Holiday Greetings to All

Rainbow after the storm ...
can't capture the beauty despite destruction & havoc. Trees were down & took days to clear up the surroundings ...

The ending of each year seems to be the busiest. What makes the rainbow so beautiful? The different colors. We are all different ... how we spend the holidays. But like the rainbow, we are all beautiful in God's sight.

Though Christmas is one of the busiest days of the year ... not just decorating, shopping & partying, but thinking (more) of our loved ones & friends. This is also the best time of the year remembering those who are less fortunate.

What a wonderful time of the year and may it always be the same every day this coming New Year and many more years to come. Enjoy while we have life.

Happy Holidays to you all.

Tips for a healthier winter:

Eucalyptus oil(click) - Steam or humidifier with Eucalyptus oil (helps to control spread of airborne germs).
Immune Booster drink - Garlic, onion, honey, lemon, cayenne, ginger with hot water. Drink twice (2) a day.

Notes: We thank the Lord for these natural remedies. We were able to fight the flu for the past 12 years.

Marion County was hit by a big storm last summer causing a death, fallen trees and flooding. A favorite tree behind our place is now gone. Early morning and a day after the storm, a rainbow (above picture) showed up while we were having deep breathing exercises. What a beautiful promise in the sky ... made us smile :)

Qoute: "Our Father in heaven is the source of life, of wisdom & of joy. In nature itself are messages of hope & comfort. There are flowers upon the thistles & the thorns covered with roses." Steps to Christ, E.G. White.

Our eucalyptus planted early spring thriving. First "winter storm" of 2007.

Chris, Brandon and a Special Friend

Pain, Patience & Peace = "JOY"


Chris broke the same leg that he broke six (6) months ago, the day before Thanksgiving. Felt so bad for him. We visited Chris a few days after surgery and glad to see him smiling and in good spirits ... showing us how he could move his leg.

I felt like he is an encouragement to me more than I was to him, ... can't imagine breaking the same leg the same year.

Brandon, Chris' hospital roommate, who is in his early twenties inspired us after saying to Ben, "I know when a Christian comes in the room." Music to our ears.

Brandon fell thirty (30) feet in a hunting accident, but survived! Surprisingly, he was very open about his experience of drifting away from God and now wanted to be closer to Him and wanting so much to be forgiven. Fortunately, Chris is a good Christian who loves God. After smiles and exchanges of pleasantries, we prayed with the two guys.

We felt hopeful the two had a wonderful time talking about God, His love and His forgiveness. A common saying, "there's a reason for anything that comes to our lives," and now we understand. Both were discharged home and are doing fine.

I have a very special friend that I know prays everyday. For so many years, I had been wanting to ask about her beautiful daughter, who was a classmate of my son.

Finally yesterday, I asked about her!

God really do answer prayers, and it surely made my day when she told me that she is so excited & happy, she will see her daughter this coming holiday, after not seeing her for twelve (12) years.

It's a real "JOY to the World!"

*******
Wintry health tips: "Lazy" to make your bed in the morning? It is ok. Sometimes we leave our blankets & beddings undone to (click)"aerate." Crack your windows before going to bed but avoid the cold draft.

Qoute: "Guilt is a heavy burden to carry. God wants us to cast all our cares upon Him, for He carries us upon His heart." Ministry of Healing, E. G. White.

Bitter "Sweet"

by Esther:
Every year I tried to add to my "veggie" garden bitter melon. Since we had a very unusual weather, only three (3) out of twelve (12) seeds survived and my neighbor friend, seven out of twelve.

Although my plants bear only few fruits we had a super-abundance of "ampalaya" leaves to get us by, more than enough for us and much to share with friends. This made me happy and appreciate God's "green-leafy" blessings.

Because my neighbor friend planted the seeds early in the season her plants had more fruits, appearing & looking healthier compared to my plants. I felt very happy for her ... every time I do my daily brisk walks, I pass by her place to admire her fast growing plants.

There were times I also invited other friends to see J's bitter melon (bitter gourd or ampalaya) plants without her knowing it. They too shared my admiration for the green leafy vine with lots of flowers & fruits. But there was one "special" fruit that I really liked so much, a healthy looking green bitter melon that was getting bigger & bigger every day.

At one time, a friend asked me if J shared some of her bitter melons, and I told her jokingly, "... unfortunately, not yet." Well, she said that she can pick the "special" fruit while J was out on a weekend. I told her not to do such a thing. For weeks, it became a topic of our conversations. Then she said, she herself would definitely pick it if I won't do it, soon. She sounded really serious. Again, I told her not to do so and added, "... pray she'll share!"

The following day, J came knocking at our patio door and I saw a bitter melon in her hand. With a sweet smile she handed it to me. Curiously, I visited her garden the following day when she was gone. True to my suspicion, I was amazed that the bitter melon that I was admiring most was the one she gave me. That's really, really special! I immediately called my friend and told her, J shared the bitter melon and amazingly, it was the fruit that we were both admiring for a long time. I said, "... see, good things happen to those who patiently wait! "

Cooked the bitter melon mixed with eggplant, onions, garlic, tomato, herbs and bitter melon leaves from our garden (vegetable pinakbet). Also added tofu. Shared the food with our American friends.

