tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54013124238833003242024-03-14T00:31:10.481-04:00Power Up for PCOSAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17666408446864709686noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-46353619692924901382013-07-22T22:51:00.000-04:002013-07-22T22:51:26.783-04:00My Self, My FriendMy Self, My Friend<br />
<br />
When too many tasks and thoughts form a heavy cloak over my shoulders, my mind often wanders to how best to accomplish everything without losing my marbles so to speak. In the past, I would never stop to think about scheduling time for myself, nor would I take time out in a situation to assess how I could prevent a stressful meltdown. Instead, I would power through without pause. The result? My nerves would be fried and I would barely be capable of making the simplest of decisions.<br />
<br />
These days, the term “self-care” frequently comes to mind when a busy streak sets in. Despite the fact that I have thought about what practices help me feel grounded in times of tumult, I can’t honestly say that I always follow through with them. I have learned that habits can be really hard to break. It’s a work in progress.<br />
<br />
While it is often helpful for me to pause and leave what I am doing to make myself a cup of tea or to go outside for a walk, I have been contemplating a shift in how I think about “self-care.” For some reason, it has been easier for me to think about treating my “self” as my friend. If one of my closest buddies was out of sorts, I wouldn’t hesitate to try my best to make them feel better, or to encourage them to take time out for themselves. Why wouldn’t I want that for myself?<br />
<br />
This encourages kindness in a time when my inner critic is bound to come to the surface. I’m able to slow down and take a step back. While we all face pressure to complete our to-do lists, I find that this strategy also helps me in times when I feel overwhelmed about managing my PCOS or thinking about the future.<br />
<br />
While being moved to act in a way that promotes self-care can certainly produce amazing results, I have found that this small shift in thinking has helped me.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b></b><br />
<b>What works for you? How do you take care of yourself in trying times?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Written by: Natalie, Power Up for PCOS Volunteer</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a></b><br />
*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.*<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCO</b>S</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Power Up for PCOS provides support to women with PCOS and their families through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise awareness for PCOS.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17666408446864709686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-33460455881782601392013-07-17T16:48:00.000-04:002013-09-24T11:46:16.238-04:00It's the Power Up for PCOS Walking Awareness Challenge!<h2>
<b><i>It's the Power Up for PCOS Walking Awareness Challenge!</i></b></h2>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VQK0oPdrEZqxU2Tt5w-dKlUGYBnouyQApzluxrhZLpFz7JvjfoxAJrs-E11CKeAt7kQZrfDF8dwOTRiBsdblXPnN5PtXbmSDeK4jXZuMUyE6TecyyKcmqpORSJDzq32tz2coKmcM-z8/s1600/Power+Up+for+PCOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VQK0oPdrEZqxU2Tt5w-dKlUGYBnouyQApzluxrhZLpFz7JvjfoxAJrs-E11CKeAt7kQZrfDF8dwOTRiBsdblXPnN5PtXbmSDeK4jXZuMUyE6TecyyKcmqpORSJDzq32tz2coKmcM-z8/s200/Power+Up+for+PCOS.jpg" width="200" /></a>Every year, we do some big challenge. The first year, it was a walk-a-thon. The second, it was a 5K. Now, we have decided to have a month long event to really pack as much awareness in as we can during PCOS awareness month.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Are you excited yet? I am! </i></b><br />
<br />
<b>Here's the details:</b><br />
<br />
Registration is necessary for all those planning to participate. Please register using the <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/registerforchallenge">form here</a>.<br />
<br />
During the month of September, we will be holding a Power Up Walking Awareness Challenge, which is a challenge to see how many miles you can rack up before the end of the month. On top of that event, we will be having other challenges to go along with it like make your own PCOS bling to wear, decorate your own PCOS t-shirts (or you can pick one up from our <a href="http://powerupforpcos.com/cpstore">CafePress store</a>), PCOS picture challenges, local walking groups and so on. To see if there is a group walking near you, please visit our <a href="http://facebook.com/powerupforpcos">facebook page</a>, and join your local group listed under the about section.<br />
<br />
We will be tracking everyone's standings and 3 people will receive a gift basket filled with PCOS bling. One will go to the person with the most miles and the other two are randomly chosen. That really sounds awesome, doesn't it?<br />
<br />
How to Join In:<br />
<br />
Step 1: Register for FREE by completing the short <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/registerforchallenge">form here</a> We need only the basic information. Set a personal goal that you would like to reach for the month too.<br />
<br />
Step 2: Start planning some of the places you will walk and how you will track your miles. You can use different apps to track miles or you can go to websites and map it out like mapmywalk.com. Make sure to be safe and walk with a buddy or in well lit public areas. Bonus: plan on people walking with you to support you.<br />
<br />
Step 3: Determine if you would like to raise money for an organization listed on our <a href="http://powerupforpcos.com/wheretogive">Where To Give page</a>. This is a list of places we believe to be doing something awesome to affect and improve PCOS or related symptoms/diseases. When you visit that page, you will be able to click on each place and give directly to them. We do encourage you to raise some money for these organizations so there can be advances in the treatment of PCOS and it's related symptoms. If there is an organization you would like to see listed there, please suggest it to us by using the contact form or emailing <a href="mailto:info@powerupforpcos.com">info@powerupforpcos.com</a>. You can also help support our website by giving a small gift using the <a href="http://powerupforpcos.com/supportourcause">Support Our Cause page</a>.<br />
<br />
Step 4: Every Monday, visit our <a href="http://powerupforpcos.com/submityourmiles">Submit Your Miles page</a> and complete the quick form. You can bookmark that page to make it easier to find too.<br />
<br />
Step 5: Check the standings to see where you rank. Remember, 3 people get a gift basket filled with PCOS bling. To check the standings, <a href="http://powerupforpcos.com/walkingawarenesschallenge">visit here</a>.<br />
<br />
We look forward to all our participants having a great time! For questions or concerns, please e-mail <a href="mailto:info@powerupforpcos.com">info@powerupforpcos.com</a> or call 810-545-PCOS.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17666408446864709686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-40308961064054012682013-06-17T20:12:00.002-04:002013-06-17T20:12:52.838-04:00PCOS Survey - Major Impact Planning<div style="text-align: center;">
Power Up for PCOS has created a PCOS survey!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQzaCduKHcabVoTQ7TiFTh4_SQl-dt5pX7RiedLM1Rc70xwVYrCRg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please consider completing our PCOS survey so that we can better serve the PCOS community. We are planning some projects that would have a huge impact on the PCOS community and need the information from this survey in order to have the most impact. We value your time and support and we tried to keep the questions to only what was necessary. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/pcossurvey">Click here to go to our survey.</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17666408446864709686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-40958757070179203382013-06-12T21:18:00.000-04:002013-06-12T21:40:45.569-04:00Don't Judge Me: Natalie's StoryAn older man, bearing white whiskers, white hair and tortoise-shell rimmed glasses, enters the physical therapy gym, delicately balancing on two crutches. He casts a puzzled look in my direction, watching my every move as I continue completing a set of “clamshells, ” the most intense hip-strengthening exercise I have encountered while at physical therapy.<br />
<br />
As I get up to get a drink of water, he glances in my direction and asks “Why… are you here for rehabilitation of some sort?” The question is familiar, though it still feels like a subtle slap on the face. “No I just come here to work out” I want to say, but instead I smile and respond, “Yes, I actually hurt my knee” in my most polite tone. He responds “Ah. Well it sure doesn’t look like you need to be here.”<br />
<br />
I smile and nod, and return to my purple mat, where a set of planks awaits me. My physical therapist casts a knowing glance in my direction, having witnessed similar interactions in the past.<br />
<br />
This comment still lingers in my thoughts, like the unpleasant residue remaining after a band-aid has been pulled off. My encounter at the physical therapy clinic reminds me of the many doctors that I have dealt with through various points of my life. It is still astounding to me that so many medical professionals have stated that “a slim, youthful woman of your age” should not be having a myriad of peculiar health symptoms. As if they had suddenly forgotten all six years of their medical school education, or more aptly, attributed my complaints to a state of anxiety that clearly plagues all young female millennials. <br />
<br />
As a woman with PCOS, I also find that my youth and slim physique often make me feel like an “atypical” case. I often remind myself that PCOS is a syndrome, but the disbelief of certain doctors has made me feel self-conscious about being a woman with PCOS. Similarly, since PCOS is so intimately linked to fertility health, and since so many women obtain a diagnosis when they are trying to conceive, I sometimes feel alienated by my present situation. Not quite in the “TTC” camp, not quite in the “trying to lose weight camp,” perhaps in a larger camp of working on being as healthy as possible? Does that sound less appealing? I do want to have children some day. This is definitely a motivating factor for me when it comes to taking care of myself and living my life as a “wellness warrior,” but it is not the only one. <br />
<br />
These experiences have taught me a lot about the grace with which I interact with others. Despite my outwardly appearance, there is a lot going on with my body. There are days when I feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed. Days where I do not feel like cooking for myself, days where I wish I did not have food sensitivities, and moments where I do not want to get out of bed. I try my best to move forward and to keep improving.<br />
<br />
