The body always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is listening and doing what your body needs.
I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in 1997ish, Avascular Necrosis aka Osteonecrosis in my knee in 2014 and Factor V Leiden hetero, and Spondylolisthesis 2005ish
Health Advocate-Health Activist-World Changer
Love photography, cooking, hiking, walking ,traveling and learning to live a new normal since my diagnosis.
My Links
Facebook Main Profile
https://www.facebook.com/debbie.briglovichandio
Main Blog
www.ChronicallyGratefulDebla.com
Twitter - https://twitter.com/debbiea001
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/debbiea_1962 and https://www.instagram.com/chronicallygratefulme
Support Group Avascular Necrosis/Osteonecrosis Support Int’l
https://m.facebook.com/groups/DeadBoneDiseaseAvn
Awareness for Avascular Necrosis & Other Conditions of The Bone and Joints
https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisAndBoneDiseaseAwareness/
Avascular Necrosis Awareness Day November 29 – working with elected officials to get this recognized in all states
https://www.facebook.com/AwarenessByDebla/
Avascular Necrosis-Osteonecrosis Knowledge and Education
https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisEducation/
Facebook Link
https://m.facebook.com/ChronicallyGrateful.Me/
I wanted to take a moment and have a heart-to-heart with you about something that has been weighing on my mind lately. Let me ask you a question: Are you truly living your best life? Are you following your passions and pursuing your dreams fearlessly, or have you allowed fear and a lack of confidence to hold you back? If your answer doesn’t sit well with you, don’t worry, because I have some great news for you – it’s never too late to start again.
Too often, we find ourselves trapped in the comfort zone of a narrow life. We let our fears dictate our choices, playing it safe and sticking to what we know. But where does that really get us? It’s time to break free from those self-imposed limitations and make a decision right here, right now, that we will embrace a life of boldness, aggression, and unwavering confidence.
Now, let’s talk about fear. It’s a natural part of being human, and it’s okay to feel it. But here’s the secret: you don’t have to let fear control you. Instead, acknowledge the fear, but don’t let it paralyze you. Remember the wise words of John Wayne: “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s taking action despite the fear.
So, my dear friends, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences, higher levels of your existing passions, and even explore completely unknown territories. Don’t let fear rob you of the incredible opportunities that lie ahead. Trust in yourself and God’s plan for you, and watch the magic unfold.
Each day is an opportunity for you to begin again, to rewrite your story, and to chase after your wildest dreams. Let go of the fear that has held you back for far too long, and instead, choose to live a life filled with the vibrancy and purpose that you deserve.
I hope this little reminder brings a spark to your day and ignites a fire within you to embrace life fearlessly. You are capable of incredible things, my friends, and I’m rooting for each and every one of you.
I’m going to take my own advice. We are relocating to a different state and I must admit there are times I am very fearful. Did I find the right place? Are we going to be able to afford it ? Is this the right time?
But you know I’ve been wanting to do this for years and it’s going to happen.It’s the best time now. So I will post updates along the way 😊
Wishing you all a blessed day filled with love, courage, and endless possibilities. Remember, it’s never too late to begin again.With love and light, Debbie 💖
In a bustling town, in Cleveland Ohio there lived a young father named John, who was known for his kind-heartedness and his desire to teach his children the value of kindness. His daughters, Sarah and Lisa, were eager to learn from their father and embark on a journey of spreading goodness within their community.
One summer sunny day, John decided to take his daughters to the local grocery store. As they walked through the aisles, John shared stories of how simple acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day. He explained to them that extending help to others is not just about making them feel good, but it also brings immense joy and gratification to one’s own heart.
As they finished shopping and made their way towards the exit, John noticed a man with two young children following closely behind them. The man appeared exhausted, struggling to manage the grocery bags while tending to his little ones.
John saw this as an opportunity to showcase the power of kindness in action. He turned to his daughters and whispered, “Girls, let’s extend a hand of kindness to this man and his children.”
With wide smiles on their faces, Sarah and Lisa approached the man and politely asked, “Excuse us, sir. Would you mind if we returned the shopping cart for you?”
