I wonder...

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What if you have been praying and praying for something to change and in your heart you know that what you decide is really going to shake things up.  Can you relate to this?  Let me ask this...

Have you ever been truly misunderstood, before?  If so.  Did you expect it to happen, or did it come as a shock, to you?  How did it make you feel?

I can remember three specific times, in my lifetime - where I knew it was going to probably happen.  I also knew I would have to be okay with the fact that people (mostly close friends and family) were not going to understand me; that, they weren't too sure - what I was up to...and why?   "Why in the world would Bevy ever rock the boat?"... I know, was the question.  It wasn't my nature.  I wasn't the type.  People liked me for who I was.  They were comfortable.  Why change - anything?  I remember reassuring myself and resolving myself to this... it truly was going to be okay.  

Here are those three specific moments...

1. When I parted with the conservative, Mennonite church over 20 years ago.  Don't get me wrong.  I appreciate my godly heritage...and, I STILL love Jesus with my whole heart - he's ALL that matters! Truly.

2. When I met my hubby online through eHarmony.  BTW: We've been happily married now for 15 years and have three beautiful blessings to wrap our hearts and arms around. We love our kids!!

3. When I started my own home-based, business - in health and wellness, little over 5 years ago.  Little did I know - that THIS was going to be SOOOO AMAZING!!  Not sure which is better - the opportunity or the products!?!  They truly go hand in hand.

Being misunderstood; was it easy, for me?  No!  But, each time I chose to stand strong in where I knew God was leading me.  And... EACH decision... has been life-changing; life-enriching, for me, as well.  I'm sure life will be filled with more of these times of misunderstandings - as time moves on.  It's sort of the nature of life.  However, I'm #sograteful for each of these times in my life, being part of my story. :)

My biggest takeaway and one that I want to encourage you to consider, is this:  Don't shy away from something you know is most likely to be an answer to the prayers of your heart.  I often wonder, what if I had said "NO!!!" and kept to my comfort zone... I wonder where I'd truly be today?  

Would that be the same for you??  

Smile - let it be seen and heard!!

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I'll never forget it.  I was at a business conference - one Friday night and happened to find myself sitting on the front row, which was rather unusual, as I'm not usually a front row girl.  I'm typically that mid row to back of the crowd; end of the line, type of person.   Anyway.

I thoroughly enjoyed the evening.  Our home-based business events are always so fun and they include so much to learn.  I was soaking it all up.  Thoroughly, taking mental notes and such...

After the event.  The two "speakers" came over to chit chat; introduce themselves and what not.  And, one of them, looking right at me - says, "You know.  If it wasn't for your constant smile - I would have had trouble getting through my "presentation"... your beaming smile was so encouraging; so present."

She went on... to say.  That she was extremely nervous that night - her knees shaking the whole time she was speaking - but because of my engaging smile and rapt attention - that it really helped her to pull through.  I had no idea!!!

That isn't the first time - people have commented on me wearing a smile.   Here's the truth. I really made a difference that night, for my friend.  But, here's the thing... I can still take the time to practice wearing it. I have to.   I want to wear it well - all the time!!  Even if no one is looking....and you should, too!!

Wear it well, and often!!!  Let your smile be both seen and heard!!!  

It'll make a difference.

In addition: This home-based business can come with side effects, in products, that may make that smile appear a lot more readily and naturally, than ever before.  For which, I am #sograteful.  I would love to fill you in on that, anytime.  Simply ask.

*** 

Linking up with the Five Minute Friday community - and the prompt for this round is: Smile

   

Work at it!

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Have you ever heard these words by Benjamin Franklin - they're said to be famous.  I don't recall hearing them before reading them, to the kids, this morning... but.  Let me tell you - they're about to become quite famous in this household.  I smile.  But, it is true.   These words are  most likely based on Scripture - I'm sure.  Maybe someone can share in the comments where they think they are found.  One verse I thought of is quoted in the photo I shared below.

Here is what Benjamin Franklin pens...

"Work while it is called today, for you know not how much you may be hindered tomorrow.  One today is worth two tomorrows; never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today."

(as discovered in the pages of The Book of Virtues, by William Bennett)

To be honest, Procrastination has been known to take root in this homes heart-soil.  It goes in spurts - the "weed" yanked out... but, by golly, it reappears from time to time!!  And... it, never fear, will get someone in trouble.

Let's just say - it created some lively conversation around the breakfast table, this morning,  as we took this "lesson" in and I simply pray - it will be truly taken to heart by all of us.  There never really is a good excuse.  Ever!! 