As a Power Up for PCOS representative, I worried about being judged for my age, for my physique, or for the fact that I am not trying to conceive. I sometimes feel that my symptoms are not as “bad” as what other women are going through. I wondered if maybe I shouldn't be as open in sharing my experiences. I worried that my focus on the larger health picture would not appeal to other women. Ultimately, through a conversation with Beth and Katrina, I realized that so many women with PCOS feel this way. Women with children who feel guilty for trying to have another child, women with hair loss who feel guilty that they don’t have excess hair growth, women with thyroid problems who feel guilty for not having endometriosis…etc.<br />
<br />
But ultimately, we are all women with PCOS. We all have unique struggles, we all wonder at why our body does what it does and we all strive for wellness. We are different but also similar. So I call on you, to stand together, to let go of the guilt and to work together towards a healthy and fulfilling life.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Have you felt judged during your PCOS journey? Please comment below.</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Written by: Natalie, Power Up for PCOS Volunteer</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a></b><br />
*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.*<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCO</b>S</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Power Up for PCOS provides support to women with PCOS and their families through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise awareness for PCOS.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17666408446864709686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-91187571994331171412013-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:002013-01-17T06:00:06.797-05:00TTC ThursdaysIt worked!!! I'm Pregnant!!!!!!! I'm so excited and happy!!! It is very early still in the pregnancy, I will be 6 weeks along on Friday. Although most people say you should wait 3 months, we learned after our son was stillborn at 7 months that you are never safe, therefore we are sharing this news and enjoying every minute of this pregnancy! I am considered high risk for this pregnancy since my son was stillborn, but it means they will watch me very closely this time, which is a good thing. We already have done 3 blood tests to ensure my numbers were doubling and we had our 1st ultrasound on Monday and the baby was right where it should be for how far along we were. We are going to be followed by a regular doctor as well as a high risk doctor. So after 8 years and 7 months of trying and our only pregnancy resulting in our son being stillborn, we are now pregnant with our 2nd child! I love Pregnitude!!! I would be the spokesperson for them if they wanted. We were actually getting to the point of starting to give up hope, the first 2 months I didn't ovulate and we were getting nervous that we were wasting time. Then on my 3rd month, I ovulated, which was a miracle and then we got pregnant, a double miracle!!! I just can't believe it. I have never ovulated on anything besides Clomid before. I am considered anovulatory and I ovulated and got pregnant on Pregnitude. It is a miracle supplement. I think everyone with PCOS who is trying to conceive should consider giving it a chance, just check with your doctor first to make sure it is safe for you to be on it, it does interact with some medications and things. If it could work for me after 8 years and 7 months, my hope is it would work for you too. So my message is never give up hope, we almost did. There is always hope, keep trying, take Pregnitude, eat healthy, exercise, track your ovulation (we use ovulation predictor kits), and time your TTC. I am wishing you all lots of luck in your TTC and hoping to hear about many more Pregnitude babies. This could be a miracle supplement for women with PCOS.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>Disclaimer: Please note that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a>
or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please note that I am not a medical
professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a
woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog
and I advise you to consult a professional.* </span></div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-24948056734703147772013-01-16T05:00:00.000-05:002013-01-16T05:00:05.306-05:00Wellness Wednesdays: Toxic Beauty<style>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2f39F4LbHBxAImgVeQHgMmJgDNlhF_YRR3ds6G6tyQuwLHCsR86qnWGVsLTDLcuHGQekx_b3OC4g-P_W0KAtnu0fgvL9YQa8asSaHRi1jrYAMIBGK9sHF11qQ8pkIHt-4kqaNDxrJ7mM/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2f39F4LbHBxAImgVeQHgMmJgDNlhF_YRR3ds6G6tyQuwLHCsR86qnWGVsLTDLcuHGQekx_b3OC4g-P_W0KAtnu0fgvL9YQa8asSaHRi1jrYAMIBGK9sHF11qQ8pkIHt-4kqaNDxrJ7mM/s1600/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">On my journey to
living a healthier life I have tackled many of the basics. I started with nutrition – eating healthier and
learning more about the sources of foods, pesticides, organics, GMOs, and how it can all
disrupt your body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next, I tackled the
cleaning products arena.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made my own
laundry detergent and cleaning products that are safer to use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My next battle is what I put on my skin each
day- makeup, as well as lotions and cleansers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your skin absorbs much of what is put on it, including any nasty chemicals. I have put this off for quite a while as it is expensive to just trash
your nasty products and replace them with better choices, but also to learn
what is in my favorite beauty products was a scary thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT, the time has come and I am going through them now. ::nervous sigh::<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Here's a good video to help explain why you should be cautious with your makeup and other beauty product choices.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/HjwgLEPUIVQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">First I wanted to set
some guidelines for myself so I knew what I was willing to put on my skin for
the rest of my life, therefore making it evident what I was trashing and what
to replace it with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are my
guidelines:</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-text-indent-alt: -.25in; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span>I.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Does
not contain any of the “dirty dozen” ingredients:</b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1. BHA and BHT<br />
2. Coal tar dyes<br />
3. DEA<br />
4. Dibutyl phthalate<br />
5. Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives<br />
6. Parabens<br />
7. Parfum (a.k.a. fragrance)<br />
8. PEG compounds<br />
9. Petrolatum<br />
10. Siloxanes<br />
11. Sodium laureth sulfate<br />
12. Triclosan</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-text-indent-alt: -.25in; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> This ingredient list
was created by a David Suzuki, a Canadian geneticist and founder of the David
Suzuki foundation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This list contains
many ingredients that cause cancer, reproductive and non-reproductive organ
toxicity, and other health risks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://davidsuzuki.org/publications/resources/2010/sustainable-shoppers-guide-to-the-dirty-dozen-ingredients-to-avoid-in-your-cosme/" target="_blank">Here is a link to his organization’s guide to the dirty dozen list</a>.<span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> <span style="font-size: small;"> You can read more about each of these ingredients in more detail by following that link.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-text-indent-alt: -.25in; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>II.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Toss
any products that may interfere with my hormones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Since I have a
hormone imbalance already (PCOS), I have to be extra-conscious of any
ingredient that can make it into my body mimicking my natural hormones and
causing things to get even more off track. These are called Endocrine
Disrupters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-text-indent-alt: -.25in; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>III.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Rates
a 3 or less on EWG’s <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/" target="_blank">Skin Deep cosmetics database</a></span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This database contains
almost 10,000 personal care product ingredients and shares them on their
website, along with ratings and concerns for each product.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of my products were listed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Here are my products
I use regularly and how they rated against my guidelines:</b></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Aveeno Daily
Moisturizing Lotion = 2</b></span> <br />Largest concerns were allergens.<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: KEEP IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Epionce Milky Lotion
Cleanser = 2</b></span><br />Largest concerns were allergens.<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: KEEP IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mary Kay Ultimate
Mascara = 3</b></span><br />Largest concern – contains parabens (endocrine disruption)<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: TRASH IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> <span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jane Iredale Amazing
Base (mineral foundation from dermatologist) = 7</b></span><br />Largest concerns – Cancer, organ toxicity (titanium dioxide,
zinc oxide, dimethicone, etc)<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: TRASH IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> <span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clinique Colour Surge
Eye Shadow = 4</b></span><br />Largest concerns = Cancer<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: TRASH IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> <span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Neutrogena
SkinClearing Blemish Treatment Foundation = 5?</b></span><br />This score is questionable as the old formulation was
listed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not sure if there is a
difference to the current formulation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br /><br />Largest concerns = Biochemical/cellular level changes,
endocrine disruption, cancer, organ toxicity (contains Retinyl Palmitate,
Parabens)<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: TRASH IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> <span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clinique Long Last
Lipstick = 5</b></span><br />Largest concerns – cancer, organ system toxicity,
developmental/reproductive toxology (Glyceryl Rosinate, BHT)<br /> <b><span style="color: #4c1130;">Verdict: TRASH IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clinique Line
Smoothing Concealer = ?</b></span><br />This product was not in the database.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon further investigation it has been found
