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Lifestyle Blog
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My blog about Living Life to the Fullest!!! where I share my inspiration, motivation and rejuvenation on this wonderful journey.
Read my latest blog...
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WELCOME
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A BIG WELCOME
& THANK YOU
To All Our New & Existing Members!
OPALS
(Older People with
Active Lifestyles)
Baby Boomers
Adventurers
Hikers
Travelers
TV Viewers
Radio Listeners
Readers
Friends
Contributors
Supporters
Organizations
Partners
It is because of you that we continue to grow and know our work...and fun, is spreading joy and happiness to those we touch, if not physically, with our hearts and spirits. Thank you for choosing to be a part of our family and community!
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Inspirational Quote
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Life is too short,
Don't ever waste it.
Life is sweet,
Take time to taste it.
Life is a journey,
Find the right path.
Life is entertaining,
Don't be afraid to laugh.
Life is for good times,
Make them last.
Life has it's bad times,
Put them in your past.
Life is chance,
Make sure to take it.
But most importantly...
Life is what you make it.
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My Favorite All Natural Daily Supplements
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GNLD NeoLife's Pro Vitality™ Pack makes it easy for me to receive the critical nutrients most often missing from my diet. It helps me maintain my high energy and vitality with four amazing products in one simple pack -- the Vitality Pack!
It is ALLERGY FREE!!!
It contains no gluten! Wheat allergies are usually an allergy to the portion of wheat protein known as gluten. The wheat germ oil used in these supplements contains no wheat gluten.
Each packet provides:
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Tre-en-en® Grain Concentrates
Feed your cells - Energize your life.
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Carotenoid Complex™
Protect your cells - Optimize your immunity
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Omega-III Salmon Oil Plus™
Balance & regulate your cells - Maximize your good health
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Formula IV Plus®
Nourish your cells - More than just a multi
Powerful nutrients that support:
- Abundant Energy
- Powerful Antioxidant Protection
- Lifelong Heart Health
- Optimum Immune Strength
- Healthy Brain Function
- Flexible, Healthy Joints
- Clear Vision
- Youthful Skin, Hair & Nails
- Lifelong Cellular Health
Fast Facts about ProVitality
THREE WAYS TO BUY! - As a Discount-Member - Save 15%
- As a Customer-Distributor - Save 25%
- As a Business-Distributor - Start your own business
Paying full retail price isn't always the only way to buy. Find out how you can obtain discounts on these all natural supplements, plus other all natural products.
For more information, or any questions, contact me by email or telephone at 678.231.4973
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Comments & Suggestions
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Share your comments and suggestions here. Some will be posted, as space allows.Thanks...in advance! Submit here... |
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Recommended Reading
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Audrey Peterman is President and Co-founder of Earthwise Productions, Inc., an environmental consulting and publishing firm focused on connecting the public lands system and the American public. Read more...
 | | Click for more info and to purchase |
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Study Participants
Needed
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The Memory and Aging Lab in the School of Psychology at Georgia Tech is conduction functional magnetic imaging (fMRI) studies about memory. Itis safe, painless, and non-invasive.
I recently participated and it was really very interesting... plus I received a CD with my brain images. You are compensated for your time, and you leave with a feeling of contributing to important research.
For additional information, you can call the lab at 404.385.3699 or send an email to:
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About the Editor
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Carolyn Hartfield is a Natural Health and Holistic Nutrition Practitioner, a Lifestyle Coach a Health & Wellness Advocate and an Outdoor Adventurer who enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences through her writings, and engaging speaking presentations.
Carolyn has been featured in newspaper and magazine articles, radio shows, and at various conferences. She is previous host of her own Blog Talk Radio show.
Carolyn is a certified Outings Leader through the Sierra Club, certified in Wilderness First Aid through the National Outdoor Leadership School, Wilderness Institute, and certified as a National Interpretive Guide. She is a member of the Sierra Club, the American Hiking Society, and the Family Wellness Network.
Carolyn is truly 'Living Life to the Fullest!!!' You must believe, and act accordingly, that dreams can come true!
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Greetings!  Did you now that President Obama proclaimed June as the Great Outdoors Month? Let's Move and get out and enjoy nature in all her splendor!!! "In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous."