Working a home-based business reveals all the true colors.  I have to ask myself,  How hard am I willing to put in, what it takes, to see the harvest that I'm expecting!?!

I also like this scripture from 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NIV)...

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

Here is another quote by Admiral "Bull" Helsey... from the same book; The Book of Virtues.

"The Lord gave us two ends to use, one to think with and one to sit with.  The "war" depends on which we choose - heads we win, tails we lose."

~~

Have a wonderful and productive week!!

Kindness really matters!

Oh my word.  I don't blame a single soul for falling off "my bandwagon" - here at Treasured Up and Pondered.  In fact, if you are reading this... I'm impressed.  Because, I've fallen off... as well.  Obviously.

So, for that... dear friend and reader...I say, if you're here and still "desiring to hear" anything from me - I say THANK YOU!   Yes, thank you for your kindness.... and your patience ... and your prayers.   Please feel my {hugs} and see my smiles...

Truth is.  Our plates are full.   I don't like to say we've been busy - because everyone is and can be "busy". Instead of busy I'll refer to it as - we've been "investing" ourselves into lots of different areas...

We're wrapping up the school year, with the kiddos, in just a few more short weeks.   My husband has also recently finished up a 15-month stent on taking up some Theological studies... he graduates, here, in early June.  His desire in this course has been for himself to grow - as a husband, a father, a leader, a friend; a way to better connect all the dots.  I think he's really grateful and blessed to have gone through this course.  I'm glad he did it and stuck to it.

Our home-based business continues to keep us on our toes... with its highs and lows.  All is fine!!  We continue to learn; grow ourselves as better individuals and leaders...we still LOVE what we do and what it is all about and why.  It's been life-changing, for us!!
We're always willing to share with others - a better way!!  Health and happiness is everyone's hope!!!

Church life is full of changes and challenges.  There are lots of things to be a part of...and areas to serve and mature in.   We don't live super close to our church, anymore - so there is that distance factor that plays a part in how much we can logistically be involved.  We're so grateful to have a wonderful church family...who understands and still encourages us! 
Something to keep in mind.  It really does matter how much you offer in as to what you you'll receive out of church.  There is no perfect situation.... BUT GOD!!! 

One of our most recent endeavors has been the invite to join a family/friends, of ours, in Revolutionary War reenactments.   This is mostly on account of our 11 yr old son.  His passion is beautiful combo of history and music.  So his role, in this "new hobby of ours" is an acting hornist for this particular regime; while the rest of us consider ourselves as camp followers or sutlers.    Doing this as a family allows us all to be involved; all going the same direction - with activities and such.   So far it has been a process; keeping to authenticity is very vital.  I really appreciate learning and understanding all of this.  It really has been fascinating.    How do I mean?    I've been helping to do the sewing for a lot of our 18th century garb.  Any visible seam needs to be hand-sown.  But, not only that... the cloth needs to be 100% wool or linen or cotton.  Only certain colors are of the time period...
So, there are lots of things to learn and lots of events to participate in - and new and interesting people to get to know.   ** I realize, I really should do some posts, with photos, on these, in effort to better preserve our memories - that we've been making as a family.

What else?

Of course - we're gearing up for summer and all its activities. Hoping for a couple of trips... one business related the other a family vacation.
We're also honing in on a few lingering house projects.... such as settling our side flower bed, putting up a washline (I cannot believe I've gone this long with out one! - kinda driving me cray-cray!!) and hopefully getting an outbuilding shed type thingy.   I'm sure there is a longer list...

My hubby and I just celebrated our 14th Wedding Anniversary!!  Yay!!!   Looking forward to forever...

Our son - is getting soooooo tall.  AND, his voice is deepening every. single. day.   It's so crazy how fast they change.  Caught in that place of wanting to still play with matchbox cars and nerf guns while busting out of shoes and his clothes - like a young man, should!!
Oh - and our two girls (ages 10 and 7) both donated 12" of hair.  Their first time of EVER getting their hair cut... even trimmed.  So, of course, the gal probably took a total of 14", till it was all said and done....
I was proud of them.  Of course, this mama shed a tear ever so slightly.  I thought I'd tear up more.  I am sure it was because we talked about long and hard enough to finally just "do it".   Right?   They still have pretty long hair and could almost go for a "round-two" already... but, they don't want it any shorter, at this point. 

***
 Why all this ramble?   I have no idea -- other than, I just needed to get it all out there - as a way to play catch up. Get my fingers back to the keyboard.  I've really missed it.   This quiet, reflective space...   