that this product contains nanoparticles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was not able to obtain a complete list of ingredients and Clinique does not
allow you to request a full list of ingredients anyways. You can only ask them about up
to 4 ingredients per product.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A little
sketchy if you ask me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is my
FAVORITE product as I always have bags and dark circles under my eyes, as well as blemishes
and it has never failed me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope I can
find a good replacement.<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: TRASH IT! </span></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"></span></span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> <span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clinique Quickliner =
4</b></span> <br />Largest concerns – Neurotoxicity, cancer, organ system
toxicity, possible endocrine disruption. (Aluminum Powder, BHT, CYCLOPENTASILOXANE)<br /><br />This has always been my favorite eyeliner as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Goes on SO smooth and easy to apply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be sad to see this one go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: TRASH IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Burt’s Bees
Replenishing Lip Balm = 2</b></span><br />Not a lot to worry about with this one except perhaps Castor
Oil (can cause developmental/reproductive toxicity).<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: KEEP IT!</span></b> (or trash it, I’m not too attached to it)</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Herbal Essences Hello
Hydration Moisturizing Shampoo = 4</b></span><br />Largest concerns = Fragrance – organ system toxicity,
neurotoxicity, cancer<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br />Verdict: TRASH IT!</span></b></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: black;">That's a lot of things to trash! It's a little scary too, knowing that I've been putting this junk on my body since around the age of 16. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: black;">Next week I'll talk about some options for replacing all of these things I've trashed. I've compiled a LOOONG list of possible companies, but still need to sort it out and read reviews, ingredient lists, etc. STAY TUNED!!</span></span><b><span style="color: #4c1130;"> </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Written by: <b>Crystal Warren, Representative for Power Up for PCOS</b> which
provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up
Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming
PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other
specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. To find our more,
visit <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, email <a href="mailto:info@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8;">info@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;">*Please note
that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any
medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal
experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.*</span></i>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-60258036215817778102013-01-02T05:00:00.000-05:002013-01-02T05:00:02.894-05:00Wellness Wednesdays: 90-Day ChallengeI hope you had a wonderful holiday surrounded by family and friends. With the holidays comes lots of temptation for all the bad things that are horrible for our diets. I know I got a little off-track (I was also traveling for almost 3 weeks, so that didn't help at all) and am anxious to start off the year getting back into clean eating and an exercise routine again. Here's my plan for the first part of the year:<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>STEP 1-</u></b></div>
<div>
Take the 90-day challenge - Blogilates.com is a free fitness/health website. Cassie is an energetic and wonderful coach who creates fun and unique workouts. I love it because of the variety of workouts (no getting bored!) and she has a monthly workout calendar to help you stay on track. Last January she started a 90-day challenge that included a food plan and workout plan. I'm normally skeptical of such "challenges", but I have already seen how Cassie has helped so many others and this plan is based on a clean eating diet and has a good amount of exercise - 1 hour 5-6 times a week. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.blogilates.com/blogilates-90-day-challenge-meal-plan-workout-calendar#sthash.UELrPamN.dpbs" target="_blank">Here's a link to the 90-day challenge.</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I will begin this challenge on Monday, 1/7. I already know that I struggle doing these types of things on my own, I need the extra motivation from friends to keep me going, so I asked my Facebook friends to join me. So far I have two friends that have come on board. Accountability is SO IMPORTANT and I'm excited (and nervous) to get started! I have already printed out the meal plans and put them on my fridge. Nothing weird or gross in it, and there's a vegetarian and vegan option as well. I put up a motivational wall in my craft room/office/workout room to also help keep me motivated. 90 days is a LONG TIME so I need all the help I can get. :) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's what my motivational wall looks like right now:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPrSe5ZvDdJUihL4SV0_sf_dQVQAWFBcsFvKBBTFOHd7DnVyTxrD5ZKDoV9XsZOTh0w_h0nnAnfRJ099h0ScVvlPrbYkh7AeGiPuql-VHavyune_gAFKs3OnJ_O49bV2K64x65_dbums/s1600/400010_10151397283406388_1451635996_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPrSe5ZvDdJUihL4SV0_sf_dQVQAWFBcsFvKBBTFOHd7DnVyTxrD5ZKDoV9XsZOTh0w_h0nnAnfRJ099h0ScVvlPrbYkh7AeGiPuql-VHavyune_gAFKs3OnJ_O49bV2K64x65_dbums/s320/400010_10151397283406388_1451635996_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<i>(ignore the ugly tape, my OCD tendencies will probably take over soon to hide it all)</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<b><u>STEP 2- </u></b></div>
<div>
Besides the 90-day challenge, I am also interested in starting my journey into the Paleo diet. I have read SO many good things about other ladies with PCOS or other hormonal imbalances who switched to eating Paleo and no longer have many of their symptoms, or they have decreased. Another perk to Paleo is that my meat-loving husband should still be happy. I already eat pretty clean, which is a huge part of Paleo, so going the next step should be pretty easy. I'm planning on starting this after my 90-day challenge which ends in April. I will write more about Paleo in a future post as I learn more and continue on that journey. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These two beginning steps should help to continue my PCOS-friendly eating habits, hopefully reduce my nasty PCOS symptoms, introduce a HABIT of exercising that will continue throughout the year and make my body feel good and more fertile. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">What are your health goals for this year and how will you achieve them? Have you written down an action plan?</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Written by: <b>Crystal Warren, Representative for Power Up for PCOS</b> which provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. To find our more, visit <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, email <a href="mailto:info@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8;">info@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;">*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.*</span></i><br />
<div>
</div>
</div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-3446986882486875232012-12-27T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-27T06:00:06.271-05:00TTC ThursdaysI am now 3 months into the Pregnitude, getting ready to start my 4th box and I have some very exciting news to share. I ovulated for the first time on Pregnitude and it's also my first time ovulating without the help of Clomid! This was so exciting for me, I never thought I would be able to ovulate without the help of fertility drugs and now the Pregnitude has helped me to ovulate! It is definitely working and on my 3rd month, I was so excited! Getting the positive ovulation test was almost as exciting as if it had been a positive pregnancy test. <br />
<br />
So here's what happened, I started testing with OPK's on Day 9. On Day 14 my OPK gave a positive digital result but when I looked at the two lines they were not the same darkness, plus my cervical mucus was not indicating ovulation, so I had the feeling it was a false positive. But we still TTC'd every day for the next 3 days in case it was a real positive. In the meantime, I kept testing with the OPK to see if we would get another positive. Then on Day 19, I got another positive and when I checked the lines, they were of equal darkness indicating ovulation plus my cervical mucus was indicating ovulation, so I knew this was the real ovulation and the other one was a false positive. Since the OPKs indicate you will ovulate in the next 24-36 hours, we TTC'd for another 3 days in a row. We are now on Day 26 and we are hoping for a miracle! We are going to take a pregnancy test in 8 days if I don't get my period by then, so keep your fingers crossed that this cycle will be the miracle we have been waiting for over 8.5 years. I feel hopeful but don't want to get too excited either.<br />
<br />
So I hope my message can be of hope to you. Keep the faith, keep trying, never give up hope and Pregnitude can work and hopefully make you ovulate too! Wishing you all the luck of ovulation as well!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>Disclaimer: Please note that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further information.* </i></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.* </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-26864648077784884582012-12-06T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-06T06:00:00.198-05:00TTC ThursdaysI am well into my 3rd box of Pregnitude and I have had an interesting couple of weeks. My light period that I had after a 42 day cycle wasn't really a period at all. It all started when I started testing for ovulation around what I thought was cycle day 10 of my new cycle. Every time I tested, my 2nd line was always nearly invisible which means I was no where near ovulating and had no LH Hormone for ovulation. I tested for about 8 days and the line was always near invisible. I also track ovulation through cervical mucous and I had absolutely no mucous, which also indicates no where near ovulation. Then my breasts started to become sore which usually happens before I get my period, but didn't happen before my short period. So with sore breasts, no cervical mucous and a nearly invisible OPK line, I knew I was either getting my period for real this time or pregnant. I took another pregnancy test but it was negative, so I just waited. After about another week and a half, my period started 4 days ago. I am confident this is a real period as all signs point toward it plus having the sore breasts this time. Since this period was only 3weeks after my last one, I am assuming that was just 9 days of light bleeding and this is my real period. That means I actually had a 63 day cycle so I am guessing this is just my body's way of trying to regulate my hormones from the Pregnitude. So I feel like the Pregnitude is working hard to try and get my hormones more regulated. So I am now on Day 4 of this cycle and really hoping that since I am on my 3rd box of Pregnitude, that maybe I will ovulate this month. I guess we will have to wait and see.