AND keep you moving. Also, if you enjoy shopping and want exercise, why not join a mall walking club?
• Bake a cake for a neighbor and hand-deliver it! Baking keeps your hands busy, and a nice walk while doing a good deed boosts your spirits and gets the blood flowing!
• Watch TV…..WHILE doing leg lifts, flexing muscles, or lifting very light hand weights!
• Go for a walking tour through your neighborhood or your city. You may learn to appreciate from a new perspective! Many cities offer landmark tours, garden tours, and sightseeing tours all on foot!
• Waltz! Why not try a ballroom dancing class with a spouse or loved one? Things like Latin dancing or Zumba may be difficult but some slower options may be great for you to try!
• Walk for a cause! Sign up for fundraising walks and 5K’s in your area that benefit a charity or a cause…..(such as our Jingle Bell Run!)
• Play with your children or grandchildren….or, a friend’s kids….this will put a smile on your face, while keeping you active!
• Find a workout buddy – some people value the solitude of “alone time” when working out, but others find that exercising with a friend makes it so much easier!

Again, I know from a personal standpoint that sometimes it is “easier said than done” to exercise when dealing with a chronic illness or physical disability, and that a person who has never dealt with these types of issues could never fully understand. Therefore, never do more than your body will allow, and always consult with a doctor before starting any type of exercise program. Do not push yourself, but even if it isn’t every single day, try to get at least some exercise in a few times per week! Not only are you strengthening and toning your muscles, but exercise also raises endorphins which alleviate stress and make you feel happy….and what could be better than that??

Please feel free to comment! We would love to hear your suggestions for exercising with arthritis. I’m personally going to set a goal to exercise at least 3-4 days a week, even if it is something as seemingly simple as walking my dog. Hopefully, you will join me in this mission for better fitness and overall wellness! I’d love to hear your stories!

For more information on the importance of physical activity, please listen to Episode 2 of Arthritis Radio with Jane Brandenstein….”Let’s Get Physical.” Also, if you are interested in signing up for our December 12^th Jingle Bell Run (a 5K Walk & Run benefiting the Arthritis Foundation, Western PA Chapter) click here for more info! For more info on our programs including Land & Water Exercise for Arthritis, click here.

Thanks for reading, and stay well!

-  Ashley Boynes

Community Development Director

Western Pennsylvania Chapter

Voted “Best Blogger in Pittsburgh”

Theres a ton of Lynches songs on youtube … always an O&A Favorite 

Opie and Anthony on xm/sirius sattelite radio

 http://stephenlynch.com/

Phillies Fan Arrested for Offering Sex for World Series Tickets... Talks to Opie and Anthony with "lil" Jimmie norton and Bob Kelly Today

Phillies Fan Arrested for Offering Sex for World Series Tickets, Susan Finkelstien, a die hard Phillies fan Was on the Opie and Anthony radio show today. “If you read my Craigslist ad, there’s actually no mention of sex at all” she said to O& A. Adding “Seriously — that could mean I’ll paint your house. I’m creative!” for the full Opie and Anthony Show today click here

Download todays O&A show to hear Phillies fan Susan Finlestien talk about her arrest

I was flirting with this guy, and he was saying, so what do you like, basically, sexually? We just started talking about that. It was him that brought the whole thing up anyway. I just thought I was being ‘punked’ or something. It just was so unbelievable, when we just started talking about sexy stuff, that I got arrested.”
Ummm I am not 100% sure But i think she said her and her husband were Swingers on The show today.

Face book Pic of Susan Finkelstien Phillies fan / " Prostitute"

One of the things that really sucks about this addiction is that when trying to be abstinent, you know that you can’t even eat just one or two of something because you know that one or two is not enough.  I mean, who can really eat just two m&m’s or two potato chips and be satisfied?  A person who has a normal relationship with food can, but not us lucky folks who are compulsive overeaters.  One of the key sayings in OA – “before you take that first bite…” is not a key saying for nothing.   They are truly words to try to live by because that first bite always gets you into trouble.

It’s really, (no pun intended!), hard to digest that there are some foods that I will never be able to eat for the rest of my life if I am to live abstinently/binge-free.  Take for instance, one of those delicious gazillion-calorie blizzards at Dairy Queen.  If I were to indulge in one, two things would happen:  1) I would literally eat up 1/3 to 1/2 of my allotted calories for the day, which would leave me pretty darn hungry for a good part of the day (which would suck!), and 2) I fear that eating it would send me over the edge into bingeland .    Neither of these things would be a good situation.   I don’t want to lose almost two years of abstinence and start from scratch again.  No enjoyment of food, no matter how good it is, for a mere few minutes, is worth that.

This being abstinent thing is something that I want to do for the rest of my life, because I don’t want, for so many reasons, to go back to binging.  And to be abstinent, there are foods that I will probably never eat again for the rest of my life and that kinda sucks.  But being abstinent is a not just a temporary diet, it is a life change.  It is a life change that has many benefits.  So while it’s quite difficult, almost impossible sometimes, I believe it is worth it.

“Mind, Body, Spirit” is not ONLY an e-newsletter provided to you by the Arthritis Foundation – it is also an idea that is embodied by living a healthful lifestyle of wellness.

Did you know that what nourishes us can also destroy us? Did you know that what is healthy for one person may not be for the next? These ideas and many more were discussed today during an interview with Janet McKee, HCC, AADP – a certified holistic health counselor and drugless practitioner. You will soon be able to hear this interview in its entirety on Arthritis Radio or as an iTunes podcast, but for now, I would like to go over some of the concepts that Executive Director David Martin and myself touched upon with Janet during this fascinating afternoon.