The man looked surprised at first, but then a warm smile spread across his face. Gratefully, he handed over the cart to the girls, who eagerly wheeled it back to the appropriate spot. As they returned, they noticed the man’s tired expression had transformed into one of relief and gratitude.
Word quickly spread amongst the shoppers about the selfless act demonstrated by John’s daughters. Soon, other people began to approach Sarah and Lisa, requesting their assistance in returning their shopping carts as well. Each person had a sparkle in their eyes, touched by the unexpected kindness shown to them.
Some even offered to pay the girls, but Sarah replied cheerfully, “Thank you, but we’re not here for money. We just want to do acts of kindness for our community.”
As the day went on, John and his daughters continued to lend a helping hand, carrying groceries for those in need, and returning carts with a smile. With each act of kindness, they witnessed the power of their small gestures in brightening the spirits of others.
Through their actions, John, Sarah, and Lisa taught the community a valuable lesson about the beauty of kindness. Their genuine desire to make a difference touched the hearts of many, reminding everyone that a little act of kindness can go a long way.
He was so proud of his girls they went and got ice cream and when the father went to pay a young man behind the counter said it was already paid for by the man with 2 girls over at the table. They sat all together eating talking and laughing. And later John took his girls to the park .
From that day forward, the town embraced John’s example, becoming a place where neighbors looked out for one another, where strangers offered assistance, and where kindness became a way of life.
And so, let us take inspiration from this tale and remember the importance of extending kindness not only to strangers but also to our loved ones. Let us cherish each opportunity to make someone’s day a little brighter, and in doing so, may we cultivate a world filled with compassion, empathy, and love.
In the small town of Sunnyside, nestled near the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, lived a couple named Will and Amy. Will was a skilled carpenter, and Amy was a talented designer. Together, they dreamt of transforming their humble community into a thriving place full of life and opportunity.
Sunnyside was a town with a rich history, dotted with charming churches and inhabited by a close-knit community of devoted churchgoers. However, the town had fallen on hard times, with dilapidated homes and struggling businesses. Will and Amy knew that they could make a difference and bring new hope to their neighbors.
With their unwavering faith and love for the community, Will and Amy embarked on their mission, armed with their skills and creativity. They began by fixing up one home at a time, using Will’s carpentry expertise to restore the houses to their former glory. Amy’s imaginative touch turned these once rundown homes into vibrant oases, each reflecting the unique character of its inhabitants.
The transformation didn’t stop there. Will and Amy understood that to truly revitalize the town, they needed to bring back the spirit of entrepreneurship and create opportunities for others to thrive. Together, they opened a local workshop where they taught young aspiring carpenters and designers the tricks of the trade. This allowed the residents to acquire valuable skills and empowered them to take charge of their own futures.
Word spread quickly about the incredible work happening in Sunnyside. People from neighboring areas began to flock to the town to witness the extraordinary revival taking place. As more people started to invest in Sunnyside, new businesses sprouted up, offering services and products that had been long absent from the town.
The once-empty streets of Sunnyside soon buzzed with life and excitement. Farmers markets, boutiques, and cafes opened their doors, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The town became a popular destination for tourists, drawn to its quaint charm and the remarkable story of its transformation.
Will and Amy’s efforts had not only revitalized the physical landscape of Sunnyside but had also sparked a renewed sense of community. The residents came together, organizing events and festivals that celebrated their town’s rich history and diverse culture. They stood united, proud of their roots, and determined to create a bright future for generations to come.
And so, the once-poor community of Sunnyside flourished. Through the unwavering dedication of Will and Amy, the town became a shining example of what could be achieved when love, faith, and a shared vision come together. Their legacy lived on, inspiring generations to come to believe in the power of transformation and the strength of a united community.
And that is how Sunnyside, once forgotten, rose from the ashes and became a place of hope, creativity, and boundless possibilities.
Today, I want to dive into a topic that has been on my mind lately – the importance of empathy and supporting one another through both the good times and the challenging moments. We all know how therapeutic it can be to lend an ear to a friend or loved one who needs to vent, but what happens when the tables are turned?