I will say.  I was having a chat with my 10 year old, this morning.  She "unloaded" it all... the tears were flowing and I was holding her and listening.  The things she shared were real, and raw; things I could easily relate to - as I've been there myself, many times.     One of things I shared, with her,  in return, is that as you grow into a young woman - you will find that this may happen again - over and over and over again!   Relationships and friendships will come and go.  Being kind through them all speaks volumes.  But, yes!  There is what feels like a footprint left on your heart.  Sometimes it hurts.  Sometimes it really leaves an impression.  Sometimes that is all that it is... but sometimes... its meant to be blessing!!!

May someone's kindness towards you - leave an impression - today!!   How about you - for someone else...okay?  It really matters.  I pray my daughter shines like the sun, today!!!

fmf | place (what if...)

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I realize this favorite phrase of mine - is also a place where many of us dwell but not to many take the leap from.   Would you ponder this with me, today?  What if...

What if...You didn't always have to feel that sickness come on for that oh-so long and oh-so often amount of time?

What if... YOU were the one to feel stronger, feel better and able to smile again?

What if...you prayed and this was your answer?

What if...you could dream again?   This time, BIGGER!!

What if...you thought you were to go here or there and do this or that...but instead, THIS!  This is your place and you fit!!

What if...you decide instead that you are totally worth it - not your things or your stuff... but YOU!

Listen, friend.  I want to tell you something.

All of these  things used to be my "what if's" and now they are my reality.  What if the change you see in me -- could be the change you see in you?

I offer #hope!  A #solution.  There is so much potential.

There is a time and a place to pay attention.

***

Joining with the Five Minute Friday community and taking on the prompt word: Place  

Thank you for reading!

fmf | What IF I told you a story of happy feet and how they got there?

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This photo prompts a post all its own.

***

They're a bit in hiding... but, today I wanted to share a story about my feet.  Yup!!  You read that right.  My feet.

A couple of years ago, May of 2015, to be exact, I was invited to attend a small health and wellness presentation held at the home of a dear friend.  About 8 months, or so, prior... I had first heard about these particular amazing health supplements by way of a packet of information and testimonials.  I wasn't skeptical, per say, but rather intrigued.  I wondered, How could these couple of products help or relieve so many various and different symptoms?  So, now that I had heard about this... but, truly forgetting about it...due to life and months gone by, of this packet being buried under other stuff in my bedside table, the invitation to attend and completely being curious, was compelling.  It wasn't hard to RSVP with a "yes"!  I was eager to learn!  

First off, the gal, who was sharing was a Naturopathic Doctor.  And, she had me at "hello"!  Meaning, her story alone... sold me!  But, there was so much more.   Nothing magic, of course!!  Simply learning about things I had never put a name too - but was personally dealing with - were  now finally being explained and I was so grateful.   She explained in detail the woes of Candida (gut health) - wreaking havoc on and in our bodies; the importance of reducing Inflammation; and, what it means to have a balanced Glucose Metabolism.  Ya'll!!  I had no idea.  I had never heard of some of these words... but, boy!!  Did these "root issues" ever have their grip on me.  So, many people were coming to mind, as I sat and listened.  I realized everyone and anyone who has guts needed to hear about this.

One of those things I was dealing with - for a very L.O.N.G. time - were Plantar Warts, on my feet.  Bingo!!!  Candida.  Plantar Warts.... are/were some of the most painful things I have ever had to deal with.  Some days to the point where I couldn't walk around the house.  Socks hurt.  If I had to go anywhere... I wore bedroom slippers.  (Talk about embarrassing!)

You know how the Apostle Paul talks about that "thorn in his side"...?  Yeah - well, that was mine. 

What excited me that evening was learning - that I had hope!!

Hope, again, to feel better, in this area.
Oh, it wasn't going to happen overnight.  No way!!  (remember I said, no magic here!)  This was not going to be a quick fix.   But - if I chose to take my health seriously and realize it as being an investment... not looking at "this plan" as being an expense... I could truly see some light at the end of the tunnel.  I was TOTALLY worth it.  Was this going to be hard work?  Yes.  Was I going to be committed?  I had to ask myself that.  The thing was.  NO ONE pressured us to give these products a try.  No one!!  They only said... "if you decide to give these products a try, you are going to be so grateful".   It was the conviction with which they spoke.  They had been there... and had seen it for themselves.  We left that night to "sleep on it" and pray...

 Thankfully, my hubby was on board - willing to, at least, give it a try!   We had 60 days - or we could get our money back.  Which he was secretly planning to do - because... if this was like anything else in our past, it wasn't going to work.  He was going to "pull the plug", as soon as he could.

