Pig On The Pond!

WOW!! Busy, busy day today. I attended the "Pig On The Pond" event in Clermont, Florida on Lake Minneola. I was there to represent Juice Plus with Dr. and Nicole Casavant from South Lake OB/GYN. They had all the things I love but never eat...funnel cakes, flavored ice, kettle corn, brats, pulled pork barbecue, chili fries. Oh my! Okay, so once per year is not bad if you partake of really bad for you food is it? I had the bratwurst.

I am amazed how many people are interested in finding different ways to supplement their diets with good nutrition. The children are a real problem for some of the parents but it is surprising how many of the kids actually love fruits and vegetables. One mother of two young boys told me her kids always chose salad vegetables and fruits over junk food. I think parents are better educated now than when I was growing up but I still reminded her how fortunate she is. She agreed.

There were thousand of people attending this annual event. They raise money for scholarships for the south end of Lake County. I was impressed with the how organized and well run it was. The biggest problem was the wind. There were 30 mile per hour gusts that sent anything not tied down rolling across the lawn.

I was there, on my feet from 0900 to 1745 (5:45pm) and my feet, back, neck all hurt. I shall retire early tonight and sleep like a baby. Good night all!!

Family, friends and team members....

Family: I am thinking of several members of my family this morning. I am so gratefule to have a large, loving, positive thinking and mostly happy family. My older brother is a dynamo who works hard and enjoys the fruits of his labor more than anyone I know. My younger brother served many, many years in the service of our country in the military. My cousins are more like siblings and we all grew up together in the best of circumstances. We had an ideal childhood and I am thankful for it.

This morning I am driving to Merritt Island to visit one of two remaining aunts from my father's siblings. Aunt Esther has always been one of the most intelligent among my aunts and uncles. Her body is failing her now as she copes with severe back problems caused from a lifetime of being overweight. She, like me, did not embrace exercise and is now paying the price for not be a good steward of her body. She is 85 now and can barely move.

My other aunt, Ruth, (Esther's sister) was here visiting from Missouri a few weeks ago. She is in amazingly good shape and looks 25 years younger than she is. She visits the gym at least three times per week, watches her diet and enjoys rich friendships. I am hoping and praying I have Aunt Ruth's genes!!

Friends: I am also thinking this morning about my friend, Pam, who has been unemployed for eight months and is starting a brand new job this morning. She and all her friends have been praying with her for a job or an income and she received the wonderful call yesterday. I hope she has a day full of peace.

Team members: I am praying for God's perfect will in the lives of all my team members. One team member is mourning the loss of her physician husband just a few months ago. She is a little hard on herself, expecting to be "over it" already.

I have several team members who are frustrated with the lack of progress in their businesses. I am praying to be a good leader and asking for the right words, the right amount of encouragement, the correct tools to offer. There is a very fine line between encouraging and pushing people and I am praying I will stay on the correct side of that line. On the other hand, I too, want to advance me business and be a good example.

Lord, be with all of us today. As we drive in the rain, keep us safe. As we seek to help people enjoy good health through better nutrition, give us effective words. As we attend training, open our minds so we learn. As we fail you, forgive us. As we praise you, shine on each of us the light of your love. Amen