It’s a common experience many of us have had – we are there for others when they need to unload their frustrations, share their worries, or simply voice their thoughts. And yet, when we find ourselves in need of that same outlet, we face resistance, complaints, or even accusations of complaining. It can leave us feeling abandoned and unheard.
But here’s the thing: voicing our concerns, fears, or frustrations is not mere complaining. It is a natural and healthy way to process emotions and seek support. We should never feel guilty or ashamed for expressing our thoughts and seeking comfort from those around us. It’s okay to ask for help.
True empathy means being there for one another, no matter the circumstances. It means creating a safe space where we can openly share our feelings without fear of judgment or rejection. If someone turns you out or complains about your need to express yourself, it may be a sign that they are lacking empathy or struggling with their own emotional boundaries.
In a world where kindness and compassion can sometimes be overshadowed by self-interest, it’s crucial that we make a conscious effort to break this cycle of cruelty. Let’s prioritize being there for one another, holding space for each other’s joys, frustrations, and everything in between.
So, dear readers, I encourage you to cultivate empathy within your relationships. Listen with an open heart, offer a comforting shoulder, and let your loved ones know that their feelings are valid and heard. Together, we can create a supportive community where everyone feels seen, understood, and supported.
Remember, it’s okay to voice your thoughts and seek solace when you need it. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise. We are all in this journey called life together, and by showing empathy and kindness, we can make it a little brighter for everyone.
Let’s spread love and compassion, one conversation at a time.
Finding Inspiration in a New Week: Embracing Work, Prayer, and Gratitude
Hello and good morning everyone, and welcome to a brand new week! Today marks the end of July and also the beginning of a fresh start on our work journey. As we navigate through this workweek, let’s strive to maintain a positive mindset, dedicate our efforts to the Lord, and find comfort in counting our blessings. Whether you’re unemployed, retired, or working diligently, know that God has a special plan for each and every one of us.
Working with Purpose and Diligence: Proverbs 16:3 – “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”
It’s important to remember that our work is not just for earthly purposes but also for glorifying God. When we commit our work to the Lord and work with dedication and purpose, our efforts are bound to bear fruit. Let’s give our best in every task, knowing that we’re ultimately serving the Lord.
Praying for Strength and Guidance: Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.”
In the midst of our workday challenges, it’s essential to turn to God in prayer. Through prayer, we can seek guidance, find solace in His presence, and release any anxieties we may carry. By praying without ceasing, we invite God’s peace into our hearts and minds, allowing us to navigate through our work with grace and confidence.
Gratitude for Opportunities: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Psalm 100:4 – “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!”
Let’s remember to cultivate an attitude of gratitude, appreciating the work opportunities that come our way. Even on tough days, where work may seem challenging, let’s focus on counting our blessings. Being grateful for having a job to go to opens our hearts to receive God’s abundant blessings and prepares us to make the most out of every workday.
As we embark on a new week, let’s embrace it with a positive mindset, commit our work to the Lord, and offer prayers for strength and guidance. No matter what our work situations may be, let’s practice gratitude, knowing that God has a purpose for each season of life. May this Monday be filled with joy, productivity, and blessings as we dedicate our efforts to both our earthly work and glorifying our Heavenly Father. Have a great day, everyone!
The book of Judges is an important part of the Bible that tells the story of the Israelites after they have settled in Canaan. The book covers a period of time from the death of Joshua to the birth of Samuel, and it is named after the judges who ruled over the people during this time.
The book begins with a reminder of the Israelites’ failure to fully conquer the land, and it goes on to describe how the people continually fall into sin and idolatry, leading to cycles of oppression by neighboring nations. In response, God raises up a series of judges to deliver the people from their enemies and guide them back to obedience.
Throughout the book, we see a pattern emerge: the Israelites turn away from God, fall into sin and defeat, cry out to God for help, and are ultimately rescued by a judge who delivers them from their oppressors. Some of the most famous judges include Deborah and Barak, Gideon, Jephthah, and Samson.
However, despite the many victories and deliverances, the book of Judges paints a bleak picture of the people’s moral and spiritual state. The final chapters of the book describe some of the most shocking and disturbing events in the entire Bible, including the brutal rape and murder of a Levite’s concubine, and the resulting civil war that nearly destroys the tribe of Benjamin.