Truth was.  In little time, things were working.  There were changes.  Unexpected changes.  

Exciting changes!!!  Little bits at a time... but changes, nonetheless, in the right direction.

  My hubby had a different reason...for starting. However, my goal was to do this until my feet felt happy! 

Oh, I knew this was going to take "forever".  A month for every year I dealt with my issue, at best.  But... I was MAD enough, about it, to be Motivated.  To take Action.  And, I had Decided... this area in my health needed to change.

You've all heard the little quip.

You can't spell Challenge without Change.

Well, in order to see change - I had to take on the challenge.

***

Fast forward.  Here we are three (plus) years later... still going strong.  Obviously, the plug was not pulled.  Our lives were being changed.  So were many others.  Our friends and family who, at the time, were watching us - have since joined us and now they're seeing and loving these life- changing results, as well.   Everybody has a different story.  And, while similar, there are always different outcomes.  Which is really, really cool!  Our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made.

My hubby saw his goal fulfilled.... something he had never seen before in other "side hustles"... that he had tried.    And, my feet?  

Well, that evening... with the Naturopathic Doctor explaining everything... I was told that the feet are the last to "be addressed"... that there was going to be a lot of detox happening in between.  What?!?!  Truthfully, by now, I didn't care.  I was ready.

Of course.. truth be told.  She was right!!  Just now... three (plus) years later... I can tell you that my feet are happy.  NOT PERFECT!  I am sure I still have a bit of ways to go.  But, to go from hard, HARD calloused, shoe-leather like feet - with painful, pinhead warts... shooting pains with every step... to that feeling of soft and pliable (I mean, I rub my feet together and I'm experiencing new "sensations"; of things I haven't felt in my feet in a long while) and while there are a few spots here and there... it is nothing like ever before.  I almost do not know what to think.   I am so happy!!

You ask.  All by simply and consistently addressing gut health, reducing inflammation and balancing blood sugar...?  Yes!!!  Consistency is key!!  You may wonder if I did anything else, to help?
Yes...I did.
I would often soak my feet in Epsom salt water, with ACV and sometimes essential oils.  (mostly that was for relief... from and while going through some of  my painful times).  Lots of lotions and creams... I tried everything.  Some things helped and other things didn't.

Do you know what, though?   Between my hubby, the kiddos and myself...the list of things that were addressed, alleviated or helped - from day one, of starting these products - till now... is significant!!  I knew we ALL needed these products, as a family.   The feet, for me, is simply just one area...

Connect with me in the comments - if you would like to hear more. 

Can I just say... I love my happy feet!!   

You have to realize this really and truly is a BIG deal, for me.   It makes me tear up!!  And, if you know me well, at all, you know I do cry easily, but... this has been life-changing for me.   I'm so, so grateful to have finally found something that works.  It truly continues to be a health journey for me.  I often wonder what would have happened IF I had not said yes.

I, also, honestly wonder how many other people are longing for hope in their health. I'm sure I'm not the only one.  Whether its you or someone you know... people are starting to wake up and recognize their need for a change to be had.  Let me encourage you.   

If you are one of those left wondering if there is any hope for you... 

there is!!  What if.  What if... this could change everything for you?  It's a good question.  Have you ever thought about this... How much is your health worth to you?  Its truly something to think about.

These feet are meant for walking!!!  The journey continues...with or without you.

***

Following along with Five Minute Friday.  No five minutes here.  Today's word prompt: IF

  Thank you for reading along today!!

fmf | restore {It's time to move!}

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Joel 2:25a... So, I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust have eaten...

Today. This weekend.  It will be exactly one year ago... that our lives would be ultimately changed.  I don't want to say "turned upside down"...but, at times, it sure has felt that way.

On these dates, back on

June 16-17, 2017

Our family had just purchased our first home and had plans to move (on the 17th) and the night before, our move, I was in a pretty much head on collision (my girls were with me, our vehicle totaled... and I sustained a fractured sternum.)  This was not planned!!

Albeit to say.  I was no help with the move.  I was the "last thing" moved out of the old (farm)house and the "last thing" settled into the new one.  I had to sit and watch others settle my new home for me...

Oh, I healed up - but it took time.  And, to this day... I can still feel the effects.

Looking back, this was a pretty stressful year.  Up until this point we had been on an AMAZING health journey, since 2015 - where we felt like we were in our early twenties again, even though - truth be told I literally just turned 45 years of age...this past Sunday.  I would have easily told you, before all this happened, that I felt like I was 23, 24... something like that?  It was incredible.  This part of "going back" is different as in, its a way of going forward.  I think you know what I mean.