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-81547313144429235552012-11-22T06:00:00.000-05:002012-11-22T06:00:01.414-05:00TTC ThursdaysHappy Thanksgiving to everyone! So I am almost at the 2 month mark on Pregnitude and I just bought my 3rd box. This past week my period ended, it lasted for 9 days, but it was very light the entire time. The thing that concerns me with that is I am afraid if I didn't shed enough, then my lining might be too thick & implantation may not be able to occur if it is too thick, so that is my concern with this new cycle. I am feeling very hopeful that we will ovulate this cycle, I would really love to be pregnant for Christmas, I've asked Santa for a baby for Christmas for 8.5 years. We were pregnant with our son 2 Christmases ago and we had the ultrasound to determine if he was a boy or girl early december and had them put it in an envelope and then we opened it as our Christmas present to find out he was a boy and gave that present to everyone else in our family as well. It was a great story to tell him until he passed away. Last year was Baby's 1st Christmas for him and that was really hard and all the holidays are extremely difficult without him, so it would be so nice if we could have something happy this Christmas like being pregnant with another baby. A new baby won't replace our son, but we would still like to have more children. The holidays are such a child centric time and that's really hard for people with infertility and even harder with a stillborn baby and infertility. I say a special prayer for all of you going through infertility or child loss that you have a peaceful Thanksgiving and hopefully there are babies in all of our futures.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-4155428697605326662012-11-15T06:00:00.000-05:002012-11-15T06:00:11.039-05:00TTC Thursdays<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I have now been on Pregnitude 1.5 months. On Cycle Day 43 I started spotting and Day 44 I started a very light period. So that means I had about a 42 day cycle with the Pregnitude. This is very encouraging as I don't usually have cycles this short unless I am on Clomid, so I am very happy to have had a 42 day cycle on my own. The only thing I am worried about is my period is extremely light, so light I'm not even sure I can count it as a period. I'm not sure what that means or how that will affect ovulating on my new cycle and TTC. I know you need to shed a certain amount with your period to ensure your lining isn't too thick for implantation, so I am worried my lining will be too thick this cycle if my period doesn't get heavier. At the same time though, I am ready to start a new cycle and hoping that the Pregnitude will help me ovulate this time. I really hope this will be a good cycle for us as we are now at 8.5 years of TTC and going on 22 months since our son was stillborn. My patience with waiting is wearing out, I feel I've been very patient and I long to get pregnant and have an alive healthy baby. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>*Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-14471413257601969882012-11-08T06:00:00.000-05:002012-11-08T06:00:13.068-05:00TTC ThursdaysI have now been on Pregnitude for 5.5 weeks. Today is Cycle Day 39 and I still haven't gotten my period yet. I am hoping that it will come soon so we can start another cycle of TTC. Even though we didn't ovulate this month, we still tried to conceive, so yesterday in hopes that my OPK's were wrong and that maybe I had ovulated, we took a pregnancy test but unfortunately, it was negative. So I have no idea when my period is coming or what to do now except wait and hope that we ovulate next month. I have no new symptom improvements to report on, but I am still hoping that as I get closer to 3 months on the Pregnitude, that I will see more symptoms improve. Hopefully, my period will come soon and I can report on a new cycle and I pray that I will ovulate this time.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>*Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-67148756351609768322012-11-01T06:00:00.000-04:002012-11-01T06:00:00.787-04:00TTC Thursdays<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: black;">Today is 32 days on Pregnitude. I have completed my first month and I started my 2nd box this week.</span><i> </i><span style="color: black;">I still didn't ovulate this month so now I am hoping that the Pregnitude will help bring on my period. I am currently on Cycle Day 32 and I can sometimes go up to 3 months without a period, so I am at least hoping I will get a period soon and we can start another month of TTC. I haven't had any other changes in symptoms in the past week so nothing new to report there. I am hoping to see more changes and hopefully ovulation as I embark on my 2nd month. I am trying to work on patience as I know it can take 3-6 months for the full effect, but it is so hard when we have been trying for 8 years and 6 months now.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: black;">My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the hurricane. </span></span></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>*Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-37820517412004995652012-10-28T06:00:00.000-04:002012-10-28T06:00:07.036-04:00Faithful Sunday's: Godly Resources<br />
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Godly Resources</h3>
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The following are some of my personal resources I use when I'm not at my home fellowship. I hope these help bring you closer to God. If you have any suggestions to add, please comment and I will check them out.<br />
<br />
I get no money from any of these links. These are just some resources that I personally use or in the section at the end, that other people have suggested. Please comment with any suggestions to add to this list.<br />
<br />
*Please screen everything before giving to children or young adults*<br />
<br />
<b>Favorite Godly Websites</b><br />
<a href="http://www.joycemeyer.org/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Enjoying Everyday Life with Joyce Meyers</a><br />
<a href="http://www.marriagetoday.com/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Marriage Today with Jimmy & Karen Evans</a><br />
<a href="http://www.stfonline.org/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Spirit & Truth Fellowship</a><br />
<a href="http://www.truthortradition.com/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Truth or Tradition</a><br />
<a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Women Living Well</a><br />
<br />
<b>Favorite Godly Movies</b><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1630036/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Courageous</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1129423/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Fireproof</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0805526/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Facing the Giants</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0425027/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Flywheel</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0214930/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Mary, Mother of Jesus</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1684558/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Marriage Retreat</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0430431/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">One Night with the King</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1430131/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">WWJD</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2047890/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">WWJD: The Woodcarver</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1975179/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Hollow</a><br />
Island of Grace (can't find the imdb link but it is on netflix)<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b><b>Favorite Godly YouTube Channels</b><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TruthOrTradition/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Truth or Tradition</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/gatewaychurchtv" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Gateway Church TV</a><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Favorite Godly Books/Devotionals/Studies</b><br />
The Bible, King James Version<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Happy-Love-MarriageToday/dp/0578093820/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349311272&sr=1-2&keywords=Happy%2C+Happy+Love" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Happy, Happy Love</a><br />
<a href="http://www.joycemeyer.org/EverydayAnswers/BecomeAChristian.aspx" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A New Way of Living</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Marriage-Building-Devotions-Thriving-Couples/dp/1931585237/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349311339&sr=8-1&keywords=one+devotional+jimmy+evans" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">One Devotional</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Love-Out-Loud-Devotions-Yourself/dp/0446538477/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349311547&sr=1-1&keywords=love+out+loud+by+joyce+meyer" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Love Out Loud</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Resolution-Women-Priscilla-Shirer/dp/1433674017/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349300668&sr=8-1&keywords=the+resolution+for+women" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Resolution for Women</a> (based on the Courageous Movie)<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Resolution-Men-Stephen-Kendrick/dp/1433671220/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349300721&sr=1-1&keywords=the+resolution+for+men" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Resolution for Men</a> (based on the Courageous Movie)<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Love-Dare-Stephen-Kendrick/dp/0805448853/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349304830&sr=1-1&keywords=the+love+dare" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Love Dare</a> (based on the Fireproof Movie)<br />
<a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/free-proverbs-31-ebook/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Probverbs 31 Woman</a><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Favorite Godly Magazines</b><br />
<a href="http://www.joycemeyer.org/Magazine.aspx" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Enjoying Everyday Life</a> (Free subscription link near bottom right)<br />
<a href="http://www.stfonline.org/sower" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Sower</a> (Online only magazine but you can download and print)<br />
<b><br /></b><b>Favorite Godly Music</b><br />
<a href="http://www.pandora.com/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pandora Christian Rock Station</a><br />