Overall, the book of Judges is a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience, and a testament to God’s faithfulness and mercy despite the failings of His people. It highlights the importance of remaining faithful to God, even in times of difficulty and testing, and the need for strong leaders who can guide us back to obedience when we stray.
The relationship between Deborah and Barak in the Bible provides valuable insights into the dynamics of leadership and collaboration. Deborah was a prophetess and judge who had the wisdom and courage to lead and inspire her people. Barak, on the other hand, was a military commander who lacked confidence and needed guidance from Deborah.
Their collaboration highlights the importance of complementing each other’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as trusting and respecting one
More on Deborah meaning “Invaluable” means something that is extremely useful or valuable and can’t be quantified in terms of monetary value.
Deborah was a prophetess and judge in the Old Testament of the Bible. She was known for her wisdom, righteous leadership, and her role in leading the Israelites to victory against their enemies. According to the Book of Judges, Deborah summoned Barak, a military commander, and instructed him to lead an army against Jabin, king of Canaan, who had been oppressing the Israelites. Deborah provided guidance and support to Barak and the Israelite forces during the battle, which they ultimately won with God’s help. Her story is celebrated in Jewish and Christian traditions as an example of courage, faith, and leadership.
Introduction to Deborah in the Bible
In the Book of Judges, amidst a period of turmoil and oppression for the Israelites, a remarkable woman named Deborah emerged as a leader and judge. Her story, recounted in Judges 4 and 5, showcases her wisdom, courage, and unwavering faith in God. Deborah’s role as a mother, prophetess, and deliverer played a crucial part in the liberation of Israel from the tyrannical rule of King Jabin of Canaan. Let us delve deeper into the life of Deborah and draw inspiration from her example.
Deborah’s Leadership and Prophetic Gift:
Deborah’s leadership was multifaceted. She held court under the Palm of Deborah, where the Israelites sought her wisdom to resolve their disputes (Judges 4:5). Her discernment and prophetic gift enabled her to hear the voice of the Lord clearly. It was Deborah who summoned Barak, a commander in Israel’s army, and commanded him to go up against Sisera, the commander of King Jabin’s forces.
The Call to “Arise”:
In Judges 5:12, we find the exhortation for Deborah and Barak to “wake up and arise.” This call signified a new revelation and dimension of their calling. They were instructed to be alert and pay attention to the extraordinary work that God was about to do through them. In response to this divine instruction, Deborah inspired Barak and the Israelite army to rise up and fight for their freedom.
The Role of a Mother:
Deborah referred to herself as a mother in Israel (Judges 5:7). This title reflects her deep care and concern for the well-being of her people. She saw all of Israel as her children and yearned for their peace and security. Furthermore, Deborah recognized the significance of motherhood as she rallied her people to take up arms against their oppressors. Her motherly heart extended beyond her own family to encompass the entire nation.
Worship and Obedience:
Deborah’s life exemplified the connection between worship and obedience. She found encouragement and strength in worship, which fueled her determination to fulfill God’s calling. Deborah’s unwavering faith and trust in God enabled her to step into her role as a judge, intercessor, and deliverer. Her worshiping warrior spirit empowered her to bring healing and empowerment to the entire nation of Israel.
The Role of Jael:
Jael, another remarkable woman in this narrative, played a vital part in securing victory for the Israelites. When Sisera, the commander of King Jabin’s army, sought refuge in her tent, Jael took bold action and killed him. Deborah acclaimed Jael as the “most blessed of tent-dwelling women” (Judges 5:24). This demonstrates the significance of every individual’s contribution in times of crisis.
Embracing our Calling:
Deborah’s story serves as an inspiration for us today. We are called to embrace the unique and amazing plans that God has for each of us. It is easy to be hindered by fear or perceived limitations, but we must remember that God equips and empowers those who step out in obedience. Just as Deborah accepted the challenge to lead and inspire her people, we too should rise up and be a light in the darkness, carrying the hope of Jesus Christ.