Aristotle
June is my month to start my metamorphosis. This is when I start evolving from my days of being in the mode of a caterpillar...struggling to become something more beautiful. Yes, that is what was on my mind this morning as I welcomed the new day. I came across this quote that I think helps describe where I am in life.
"Just living is not enough," said the butterfly, "one must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower." ~Hans Christian AndersenI am making changes and fully expect to not only enjoy the sunshine and freedom of life, but to be a little flower in the lives of others by sharing the beauty and joy after the struggle, as does the butterfly from the caterpillar. I plan to expound upon this line of thought in my blog. It is such a good feeling I have, I want to share and further express my thoughts. But, in the meantime, let me finish this newsletter. I hope you enjoyed your Memorial Day, formally known as Decoration Day, weekend. This is late, but still relevant... I very recently received an email from Museum Consultant, Anthony Knight with some eye opening information that I wanted to share with you...the origins of Memorial Day, as noted by Yale University historian, David Blight. In his lecture entitled The Civil War and Reconstruction Era, 1845-1877. You can listen to a seven minute section of this lecture where Professor Blight closes with a description of the first Memorial Day, celebrated by African Americans in Charleston, SC 1865. Take a listen... Let me know if you knew this already or not by clicking here.Moving on to June...there is sooo much to celebrate, in addition to celebrating life itself!Join me as i choose to celebrate most of them: - June Men's Health Month
- June Black Music Month
- June Caribbean American Heritage Month
- June 1 National Family Day
- June 5 World Environment Day
- June 7 1st Saturday Monthly Hike
- June 6-7 National African Americans in the Parks Weekend
- June 14 Family History Day
- June 15 Father's Day
- June 17 Eat Your Vegetables Day
- June 19 Juneteenth
- June 21 Summer Solstice - 1st Day of Summer
- June 20-22 Adventure Fun Weekend
- June 28 Great American Backyard Campout
There is so much for which to be thankful. I am learning new things and stretching myself to reach new heights. June is usually when i get serious about my plans for accomplishments, be they small or big, it doesn't matter. i start in June, so by the time my birthday rolls around in September, I am not starting something new, but already doing it consistently and diligently. I will not share right now what I am working on, but will later. I am really pretty excited about all the things that are going on. i have shared some things with you earlier in the year, and those things are still in motion. Following are a few of the updates: - Traveling to Yosemite National Park to scout for a trip next year
- Traveling to Anchorage to scout for a trip nex year
- Discovering new hike trails, in and outside of Georgia
- Have several Fun Adventure Weekend group trips planned
- Making quiet time to focus on my writings
- Identifying people for the Living Life to the Fullest online TV Network
- If you are interested in sharing a personal story, contact me.
- Plans are in motion for the 2015 Adventure Wall Calendar
Over the past 10 or so days, I have been out everyday enjoying life. One of the highlights was I finally had an opportunity to fly in a Biplane! It was fabulous!!! I went to the DeKalb-Peachtree Air Show. I met most of the pilots, and really enjoyed the air show, including meeting Jacquie Bair, a female pilot who at age 50 (she is now 60+) left corporate America to pursue her dream of being an aerobatic performer in her one-of-a-kind Pitts Special biplane. She is awesome...how is that for pursuing your living and living life tot eh fullest!!! It was an honor to speak with her! May you continue to be blessed, as you bless others, experience optimal health, and savor in the spices of life, in a life full of love, peace, and joy. Living Life to the Fullest!!!  ___________________________________________________ |
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Hartfield's Healthy Habits
Review, Restyle, Revitalize & Recreate
|  It was time for me to review my life, my habits...my overall lifestyle structure. This brought me to the conclusion, while I was happy for the most part, but I needed to refresh and restyle some of the things I was doing. In doing so, I would be revitalized and rejuvenated to move forward in recreating a healthier and more fun life. As a result, I decided to take this whole healthy living theme to the next level! One of the things i have done is purchased a juicer and have been juicing regularly. Right now, I am easing into it, and find I am not as hungry, but still want something to chew on, and i do that. I do not force or deprive myself...I just go with the flow. Actually, after the first couple of days of juicing, I could feel the difference. My body was detoxing and I felt great. The third through the fifth day, I started feeling just a little sluggish, but found out, that is common, as your body is cleaning itself out. You know, another example of the struggle before the great reward. Okay, I love the song 'Happy' so much, it is still here for you to enjoy also: Listen here...My Healthy Habit Tips: - Take time out to review your life and decide what improvements you can make to enjoy it that much more
- Maybe choose to restyle yourself, new hairdo/haircut, new style of clothing, new nail polish color, etc. It does not have to be drastic, just a change. It will help rejuvenate you...try it, you'll see.