However, stress can really, really play havoc on a person's body.   To the point where you just "wanna go back".  Give up!!!   Back to where life was "easier".   Back to where life "wasn't bumpy".  Where is wasn't "hard"...

(cue.  the story of the Children of Israel - in the desert - wanting to go back to Egypt.  Remember that story?)  The thing is... Stress, in this context, for me, made it feel like I literally was going backwards in my health... and I think I did.  It wasn't fun. Or, impressive.  To gain weight again, again?  To not have the same energy and zest that I had just experienced months prior.

This health journey we're (still) currently on, though... wow!! If it wasn't for these products and such, over the course of this past year... I honestly DO NOT KNOW where we would be, right now.  They have helped us, get through, so much.  So, so much.  It would have only been worse..

In a different aspect... because, it is also a nice little side-hustle for us... and in building this business (which, it is growing, by the way!!)... but, it too has been hard.  And, stressful at times.  What business isn't, right?

So - through out this year, the theme of my heart has been the word - Grow or Growth!!  It has been that one word, for my year! and if you've been reading here for awhile or even if you're new... you know I've talked about this... word!!  Quite a few times...

Well. I wanna switch gears here for a second and I hope you stay with me... I promise I will bring it all back around.

You know the thumbs up/like button on social media?   I wanna talk about this for a second, but in a different sort of way.

So, with our side business and health journey... My hubby and I were able to attend our second convention, this past weekend.  Held in Orlando.  Obviously, we flew.  I have only flown a handful of times.  And, I'm always grateful that I am with my hubby - that he's by my side.  (On a side note... the day I fly solo - without him - I will know I have grown a "couple of inches" in my confidence.  Wow!!)... anyway.  SO,I'm not real confident and we're about to take off.   The plane is full... and I have to tell you.  Where I happened to be sitting... I could see straight into the cockpit area.  For whatever reason the cabin doors were open still and I had a small window to see into the cabin area.  I could see the Captain's head looking over towards his co-pilot...and then next thing I saw in that little window; my little line of vision, was The THUMB'S UP to the air-traffic controllers!!!!

This meant the Captain was ready.  The plane was loaded and ready.  And - we began the motion of going and moving forward and upward.

That momentum propelled us to leave behind where we were and move on the greater heights.

Thumbs up - meant it was all Okay!!

It was a very powerful moment for me... and it still is as I think about it.  (yes, there are tears as I'm typing.)   Why do I think I ever want to go back... "back to Egypt"?

I want to live my life in such a way - that others feel the "thumbs up".  That they will see and feel a positive influence.   That they will be encouraged by my SMILE and words offered in hope!!  That they will want to hear what I have to say and will love me for it.

Whether it is in their health; their finances; their various opportunities.... as a ticket agent of influence I'm moving forward and upward... and folks are welcome to come along for the ride.

Obviously, we cannot control our destiny.  That is in the hands of GOD Almighty.    But, I believe he calls us to walk through hills and valleys.  He is the God of the Mountain as well as God in the Valley.   Sometimes, it will be those two steps forward, that one step back.

But... when we trust the process.  I'm going to say it again...

BUT, WHEN WE TRUST THE PROCESS... we can rest confident  our life is in his hand!  He's got big things in store for us.  Changes, planned or unplanned, on our behalf, are all still part of HIS plan.  No matter what we feel about it.  Whether we like those feelings or not.  Or, if we have to "stop" and let others do for us, for awhile.  

I just want to add this at the end, real quick.  That Thumb's UP motion from that Captain spoke volumes to me.   I felt a peace wash over me... Something I was surprised by.  To me it was a signal and sign of  "agreement".  All was right, and okay!!  It's time to move.  It's to keep going.   

IT'S TIME!!!

Thumbs Up!!

*** 

Linking up with Five Minute Friday - for the prompt word : restore - I have taken liberty to go beyond the five minutes, with my own theme, yet in keeping with the prompt.   Thank you for reading!! 

{Happy Anniversary} May is a great month!!

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I shared this photo earlier today on my facebook page and stated that I loved it for "oh so many reasons". I wanted to see if there were any guesses as to why - and I didn't hear a whole lot about it.   That's okay.

I do want to tell you, though, why I love this photo so much!!

This photo was taken yesterday - after my hubby had just put these window clings in my van window.  (you only see one of them here)
You see.  I was heading out to Lancaster Co. for the day and wondering if anyone would even notice them in the back window since the windows are tinted. He was out there making sure the van was road-worthy and to see me off for the day - as he was working from home, yesterday)...