Bitter melon loves rich, well drained soil in full sun minimum temperature of 60 Fahrenheit. The fruits resemble a cucumber with bumps. It is a medicinal herb food plant common in Asia, India, Africa and the Caribbean. The fruit and leaves are good for sour and bitter flavor. When growing up, didn't really like the taste but because of its medicinal value I started to love it. It is used to reduce fever, diuretic and to remove toxins from the system (kidney & liver cleanse).

Ben didn't like eating bitter melon when he was growing up, either. But for the last eleven years I've added bitter melon with blanched leaves (natural healing remedies) in his food to boost his immune system. Since he is not taking any medicines or supplements, I have found out it helps keep his hemoglobin normal. It also helps regulate my blood sugar since there are many in my family that are diabetics.

The summer turned out to be a great one. J shared lot's of bitter melon, once a week, until the warm weather ended and the cool nights started. In return, I gave her tomatoes, eggplants, squash, peppers, sweet yam (camote tops), herbs, and brussels sprout. From the abundance of our garden, the more we shared to others, the more we received. What a great and "sweet" blessing!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Need fiber with your thanksgiving meal?

flax seeds (fresh)
sunflower seeds (raw)
dry coconut flakes

Grind equal servings with coffee grinder, sprinkle over salad, rice or baked potato. For healthier and better effect, use it immediately.

1 Corinthians 13:4 "Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous, love does not...."

The Blue Pitcher ... Anna's Wish

The Blue Pitcher, ... "Where did you get it?"
--- by Esther

The search of a blue water pitcher "set" reminded me of humility that brought tears, and sweet smiles as it left precious memories to many ... a wish of a dying friend, loving wife & a devoted mother.

Hours before her last breath, a Blue Pitcher set was found & delivered to her bed side. What a perfect example of timing bringing honor & glory to God.

Tuesday Oct.9, seemed to be a very long day, patiently waiting for Ben to come home from the operating room so we can attend a funeral service. A couple of days before, we planned to be there but due to Ben's work, it may be up in the air whether we'll make it or not. I prepared myself to accept the "will of God."

Fortunately, we were able to attend the last few moments of the graveside service (three "sundowns" later) and immediately after that, to associate with the people, friends and relatives of Anna, who came from all over town & other surrounding states. It was also a moment to share and witness for Him.

She was laid to rest separated for now from loved ones and friends until that great "resurrection day."

There were numerous people and I was surprised (shocked) to hear this question from many we met, "Where did you get it?" I found out later that the story of the Blue Pitcher was mentioned by the preacher during the funeral service.

September 18, Anna and her husband, Milo were told that there was nothing more that could be done with her cancer. They left the doctor's office with a supporting "soft collar" brace and medications to ease the progressively worsening neck pain. (Ben broke the news to me after talking with Anna’s doctor, the cancer had already destroyed the neck bones). Luckily, Ben was assigned to cover a hospital close to their home, we were able to visit her more often.

Anna was always happy full of sweet smiles while recovering so well from breast cancer until she had a "buggy" accident (bringing her daughter to a dentist) that affected her neck and one leg. I was hoping and praying Anna will be healed. But God knows best.

(... Anna's accident reminds me of a car wreck in a busy icy highway, when Ben was recovering from cancer surgery. Car totaled, Ben broke one of his front tooth, wounded his forehead and unconscious for a short period of time. Kept telling him, “you survived the cancer please don’t die now.” While pulling him out of the car the engine started emitting smoke. We ended staying overnight in a hospital and found out the following day there were two deaths on the other side of the road that night).

While family members and friends taking their time saying goodbyes I was occupied with a request that I didn't take seriously at first. Anna asked me to find a "Blue Pitcher."

While searching for the pitcher I stayed focused asking God to help, to take away the "Why's" out of my vocabulary. The first pitcher set I found (with help from my daughter & her friend), was nice and Anna "smiled" when the package was unwrapped, ... I didn’t feel the real satisfaction, though. I asked Ben to check the internet. He found a nice pitcher but without the glasses. Wednesday, Oct. 3, we delivered the pitcher. With a glint in her eyes, she said, "Please keep trying," after mentioning to her that I was still trying to find the rest of the set.

I was about to leave after giving instructions to one of the sisters to give her water after drinking the fruit smoothie I brought when she spoke,"I may have some now." A chance to give her a drink personally. After asking for "more" the third time her sister and I looked at each other. Saw her eyes red, and felt at that time, she wanted so much to stay alive and well. Her mind clear in spite of her medications, her "spirit was willing" but her body was now too weak. Also thought about the scripture..."believing in Him having the living water which is Christ we will never thirst," kept thinking and asking God to give me strength before I got emotional. After leaving her room I could no longer hold my tears. I went out to the car to tell Ben what happened.