<a href="http://christomlin.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=40&Itemid=45" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Chris Tomlin</a><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Favorite TV Shows (I watch these on TV but can also be viewed online)</b><br />
<a href="http://www.joycemeyer.org/broadcasthome.aspx" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Enjoying Everyday Life with Joyce Meyers</a><br />
<a href="http://www.marriagetoday.com/television/latest-videos/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Marriage Today with Jimmy & Karen Evans</a><br />
<a href="http://theblessedlife.com/index.php?a=episodes" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Blessed Life with Pastor Robert Morris</a><br />
<a href="http://www.daystar.com/shows/daystar-original-programs/reflections/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Reflections on DayStar</a><br />
<br />
<b>Favorite Software/Android Apps</b><br />
<a href="http://www.e-sword.net/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">E-Sword</a> (free bible software for your computer)<br />
<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sirma.mobile.bible.android" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Bible</a> (YouVersion)<br />
<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.faithcomesbyhearing.android.bibleis" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;">Bible.is</a><br />
<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sixvoices.onekgifts" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">1000 Gifts</a><br />
<br />
<b>Others Suggested Material (I have not had a chance to check these out)</b><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/When-Things-Happen-Good-People/dp/1400034728/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349301262&sr=1-1&keywords=when+bad+things+happen+to+good+people" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">When Bad Things Happen to Good People</a><br />
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0489682/" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Conversations with God</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/90-Minutes-Heaven-Story-Death/dp/B0084I1XQU/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349302273&sr=1-6&keywords=90+Minutes+in+Heaven" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Ninety Minutes in Heaven</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shack-Wm-Paul-Young/dp/160941411X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349302323&sr=1-1&keywords=the+shack" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Shack</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; line-height: normal;">
If you are a faithful cyster, you can join our Power Up for PCOS Faithful Cysters group: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/506575279358853/">http://www.facebook.com/groups/506575279358853/</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; line-height: normal;">
I hope you enjoyed this blog post and will continue to read along. Please comment below if you enjoyed this post.<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i>Written by: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beth Wolf, founder of Power Up for PCOS</span> which provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</i></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><i>Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</i></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i>*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.* </i></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-71101027703380252652012-10-25T06:00:00.000-04:002012-10-25T06:00:07.226-04:00TTC ThursdaysToday is 25 days on Pregnitude. I have almost finished my first month on it. I am still noticing the facial hair on my chin is growing in blond, so you can barely see it. I have still been plucking it though. The hair in other places is still dark, but that may change as I'm on the Pregnitude longer. My weight is now exactly the same as when I started, so no real measurable weight changes. <br />
<br />
Now on to TTC, as of Cycle Day 24, I still have not ovulated. That has been very hard for my husband & I. Although, I know it takes 3-6 months to see the full benefits of the Pregnitude, I was really hoping we would ovulate the first month. The thought of knowing it is impossible to conceive this month and still having to wait it out not knowing how long it will be before I get another period and another chance to try for ovulation is extremely painful. I want to stay hopeful, but I'm really struggling knowing I just lost another month TTC without even the hope of becoming pregnant. The hope during the 2 weeks waiting is when I feel the most positive all month, so losing that hope this month is going to be really hard. For me, since I don't ovulate on my own, getting a positive ovulation with Clomid has been almost as exciting as waiting for a positive pregnancy test. I can't wait to get a positive ovulation in the future from Pregnitude and I really can't wait to hopefully someday get a positive pregnancy test!<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>*Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Trebuchet,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-8041033504093524892012-10-21T06:00:00.000-04:002012-10-21T06:00:03.842-04:00Faithful Sunday's Religion or Relationship?<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>Do you want a Religion or a Relationship?</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_486PQ5GruSYXAxwoovtOTWbJ4Jq5DPuquHckNeVmHqU3BmqFBe636wJkl4fmqAFE8NJ889oRz3swcpLs3q8uRNG5jPZhHIr3XGVfG9oWNOOH7PBUXYgIPThV02OCdVhUc_LtRVVjw8/s1600/world-religion-symbols.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_486PQ5GruSYXAxwoovtOTWbJ4Jq5DPuquHckNeVmHqU3BmqFBe636wJkl4fmqAFE8NJ889oRz3swcpLs3q8uRNG5jPZhHIr3XGVfG9oWNOOH7PBUXYgIPThV02OCdVhUc_LtRVVjw8/s1600/world-religion-symbols.jpg" /></a>I'm sure you've heard the saying that God didn't want us to have a religion, He wanted a relationship with us. Man made beliefs into religion and made it so we spend more time arguing over beliefs instead of loving God and His people.</div>
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My view, there are too many religions out there and it can be confusing. People sometimes focus on a religion instead of a relationship with God. Most times, their religion involves a Sunday only practice of going to church or fellowship and that's where it ends. Whether you are a new believer, have an interest in learning more about God, or regularly attend church/fellowship, make sure you don't leave your faith at the door when you leave. It's more than just Sunday mornings. It's a 24/7 relationship. God doesn't go away, He is always there waiting to talk to us, be with us and share with us, like a good friend that you have known all your life. He wants to be everything for you and with you. To show you love, support, kindness, grace, mercy, comfort and so much more. "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." John 10:10</div>
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But I'm not perfect...</div>
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God doesn't ask for perfection. You just have to talk to him and have a relationship with him. God sees all of us as perfect. He created us. I heard on a Joyce Meyers seminar one time, God doesn't make any junk. It's true. You are perfect just as you are. You may be skinny, overweight, tall, short, moody, happy, or what ever. It does not change anything. I like the verse from Jeremiah 1:5, "<b>I chose you</b> before I formed you in the womb; <b>I set you apart</b> before you were born.<b> I appointed you</b> a prophet to the nations."</div>
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What religion should I choose...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJWOe25VJayocKVzlN0UBbcgM5HGqtBF4pXQTjyqVU_l7hyrTyeXwVbG20LgwY0d-zGaawRv75qoJgm3Wwvwd4NCI8843_Atqk77SXtNUdJelRpZim6yedeuVdds-5Rzz2zyZqyj5afc/s1600/religion-or-relationship2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJWOe25VJayocKVzlN0UBbcgM5HGqtBF4pXQTjyqVU_l7hyrTyeXwVbG20LgwY0d-zGaawRv75qoJgm3Wwvwd4NCI8843_Atqk77SXtNUdJelRpZim6yedeuVdds-5Rzz2zyZqyj5afc/s1600/religion-or-relationship2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
Because of all the religions out there,it can be confusing for people that have a sincere interest in learning about God. They may have an interest but not know what church to go to or what faith to choose. They may not know how to tell the difference if what their hearing is accurate. I found this really good chart on Religion vs. Relationship to start us off. This is my take on religion. I totally believe that it is better to have a relationship with God. As far as accuracy, I found a few verses: "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." II Timothy 2:15 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." II Timothy 3:16</div>
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Which leads me to my point. I am a believer and I do not practice any religion. What does that mean, you ask. I believe that God exists and that He is the author of the great book called the Bible. Not all the other versions out there that are interpreting it into their own views. I believe in the King James Version of the Bible. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God and he came to earth and died so that our sins are forgiven and we are now saved, if we believe that. </div>
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As a woman of God, I will love you because God has instructed me and all of us to love one another as He has loved us. "This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. John 15:12</div>
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Where do I start...</div>
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</div>
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1. Pray to God and thank him for putting this on your heart. God is perfect with his timing and you may have seen this post for just that reason. God speaks to us in many ways. It can be a spontaneous thought, feeling, vision, impression or even through the right person calling at the right time. He will use anyway He can to get the message to you. You just have to listen for it. </div>
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<br /></div>
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2. Get a Bible. You can get a fancy one or you can get a dollar store one. It's not about how it looks. It's the words inside it that matter. Some people write and highlight in their Bibles and some think it's wrong. Google that and you will see some awesome results. I believe that God wants us to understand and learn from the Bible so it has been given to us as a tool to use for that purpose. He doesn't care if you write in it or highlight. It is helping you to learn. </div>
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3. Find places to start learning about God. This can be a church, home fellowship, friend, family member, website, TV, book, movies or a million different ways out there. I have a link here to my<a href="http://sweetandjoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/p/godly-resources.html" target="_blank"> personal blog</a> where you can see a complete list of my favorite resources.</div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<br />