The early morning sun was so bright overhead - I really couldn't tell what I was taking a photo of.  I did, however, notice that our reflection was in the window.  Click.  Click.

Kinda ironic - I thought to myself.  Adding to the one of the reasons why I love this photo.

You see the month of May is holding out to be some really neat things for us.  Scott and I are committed to one another. The reflection in the mirror of us is a picture of our togetherness.   Moving onward and forward.

Tomorrow is our eleven year wedding anniversary!  In fact - while driving down the roads of the beautiful Lancaster Co... I had a CD playing.  The one created special for our wedding and all of our favorite Christian/Country songs...

One being.  Allison Krauss with Keith Whitley, crooning... "The smile on your face, lets me know that you need me, there's a look in your saying you'll never leave me, the touch of your hand - says you'll catch me whenever I fall.  Oh, you say it best, when you say nothing at all"....

I think I teared up a little as I was out there yesterday.

How true.

I cannot believe it has been eleven years of marriage - all of its ups and downs and inside outs and right-sides up.

In May, one year ago - we started to turn our lives around with using the Plexus products...bringing on some really amazing changes.   And, this is something we're doing together!!!

I love how this photo reflects all of that...

***
Uh oh!!  Change in story just a bit.  What do you see?

So - this morning - I'm heading out the door to take our youngest to school.  I literally pull out of my driveway and lose all function to the van.  I can't steer and lights started coming on.  I coast over to the side of the road - stranded... right in front of my very own house.  Thank the good Lord!!

This could have happened to me anywhere else and even while out in Lancaster - yesterday.  I am so thankful it didn't.

I called my hubby... who was able to leave work early and come home to tend to this...and tend he did.  He figured out the issue yet, obviously, it still needed to be towed/hauled away...  can't do much without a Serpentine Belt Tensioner...   :(

And, I was able to borrow my MIL's car to take our daughter to school... the Lord's provision was so timely.

It doesn't stop there.

Being a part of this company - Plexus - has it's pluses in more than just our health.  It's been a financial blessing to our home as well.  And - we feel confident that some of this extra income can help to offset some of this unexpected cost we incurred - with the van issues.

I just am really, really grateful to be a part of this plexus family.  This team.  It's so amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!

Again - I'm so super grateful to have a loving, helpful and supportive husband to walk this road with.  I love it that we are doing. this. together.

Happy May!!  Happy us!!
Happy Anniversary to us!!
What a great month!!  

One year for our Plexus Journey and Eleven Years for our Marriage.

Looking forward to what is ahead for the both of us.  Moving onward and forward.

While I can't say it's healing...I can say things are changing for the better!! | My Health Testimony

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One year later - and I guess it's time to share... what's changing in and for our family!!!!  Thank you for taking the time to read...

My Plexus Story.

I guess I should say “our plexus story”, because me, my husband and our eight-year-old son, Caleb, are all using the Plexus Products.  In fact, it is nearing our one-year mark of using these wonderful, life-changing supplements.

I can’t remember the exact time or date my sister first mentioned Plexus to me.  But what I can say is - what if?  What if she had never shared?  And what if this is the last thing I'll ever do again for my health and for the health of my family?

I remember my sister handing me a packet of printed-out, intriguing testimonials that someone had given her to read - asking if I had ever heard of these products?  Only then, at the time, did I read and reread these testimonies but remained largely aloof, for months, as they sat on my nightstand, shoved under and pulled out to be read and reread again and again. Out of sight, outta mind - you might say, until one day… I really took a look.

I wouldn’t say I was necessarily skeptical… although I was perplexed.  Intrigued, is maybe more the term I should use.  Here I was reading testimonies of how folks were finding relief with things from Lyme, plantar warts, headaches, anxiety and mood swings, weight loss and so much more.   These were a lot of the same things I was personally struggling with.

How could all of these health issues be alleviated or helped - by just one line of product?

When I asked Scott (my husband) to take a look – he was actually willing to give it a try. After all, nothing else had worked.  We found out that there was an Informational Meeting close to our home and we decided to go and check it out.  We learned so much that evening. As well.   No one pushed us to sign up for anything because it was for our education only.   The one thing I do remember is the phrase ... "If you decide to take advantage of these products, you will feel SO much better".  

It was the end of May 2015, when we decided to sign up right away as an Ambassador – simply to take advantage of the deeply discounted prices – of the products.  We knew we both wanted/needed to be on these products.  For my husband and I – our reasons were different.  While the Plexus products do mention that “Natural Weight Loss” may occur, it was never once promoted to us that this was solely its benefit.  Yet, this was my husband’s desire.  My fingers were crossed!