- Do something to add more vitality to the way you feel. Make better food choices, visit a museum, go to a concert, take a walk in the outdoors, or better yet, in the woods and inhale the fresh air.
- Decide to make a personal choice to recreate your self. Move form those things that are slowing you down and do something that gives you personal gratification and delight.
Try these few tips, and any others you may want, and transform yourself into a beautiful butterfly as you enjoy your new found freedom. "Freedom is nothing else but a chance to be better." Albert Camus |
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National Trails Day Hike
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Providence Canyon, Lumpkin, GA
Saturday, June 7
Distance: 3 Miles
We will visit all of the canyons, and hike around the top rim of the canyon.
Weather Forecast: High 85, 40% Scattered T-Storms, Low 69.
Meet for Instructions & Introductions: 8:00a.m.
Meeting Place: Big Lots! Parking Lot
6851 Shannon Pkwy, Union City, GA 30291
Register Here
Providence Canyon State Park is a 1008 acre part. It's claim to fame is that it is one of the Seven Wonders of Georgia, and known as Georgia's Little Grand Canyon. The Canyon Loop Trail circles nine of the canyons. You will be able to get a close up view of the beautiful canyon walls. The trail is very colorful and has great overlooks. You will be amazed at the breathtaking colors of Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon." Colorful wildflowers, as well as the pink, orange, red and purple hues of the soft canyon soil, make a beautiful natural painting at this unique park. The rare Plumleaf Azalea grows only in this region and blooms during July and August when most azaleas have lost their color. The floor of the canyons is often wet and/or muddy so you should wear shoes and clothing that you don't mind getting muddy. This is a great trail for beginners and youth. As always, wear comfortable (not new) shoes and layered clothing. We will carpool, so please be prepared to donate $10 to the driver that covers gas and parking. Speaking of parking, there is a $5 fee for parking unless you go to your local library and check-out a State Park Parking Pass for free parking. And, feel free to tip your hike leader(s), to show your appreciation for a job well done!
Bring a minimum of two bottles of water, snacks and lunch if you would like to enjoy lunch in the park. There are picnic tables available. There is no place close to the area to purchase lunch, so be sure to pack a healthy one. It will be a long day. Meeting place is IHOP at the Shannon Mall. I-85 South - Exit 64. Click here for directions. The trail head is almost 3-hours away, so plan for a long day.
Don't forget the Leave No Trace principles to which we adhere... what you carry in, you carry out, with the exception of taking your memories of the adventure, your new friendships, and of course, any photos you may take.
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Please feel free to call me, should you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached at 678.231.4973.
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| Weekend Adventure in Gatlinburg Tennessee
June 20 - 22, 2014, Friday - Sunday
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SOLD OUT! I will post photos of the good times we plan to have!
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| Let's Play in the Sand, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
August 7 - 10, 2014 Friday - Sunday
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We will join the Southern Snow Seekers for this great fun Summerfest! Yes, they love to ski, but they also love to have fun...all yet-round! Join us with our friends at the Southern Snow Seekers Club for a fun weekend in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
We will be staying at the Melia Caribe Tropical Resort. It offers an ideal setting for Summerfest 2014. The fabulous Meliá Caribe Tropical sets the standard for all-inclusive hotels in Punta Cana.
The beach at the Meliá Caribe Tropical is only one of the resort's many impressive features. The Punta Cana resort has over a dozen restaurants to choose from, giving you access to unique, international dining experiences.
There is a world-class golf course right across the street, an exciting casino and exhilarating activities from tennis, to live musical performances. The Meliá Caribe Tropical was chosen for Summerfest 2014, because it is the perfect place to play in the sand, have fun in the sun, and mix and mingle with wonderful people!
The resort is located just 20 minutes (12 miles) from the Punta Cana International Airport.
PLEASE NOTE: Airfare is not included in the posted costs. You are responsible for your own air into Punta Cana (PUJ). AirTran & Delta have direct flights. You can also choose to fly American Airlines, which flies thru MIA into PUJ, Spirit airlines, and others also fly into PUJ.