Deborah’s story reminds us that God can use anyone to do extraordinary things. As we deepen our relationship with God and seek His guidance, we will gain clarity and confidence in our own calling. We are called to be bold and courageous, shining the glory of God wherever we go. The world needs the hope that only Jesus can provide, and it is our responsibility to share that hope with those around us. Let us take inspiration from Deborah’s unwavering faith and trust in God as we fulfill our purpose in the kingdom of God.
The book of Joshua is the sixth book of the Bible and follows directly after Deuteronomy. It tells the story of the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, Moses’ successor.
The book begins with the Israelites crossing the Jordan River into the land of Canaan. They encounter several obstacles, including the fortified city of Jericho. But with the help of God, they are able to defeat these obstacles and claim the land as their own.
One of the key themes of Joshua is the importance of obedience to God’s commands. Joshua is portrayed as a faithful servant of God who follows His instructions without hesitation. This obedience leads to success in battle and the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the land to the Israelites.
Another important theme is the idea of divine judgment. The book portrays God as a just and righteous judge who punishes sin and rewards obedience. The Israelites are warned against worshipping other gods and disobeying God’s commands, and those who do so are punished severely.
The book also highlights the importance of faith and trust in God. The Israelites face many challenges and obstacles, but they are able to overcome them through their faith in God and His power to deliver them. This faith is exemplified by figures such as Rahab, the prostitute who helps the Israelite spies in Jericho, and Caleb, who remains faithful to God even when the other Israelites doubt His ability to deliver the land to them.
Overall, the book of Joshua is a powerful testament to the faithfulness of God and the importance of obedience and faith in Him. It provides a powerful example of how God can use ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things, and how He rewards those who remain faithful to Him.
Good morning and happy Sunday! This is the day that the Lord has made, so let us rejoice and be glad in it. Today, I want to share with you the significance of Jesus being the way, the truth, and the life. In a world full of uncertainties and challenges, we can find hope, freedom, and purpose in Him. So grab your coffee, find a cozy spot, and let’s dive into this enlightening topic.
I. Jesus is the Way Out: We often find ourselves trapped in the bondage of sin, feeling condemned and miserable. However, the primary purpose of the Bible is to present Jesus as the solution to our predicament. He came to set us free from sin’s captivity and offer us eternal life. When we repent and have faith in Jesus, we receive the gift of salvation, breaking the chains that held us captive.
He will help you get out of depression,out of addiction, out of debt, out of a abusive relationship.
II. Jesus is the Way In: Just as God delivered the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, He desires to bring us out of the darkness and into a life of promise and fulfillment. Surrendering our lives to Jesus allows Him to lead us into a new journey filled with endless possibilities. Contrary to popular belief, following Christ doesn’t mean a dull existence. Jesus promised us abundant life, one that surpasses our wildest dreams.
He is the way to God, not one of many, but the one and only way
III. Jesus is the Way Through: As believers, we are not exempt from tribulations, disappointments, and heartaches. However, the remarkable difference lies in knowing that Jesus walks beside us through every trial. We are never alone. His presence brings comfort, strength, and the assurance that we are more than conquerors. No matter the valley we walk through, Jesus upholds us with His righteousness.
He helps us through grief, through illness, through pain, poverty, worry,disappointment.
In John 14:6, Jesus declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This statement has been a topic of controversy, but as believers, we stand firm in the truth that Jesus is the only way to God. His love and sacrifice on the cross bridge the gap between humanity and our Heavenly Father.
I encourage you to seek a good Bible-based church where you can grow in your faith and find a community of believers to walk alongside you. Make it a habit to read your Bible every day, for it is through God’s Word that we gain wisdom, understanding, and guidance. Embrace Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life, and experience the transformative power He offers.
Remember, you are loved, valued, and destined for great things. May your Sunday be filled with joy, peace, and the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Thank you for dying on the cross for my sin. Please forgive me. Come into my life. I receive You as my Lord and Savior. I am not perfect and never will be, but I am a child of the most high God. Now, help me to live for you the rest of this life. Help me to let go of any anger guilt hurt I gave. Thank you for saving me.