I, on the other hand, knew and understood I was truly dealing with Candida Overgrowth and wanted to see if and how these products could help with my Lyme, Planter Warts and such…

Regular bowel habits were not part of our story, either.  We needed a change.

Within just a few weeks of consistently using the core products - the Triplex Combo (Slim, BioCleanse, ProBio5) – we began to notice increased energy, loss of inches and pounds and for sure – reduced cravings.  In particular, our coffee habit**.  I'll tell this amazing story, at the end of my post. ;)

 I believe we also began saving money on our groceries as well. ;)   It wasn't that I was changing - much - in how I was cooking in the kitchen per say - it was just that I was putting more back into the freezer (as leftovers) simply because we weren't eating as much.  What a curve ball...

But we began to notice other things, too.  Scott's toenail fungus issue was resolving.  Something he was dealing with long before we were married.  His joint aches and pains were alleviated... and so were my Lyme symptoms.  (This alone - was most phenomenal!)  I know the Plantar Warts that cover both of the bottoms of my feet will take longer because I've been dealing with them for like forever... but they are changing.  Things are slowly happening here.  But happening - just the same.

All in all - I could not believe how I was feeling...

Enter my eight-year old's story.  

So, as I was learning more and more about Yeast Overgrowth and Candida.  That this candida feeds on sugar and dead and dying matter... and how that anything "white" is candida/yeast.  I got to thinking about ALL the antibiotics and such that myself and my son had gone through - from DAY ONE of his life!! I began to put two and two together to realizing... my son was STILL so sick on the inside - more than I even realized

When Caleb was born - I had no idea I was so sick.  I had no idea how serious our situation was. Here I am going into labor almost two weeks early - with an infection in my amniotic fluid.  An infection called - Chorioamnionitis.  This resulted in me having an emergency C-section and my baby spending the first 5 days of his life, in the NICU, on antibiotics  - as well as myself.  Only for me to develop a secondary infection in my incision and requiring even more antibiotics.  Breast Feeding was horrible... I had little to no milk for him... and he was constantly constipated - especially as an infant.

All of this to say.  It's no wonder - looking back, now - to realize that every time Caleb turned around in his young life and thought of a germ, it would put him out - and under.  SICK as a dog!!  For days at a time.  Eye infections, ear infections, asthma, strep throat, hives, rashes (of any and every kind), trouble concentrating in school (a.k.a. brain fog), etc.   Spiking fevers all of the time - and back on another round of antibiotics - until he started having allergic reactions to those...

Vicious cycle.

I started faithfully using the Triplex Combo (Slim, BioCleanse and ProBio5) on Caleb - since December of 2015.  Folks... I am noticing  a remarkable change in my son. He has been the healthiest I have ever seen my son to be.  Even the teachers at school - sending home letters of "what is going on with this kid?" - that just having a consistent bathroom habit is making this kid a happy kid.

He loves and is very willing to take these products - knowing how much better he is feeling... all around.

Real quick.  My middle child - who was always the healthiest of us meaning if Aubrey got sick we'd all be sure to catch what she had, refuses to use the plexus products (except for the family chewable multivitamin) was actually our sickest kid this year.  Go figure.

Jayne - our youngest - we would have always said - seemed reminiscent of her brother.  She would get sick fairly often too.  Not as bad as Caleb - but notably so.  Well...guess what!  During my pregnancy with her - I was on another strong round of antibiotics for a case of Phlebitis...in my right leg.  No wonder this trickled down to my daughter...

I'm not saying antibiotics aren't necessary and don't have their place... I'm grateful for their help, when needed.  But what I wish I would have known about or thought about was the HELPFUL and MUCH NEEDED benefit of Probiotics on the other side or during...

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I'm so grateful for finding these Plexus Products.   I know I'm having to backtrack and reverse the effects of what our family has gone through - and it's going to take TIME to get our bodies back.  But the truth is... they are!!

These products work.

Yes - sometimes the detox symptoms are not easy to go through - but I'm willing to push through knowing that each layer or level of die-off is short lived and that there is "healing" happening all the while... I'm using these products.  Having consistent and regular bathroom habits has been life-changing, as well.

I'm also so thankful for the new-found energy I have.  I'm also happy to report that my husband's desire came true.  Remember - he was hoping to lose weight?  Well... he did!  To date...Scott lost a total of 47 pounds...over the course of this year.   I have lost notable inches and only 15 pounds (so far) - but I'll take it.  Compared to how I was feeling and now?... I am so happy!!