Then I was reminded of a voice message I received earlier that day from someone who knew what I was looking for, "Esther, would like to know if you have found the set you are looking for. Come when you can." On our way home I asked Ben to change route for I wanted to check it out.

As the friend's living room door opened. I immediately saw the blue set. I was shocked and overwhelmed and whispered to myself, "they are so beautiful." Before I could say a word, our friend was apologizing for not letting me know earlier that she had it, the first time I mentioned what I was looking for. She added, "I know we all can die anytime but right now we are in a better position than Anna. You may have them and give it to her.” I was speechless but very grateful, and now tears running down my cheeks. I know the set is a family treasure. At first I can't accept but her sincere voice and after discussions about Christ's crucifixion and the two man at the cross, softened and touched my heart.

Although we have different beliefs in worship, we are not different in our faith in God. Glad to know that she, too knows that Anna lived a good Christian life. (reminds me of what Ben and I witnessed ... family together praying and giving thanks to God before and after meals at Anna’s home).

I asked how much it cost to pay for the set. It sure brought back sweet smiles and tears when she said, "I don't need the money but please promise this is just between you and I. Never crossed my mind this Blue Pitcher set will evoke attention to many of Anna's relatives & friends, making them ask the question, "Where did you get it.?

Thursday, the following day I planned to deliver the set. Unfortunately the first call to a friend, no answer. A call to another friend, her car had a flat tire. Well, have decided it was a stay home for me.

Friday, Ben and I planned to do some cleaning and mowing of the lawn at the Center in preparation for a health lecture on Sunday. But then, we decided to visit Anna to deliver the set instead of waiting 'till Monday.

At her home, I was let in by one of her sisters who were there helping out. I found many more people in the rooms. In one room all ladies, sisters, relatives and daughters were present. Milo met me and escorted me to where Anna was where two gentleman were also reading. As usual it felt good exchanging smiles with Anna.

. . I made it a bit dramatic taking out from the bag the glasses one at a time, placed them on top of the bed in a circle. Once I took out the "Blue Pitcher" Anna suddenly opened her eyes wide and her jaw dropped and said, "Haa!” She looked very happy and couldn't believe it! Everyone in the room shared with her joy and reacted with a smile. A special & precious moment to me that will be long remembered.

Never thought that was the last time I will see Anna smile. Milo followed me out of the room and told me that Anna would like to pay for the set. How could I accept money from a dying person especially a priceless gift from the heart? I went back to the room and said, "Anna, I understand that you want to pay, how about we exchange with honey, later?"

We both smiled. "Thank you, Esther, ok," were her last words to me. I squeezed her right foot and said, "I will see you again."

Saturday morning Oct. 6 around 8:23 AM, I woke up with an unusual tightness of my chest. I started my morning exercise by jumping up and down trying to shake the blood in my system, told Ben I was feeling discomfort in my chest. Checked my pulse it was good, strong and regular. After 10-15 minutes it was gone. Around 11:30 AM a phone call came, and it was about Anna. At 8:50 AM, she rested in peace. Silence was our first reaction. We were also at peace. It took a while for tears to fall. Our first conversation was about the "Blue Pitcher" set she waited for. Someday we will find out the “whys” she wanted the pitcher badly and glad we were instrumental in finding it for her.

Yes, there was peace among friends and family for having the time to say goodbyes and peace for Anna who had time to prepare herself. It's hard to imagine how she was feeling before she died. A few weeks before, she related to me an experience she had witnessed a month before about attending a funeral in Indiana. She mentioned to me with tears in her eyes how emotional for her to see young children crying on the death of their father. Now she herself was leaving her children, and two other young ones, Rosie (5) and Wilma (3).

Rosie, though she speaks German and I with strong Filipino accent we were able to communicate through smiles and actions. She was always ready to help unload groceries and then load the car with the previously used bottles I bring for her mom: immune booster juice and strawberry, blueberry, banana with vanilla soy milk and honey smoothie, one of Anna’s favorites. Though our visits were always short ones, I know Rosie will also remember the time spent with her mom, who taught her how to count pennies laid out on a long table in their living room.

The experience left me a lot of good valuable lessons in our friendship with Anna & her Amish family. Doing the best we can and leaving the rest to God with true faith. Love, patience, and even with physical, emotional discomfort to always remember to smile .

At the funeral someone had mentioned to me, "It's good to have friends." Through the water pitcher, to me it was a miracle, for she left a token that many will be reminded of true friendship, of true courage, love and faith in God. It reminded me of a song when I was a child, ”Turn your eyes upon Jesus look full in His wonderful face and the things of this earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace."

Anna left her daughters a tangible gift to be remembered by, but the treasures she left behind being a sweet mom, devoted wife (always saying how good the husband is to her) and friend., and the memory of true faith believing in God not only by words but with actions. Up to the last minute she did what she believed. A peaceful way to rest and sleep without being hooked to different tubes and machines. The natural simple ways with God.