Once a time, in the peaceful town of Serenityville, there lived a remarkable woman named Evelyn. At the age of 88, she was a shining example of vitality and health. Despite her advanced years, Evelyn had the energy and enthusiasm of someone half her age.
Every morning, like clockwork, Evelyn would don her vibrant swimsuit and head to the local community center for her favorite activity – water aerobics. Rain or shine, she would join her friends and dive into the invigorating pool, splashing and moving with grace. The water seemed to rejuvenate her body and spirit, leaving her feeling refreshed and alive.
But Evelyn’s healthy lifestyle extended far beyond her exercise routine. At the age of 40, she had experienced a health scare that served as a wake-up call. Determined to take control of her well-being, she made a conscious decision to transform her habits.
She bid farewell to smoking and drinking, recognizing the detrimental effects they had on her health. Instead, she devoted herself to nourishing her body with wholesome foods. Evelyn embraced the power of ancient and heritage grains, discovering the nutritional benefits they provided. Bob’s Red Mill products became a cornerstone of her diet, and she found great joy in experimenting with quinoa recipes and incorporating plenty of fresh vegetables.
Evelyn’s dedication to her physical health was equally matched by her commitment to the environment. She chose to store her food in glass containers, reducing her reliance on plastic and its harmful impact on the planet.
As Evelyn nurtured her body, she also nurtured her soul. She actively engaged with her church and community, finding solace and inspiration in the company of kindred spirits. Socializing became her new form of enjoyment, replacing the need for alcohol with meaningful connections.
Evelyn’s transformation was nothing short of miraculous. Her newfound lifestyle had not only improved her physical well-being but had also created a deep sense of contentment within her. Doctors marveled at her vitality, telling her that her body’s age reflected that of a much younger person.
Inspired by her own journey, Evelyn became a beacon of hope and inspiration in her community. People from all walks of life flocked to her for advice and encouragement. She firmly believed that age was just a number and that anyone, regardless of their stage in life, could choose to make positive changes and live a better, healthier life.
Evelyn’s story spread far and wide, capturing the hearts and minds of people young and old. She became a living testament to the power of mind, body, and spirit health. Evelyn’s unwavering enthusiasm and zest for life ignited a spark of possibility in everyone she met, reminding them that it was never too late to embrace a healthier lifestyle and to live their best lives.
And so, in the town of Serenityville, a legend was born – the inspiring tale of Evelyn, the vibrant 88-year-old woman who defied aging with her commitment to wellness and the remarkable belief that change was possible for all.
Her special breakfast
Oatmeal 1/2 cup 1 minute oats are fine, 1 tablespoon hemp seeds, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 5-6 chopped walnuts, 2 teaspoons dry cranberries or raisins, 1-2 cups water she only uses water no milk , microwave on high 1 minutes 15 seconds or use boiling hot water and let sit 2 minutes. Now add strawberries or grapes or bananas.
Then go for a nice walk
Here are some of the BlueZone Recipes she eats.
LONGEVITY STEW
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients:
• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 8-ounce can, drained)
1 cup chic peas
1 carrot chopped small
1 stalk celery chopped small
• 1 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 large red onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 fennel bulb, chopped
• 3 large ripe plum tomatoes,finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste, diluted in 1/4 cup water
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 bunch dill, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
Directions:
If using dried black-eyed peas:
Cover with water and bring to a boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat, cover and let stand for an hour. Drain and rinse. If using canned beans, skip this step.
In a large pot, heat half the olive oil over medium heat and cook the onion, garlic and fennel, stirring occasionally until soft, about 12 minutes. Add the black-eyed peas and toss to coat with oil. Add the tomato, tomato paste, and enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. Add the bay leaves. Bring pot to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until the black-eyed peas are about halfway cooked (if using dried peas). Check after 40 minutes, but it may take more than an hour. If using canned peas, skip to the next step after 10 minutes. Add the chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking until the peas are tender, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and discard bay leaves. Drizzle in remaining olive oil. Stir and serve.