If you are a faithful cyster, you can join our Power Up for PCOS Faithful Cysters group: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/506575279358853/">http://www.facebook.com/groups/506575279358853/</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
I hope you enjoyed this blog post and will continue to read along. Please comment below if you enjoyed this post.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i>Written by: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beth Wolf, founder of Power Up for PCOS</span> which provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><i>Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i>*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.* </i></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-66242605925887655362012-10-18T06:00:00.000-04:002012-10-18T06:00:09.804-04:00TTC Thursdays<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: black;">It has now been 18 days on Pregnitude! Here is what I have noticed so far. My facial hair has been growing in much slower and it even grew in blond instead of dark brown and it felt soft instead of coarse. I have gained 1.5 pounds but I haven't been doing the exercising enough, so my goal for this week is to get back into my walking routine. I have had only 1 episode of loose stool. I did however, have headaches 2 nights in a row, I used to get migraines on Clomid, so I will settle for only headaches.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: black;">Now for the ovulating, as of Cycle Day 17, I still have not ovulated based on the OPK's I have been using. I am however starting to get signs that ovulation is coming, for example, my face breaks out in acne around ovulation and my period and I am starting to break out with some acne, so I am hoping that ovulation is in my near future. Based on when I have ovulated on Clomid, it is usually between Cycle Day 18-24, so I am hoping to ovulate within the next week. Even though this is only my first month on Pregnitude, I am desperately hoping to ovulate this month, as we don't want to lose a month TTC.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: black;">On a more somber note, I thought it would be appropriate to mention that October is National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month. I find this important to mention as I have read that PCOS has a higher miscarriage rate than the general population, so many of us may have experienced this devastating loss. I also know it can be really scary to TTC again after the loss of a baby. This past Monday October 15th was National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Day. Every year on October 15th, we light a candle from 7pm-8pm in our time zone in memory of all babies gone too soon to create a wave of light across the world. I lit a candle in memory of my son Colin, who was stillborn, and all his angel friends and family. We remember all babies no matter how short their time on earth was.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>*Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Trebuchet,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-60095517724589223432012-10-17T05:00:00.000-04:002012-10-17T05:00:08.560-04:00Wellness Wednesdays: Snacking For Your Health<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Last week I posted about the importance of breakfast and listed some healthier ideas for you to try for your morning meals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This week, I wanted to share with you some snack ideas to help keep your blood sugar balanced throughout the day and curb those nasty cravings for sugar-laden treats. I personally eat every 2 to 3 hours, so a snack a couple hours after breakfast and a couple hours after lunch. Since I work full time, I need to make sure that my snacks are easy to take with me and grab when I'm running out the door in the morning. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fruits and veggies are always a good pick as they can get you fuller faster and they are chocked full of essential vitamins and minerals. Here's a few of my favorite veggie snacks that are easy to enjoy at your desk or at home:</span></div>
<div>
<ul class="Apple-dash-list">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Celery w/ organic peanut butter and 2 or 3 whole almonds (i like to take a veggie peeler to the celery stalks to remove those pesky strings)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Carrot sticks (this is a great way to use up a bag of carrots you bought for a meal, but didn't use all of them)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Apples and peanut butter (be sure to get organic apples!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Veggies and Hummus (I like carrots, celery and cucumbers)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Kale Chips (<a href="http://www.loveandlemons.com/2012/01/16/kalechips/" target="_blank">link to recipe</a>)</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Besides fruits and veggies, there are tons of other tasty snacks you can indulge in. Here's a few:</span></div>
<div>
<ul class="Apple-dash-list" style="line-height: 15px;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Belvita breakfast biscuits (minimally processed, no preservatives, slow carb release and FILLING, comes in 4 flavors, great for trips where you don't have a fridge or cooler)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Homemade granola bars</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Healthy trail mix (I like getting this in bulk at Fred Meyer with a good mix of nuts and seeds and some raisins)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A couple crackers with Laughing Cow cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Nitrate-free deli meat, maybe with some cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Hard-boiled eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Plain yogurt with your favorite flavors added in (I like to put in vanilla and cinnamon, or even pumpkin pie spice!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Black beans and salsa warmed up in a small whole wheat tortilla</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">What are some of your favorite snack ideas? I would love to hear them!!</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Noteworthy-Light; font-size: 15px;">
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Written by: <b>Crystal Warren, Representative for Power Up for PCOS</b> which provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. To find our more, visit <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, email <a href="mailto:info@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8;">info@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></i></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;">*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.*</span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-1873594694006415292012-10-11T06:00:00.000-04:002012-10-11T06:00:10.834-04:00TTC Thursdays<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;">I have been on Pregnitude now for 11 days! Unfortunately, I have also been sick for most of those 11 days so it is hard for me to judge possible symptom relief like getting more energy since I've had no energy being sick. I had diarrhea 3 times but not sure if that was my body adjusting to the Pregnitude or my illness. Now that I'm feeling better, I look forward to seeing if my energy increases with the Pregnitude. The benefit I am most hoping to receive from the Pregnitude is the ability to ovulate a healthy egg on my own without medication & then hopefully conceive a baby. That alone would make Pregnitude awesome & miraculous! Some of the other benefits I am hoping to see are weight loss, less facial, chest & stomach hair, increased energy, regular periods, less acne, an improvement in my anxiety & depression & for my hormones to go into a normal range. Even though I am hoping to receive many benefits, honestly, I think Pregnitude would be worth it even if only one of those things gets better for me.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;">So we are on Cycle Day 11 today. I started testing with an Ovulation Predictor Kit (OPK) on Day 8. So far I have not ovulated but it is still really early & I tend to ovulate late even on Clomid, but I wanted to start testing early to make sure I don't miss a possible ovulation. Through our infertility journey, we have heard that it is good to start TTC early in case the OPK's are wrong; we usually start around Day 10 (and TTC every other day until I ovulate, then we TTC every day for the next 3 days, nothing says romance like a schedule <span style="background-color: yellow; color: black;">:)</span> ) but you can start earlier if you like too. We figure it's better to cover a wide range just to be safe. In the past, when I have taken Clomid, I have usually ovulated between Day 18-24, so it will be interesting to see what happens on the Pregnitude this month. Now that you know way more information than you ever wanted to know about my personal life...</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;">My biggest fear taking the Pregnitude is if I will ovulate and how long it will take for me to start ovulating, since it takes 3-6 months to see the full effects. I now know when I take Clomid, that I will ovulate and at least have a chance at conceiving those months. The thought of not ovulating this month and losing a month TTC is what scares me the most right now, especially as we've been trying for 8 years 5 months, and trying 20 months since the loss of our son, each month is so precious. On the positive side, what gets me through is knowing I won't have all the Clomid side effects this month, like 48 hour migraines and the risk of cancer with use of Clomid. I feel hopeful that with taking Pregnitude that it will work for me with less side effects plus it may even help my other PCOS symptoms and that gives me lots of hope which outweighs the fear.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> </i></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>*Disclaimer: Please note
that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Trebuchet,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
<span class="post-author vcard">
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-38158404622921600012012-10-10T05:00:00.000-04:002012-10-10T09:03:36.728-04:00Wellness Wednesdays: Healthier Breakfast AlternativesAll of you have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but if you are like many it is the easiest one to skip over. I used to eat cereal for breakfast or nothing at all. The thought of eggs in the morning disgusted me! Breakfast meals were reserved for weekends as a special treat since I wasn't rushing to get ready for work. Now I get up a half-hour earlier to whip up something quick and easy, plus I get some extra time with my hubby first thing in the morning. <br />
<br />
I would like to challenge you to try working breakfast into your mornings. When eating breakfast within 2 hours of waking up, you will give your body the energy it needs to get your mind and your metabolism on the right foot. Here's some healthy breakfast recipes that have helped me make breakfast one of my favorite meals.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>Banana Almond Butter Pancakes (Paleo Pancakes)</u></h3>
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 Tbsp almond butter</li>