This is a journey.  I know it's going to take time and patience and consistency on our part and I can't wait to see how our lives will continue to "change".  Everybody will have a different story...and as you can see or read... even between my husband, son and myself - our stories are different.

(Disclaimer:  I can not say and I hope you do not hear me saying that these products are what is healing my/our bodies.  I know that as toxins are being expelled and flushed out of our systems that the body does what it is naturally meant to do and that is what, when and where true healing takes place.  And, secondly - I cannot tell you to give these products to your kids - except for the XFactor Family Chewables - but that is for you to decide.  Technically - from Plexus Worldwide itself.  I must tell you that these products have not been FDA approved and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)

I want to quick share a funny for our family - and this is the coffee story - I had previously mentioned.

About two, three weeks into our start of Plexus... we had some coffee drinking friends over for dinner and afternoon/evening visit.  With these dear friends it was not unusual to burn through several pots of coffee during our time together.  Not to mention it would mostly be Scott and I who would do our fair share of polishing off a pot of coffee ourselves - times two.    So - when we didn't deliver in serving coffee... they asked us - "Where's the coffee?"

To our laughing amazement and dismay - Scott and I looked at each other - dumbfounded.  Number one - we didn't have enough coffee grounds to make one single pot and so we borrowed from our neighbor (my brother and his wife) - but we totally could not believe that it had been this long and we had not brewed one single pot of coffee for these past couple of weeks.  See usually - we would brew a pot first thing in the morning - Scott would fill his thermos thingy and head off to work.  I would drink the rest of that pot and then after dinner we would brew a whole nother 12-cup pot of coffee and drink on that all evening... and think nothing of it.  So to go from all of that coffee to none and not even think about it was pretty amazing!!  Our cravings have totally changed.

Now today - one year later?  It's not that I won't have a cup here and there... I will.  But I certainly do not need a whole pot or more in one day.

Love, love, LOVE the changes Plexus is making in our lives!!!!!!!!!  I'm so looking forward to any further and more future changes as well.  

Friends -  I'm only sharing this because if these products didn't work - why in the world would I even bother to mention it, in the first place?  And, I share often (mostly through my facebook page) - because I truly care for the ones I love and for the ones I know who could reap some of the same benefits as our family has.

Do you think you may have more questions?  Feel free to contact me, or ask them right here in the comment section.  I would be glad to help!

Thank you for your fine support and "listening" to our family's testimony on Plexus.

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Linking with Finding the Grace Within  | tuesday @ ten :: heal

Who is Flying the Kite?

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One windy March day the Mayor of town decided to take a stroll across the park.  He ran into a small boy who was flying the biggest and more beautiful kite he had ever seen.

It soared so high across the sky that the Mayor was sure it could be seen in the next city.  This little town didn't have very many things that were spectacular, so the Mayor decided to award a "key to the city" to the one for such a responsible thing.

"Who is responsible for flying this kite?" the Mayor asked.

"I am, " said the the little boy holding on to the big beautiful kite with all his might.  He said, "I made this kite myself, with my own hands.  I painted all of the colorful pictures on it, and I fly it!"

"I am," said the wind, "It is my breeze that keeps it up in the air flying so big and beautiful.  Unless I blow on it, it will not fly at all.  I fly it!"

"Not so," claimed the kite's tail.  "I make it sail, and give it stability against the wind's blowing gusts.  Without me the kite would spin out of control and not even the boy could save it from crashing to the earth. I fly the kite!"

~ author unknown

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So, who flies the kite?

They all do, don't they?

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In the day-to-day hustle and bustle of work it is easy to forget that everyone flies the kite.

Without the team, the leader would never be successful.  Without a good leader the team would fail.  Both need each other.  Each person on the team needs the rest of the team members...in order to make anything a go!

They all fly the kite!
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This little kite story grabbed my attention.  Because, you see, I've recently - joined with Plexus Worldwide: A health and wellness supplement company, as an Independent Ambassador.

These products are and have been such a blessing to me, my husband and my family.  We've been using the products since end of May, 2015.
They're changing our health-story.
I can not wait to see how much more our story will unfold...

And, with this...
I am so grateful for all who go before me.  And for each one who is coming on behind.

We make a great team!
No one person is better or different than the other

If it wasn't for you at the end of the line - there would be no push to move forward. I need you!  For those who walk beside - your support is surely necessary and wholeheartedly appreciated. I need you! And for the many who are far ahead... it is you who encourages to keep up!  To not give up... and, to keep going.  And, I need you!!!

Thank you!