HUMMUS WITH PARSLEY
From Ikaria, Greece
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients:
• 1-pound dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and cooked until soft (or three 15-ounce cans, drained)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste (optional)
Directions:
Put chickpeas and garlic in a food processor or high-pow-ered blender and blend until roughly pureed. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Sprinkle with parsley and salt to taste. Serve with raw vegetables, pita, or good, crusty bread for dipping.
VEGGIE CASSOLA
From Sardinia, Italy.
Serves 4
Ingredients:
• 1 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 large red or yellow bell peppers, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 1 Italian eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 1/2-cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper (optional)
• 1 bunch parsley, washed and chopped
• 5 basil leaves
• 1 sprig thyme, stemmed and minced
• 1 sprig oregano, stemmed and minced
• 3 bay leaves
Directions:
Preheat oven to 300 degrees. In a large bowl, toss all vegetables with olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss with herbs, then spread out evenly in a large roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour. Remove bay leaves and garnish dish with sprigs of parsley, thyme or oregano. Serve with crusty sourdough bread.
This is a reference to the blue zone lifestyle that she chose to follow that changed her health.
Once upon a time, in a small town called Willowbrook, there lived a woman named Candy. Candy was a kind-hearted and resilient woman who had faced many challenges throughout her life. She had two children, and like any mother, she wanted to protect them from harm.
But Candy’s story took a dark turn when she found herself married to an abusive man. As the abuse intensified, Candy knew she had to do something to keep her children safe. So, with a heavy heart, she made the difficult decision to leave her husband and take her children with her.
Candy sought refuge with her parents, who lovingly helped raise her children alongside her. However, despite her constant efforts to be there for her children, particularly her daughter, there was an underlying anger that seemed to taint their relationship. Her daughter carried a chip on her shoulder, blaming Candy for the turmoil they had endured in their early years.
As the years went by, Candy longed for a closer bond with her daughter. But every attempt seemed to be met with resistance and hurtful treatment. She often walked on eggshells, fearing her daughter’s explosive anger and harsh words. It pained Candy deeply, as she had always wanted nothing more than to love and support her children unconditionally.
The situation became even more challenging when Candy’s daughter decided to move across the country, leaving Candy desperate to maintain a connection with her grandchildren. Candy, always selfless, donated most of her belongings to those in need, hoping to save money for the move and be closer to her family once again.
However, just as Candy was preparing to make the big move, her daughter’s attitude took a sudden shift. She seemed to have a change of heart and distanced herself from Candy, leaving her feeling devastated and alone. The offer of moving closer to her family had become a cruel illusion, shattering Candy’s hopes and dreams.
She cried and questioned why this was happening to her. It seemed that every turn in her life had brought disappointment and heartache. She started to lose faith in God, wondering why He would allow her to endure such pain and be treated so poorly by her own child.
Despite the turmoil, Candy’s son remained steadfast in his support for her. Even though he was stationed overseas in Germany with the military, he stood by his mother’s side and cut ties with his sister due to her cruelty. He couldn’t understand how someone could treat their own mother in such a manner.
Candy found herself reflecting on the nature of abuse and cruelty. She had tried her best to protect her children from an abusive father, only to witness her daughter exhibit similar behavior towards her. It left her feeling confused and questioning whether abuse was something inherent or learned.
During this challenging time, Candy’s true friends rallied around her, reminding her that she was loved and valued. Her church community offered support and comfort, reminding her that she had a family beyond just blood relations.
As time went on, Candy’s health began to fade. She lived out her remaining years with her son by her side, but her daughter was never made aware of her passing. The opportunity for reconciliation and healing slipped away, leaving a void in both Candy’s heart and the hearts of her grandchildren who never got to know their grandmother.
It was a sad ending to a complex and difficult story. But in its sadness, there was a powerful lesson to be learned. The story serves as a reminder to cherish and love our families, to forgive and let go of past hurts, and to prioritize kindness and empathy over anger and cruelty.
Sadly, in Candy’s case, the opportunity for reconciliation was lost. But for those who hear her story, may it serve as a wakeup call to mend broken relationships, to cherish our loved ones while they are still with us, and to remember the power of forgiveness and love in our lives.
Joyful-Echoes 