We will miss Anna, but God desire us to use every opportunity to witness. We are happy to be able to share our beliefs, health literatures & books to her other friends and relatives. The question, "Where did you get it?" still lingers, but true to our friend's request, I did not tell them where the "Blue Pitcher" set came from.

A Follow-up: We visited them to find out how they are doing. According to Kadie, before breathing her last breath, Anna asked Milo for a drink of water.

Milo said that it is very hard for him to fill the "emptiness" but his children are taking it better than him.

A letter from a relative: "Milo & her children are very lonesome for her by now. They said Rosie has tears in church usually. My heart aches for them. Here is a little prayer of her (Anna) own that she said over & over the last weeks: 'Jesus, Jesus come in here, and take me in your heavenly home'."

The Amish preacher said at the funeral: "... Anna wanted to give her daughters some dishes yet. So she said something to her FRIENDS, and you looked and found some, which pleased her."

Juice, Immune Booster:

2 carrots (stick)

1 apple

1 lemon (peeled)

1 ginger (thumb size)


"Men of stamina are wanted men who will not wait to have their way smoothed and every obstacle removed, men who will inspire with fresh zeal the flagging efforts of dispirited workers, men whose hearts are warm with Christian love and whose hands are strong to do the Master's work." Ministry of Healing, Development & Services.

Zanesville Rotary Club

Dr. Beats Cancer
	Tue, Apr 10, 2007. 03:07 PM Email Story Print Story Post Replies Watch Video By: Kelly Gilmartin He was diagnosed with terminal cancer 11 years ago, but today he is healthy and spreading his story. Dr. Benjamin Sanidad spoke to the Zanesville Rotary Club today about his recovery from esophageal cancer, a disease that is usually fatal to a person within months. “It’s never too late if we have life in ourselves, within us, we keep on plugging, keep on fighting, and we could do that also through natural means, through natural medicine,” said Sanidad. After multiple surgeries Dr. Ben refused to undergo chemotherapy and instead opted to exercise, eat healthy and turn to God. “The number one reason I feel that change of lifestyle and also above all it’s the one almighty up there in heaven,” said Sanidad. Dr. Ben is now cancer free, working as an anesthesiologist at Marion General Hospital. He wrote a book about his order entitled “Choosing to Live.”	Are You Glad Michigan Lost? Yes No It Hurts Ohio State Don't Care [View results]

Humming Birds, Bees & Horses

Written by Esther

Hello folks,

It has been a while since you heard from us.

A few days ago, the humming birds finally arrived! They had been coming regularly since we moved to the apartments three years ago. Our beautiful flowering plants attract them.

Well, it seem days are coming and going so fast. Ben had to take off recently but now is back to work. Fortunately, what we were worried & concerned about turned out to be a negative. The "bleeding" he experienced is considered a "false positive" and we are thankful to God for His continued mercies. The cancer had not returned for eleven (11) years now.

The past weeks, we visited our Amish friends to learn of their spring & summer activities. Late spring, watched them gather maple syrup, tend the bees, milk the cows, cut and store hay, plow and plant the garden and their vast fields.

We help picked delicious strawberries and brought home 20 quarts last week, to freeze and to share some to our friends and neighbors. The strawberry smoothies I make seem to be one of the favorites of our Amish friends, especially during these hot summer days.

We are learning more about bees. Last week, Milo put ten (10) queen bees in the honey-comb boxes. The queen bee was ordered & delivered with few worker bees in each small box. A waxen plug at one end is chewed-up by the new bees & a day or two, the queen and the bees get out of the small box to join the rest of the bees. The queen is then tended by the swarm of bees. Yes, they are busy gathering honey at this time of the year. You should taste the fresh honey direct from the comb. Fresh, deliciously sweet, of course!

Our grandkids are with us for a few days. They also love visiting their new Amish friends who taught them how to ride a horse. Rosie brings them around the farm to pet their animals like farm kittens, chicken, ducks and ponies. They look forward to visiting their friends again.

We (especially Ben) need some greens to increase our hemoglobin. The garden is really doing well. We were able to harvest some lettuce and tomatoes and soon broccoli, cauliflower, squash, peppers, eggplants & ampalaya. Today, our Amish friends gave us asparagus, cauliflower, sugar beets, and radish. They knew that the sugar beet leaves are one of Ben's favorite leafy-vegetables.

Three weeks ago, we attended a wedding in Cincinnati, a rare Indian celebration. Ben's partners, Drs. Dahlsuk & Ila Madia gave away their daughter, Sonali to Nemesh Patel. It was a three (3) day celebration. We were fortunate to be one of the thousand guests that attended. A joyous and solemn celebration of two young couple starting a new life together.

We hope you enjoy these pictures:

Cancer To Me -- Trust In The Lord

Kathy Casner, Rotary President, with Ben

by: Esther Sanidad

The recent news about cancer: Tony Snow, Press Secretary of the US President, is back to work!

Yes, I followed the news since his cancer had recurred, and Elizabeth Edwards, too.