<li>1 mashed banana</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>Coconut oil</li>
<li>Applesauce</li>
</ul>
<div>
Combine ingredients until smooth. Heat skillet on low heat, add coconut oil (or other preferred oil). Add batter and cook pancakes until bubbly, then flip. These will burn easily, so keep your eye on them! Serve with butter and applesauce. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal </u></h3>
This recipe is modified from "Eat What You Love" by Marlene Koch. I whip this up for a quick warm breakfast, or if I don't have time to eat it I put it all in a tupperware and warm it up at work. <br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup rolled oatmeal</li>
<li>1 cup water</li>
<li>1/2 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>1/2 tsp vanilla extract</li>
<li>1/2 packet of Stevia</li>
<li>dash of salt (optional)</li>
<li>Raisins or chopped walnuts (optional)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and heat in microwave for 2 - 3 minutes. </div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>Quinoa Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bowl</u></h3>
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1/4 cup Quinoa</li>
<li>1/4 Tbsp Butter</li>
<li>1/2 Apple, chopped</li>
<li>1/4 cup cold water</li>
<li>1/8 tsp Cinnamon</li>
<li>1 Tbsp Brown Sugar</li>
<li>1/16th cup of Milk</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Soak the Quinoa for 5 minutes</li>
<li>Melt 1/2 the butter in a pan, add the apples and cook for about 5 - 10 minutes</li>
<li>Rinse Quinoa. Cook with water on medium-high heat, boil for 1 minute. Reduce to low, cover an dsimmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and fluff with fork.</li>
<li>Add cinnamon, remaining butter, sugar (or stevia) and milk.</li>
</ol>
</div>
<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
<b></b></h4>
<h3>
<u><b>Wholesome Blueberry Pancakes</b></u></h3>
This recipe is also from "Eat What You Love" by Marlene Koch. My husband LOVES this recipe and prefers it over regular pancakes. I like using applesauce in place of syrup to reduce the amount of sugar in the morning.<br />
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup flour</li>
<li>1/2 cup white whole wheat flor</li>
<li>2 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 tsp baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>5 packets stevia</li>
<li>1/2 cup milk</li>
<li>1 cup low-fat cottage cheese</li>
<li>2 large eggs, well beaten</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla extract</li>
<li>1/4 cup blueberries</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>In medium bowl mix together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl mix together the wet ingredients. Mix together dry and wet ingredients together. Fold in the blueberries.</li>
<li>Heat griddle on medium heat, allow batter to rest while heating. </li>
<li>Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake, 3 - 4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.</li>
<li>Top with peanut butter, apple sauce or syrup. </li>
</ol>
</div>
<h4>
</h4>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<u>Steel Cut Oatmeal in Jars</u></h3>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #3c3c3c; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0.5em;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I got this recipe from my sister-in-law. This makes a week's worth of oatmeal that easy to pull out of the fridge, heat up in the microwave and go! <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/oatmeal-in-jars-a-week-of-stee-143623#" target="_blank">Here's a link to the recipe.</a> Feel free to add your favorite oatmeal goodies to it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<u>Greek Protein Yogurt </u></h3>
<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup plain greek yogurt</li>
<li>1/2 to 1 scoop protein powder (adjust amount used to your preference, powders that dissolve better work the best)</li>
<li>Granola or Chia Seeds, cinnamon, berries, or whatever else you like in your yogurt.</li>
<li>Local honey (about 1 tsp, optional)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Mix ingredients together and adjust ingredient amounts to your taste preference. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Written by: <b>Crystal Warren, Representative for Power Up for PCOS</b> which provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. To find our more, visit <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, email <a href="mailto:info@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">info@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></i></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;">*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.* </span></i></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-88649910068197503992012-10-04T06:00:00.001-04:002012-10-04T06:00:06.295-04:00TTC ThursdaysHi my name is Lauren Williams and I'm going to be blogging on Thursdays about my personal experiences with taking<a href="http://www.pregnitude.com/" target="_blank"> Pregnitude</a>. First some background information on me. I have PCOS and have been trying to conceive for 8 years and 5 months. In that time, we have had 1 miraculous pregnancy which devastatingly ended in our son being stillborn. The PCOS symptoms I currently experience are:<br />
<ul>
<li>Infertility</li>
<li>Anovulation</li>
<li>Irregular periods - can go for months without a period</li>
<li>Much lighter menstrual flow than when younger, it was very heavy when I was younger </li>
<li>Extreme fatigue & lack of energy</li>
<li>Weight gain more in waist than hips</li>
<li>Difficulty losing weight even with healthy eating & exercise (Have not been able to lose any of the weight from my pregnancy and it's been 20 months)</li>
<li>Hair loss</li>
<li>Decreased sex drive</li>
<li>Excess hair growth on face, chest & stomach</li>
<li>Acne</li>
<li>Anxiety & Depression which I take anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medication to control</li>
</ul>
My only pregnancy was conceived with Clomid since I don't ovulate and since our loss, we have been using Clomid again with no success. I just finished another unsuccessful cycle of Clomid on Monday and started my period and started Pregnitude. I've only been on Pregnitude 2.5 days now, but I would like to share my personal experiences with it and share my journey of Pregnitude with you. So far, all I can report on is
I've had diarrhea but I also had that on Clomid as well, plus I have been sick this week, so it could be from that, I will update next week once I feel better. I was very nervous to start the Pregnitude as it is still so new but I did a lot of research on myo-inositol to see how it had helped others & when I read the research it really gave me hope. I was nervous to stop Clomid as I know it makes me ovulate & I don't know yet what will happen when I take Pregnitude, but the side effects of the Clomid were wearing me out & I am pretty close to maxing out my use of Clomid, so it was time for a change. I look forward to what may happen as I continue on this journey.<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i>*Disclaimer: Please note that Pregnitude is an </i></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>official</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px;"><i> sponsor of Power Up for
PCOS 5K. However, the individual listed below is not affiliated with
Pregnitude or a volunteer for Power Up for PCOS. Power Up for PCOS
posted a request for someone starting Pregnitude to blog their personal
experiences for the Power Up for PCOS blog. This should not be
construed as medical advice. Please see your doctor for further
information.* </i></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<b>Written
by: Lauren Williams</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
Power Up for
PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS and their families
through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other
PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and
reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for
PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>,
emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or
by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #666666; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS -
emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Trebuchet,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-42444604656735751852012-10-03T23:59:00.001-04:002012-10-03T23:59:04.350-04:00After the 5k, Keeping MotivatedFor those of you who participated in Power Up for PCOS' 5k last weekend, thank you SO much for your support! What a great way to go out into our community and not only get some physical exercise, but also to show support and bring awareness to the PCOS community. It was great talking with other women at the 5k, fun to wear the shirts and see others talk about it as we were walking or running. It is even greater hearing stories after our 5k of women who didn't know our group existed and have been struggling with PCOS for years. These women now have a place to turn to gain education and support from those who understand what they are going through.<br />
<br />
I just want to encourage you to continue exercising regularly and find a way to fit physical activity into your schedule. Whether you continue training for 5k's, go walking regularly with a friend (or your dog!), or just sit down and schedule out your exercise times each week. Taking that first step and finding what works for you is super important if you want to keep it up in the long-run.<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/cda/racefinder/1,7151,s6-239-283-284-0-0-0-0-0,00.html" target="_blank"> Here's a great website</a> I found to search for races in your area. Just type in your zip code, select the type of race you're looking for and hit search. This just might be the type of motivation you need to reach your next fitness goal. Good luck!<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Written by: <b>Crystal Warren, Representative for Power Up for PCOS</b> which
provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up
Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming
PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other
specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. To find our more,
visit <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, email <a href="mailto:info@powerupforpcos.com" style="color: #09a5b8; text-decoration: none;">info@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 11pt;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></i></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;">*Please
note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give
out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my
personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a
professional.* </span></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-7530053797894008182012-10-02T07:15:00.000-04:002012-10-02T07:15:00.723-04:00Beautiful You with LeAnneEven if you firmly believe in eating and living organically, it may be hard to live that lifestyle completely if you're battling with PCOS. There's Metformin for insulin resistance and diabetes, birth control to help regulate periods, Vaniqua to help get rid of unsightly facial hair, hydroquinone to help fade dark spots related to acanthosis nigricans, spironolactone to help reduce inflammation in the scalp....