If you want more information, contact me by return email, or give me a call at 678.231.4973.
Don't know much about the ski club, or even if you do...
Click photo to check out this great video about the Southern Snow Seekers!
 | | Southern Snow Seekers Ski Club...over 25 years |
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| FREE State Park Parking Passes
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Did you know that you can go to your local library and check out a Georgia State Park parking pass, just as you would a book and use it for entry to any of the state parks. You do have to have a valid library card. Parking fees are usually $5.00. You can call and have them hold it for you, as each branch does not have many, and they are checked out all the time. Click here to find a branch in your area.
Or, of course, you can purchase an Annual State Park parking pass.
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| Health Tidbits
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Summer is here. Get out of doors more. Get out in the morning before it gets too hot. You will find that a brisk walk helps get you in a great mood, builds your energy level and helps open your mind to new positive ideas. And, of course, i invite you, when possible, to join me and our group on my monthly, first Saturday hikes. You are guaranteed to have some fun with friendly people, as we bask in the wonders of Mother Nature. Also, drink a lot of water. If yo think you are drinking enough now, drink more, you will need it. You do not want to experience dehydration while out on the tail.
Warm weather is a great time to increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Visit your local farmers market, if you don't have your own garden, and relish in the delectable fruits and vegetables of the season. I shop at my local farmer's market several times a week. It is also a time to try tasty new, easy and simple recipes. i am trying some new fruit and fruit and vegetable combinations in my smoothies, and in my juicing recipes. I plan to have a mango and pineapple smoothie this morning, I might throw in a couple of strawberries to top it off...ummm!
Love much, Laugh often, Learn something new, and Live Long & Strong! |
| Hiking & Outdoor Adventure Tips
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As day hikers, we need high energy foods that are easy to carry and require little or no preparation. Foods that are convenient for quick stops and snacks are often the best. These items include fresh or dried fruit, granola bars, cheese cubes, crackers, and trail mix (a mix of nuts, raisins and/or other dried fruit) are good for snacks. Bagels, pita bread, flour tortillas or English muffins are good with peanut butter, cheese, tuna, hummus or other items spread on them for a more healthy lunch.
Super important are fluids...water. For easy to moderate hikes, you may find that you consume 2 or more liters of water. Dehydration is to be avoided at all costs. it can result in loss of energy at a minimum and can lead to reduction in the body's ability to properly function, and finish the hike.
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| Day Hiking Checklist
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Download a copy of the suggested Day Hiking Checklist from REI. Click here to download a copy. |
| Warm Weather Hiking Attire
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Wear a synthetic layer next to your skin to wick away moisture from perspiration. If you must hike in cotton T-shirts and shorts, carry other clothing to change into should the weather turn cool. Cotton soaks up moisture and doesn't dry readily, leaving you wet and chilly when activity slows or should the wind pick up. It is also a good idea to have dry clothes and footwear in the car to change into at the end of some of the more strenuous hike!
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| Hiking Boots...
...How to Choose
You want to be sure you know the options when choosing hiking boots. Consider 'summer' hiking boots. Read this article from REI.
...Breaking in Your New Hiking Boots
You never want to hike in brand new boots. Read this article from REI on how you should break in your new boots.
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| How to Choose Trekking Poles and Hiking Sticks
|  Trekking poles are standard equipment for many hikers. They enhance your stability and support on all types of terrain.
Read this article from REI to help you learn what to consider when shopping for trekking poles and staffs. |
| The Basics of Hydration
|  Your body is more than 60% water, and even light physical activity can deplete that percentage. No fluid means no function! This loss of fluid is called dehydration. And hydrating, or adding fluids, is the key to keeping it from happening to you. Click Here to read the article from REI. |
| How to Choose a Day Pack
|  For any activity that involves more gear than you can carry in your pocket, especially for hiking, you need a daypack. Daypacks may look similar at first glance but have lots of functional differences. Read the article from REI that is designed to give you some helpful tips on finding the right one for your needs. Click Here to read the article from REI. |
| Outdoor Gear Rental
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Want to go camping but don't have a tent or sleeping bag? No problem... rent your equipment from REI, for a nominal fee for the weekend. You can get, based on availability:
- Tents
 - Backpacks
- Sleeping Bags/Pads
- Camping Stoves
Just call the REI store nearest you, and see what they have available. |
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