This is what I think.

Is the cancer on both Snow & Edwards on remission? Are the good cells dominating the killer cells at this time? I really feel happy that both Edwards & Snow are doing really well. The first time I heard about Snow & Edwards, I felt for them. I felt their ups & downs. I felt their sadness knowing that the cancer cells had started to dominate the good cells. I felt sorry for them & their family, especially for Mrs. Edwards whose husband is running for the highest office of the land. But God’s mercy is all the same, whether rich or poor, whether one belongs to low or high places, etc., He is always there.

Yes folks, it made me think of my own journey.

Eleven years ago, Ben Arthur was in a hospital bed at this time in 1996. But today is different. He's standing before The Rotary Club of Zanesville, Ohio, who invited him to share his story about triumph over terminal cancer. The program is “Kick Cancer for Life.” The program was organized by Mr. Everett Jackson, who also invited the John Glenn String Ensemble to entertain the Rotarians. A vegetarian cuisine was also featured for the banquet.

For those who have known us and read about Ben’s book, “Choosing to Live,” you may be wondering how we are doing at this time. Folks, it was a challenging one. The diagnosis of terminal cancer of the esophagus did not end here. Trials and difficulties came about. Our eldest son became seriously ill. Financial devastation followed. Friends we thought were friends, and relatives we thought were relatives … they were not. But in spite of all these, we had a couple real friends (plenty enough) & a brother who stuck with us through happiness & pain, through good and bad times. Just having these few people made our life worth living and enough to sustain our joys. We also appreciated the thoughts & prayers of people who know & do not even know us well.

The Lord did not abandon us. God is always there when we are in our deepest need. What an awesome experience.

Today, we live a simple life. While in this world things are never enough, like money, attention, and fame ... we want more. To me, the simple lifestyle we have adopted & the natural remedies we have practiced are enough to sustain us, the best wealth we will ever have! Experiencing cancer, then trials followed by tribulations gave me a real life lesson. Live simply & put all trust in the Lord.

I am greatly blessed! Four years after suffering from terminal cancer, B came back to work. It was a healing miracle. God allowed B the job he enjoyed most and back to the place where he first started his practice. Above all B enjoys working with a couple who believed on him and gave him the chance to prove he can still work as Anesthesiologist.

After two years of provisionary hospital privileges, B got back his full-time credentials & became a full-pledged partner with this group. We owe our trust & thanks to the wonderful couple, Drs. D & I Madia. I have learned a lot since Ben joined them. I love their lifestyle. I find them wealthy and yet generous. They offer not only financial help to many but also their time & concern with their fellowmen and the community. Words are not enough to express our praise to God each day for this wonderful couple!

Since experiencing cancer in the family, I am always interested in knowing and wanting to hear more about others’ experiences. I don't exactly know the statistics of people who have taken chemo and radiation, proton therapy, etc., and comparing the people that have chosen the natural simple remedies. But I can only say or write about my own experience, the change of one’s lifestyle. For eleven (11) years that's what we have done, learning more about natural remedies, spending more time with God and family.

It's spring time again and as I drive along the country road remembering that it was He who filled the earth with beauty, and to breathe the country air is so refreshing while the sun's vibrant heat gladdens my soul and whole being. It reminds me of a phone call from someone who said that she felt good having some sunlight after a wintry day.

Driving through Zanesville, Ohio, a beauty indeed to behold the mountains with greening plants and trees.

"I trust in God ... I know He cares for me."

He is more than wonderful!

New Diagnosis

(Picture above): Esther, demonstrating food preparation to Paz (left, foreground), Amy & Mom.

Hello folks,

Thank you for your prayers!

Last November, our sister Paz, went to see her doctor because of chest pains. Tests were ordered and her x-ray showed a mass which was also present a few years ago. Her doctor assured her not to worry because there were no changes compared to the previous x-rays, healed (scarification) granuloma which are common findings from Asian immigrants.

Because of our concerns, we suggested she undergo further tests and agreed to a diagnostic needle biopsy. The result of the biopsy was not good: small cell carcinoma, a devastating form of lung cancer, considered as "terminal" & rapidly spreads in few months.

Her lung doctor immediately refered her to an oncologist & a chest surgeon for management. She was told that the only treatment for this cancer is chemotherapy & radiation. Surgery was not indicated. She was then scheduled for another procedure, a diagnostic bronchoscopy & mediastinoscopy, to find out how far the disease process had progressed.

In the meantime (while waiting for the scheduled diagnostic procedure), our sister was anointed. She started a changed lifestyle process to increase her resistance and immune system the natural way. Prayers were offered in her behalf. After weighing all her treatment options, she was prepared to cancel the bronchoscopy & mediastinoscopy and planned to go to a Wellness Center.

Her case was reviewed & extensively discussed by her doctors in a pathology conference.

Last week, our sister emailed the result of the pathology conference. "... the diagnosis was changed to 'carcinoid.' The treatment is surgical. No chemotherapy & radiation.."

