What’s That Smell?
We missed the first opportunity to get our Christmas tree picked up off our curb in early January. I had taken the ornaments and lights off the day prior, so naked it stood for another week. What a great tree it was, though! So fragrant! I was diligent about watering it and giving it the little food pills... it stayed beautiful and moist even though it wasn’t as pretty without the lights. As much as I love having it through the season, I also love getting my living room back. I usually change things around a bit and give the room a deep cleaning. That makes it fun.
As I was vacuuming up the needles, the smell was so strong and I thought, “The next time I vacuum this smell is going to be so awesome!” It’s almost like I was storing the fragrance up for another day. Maybe I’ll vacuum on a day when I’m not feeling great, or maybe if I’m feeling a little down. I’m laughing right now because when I was younger, I vacuumed often. Not so much anymore! But won’t the smell of that tree brighten my spirits as I think of the wonderful time we had with our family over Christmas?
This paints the picture of a great way to go through life.
What am I storing up for later?
Am I even thinking of later? Well yes, I am!
I’m a big proponent of focusing on today, but I’m also a planner. It’s the number one reason why I take good care of my health. I don’t want to get 10 years down the road and think, “I sure wish I would have…. eaten better, exercised more, got better sleep, told people I love them…” Death doesn’t frighten me at all. I know where I’m going.
But being sick? That’s something I want to avoid for as long as possible!
What are you storing up for later?
Poor health? Extra pounds? Or strong muscles and a fit body?
By the way, did you know that for most people, if by age 30 you continue to do nothing to control your weight, you’ll add 5 pounds to your frame every decade? That adds up!
Will you be glad you took good care of yourself?
Will you have regrets?
Here’s another question that comes to mind from my Christmas tree: What smell are you leaving behind? When my kids were little, I wore the Jessica McClintock body lotion (not the perfume...way too strong). I did this on purpose so that when they smelled it in the future it would remind them of me. My youngest daughter missed me so much in kindergarten (20 years ago) that I put some of the lotion on a hair tie. She kept it in her pocket and would secretly bring it out for a sniff when she missed me. (Awwww)
But really…what do you smell like?
And more importantly, what’s in your deodorant?
Here’s a short list of some nasty stuff-
Parabens- may interfere with the production/regulation of estrogen and other hormones. That doesn’t sound good for women at any age!
Aluminum- can cause the genes in your breast tissue to become unstable, potentially leading to the growth of tumors. Did you know that 50% of all breast cancers are in the arm pit area of your breast? Yikes!
Triclosan- also may be connected with hormone changes.
Like we need any further craziness with our hormones!
Phthalates- could affect how your unborn baby develops and they’re also related to higher rates of asthma.
Don’t mess with the kids!
Even the smell of your deodorant can be dangerous- we don’t know what the fragrance is covering up and if you’re like me and many others, you may be sensitive to fragrance. Choke, gag, cough
Great Renee, what’s a woman to do?
I’m glad you asked. Here’s what I do. I use Primally Pure deodorant. It’s organic and made with great stuff and none of the aforementioned ingredients. I LOVE the Lemongrass scent. For someone who is sensitive to strong smells, I can absolutely handle this. It’s a little pricey ($14), but I don’t need to use very much and if you subscribe, shipping is free! (I’m not an affiliate…I’m just sharing the love). While I’m speaking of Lemongrass, I’ll also mention that I use the Lemongrass scented Acure Shampoo and Conditioner, also a great product (and I use their unscented body lotion). Wondering where I get all my great info on product safety? The YUKA app! Download it today and scan products before you buy them. The app rates the products with a color and a number 1- 100. Red=Bad. Green=Excellent. “Poor and Good” are in between these. It also gives you high ranking alternatives. Check it out. But fair warning, it’s a bit addictive. Leave a little extra time for grocery shopping.
Did you catch my episode on Gin Stephens’ Podcast (Intermittent Fasting Stories)? I’m number 267. I’m also on an episode of Sisterhood Society (1/18/23). These young women own Royal & Reese- a women’s and children’s boutique. Check out their stuff ladies! You’re sure to find something you like and something that fits! Do you have any other Podcasts you listen to? Share your favorites with me. Is there one you would like to hear me on? Let me know! renee@yourfoodfight.com
Well ladies, let’s do this again next month!
I’m in the fight for my health (and I’m smelling good)! What about you?
Renee