Janet says that it can be easy AND enjoyable to take control of your own health and to live a vibrant life. She claims that we can eat foods that are delicious AND nutritious, and warns against many American “staples” such as fast food, junk food, processed foods, sugars, and fatty meats. Her mission to heal is not only a professional one, but is also a part of her personal journey. Janet herself suffers from an autoimmune digestive disorder that, like arthritis, is inflammation-based. In fact, she claims that many diseases – from rheumatoid arthritis to cancer – are due to inflammation and an out-of-balance immune system. This is where a life overhaul can help patients get to the healthy point of their lives where so many hope to be.

While Ms. McKee acknowledged how lucky we are in America, and particularly here in Pittsburgh, to have such a forward health care system and such scientifically advanced medicine, she also makes note of the fact that traditional medicine isn’t our only choice, and wants people to know that they do have an alternate option.

While she stressed the importance of seeking (traditional) medical attention when need be, and noted that for some conditions, it is absolutely necessary to go, and stay, on medications, she says that by eating healthy and feeding our body the right things, we can avoid getting to this point altogether. Also, even if you are at the point where you have to be on 1 or 2 meds, this healthy and nutritious lifestyle can only assist in the healing process and can help you achieve your goal of overall health and wellness. You may want to ask your doctor if seeking out a nutritionist or health counselor is right for you!

Janet says that there are two “types” of food: primary and secondary. Primary food isn’t what you’d think – it is the less “tangible” things that we feed our body – stress, work, social life, spirituality, etc. Secondary food is what we typically consider, food. Lowering stress, increasing mental and emotional wellness, finding work that we enjoy, finding hobbies that we enjoy, finding something we believe in (whether religious or seeking spirituality on a golf course), having a support system, finding positive energy and letting go of negative emotional blockages to healing are all “primary” foods that we “feed” our body are just as important as what physically goes into our body. The types of regular (“secondary”) foods that go into our body are important because Janet says that they feed us on even a very cellular level, helping to balance the pH of our blood, and thus allowing our immune system (and all systems of the body) to function properly, and naturally.

Janet says to boost immunity and decrease inflammation, we need to do away with overly fatty foods, most dairy and meats, processed sugars, etc. Healthy additions to our diet should be leafy greens, whole fruits and vegetables, legumes like peas and beans, healthy whole grains such as quinoa, and occasionally wild-caught cold fish. She encourages everything to be whole, and organic, and stresses the importance of phyto-nutrients (nutrients that are plant-based) and antioxidants. She recommends cherries for arthritis and also spices and herbs such as turmeric and ginger. Janet, who was a huge advocate of red grapes in any form, says that it is okay to enjoy an occasional glass of (organic) red wine in moderation, but that anyone who is in the early stages of trying to “heal” should avoid alcohol altogether.

Another helpful hint? Walnuts. She says that walnuts also help to combat inflammation and aid with the immune system, therefore being a perfect super-food for an arthritis sufferer. We also need to be certain to stay hydrated. Water is essential for life! For instance, we should drink a full glass of water upon wakening – BEFORE our morning coffee. As we sleep, our body becomes dehydrated and then may therefore not function properly until we hydrate.  Also be sure to drink water throughout the day to cleanse and hydrate. By the way, you CAN enjoy a cup of morning coffee – but, like anything, do so in moderation. Caffeine breeds acidity which can send our blood (and immune system) “out of whack.” However, it is high in antioxidants, so if you try not to overdo it, and be sure not to add too much sugar or milk, it is okay to consume now and then, especially if it brings you comfort or joy. She recommends green tea as an alternative to coffee. Plain, hot green tea is an excellent drink of choice for arthritis sufferers – packed with antioxidants and healing properties. She says that peppermint tea is also a great choice.

An interesting concept that kept coming up with Janet was “enjoyment” and “happiness.” She seems to have an attitude that you should enjoy eating. Do not focus on what you CANNOT eat, but what you CAN eat.  She says you should do things in life that make you happy – personally, professionally, and health-wise. She also encourages living as natural a life as possible – from the way you eat, to the way you drink, live, shop, and sleep.

Janet McKee is truly a “crusader” for nutrition and overall wellness. She had so many interesting things to say, that these are only the beginning! You will learn much more from this week’s Arthritis Radio broadcast, which will be up within the next few days!

Our Arthritis Radio interview with Ms. McKee will be up soon, and you can hear more in detail from this lovely lady herself, but you can always go back and peruse our past episodes on topics such as Tai Chi, fibromyalgia, Juvenile Arthritis, exercise, and more! For now, feel free to check out Janet’s website at www.janetmckee.com and be sure to subscribe to Arthritis Radio free weekly podcast on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/uiZw3

If this blog has inspired you to “get cooking”, our inaugural podcast Episode 1 with “Cooking with Arthritis” author, Melinda Winner can be heard here or, you can visit her website, here. To read a past blog on how the gluten-free diet can be healthy for arthritis, click here.

Also, be sure to browse our past blogs and Arthritis Radio episodes for much more useful information on holistic/alternative treatments, and diet & arthritis!

Update: Read our Executive Director, David Martin’s blog on this topic here!

Please share your comments on how food or a natural, holistic  lifestyle of wellness for mind, body, and spirit has transformed your life! We enjoy feedback, and reading about your triumphs, struggles, and personal stories about surviving with arthritis and related conditions!

Thanks for reading, and stay well!

- Ashley Boynes

Community Development Director

Western Pennsylvania Chapter