We are ecstatic. A better prognosis and a complete reversal of the treatment process!

We can't let this go by without telling you, folks. The first diagnosis was an error, but we believe "God works in a mysterious way." We know this is a miracle. A prayer answered.

Again, thank you for your prayers, phone calls & words of encouragement. God jolted us back to reality, a wake-up call, and a reminder that He still control our lives. This experience is a situation turning from a devastating diagnosis into a more favorable one. But still ahead, Paz has a mountain to climb and a great challenge. She further wrote, "this is now in God's hands." Yes, we're hoping again you (ading) will overcome with His help & guidance.

Tomorrow, Paz will be operated on to remove the tumor. "Sis, we will be praying for you!"

Ben & Esther

Cec... A Tragic Fire

click this: Cec Murphey

Dear folks,

No doubt God allows trials, tribulations, and tragedy to good people too. Whatever God's plan, someday we will all understand, WHY. (?)

Quite a few years ago,we stayed at the simple, humble home of Cec and Shirley for a couple of days. During this visit I felt very much at home due to the loving Christian atmosphere and I especially treasured the simple healthy vegetarian meals prepared by Shirley.

My husband, Ben Arthur, and I are saddened by the recent heartbreaking news. But we believe that sorrows, pain and sadness will turn into joy. Cec will be able to write the tragic personal experience that will bring inspiration to millions and many people will be drawn closer to the Lord. God provided Cec to us to co-author Ben's story, "Choosing to Live: Triumph over terminal cancer." This book (click this) "Choosing to Live" has motivated many readers to accept the healthy way, physically, emotionally and spiritually as well.

Cec and Shirley have lost almost every material thing plus a loved one, but I believe their love for God will remain strong and confident. So let's continue to pray for him and his family.

What's happened with Cec Murphey:

On the morning of February 27, fire broke out in our home. Shirley and I got out and so did our daughter C-C (Cecile). Her husband, Alan Hege, was trapped inside and died in the fire.

For a long time I sat by myself and watched the fire fighters try to put out the fire. In the midst of that, the words of Job 2:10 came to me. Job’s wife saw all the chaos and loss and told her husband to curse God and die. He replied, ‘We have received good from the hand of the Lord. Shall we not also receive evil?’ As that verse filled my mind, I heard myself say, ‘Who am I to feel I should be exempt?’

The real loss, of course, is Alan. He and C-C were high school sweethearts and married after their first year of college. They had been married almost 30 years. He will be cremated this week, and we’ll have a memorial service later in the month.

The house totally burned and we’ll have to rebuild. Insurance will pay a large portion of the rebuilding. We saved almost nothing, but neighbors and our church family rallied around us. People provided clothes for us. Insurance will provide a rent-free house during the rebuilding. So many have done so much to help us and we’re grateful.

Here are examples of the blessings of God: In 1984, I ghosted the autobiography of ultra-marathon runner, Stan Cottrell. We liked each other and have stayed in touch through the years. Stan lives 1.5 miles from our house. He and his wife, Carol, insisted that we stay with them. My agent, Deidre Knight, and my marketing director, Jan Coates, took over getting out information and notifying friends. That left us free to pull ourselves together emotionally.

My office was the least damaged part of the house, but my computer was fried. Two of my neighbors rescued the hard drive. I bought a new laptop and have it set up. We were able to download everything except Quicken (that I use to keep our bank records). My library of reference books is totally gone, along with copies of the books I’ve written. To my surprise, our passports and most of our 2007 files were smoke filled but readable. We were able to get new drivers’ licenses.

Sunday morning we went to church, and it was communion Sunday—perfect for us. The Reformers of the 16^th century formulated the doctrine of the means of grace. By that, they believed that God provided grace through prayer, reading the Bible, hearing the Bible preached, the celebration of the sacraments, and the communion of saints. Sunday morning we were with our church family and felt their loving embraces.

There is little else to say at this time. Shirley and I are doing quite well. Our daughter is having a difficult time—as we would expect—but she will pull through.

With deep gratitude to God and thanks for caring, supportive friends,

Cec

Where's The Sunshine?

Ice blocks from the pond.









Ice blocks inside refrigeration room.









Horses resting beside barn.









brrrrr....this morning!









"When Jesus shows His smiling face, there's Sunshine in the soul."

Yesterday & today we visited our Amish friends.

We were curious to find out how they're doing during these cold, frigid days of winter. Snow flurries started early afternoon and by the time we reached Millie's place, an inch of snow covered the frozen ground.

After few minutes of exchanging pleasantries (inside their warm & comfortable home), we went out to see the plants...starting to grow. It's 70 degrees in the greenhouse, heated by burning coal, shoveled into the furnace twice a day, by the "boys."

Thousands of growing seeds in beds are shooting up. Onions sprouting, geraniums blooming, some starting to bud & flowering. A wonderful sight to behold! Growing plants in winter! The seeds were planted early January and ready to be transplanted this coming spring.