The list is overwhelming, but in order to give ourselves a fighting chance of having normal, attractive looks, we keep using all the medications, thinking there's no hope. And that's the truth, right?.....Not necessarily. I am not a doctor, nor am I a related medical professional, so I can not and will not discourage you from taking what your doctor has prescribed. But I am here to show you there may be a better, natural, more beneficial and life-changing way. And that is essential oils.
Essential oils are known as nature's living energy. They are aromatic liquids found in shrubs, flowers, plants, leaves, trees, roots, bushes and seeds. But they are known for far more than just their aroma. Their benefits are literally almost countless. And because they are so potent and powerful, they can naturally and powerfully enhance your natural beauty, health and vitality. Though there are literally hundreds of essential oils in the world, there are those more commonly used for everyday living AND can be especially beneficial for a woman with PCOS. Allow me to introduce them to you.
The Power Of Ten: The First Five
1. Clary Sage: Extracted from the Clary Sage plant, this oil produces relaxation in a gentle, effective manner when applied to the wrists. It is known to produce the regeneration of skin cells, which keeps the skin looking youthful and radiant. Clary sage can treat dandruff and, when applied as a scalp massage, it can help produce hair growth and minimize hair loss.
2. Geranium Oil: This oil is a surefire way to help your hair grow fast! It's benefits are endless, like many other oils, but apply a few drops of this to your shampoo, and it promotes a healthy scalp, allowing it to breathe, and gives strength to every strand of hair. You can also apply a few drops to your fingers, then gently massage your scalp for about five minutes before going to bed.
3. Cypress: Cypress oil is a natural astringent. It helps firm and tone the skin, and improve skins elasticity (very helpful in reversing the damage of PCOS on the skin's surface). Cypress oil is also known to be helpful during the menstrual cycle. Mixing a little bit of it with olive oil and rubbing it on the stomach and pelvic area significantly reduces cramping.
4. Lavender Oil: One of the most popular oils in the world, Lavender's greatest benefit is it's ability to soothe, calm, and ease aching muscles. It's also known to aid in treated various skin conditions, including eczema, skin discoloration and acne. Add a few droplets to your bath water and ease into a soothing, moisturizing, and aromatic heaven.
5. Peppermint Oil: This oil is the absolute best, along with tea tree oil, in increasing circulation and blood flow in the scalp. It helps create a fertile ground for hair to grow. Since it's too strong to use on it's own, it's best to add this to a base oil, like extra virgin olive or coconut oil. It's also known to help ease aching muscles, especially in the back, knees, and ankles. For hair, add it to yourshampoo or conditioner, and for skin, add it to another oil or your regular moisturizer. You'll be so glad you did!
Next week, we'll cover the remaining five oils and include a few super-amazing beauty recipes that give wonderful and instant benefits!
Please Note: I am not a psychiatrist, psychologist, or medically trained professional. I am not qualified to give out any emotional or medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog. For help, I advise you to seek a medical professional.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-19251988493773975432012-10-01T12:29:00.001-04:002012-10-01T12:29:25.181-04:00Hooray for the 5K! Thank you!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't know what you were doing this past Saturday morning, but I was walking in a 5K for Power Up for PCOS here in AZ with my friends! Men, women, boys, girls, and even babies in strollers were all a part of this world-wide event to bring awareness and support to women with PCOS and their families!</div>
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What an awesome time of friendship, excitement, and support as we came together, linked arms, and showed the world that PCOS will not mean the end of our hopes and dreams! Together, we are making a difference in providing funding for PCOS research, education for women with PCOS, and a deeper commitment to ourselves and each other!</div>
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We are thankful for each one of you that laced up your shoes, took to the streets, and became a sea of teal. May the support for Power Up for PCOS/InCyst continue to grow more and more each year!<br />
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You are doing it - we are doing it!! Together we are Powering Up for PCOS!<br />
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See ya around Facebook!<br />
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Gina Weeks, AZ Volunteer Representative for Power Up for PCOS</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, sans-serif;">Written by: Gina Weeks, AZ Representative for Power Up for PCOS which provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. To find our more, visit http://www.powerupforpcos.com, email info@powerupforpcos.com or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</span><br />
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<span id="yui_3_2_0_6_1344221779624566" style="display: inline; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_2_0_6_1344221779624561" style="display: inline; font-style: italic;">*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.*</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401312423883300324.post-26379954493528791772012-09-27T10:00:00.000-04:002012-09-27T10:00:10.276-04:00Welcome to Everett Laboratories Inc, the make of Pregnitude<br />
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Welcome to our newest sponsor, Everett Laboratories Inc., the make of Pregnitude<br />
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I am excited to announce that Everett Laboratories Inc, the maker of <a href="http://www.pregnitude.com/" target="_blank">Pregnitude</a> is now officially a sponsor of our <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/5k" target="_blank">Power Up for PCOS 5K fundraiser</a> to benefit <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/" target="_blank">Power Up for PCOS</a> and <a href="http://www.incyst.com/" target="_blank">InCYST Institute for Hormone Health</a>.</div>
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I have some wonderful, personal experiences with Pregnitude as I have been taking Pregnitude for almost 2 months. So, needless to say, I was ecstatic when they decided to support our fundraiser. I have never felt better in my life.<br />
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<b>Information on Pregnitude from the <a href="http://www.pregnitude.com/" target="_blank">Pregnitude</a> website:</b><br />
"Pregnitude is a reproductive dietary supplement that helps support ovulatory function, menstrual cyclicity and quality of eggs for women.<br />
Pregnitude is a natural dietary supplement that contains 2 grams of myo-inositol, as well as 200 mcg of folic acid.<br />
- Myo-inositol is a naturally occurring substance produced by the human body from glucose. It belongs to the viamin B complex group.<br />
- Folic acid is a B vitamin that promotes cell growth."<br />
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<b>Monika from InCYST Institute for Hormone Health also posted some great information:</b><br />
<a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/clinically-proven-nutritional-supplement-for-infertility-now-available-the-us">http://www.examiner.com/article/clinically-proven-nutritional-supplement-for-infertility-now-available-the-us</a><br />
<a href="http://www.incyst.com/2012/09/a-pregnitude-baby.html">http://www.incyst.com/2012/09/a-pregnitude-baby.html</a><br />
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<b>And finally, I wanted to let you all know that Power Up for PCOS has a Pregnitude Cysters facebook </b>group:<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/136846929790756/">http://www.facebook.com/groups/136846929790756/</a><br />
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The reason for this post is to let you know about our wonderful new sponsor AND to tell you all that if our sponsors don't receive a return on their investments to us PCOS women then they won't be sponsors the following year. Everett Laboratories Inc has an <a href="http://www.pregnitude.com/" target="_blank">online store</a> where you can purchase Pregnitude for a VERY reasonable price.</div>
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Written by: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beth Wolf, founder of Power Up for PCOS</span> which provides support to women with PCOS through educational Power Up Groups, building connections with other PCOS women, calendar of upcoming PCOS events, professional referrals and reviews, PCOS store, and other specialized events to raise money for PCOS research. She can be reached by visiting <a href="http://www.powerupforpcos.com/">http://www.powerupforpcos.com</a>, emailing <a href="mailto:Beth@powerupforpcos.com">Beth@powerupforpcos.com</a> or by calling 810-545-PCOS (7267)</div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Power Up for PCOS - emPowering Women to Manage PCOS</span></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">*Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am not qualified to give out any medical advice. I am a woman with PCOS who is sharing my personal experiences in this blog and I advise you to consult a professional.* </span></div>
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