Rays of winter sunlight filter through the transparent roof & walls, giving plants the energy to sustain their growth. We also need sunshine, folks, even in winter time!

• It is important in maintaining our health.
  
• The source of Vitamin D (for bone strength).
  
• It helps lower cholesterol, increases the volume of oxygen in the blood.
  
• It also strengthens the immune system.
  
• It is germicidal. Our Amish friends launder their clothings every Mondays & Fridays (wash days) and use the sunlight outdoors to bleach and dry.
  

We look forward to some days when the sun peeks through the clouds & soak our souls with the beautiful & refreshing sun rays. The body can store the vitamin D for over a week, after 10-15 minutes of sun exposure to the face and hands up to 30 minutes daily.

Ben asked Millie where the "boys" were. They're out at the pond, cutting ice blocks. The blocks are then hauled and stacked in a large cold room (see picture). Milo says, the ice lasts through October and November to refrigerate their produce. Other winter activities are many, from preparing the farm land, to sawing logs, sewing clothes & quilting, etc.

We came home late in the afternoon happy & glad knowing every one is healthy and well. To see Anna still smiling recovering from breast cancer. Yes, amazing how our friends are surviving these frigid weather conditions without electricity. The trip to the country was worthwhile.

brrrrr, it is really cold out. The temperature this morning is 2 degrees Farenheit. Other places in Ohio are below zero degrees, roads hazardous & schools closed for the past three days.

Qoute: "As a flower turns to the sun, that the bright rays may touch it with tints of beauty, so will the soul turn to the Sun of Righteousness, that heavens light may beautify the character with the graces of the character of Christ." Desire of Ages, p. 270.

"Water Poisoning"

Pictures: Niagara Falls, USA-Canada and Tinago Falls, Iligan, Philippines.

"Water poisoning" is a very interesting topic since a 28 year old mother of three, drank herself to death last week, in the "Hold Your Wee for a Wii" contest in which KDND 107.9 in Sacramento, California, promised a Nintendo Wii video game system for the winner.

The radio contest required drinking large amounts of water and not voiding.

Tragically, the woman died due to water intoxication, hyperhydration or "water poisoning," a fatal disturbance in brain function when the normal balance of electrolytes in the body is pushed outside of safe limits by a very rapid intake of water. This result in cerebral edema (swollen brain), seizures, coma, and death within a few hours of drinking the excess water.

Well folks, water is wonderful for the human body, but as with other things in life, anything taken in excess lead to catastrophic consequences. The human body can handle anything within reason but not beyond excess.

In real life these are some questions to ask. How much water are we suppose to drink every day? How do I know I am drinking enough water? How can I prevent water intoxication?

It is a known fact that during sleep, we loss a certain amount of water from our system through our lungs, skin (perspiration) and kidneys. So, after waking up in the morning, first thing to do is drink a glass of water or more to replace the loss. This same water will help prepare the digestive system for breakfast.

Drinking water (neither hot or icy) half an hour before meals and one to two (2) hours after meals is highly recommended. Water or drinks with meals may dilute the enzymes of the digestive tract and can delay the digestion of food.

Intoxication can be prevented if a person's intake of water and electrolytes closely matches his or her losses. Drinking about 8 glasses of pure refreshing water per day is normal, and more when the weather is hot or when exercising more.

Be certain you have two (2) good functioning kidneys! A concentrated urine may mean that you need to drink more.

What are the other benefits of water? A warm bath followed by a cold splash in the morning is better than a cup of coffee. A warm refreshing bath before bed-time is a good sedative (better than xanax or valium ?). A warm bath also relaxes stiff and aching muscles.

Drink pure water to your health!

How about drinking "the living water?"

Read John 4:10, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."

Cardio Workout for You?

One of the exercise regimens Ben & I am going to improve through the darkest days of winter is our cardio workout.

We exercise indoors, except on some few balmy days (very rare now).
Early morning, we wake up at 4:30, (Ben use the "tickle-me-Elmo" technique to wake me up & start the day with a laugh), meditate then delve into the spiritual (bible reading). The physical part follows: A few minutes of stretching before rounds of gentle bouncing up & down with the "Rebounder."

Ben does some more activity by lifting weights followed by squats (combat conditioning), while I start preparing his breakfast before he goes to work.

The rebounder is an exercise equipment that involves every joint and all cells of the body (including brain cells); unlike jogging in hard surface which put extreme stress on certain joints like the knees and ankles.
Rebounding is easy and convenient to use at home. It is an effective way of integrating physical activity into one's daily life. Some research scientists conclude that it is one of the finest exercises for the human body.
It increases the immune system, help correct mental/emotional/behavioral problem in children correcting physical imbalance, hand/eye coordination, relieving stress, releasing kinetic energy, improving circulation and general health. And much much more!

No traffic, no cars, no dogs or bad weather to contend with as in the outdoors.

Ben says that one important health benefit of cardio workout besides the heart & lungs is the COLON.

It strengthens the colon. New research reveals that physical activity like running (on a treadmill) may prevent colon cancer.

Scientists at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center discovered that men who followed an aerobic-exercise regimen experienced a 13 percent decrease in "colon crypt proliferation height," a marker of colon-cancer risk, compared with those who kept their butts planted.

Exercise slows the rate of cell division in the colon. "When the number of dividing cells increases, as seen in sedentary individuals, it can lead to polyps." says lead author Anne Mctiernan, M.D.

For maximum protection, sweat 5 hours per week, the most effective amount used in the study.
Exercise, workout, jump, walk, run and sweat!

According to an old Chinese saying, there are two handy & natural doctors, your "left" and your "right leg." Use them both to improve health and prevent colon cancer. No physical exams and above all it is free!

Overindulgence

Picture: Deanna enjoying a lemon (at age 1)

After my children and grandchildren left, I started feeling sick ... my digestive system got tired and gave up on me.

Oh well, the holidays were spent preparing food and treats for the family and I used the holiday as an excuse to overindulge. I really really paid for it. But am glad I got rid of a lot of junk.

Ben and I laughed when I told him I do not need the (click) Colon Cleanse that he ordered since I got rid of the huge toxin in my system, already. Am feeling much better, though and haven't had solid stuff yet. Been drinking water with lemon juice, and apple juice with orange juice. (See & click alternative Organ Cleanse).

A friend emailed after learning my situation. To qoute:

"It is amazing how not eating right or eating too much can make our systems revolt. I'm going to try to do better this year. I did very well last winter but got careless in the summer and was eating more sweets. I read the other day that not getting enough sleep can cause you to crave sweets...I'm sure that's probably my situation! I can't change the sleep problems but I can use more will power when it comes to the sweets."

Yes, too much of a good thing (food, sweets, vitamins, herbals, sleep, etc.) is not good for the body (system). It too can be overloaded (big time).

Here's my first week of the New Year 2007:

Jan. 2. I munched almost the whole morning different nuts while cleaning. They were yummy and wasn't able to resist the temptation. Macademia nuts, almond nuts, cashew nuts, walnuts (gifts from friends, normally I only eat 4-6 nuts a day). But not today.

• Midnight, I started feeling bloated. I took a hot-tub bath. Once I got out of the tub I started vomiting . About 8-10 times in a few hours. So amazing to see the junk, undigested food, this is gross :-( I know though most of you who read our blogs are health-educated. So this is ok.

Jan. 3. While resting thought of all the junk I got rid of. So amazing how much our stomach & intestines can hold and retain for a long period of time...what an excess toxin that our system is dealing with? The good part, I lost 8 pounds in 3 days. I was having a hard time believing I had to weigh everyday with different clothes.

• Ben wanted to take me to the ER but I refused after thinking about needles, X-rays, more meds, waiting, etc. What I did I rested my tummy for a couple of days and drunk only juice with fresh squeezed lemon. Every 2 hours took warm apple juice with orange juice. Luckily we received a whole case of newly-picked oranges from florida brought home by a friend. I wanted to watch my potassium level. I made sure too that I continued my exercise, walking and getting enough fresh air. The weather had been nice lately and that helps.

Jan. 5 I turned 60... another milestone! Ben is at work & on-call so it is good to stay home. But I felt worse as the day went by. Felt so much pressure on my head and heaviness on my chest. After a couple of hours of not feeling good and being alone at home I almost asked my neighbor, Linda, to stop by and give me company. I decided to keep myself busy.

• It reminded me five years ago when I had a mini stroke and it was also on my birthday. So I have decided while I can still move around (though the uncomfortable & weird feeling is still there)...took a nice good bath. Wanted to look nice and clean just in case something happens to me. I also left both front and back doors open just in case I call 911. I also felt it will be good to die nice and clean or doing something when the end comes.
  
  My vital signs were normal, though. So I cooked pancit (a pampango style noodle) and other stuff so Ben will have food for the whole weekend, in case I ended up in the hospital.
  
  The tempting part is when Ben eat his meals. He is so expressive while enjoying the food and making comments like, "yummmm, how good the food...ang sarap!" I'd luv to eat too! but have put myself into clear liquids then soft diet to rest my stomach.
  
  What I am trying to say....we like to look good, feel good outwardly taking a nice bath, etc. Our inside parts need the same, as well.
  
  The regimen of clear liquids worked for me and now I am feeling good. I did water and juice-fast for a couple of days. The day ended up wonderful.

Unexpected guests whom I have not seen more than a year, came for a visit. They wanted to take me out, but decided to stay and sample my cooking, instead. I showed them how to make "Rocket Fuel" and shared my thoughts after listening to their health concerns. With laughter and smiles,I knew they appreciated the visit and I did too. I felt much better and was able to sleep good that night. The best 60th birthday...I was able to share and help others. Another blessing for me.

God sure works in a very mysterious way. In the midst of difficulties He provided just on time...the company. It made me felt needed. What a great way to celebrate. God is showing there will be more good and healthy days to come.